KTM 125 XC specifications
KTM · Cross-country
Keefer Inc. describes the 125 XC as basically an SX with hand guards, a skid plate, a kickstand, a 0.4-gallon larger gas tank, an extra sixth gear with an 18-inch rear wheel and a 51-tooth rear sprocket, and with WP XACT closed-cartridge spring forks. The tester adds that it is not just a 125 SX with an 18-inch wheel and softer off-road suspension.
But a purpose-built off-road race bike for juniors coming up through the ranks, and that "this little engine can withstand the rigors of an old vet rider".
KTM 125 XC
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model year | 2027 |
| Displacement | 124.8cc |
| Bore x stroke | 2.13 in x 2.15 in (54 mm x 54.6 mm) |
| Front suspension | WP XACT cartridge Ø 48 mm |
| Ground clearance | 359 mm (14.13 in) |
| Weight without fuel | 94.8 kg |
| Starting MSRP | $8,499 |
| Class | Cross-country |
| Engine | 1-cylinder, 2-stroke engine |
| Fuel system | Vitesco Technologies EMS |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Final drive | 520 X-Ring |
| Front suspension travel | 300 mm |
| Rear suspension | WP XACT Monoshock with linkage |
| Rear suspension travel | 300 mm |
| Front brake | Disc brake |
| Seat height | 954 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 2.38 gal |
| Frame | Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel |
| Destination charge | $690 |
Dirt Bike Magazine says the suspension components, top end and gearbox come from the SX. While the electric starter, 18-inch rear wheel, kickstand and handguards come from the XC-W, and that the suspension is similar to the 125 SX with off-road valving. It also points out that 125s tend to be relegated to a profile rider who is young, skinny and inexperienced.
Common issues
The 125 XC weighs 94.8 kg (209 lb) without fuel, 2.8 kg more than the 125 SX, and carries 2.38 gal against 1.9 gal. It is $50 dearer than the SX at $8,499. It has 300 mm (11.81 in) of travel at each end, and the seat is 954 mm.
The 125 XC suits a lighter rider, or a rider who values a small, cheap-to-run engine in tight woods, and it is a junior race class bike. A rider who needs low-rev torque for hill climbs or who is heavy will be better served by the 150 XC-W or a 250.
125 XC against the 125 SX and 150 XC-W
The 125 SX is the motocross sibling, and the 150 XC-W is the larger-engined enduro option.
KTM 125 XC — specification referenceKTM · Cross-country
The 125 XC is KTM's small-displacement off-road race bike, basically an SX with hand guards, a skid plate, a kickstand and a larger tank. Keefer and Dirt Bike Magazine both say the little engine is more capable than its size suggests, and KTM asks $8,499 before destination.
- Model-year range
- 2024–2027
- Compared editions
- 3
- Specification entries
- 21
- Entries that differ
- 4
- Clutch
- Wet multi-disc DS clutch, Brembo hydraulics; Wet multi-disc DS clutch, Brembo hydraulics.
- Frame design
- Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel; Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel.
2027 KTM 125 XC questions
How does the KTM 125 XC differ from the 125 SX?
Keefer lists hand guards, a skid plate, a kickstand, a 0.4 gal larger tank, a sixth gear, an 18-inch rear wheel and closed-cartridge forks on the XC.
Does the KTM 125 XC have electric start?
Dirt Bike Magazine says the electric starter comes from the XC-W parts, so the test bike had electric start alongside the suspension, top end and gearbox taken from the SX.
What problems do owners report on the KTM 125 XC?
MotoSport reports some powerband complaints at lower rpm and recommends regular maintenance and adjusting the suspension to the rider's weight.
MotoSport says the bike is known for a lightweight frame and agile handling, notes that some riders report issues with the powerband delivery at lower rpm, and suggests regular maintenance and suspension settings that match rider weight as the fix.