06/06/2026
1992 KTM 250 SX vs 1992 Kawasaki KX250
European Aggression vs Japanese Precision
The early 1990s produced some of the toughest 250cc two-stroke motocross machines ever built. In this showdown, the 1992 KTM 250 SX takes on the 1992 Kawasaki KX250—two bikes with completely different personalities but the same goal: winning races.
ENGINE & PERFORMANCE
1992 KTM 250 SX
- Engine: 249cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke single
- Bore x Stroke: 69.5 mm × 64.0 mm
- Horsepower: Approx. 49 hp @ 8,500 rpm
- Powerband: Strong mid-to-top pull with an aggressive hit
- Carburetor: Dell'Orto 38 mm
- Transmission: 5-speed
1992 Kawasaki KX250
- Engine: 249cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke single
- Bore x Stroke: 69.0 mm × 66.0 mm
- Horsepower: Approx. 47 hp @ 8,000 rpm
- Powerband: Broad low-to-mid torque with smoother delivery
- Carburetor: Keihin PWK 38 mm
- Transmission: 5-speed
GEAR RATIOS
KTM 250 SX
- 1st: 2.00
- 2nd: 1.53
- 3rd: 1.25
- 4th: 1.04
- 5th: 0.88
KX250
- 1st: 1.92
- 2nd: 1.50
- 3rd: 1.25
- 4th: 1.04
- 5th: 0.88
CHASSIS & DIMENSIONS
KTM 250 SX
- Rake: 27.5°
- Wheelbase: 1,490 mm
- Dry Weight: 99 kg (218 lbs)
- Front Suspension: WP USD Fork
- Rear Suspension: WP Monoshock
Kawasaki KX250
- Rake: 27.0°
- Wheelbase: 1,480 mm
- Dry Weight: 96 kg (212 lbs)
- Front Suspension: Kayaba Conventional Fork
- Rear Suspension: Uni-Trak
ON THE TRACK
Cornering
The KX250 feels lighter and more predictable entering turns. Its smoother power delivery lets riders carry speed through ruts and tight corners with less effort.
Straight-Line Speed
The KTM fights back with a harder mid-range hit and stronger top-end charge. On long straights and rough outdoor tracks, the Austrian machine feels fast and exciting.
Jump Faces
The KX stays balanced and neutral, while the KTM demands a more aggressive riding style but rewards experienced riders with explosive acceleration.
Rough Terrain
WP suspension on the KTM handles big hits well, but the KX offers a more planted and forgiving feel over an entire moto.
FINAL VERDICT
The 1992 Kawasaki KX250 was the easier bike to ride fast. It cornered better, felt lighter, and delivered power more smoothly.
The 1992 KTM 250 SX was the wild card. More aggressive, harder-hitting, and packed with European character, it rewarded riders who weren't afraid to attack the track.
Thirty-plus years later, both remain icons of the golden age of 250 two-strokes.
Which one are you choosing for a full moto: the Austrian KTM or the Green Machine?