When it comes to the 65cc class from 2013 – 2015 it’s hard to beat the 2013 – 2015 KTM’s 65SX. There’s Kawasaki’s KX65 off course, but the suspension on that is not as good.
The KTM has an upside-down fork and PDS shock which provide suspension that is miles ahead of its rivals. So it’s no wonder that when you take a look at the start line of a junior motocross there’s a sea of orange in the 65cc class.
The 65SX has a hydraulic clutch which makes it easier for kids coming up from autos to operate and the engine is fitted with a rotary exhaust valve. The “power” valve is operated by gas pressure in the exhaust system.
As the bike revs up, pressure builds in the exhaust, a diaphragm is pressurised and the power valve is lifted. This gives the bike smoother power delivery.
When it comes to a second-hand KTM65 always look for one that has been well maintained as major repairs on these bikes can add up to quite a few dollars. Most racers change the gearbox oil after every ride as well as cleaning the air filter.
Motocross bikes like the SX need to be well maintained to pass scrutineering so racers are often better looked after than bikes being ridden around in the bush or on the farm. For this reason I would not necessarily steer clear of a race bike just because of the myth of never buying an ex-race bike.
The wheel bearings on these bikes are prone to wearing out as they are not protected by dust seals in the hubs, only by the seals in the bearings.
Another common problem on the 65 is chainguides. They often wear quickly and if the lower chainguide near the rear sprocket wears too far the chain will touch the mounting bolt and causes it to come lose.
A more severe, but less likely, problem I see with SXs is broken power valves. The rotary valve’s shaft in the exhaust port snaps, the valve shuts and the engine won’t hit the power band.
I have seen many people lock the power valve wide open but I am not a big fan as it ruins the bottom-end power as well as making the powerband much narrower without actually giving the bike any more top-end. If you are buying a bike that has had the power valve locked, check to see how it was done as reversing the process may be costly.
Technical Editor Mat Boyd
NEW
2013 $5995
2014 $5995
2015 $6295
SECOND HAND
2013 $4000-$4700
2014 $4300-$5100
2015 $4600-$5500
Market Equivalent
13-15 Yamaha TT-R110
$2000-$2800
13-15 Kawasaki KX65
$3200 – $4500
13-15 Honda CRF110
$2000 – $2800
2015 Cobra CX65
$4800 – $5700
