2027 KTM 65 SX

01. Before The Gate

• ADJUSTABLITY: The KTM 65 SX is designed to grow with the little racer, by being height adjustable. Different options were built into the KTM 65 SX construction using scientific statistical data and mannequins. So, finding the right fit for your junior ripper is ultra easy, thanks to height adjustable suspension, handlebar position, subframe, and bodywork, taking the seat height from a low 28.1 in (715 mm), to a taller 29.9 in (760 mm).
• IGNITION: A digital ignition from Hidria finds its way onto the KTM 65 SX, with improved processing power and ignition curve, making for a cleaner burn and smoother power delivery. The throttle assembly benefits from a stabilization cap that extends the lifetime of the cable by reducing the risk of kinking and damage.
• KICKSTARTER: A lighter, more ergonomic kickstart lever makes firing the KTM 65 SX a cinch for little legs. Not only has the kickstart lever been designed to match the frame and engine design perfectly. It also ensures easy access for quick restarts while being perfectly packaged to be out of the way when tearing up the berms.
• CARBURETOR: A proven Mikuni TM 24 carburetor takes a prime position in producing the goods in the KTM 65 SX, with settings that work perfectly in harmony with the engine, exhaust, and air intake design.

02. Start Strong

• PERFORMANCE: Featuring the latest in 2-stroke technology, the KTM 65 SX sets the benchmark at the starting gate. Besides using the lightest and most durable materials, the engine features a pressure-controlled exhaust valve that delivers top-level performance through its manual 6-speed transmission. The mounting concept for the crankshaft also makes for easier maintenance.
• CYLINDER: The KTM 65 SX features a high-performance cylinder made from lightweight and durable aluminum that incorporates a pressure-controlled exhaust valve (PCEV), providing unrivaled performance.
• TRANSMISSION: From general durability to overall quality, the transmission maintains the same legendary performance but now presents a more comprehensive and hardy unit. This is paired with a forged shift lever offering improved functionality, while the reliable and light hydraulic clutch system guarantees even wear and near maintenance-free operation. A shift shaft and drum ensures better gear changing and increased quality while the clutch itself receives a boost in quality with a high-strength pre-coat and increased tightening torque for reliable fastening of the whole assembly.
• SPARK PLUG: There's no more worrying about breaking the plug, thanks to the KTM 65 SX featuring a spark plug from BRISK with a longer thread. Also, thanks to this innovation, the part number is printed on the spark plugs for easy reading - even while screwed in place.
• EASY SERVICING: Servicing and general maintenance are made simple, thanks to draining noses for liquids and added service markers on the engine (▲) that clearly show where to use washers, making maintenance and service easier than before. Nm markings clearly show how to tighten relevant screws to avoid overtightened or too loose bolts. Many of the screws on the engine case have also been unified to the same screw length on the engine case.

03. Calm Under Fire

• AIRBOX AND FILTER: The airbox features a conventional suction sleeve made from a hard-wearing polyamide instead of rubber and a Twin Air filter mounting system that features snap locks for easy and intuitive mounting. The Twin Air filter is also placed under the seat and is easily accessible without any tools by simply removing the seat. It also features improved dirt intrusion resistance, with no more dirt falling into the intake tract when changing the filter.
• ERGONOMICS: The bodywork of the KTM 65 SX is the perfect example of KTM's commitment to providing the ultimate starting point for young racers. Mimicking the full-size KTM SX range, the KTM 65 SX features the same advancements found in the larger KTM SX classes. Slimmer, sleeker, and better suited to standing on the pegs, the side panels now work much better with young riders' boots, allowing proper squeezing of the bike when standing up. The front number plate incorporates plastic flaps to protect the lower triple clamps from roost. Speaking of triple clamps, the KTM 65 SX now has an improved fixing mechanism which hikes the lifespan of the steering head bearings thanks to the extra block from dirt and water. The wrench size is also smaller and more practical.
• HANDLEBARS & GRIPS: Hold on tight! The high-quality, tapered, black handlebar is made of lightweight aluminum alloy and ensures top stability, vibration damping, and control. It has been designed specifically with 65cc riders in mind, featuring a bend and profile for a more READY TO RACE body position. An ODI grip is used on the left side, while a vulcanized ODI grip is mounted on the right-side throttle assembly, with a crash pad on the handlebar protecting the rider from rough contact.
• FRAME: The KTM 65 SX boasts a high-strength chromium molybdenum steel frame design with forged connecting parts integrated into the frame. This together with carefully calculated parameters of longitudinal flex and torsional rigidity, allow tailormade stiffness and an unprecedented quality of the Mini frame could be achieved. The frame layout features a typical MX design without any cross tube behind the steering head. Like our full-size models, the rear shock mount is separated from the main upper frame tube. The frame also comes with frame protectors as standard.

04. Hit The Big Stuff

• WHEELS & TIRES: Rolling off the race rig and into the pit lane, the KTM 65 SX uses lightweight, black anodized, aluminum rims like the full-size KTM SX range. These provide the highest levels of strength and reliability, while MAXXIS MX-ST tires deliver outstanding performance on any terrain and exceptional straight-line stability.
• SUSPENSION: Featuring the latest in suspension technology, the KTM 65 SX has an updated state-of-the-art, lightweight 35 mm USD WP XACT AER fork. With 215 mm of wheel travel, the air unit in the left fork leg can also be adjusted easily using an air pump for rider preference, weight, or track conditions. The upgrade means better damping and control and is a step forward for the suspension performance. At the rear, fully-adjustable WP XACT monoshock boasts a mounting point on the frame making it more compact, providing the perfect balance and damping characteristics to match the fork.
• BRAKES: Bringing the KTM 65 SX to a stop comes courtesy of floating brake calipers from Formula, with a 198 mm wave disc up front and a 180 mm wave disc at the rear. This brake assembly combination reduces wear and ensures maximum reliability and durability, while a forged rear brake lever provides the ideal rider feel and durability.

05. Maintaining Momentum

• EXHAUST: The exhaust system features the same manufacturing process as the full-size 2-stroke KTM SX range, with high overall quality and performance. This has resulted in massive progressions in thermodynamics. Moreover, improved sealing of the silencer end cap and a rubber between the header pipe and silencer add another level of quality to the exhaust system. The silencer comes with a black anodized finish and a signature 'Braaaaap!'. The modifications include a new flange gasket for better durability and the exhaust valve ventilation has been redesigned. It is more 'bulletproof' thanks to more efficient and locally sourced manufacturing at KTM HQ.
• RADIATOR: The KTM 65 SX has state-of-the-art Pankl radiators inspired by the full-size KTM SX range and features the same basic design with all the hardcore cooling properties. For 2026, a new threaded radiator cap allows easier and faster opening with reduced force. The highlight of the cooling concept with the two radiators is the tubing connecting the radiators, which significantly improves cooling efficiency, keeping this little motor perfectly chilled under hard charges.

06. Harnessing Gravity

• MASS CENTRALIZATION: With a strong focus on mass centralization, KTM SX and KTM SX-F engines are designed to concentrate rotating mass at the core, working in perfect harmony with the chassis. The result is lighter, more agile handling that runs rings around the competition.