Quick Analysis
KTM 85 SX
11.5 pts
Unweighted: 12 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Bajaj Pulsar 150
18.0 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid Cooled | Air-cooled |
| Displacement | 84.9 cc | 149.50 cc |
| Engine Type | 1-cylinder, 2-stroke engine | 4‑Stroke, 2‑Valve, Twin Spark DTS-i FI |
| Power | 15.5 bhp @ 11500 rpm | 10.3 kW (14 PS) @ 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 14 Nm @ 8500 rpm | 13.25 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 5.2 L | 15 L (including 3.2 L reserve) |
| Mileage | 25 kmpl | — |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | approx. 67 kg (without fuel) | 148 kg (SD) / 150 kg (TD) |
| Seat Height | 865 mm | 785 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | — | Single-channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc 240 mm | Disc |
| Front Suspension | XACT 43 WP Upside-Down fork, Ø 43 mm | Telescopic fork |
| Rear Brake | Disc 220 mm | Drum (SD variant) / Disc (TD variant) |
| Rear Suspension | XACT WP PDS mono shock | Twin gas-filled shocks with canister |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 70/100 - 17 | 80/100-17 (SD) / 90/90-17 (TD), Tubeless |
| Rear Tyre | 90/100 - 14 | 100/90-17 (SD) / 120/80-17 (TD), Tubeless |
| Tyre Type | Tubed | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Spoke | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | — | 35/35 W HS1 with AHO |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | 12 V, 8 Ah VRLA |
| Cluster | — | Analog-digital (rev counter + LCD display) |
| Color Options | Orange | #F2771A | — |
| Cons | Not road legal and suitable only for off-road tracks. High maintenance due to 2-stroke engine rebuilds. Kick-start only, no electric start option. Relatively expensive compared to other youth dirt bikes. Small fuel tank limits long riding sessions. | — |
| Detailed Overview | The KTM 85 SX is one of the most popular and respected youth motocross bikes in the world, designed specifically for young riders who are ready to take the next big step toward competitive racing. More than just a beginner’s off-road bike, the 85 SX brings true race-bred DNA from KTM’s full-size SX lineup, giving upcoming racers the opportunity to experience high-level performance at an early age. With its sharp power delivery, lightweight design, and premium components, the bike is built to help young riders improve skills and confidently tackle motocross tracks. At the heart of the KTM 85 SX lies its 84.9cc 2-stroke, liquid-cooled engine, which is known for delivering punchy power and rapid acceleration. The powervalve system ensures that the engine produces strong torque across the rev range, making the bike easier to control while still offering impressive performance. Whether riders are attacking tight corners or hitting long straights, the engine responds crisply and delivers the thrilling character 2-strokes are known for. Paired with a 6-speed gearbox, the bike offers smooth shifting and plenty of flexibility for both beginners and experienced youth racers. One of the standout features of the 85 SX is its lightweight chassis, made with high-strength chromoly steel. This frame not only enhances stability but also ensures precise handling, allowing riders to maneuver confidently through jumps, whoops, and rough terrain. The ergonomics are thoughtfully designed to fit young riders, offering a slim body that allows easy movement, better grip, and improved control during aggressive riding. Suspension is another area where KTM excels, and the 85 SX is no exception. It comes equipped with WP XACT suspension, featuring an AER air fork at the front and a fully adjustable shock absorber at the rear. This setup provides excellent damping, great response on jumps, and impressive support on uneven surfaces. Riders can also fine-tune the suspension to match their weight, riding style, and track conditions — something rarely seen in youth motocross bikes. The bike also features powerful disc brakes on both ends, giving young riders the confidence to brake hard into corners. The wave-style discs help with heat dissipation, which is especially important during long practice sessions or competitive races. Lightweight wheels, grippy motocross tyres, and a race-focused design further enhance the overall performance package. In terms of ergonomics, the KTM 85 SX is designed to feel like a miniature version of the bigger SX bikes. The seat height, handlebar position, and narrow bodywork all work together to provide comfort while promoting proper riding posture. This allows young riders to develop good habits early in their riding journey. Overall, the KTM 85 SX is a bike built for serious young racers who want real performance, durability, and race-ready features. With its responsive engine, excellent suspension, strong brakes, and lightweight build, it stands out as one of the top choices in the youth motocross segment. Whether used for training or competition, the 85 SX gives riders a true taste of professional motocross performance. | — |
| Expert Review | The KTM 85 SX is a small motocross bike built mainly for young riders who are moving up from smaller machines. It uses an 85cc two-stroke engine that feels quick and lively, especially in the mid to high rev range, but it does require regular gear shifting to keep it in the power band. The lightweight frame and compact size make it easy to handle on dirt tracks, and it feels agile while taking corners or jumps. The suspension setup is firm and designed for racing conditions, so it works well on rough tracks but can feel a bit stiff on slower or uneven surfaces. Braking performance is sharp and responsive, which helps in controlling speed during aggressive riding. Since it is a performance-focused dirt bike, it needs frequent maintenance compared to regular bikes, especially because of the two-stroke engine. Overall, the KTM 85 SX is focused on track use, with a strong emphasis on performance, handling, and control for riders who are still developing their skills., 4.0, MotoAutiv Team | — |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the mileage? A: The mileage is around 18–20 kmpl (may vary as it’s an off-road motocross bike). Q: Is the KTM 85 SX road legal? A: No, it is a pure motocross bike meant only for off-road track use and cannot be registered for road riding. Q: What type of engine does the KTM 85 SX have? A: It uses an 85cc, liquid-cooled, two-stroke engine. Q: Is the KTM 85 SX suitable for beginners? A: It is better suited for young riders who already have some riding experience, as the power delivery can feel aggressive for complete beginners. Q: Does the KTM 85 SX require high maintenance? A: Yes, like most two-stroke motocross bikes, it requires frequent maintenance such as piston checks, air filter cleaning, and regular servicing. Q: What is the fuel type used in KTM 85 SX? A: It runs on petrol mixed with two-stroke oil, not plain petrol. Q: How many gears does the KTM 85 SX have? A: It comes with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: Can the KTM 85 SX be used for daily commuting? A: No, it is not designed for daily use, comfort, or long rides, and lacks features needed for regular road riding. Q: What age group is the KTM 85 SX designed for? A: It is typically designed for young riders, usually between 11 to 15 years old, depending on height and experience. Q: Does it have electric start? A: No, it uses a kick-start mechanism. Q: What kind of riding is the KTM 85 SX best for? A: It is best suited for motocross tracks, jumps, and competitive off-road riding rather than trails or city roads. | — |
| Fuel System | Keihin PWK 28 | — |
| Price Variants | STD | 669000 | — |
| Pros | Powerful 2-stroke engine with strong mid-range performance. Lightweight chassis for excellent handling on tracks. Premium WP suspension for smooth jumps and rough terrain. Strong disc brakes offering sharp stopping power. Race-ready ergonomics designed for young motocross riders. | — |
| Starter | Kickstarter | Electric |
| Transmission | 6 Speed Manual | 5-speed manual |
