KTM 65 SX - User Manual

Questions and Answers

B
Brian BerrySep 9, 2025
What to do if KTM Motorcycle engine overheats?
- S
  Susan HooverSep 9, 2025
  If your KTM Motorcycle engine is overheating, start by checking the radiator fins and cleaning them if they're very dirty. Foam formation in the cooling system could be another reason, so drain and refill the coolant. Inspect the cylinder head and cylinder head gasket for damage. Also, check for a bent radiator hose and replace it if necessary. Finally, an incorrect ignition point due to a loose stator can cause overheating, so adjust the ignition.
J
John CrossNov 26, 2025
Why my KTM Motorcycle engine turns over but won't start?
- W
  wgonzalezNov 26, 2025
  If your KTM Motorcycle engine turns but doesn't start, there are several potential causes. It could be due to an operating error during the start-up procedure, old fuel in the float chamber if the motorcycle has been out of use for a long time (in that case, you should empty the carburetor float chamber), an interruption in the fuel feed (check the fuel tank breather, clean the fuel tap and check/set the carburetor components), a spark plug that's oily or wet (clean and dry the spark plug, or replace it), an incorrect spark plug gap (adjust the plug gap to 0.60 mm), a fault in the ignition system (check and adjust the ignition system), a short circuit in the wiring harness or a defective kill switch (check the kill switch), a loose or oxidized connector or ignition coil (clean the connecti...
J
joanne79Nov 25, 2025
What causes KTM Motorcycle engine to crank but not start?
- C
  Christopher MorseNov 25, 2025
  If your KTM Motorcycle engine cranks but doesn't start, several issues could be the cause. It might be an operating error, so review the engine starting procedure. If the motorcycle has been stored for a long time, old fuel in the float chamber could be the problem; empty the carburetor float chamber in this case. Check for any interruptions in the fuel feed by inspecting the fuel tank breather, cleaning the fuel tap, and checking/setting the carburetor components. A spark plug that's oily or wet should be cleaned and dried, or replaced. Make sure the spark plug electrode gap is correctly adjusted to 0.60 mm (0.0236 in). Inspect the ignition system and adjust the ignition. Check the kill switch for defects. Clean any loose or oxidized connectors or the ignition coil with contact spray. Fin...
I
imartinNov 23, 2025
How to fix a KTM 65 SX Motorcycle engine that turns but won't start?
- D
  David LeeNov 23, 2025
  If your KTM Motorcycle engine turns over but doesn't start, several factors could be at play. It could be an operating error, so go through the engine starting steps. Old fuel in the float chamber might be the problem if the motorcycle has been sitting for a while, in that case, empty the carburetor float chamber. Check for any interruptions in the fuel feed by inspecting the fuel tank breather and cleaning the fuel tap. Also, check and set the carburetor components. A spark plug that's oily or wet should be cleaned and dried, or replaced if needed. Make sure the spark plug electrode gap is correctly adjusted to around 0.60 mm (0.0236 in). Inspect the ignition system and adjust the ignition. Check the kill switch for any defects. Clean any loose or oxidized connectors or the ignition coil ...
S
Sandra BaileySep 18, 2025
What to do if KTM 65 SX Motorcycle engine stalls or pops into the carburetor?
- J
  Jennifer GonzalezSep 18, 2025
  If your KTM Motorcycle engine stalls or is popping into the carburetor, it could be due to a lack of fuel (turn the knurled screw on the fuel tap all the way counterclockwise and fill up with fuel), the engine taking in bad air (check the intake flange and carburetor for tightness), a loose or oxidized connector or ignition coil (clean the plug-in connection and treat it with contact spray), or too little coolant in the cooling system (check the cooling system for leakage and check the coolant level).
M
Michael KramerSep 16, 2025
How to fix KTM Motorcycle engine with no idle?
- M
  Matthew HernandezSep 16, 2025
  If your KTM Motorcycle engine has no idle, the possible causes include a blocked idling jet (check/set the carburetor components), distorted adjusting screws on the carburetor (adjust the idle speed), a defective spark plug (change the spark plug), or a defective ignition system (check the ignition coil and spark plug connector).
D
Daniel HarrisSep 14, 2025
Why is gear oil coming out of the vent hose on my KTM 65 SX Motorcycle?
- K
  Kristin RamosSep 14, 2025
  If gear oil is exiting at the vent hose on your KTM Motorcycle, it's likely because too much gear oil was added. Check the gear oil level.
G
garcialaurenSep 12, 2025
Why is my KTM Motorcycle emitting white smoke?
- E
  Eric CopelandSep 12, 2025
  If your KTM Motorcycle is emitting white smoke (steam) in the exhaust gas, it could be due to a damaged cylinder head or cylinder head gasket, so check these components.
A
Ashley MelendezSep 12, 2025
Why KTM 65 SX engine does not speed up?
- E
  Eric BennettSep 12, 2025
  If your KTM Motorcycle engine does not speed up, it could be due to the carburetor running over because the float needle is dirty or worn, which requires you to check/set the carburetor components. Loose carburetor jets can also cause this issue, so check/set the carburetor components. Finally, a fault in the ignition system might be the cause, so check the ignition system and adjust the ignition.
T
Terrance PerkinsAug 20, 2025
What to do if my KTM 65 SX Motorcycle engine turns but does not start?
- A
  Angie MahoneyAug 21, 2025
  If your KTM Motorcycle engine turns over but doesn't start, there could be several reasons: * **Operating error:** Ensure you are following the correct engine starting procedure. * **Old fuel:** If the motorcycle has been stored for a long time, the fuel in the float chamber may be stale. In this case, empty the carburetor float chamber. * **Fuel feed interrupted:** Check the fuel tank breather, clean the fuel tap, and inspect/adjust the carburetor components. * **Spark plug issues:** If the spark plug is oily or wet, clean and dry it, or replace it if necessary. Also, check the spark plug electrode gap and adjust it to 0.60 mm (0.0236 in) if it's too wide.

Summary

Safety Advice

Use Definition - Intended Use

Specifies that KTM sport motorcycles are for competitive use in closed areas, not public roads.

Safety Advice

General instructions for safe vehicle operation and importance of reading the manual carefully.

Degrees of Risk and Symbols

Defines risk categories (Danger, Warning, Caution) and associated symbols for hazard identification.

Tampering Warning

Safe Operation

Provides safety advice regarding impaired judgment and exhaust gas poisoning.

Protective Clothing

Emphasizes the importance of wearing proper protective clothing for injury prevention.

Important Notes

Guarantee, Warranty

Service

Highlights the importance of correct service and tuning for optimal operation and longevity.

Preparing for Use

Advice on First Use

Guidance on child readiness, protective gear, tire patterns, riding behavior, and passenger rules.

Running in the Engine

Instructions for the engine break-in period, specifying performance limits.

Riding Instructions

Checks and Maintenance Measures When Preparing for Use

Pre-ride checks covering fluid levels, tires, controls, and general condition.

Starting

Procedure for starting the engine, including cold start and precautions.

Starting Off

Shifting, Riding

Guidance on shifting gears, throttle control, and clutch usage.

Braking

Advice on proper braking techniques, adapting to conditions, and avoiding brake failure.

Stopping, Parking

Refueling

Detailed instructions and safety precautions for refueling the motorcycle.

Service Schedule

Table outlining required maintenance tasks at different intervals (operating hours/annually).

Tuning the Chassis

Adjusting the Compression Damping of the Fork

Procedure for adjusting fork compression damping using the adjusting screw.

Adjusting the Rebound Damping of the Fork

Procedure for adjusting fork rebound damping using the adjusting screw.

Adjusting the Compression Damping of the Shock Absorber

Procedure for adjusting shock absorber compression damping.

Adjusting the Rebound Damping of the Shock Absorber

Procedure for adjusting shock absorber rebound damping.

Measuring Rear Wheel Sag Unloaded

Steps to measure the rear wheel's unloaded sag for suspension setup.

Checking the Static Sag of the Shock Absorber

Procedure to check the static sag of the rear shock absorber.

Checking the Riding Sag of the Shock Absorber

Steps to measure the riding sag of the rear shock absorber with rider.

Adjusting the Spring Preload of the Shock Absorber

Instructions for adjusting the spring preload on the rear shock absorber.

Adjusting the Riding Sag

Guidance on selecting and adjusting the spring rate for rider weight.

Service Work on the Chassis

Raising the Motorcycle with a Lift Stand

Removing the Motorcycle from the Lift Stand

Removing the Fork Legs

Installing the Fork Legs

Checking Play of Steering Head Bearing

Guidance on checking for play in the steering head bearing.

Adjusting the Play of the Steering Head Bearing

Procedure for adjusting the play in the steering head bearing.

Removing the Shock Absorber

Installing Shock Absorber

Cleaning the Air Filter and Air Filter Box

Changing the Glass Fiber Yarn Filling of the Main Silencer

Dismounting the Fuel Tank

Installing the Fuel Tank

Cleaning the Chain

Checking the Chain Tension

Guidance on checking the chain tension.

Adjusting the Chain Tension

Procedure for adjusting the chain tension.

Checking the Chain, Rear Sprocket, Engine Sprocket, and Chain Guide

Inspection of drive components for wear and damage.

Checking the Fluid Level of Hydraulic Clutch

Changing the Hydraulic Clutch Fluid

Brake System

Checking Free Travel of Hand Brake Lever

Procedure to check and adjust the free travel of the front brake lever.

Checking Brake Discs

Instructions for checking brake disc thickness and for damage.

Checking Front Brake Fluid Level

Procedure to check the front brake fluid level and identify potential issues.

Adding Front Brake Fluid

Instructions for adding front brake fluid.

Checking the Front Brake Linings

Procedure to check the minimum thickness and condition of front brake linings.

Changing the Front Brake Linings

Procedure for changing the front brake linings.

Checking the Free Travel of the Foot Brake Lever

Procedure to check and adjust the free travel of the rear brake lever.

Adjusting the Free Travel of the Foot Brake Lever

Adjusting the Basic Position of the Foot Brake Lever

Checking Rear Brake Fluid Level

Procedure to check the rear brake fluid level.

Adding Rear Brake Fluid

Instructions for adding rear brake fluid.

Checking the Rear Brake Linings

Procedure to check the minimum thickness and condition of rear brake linings.

Changing the Rear Brake Linings

Procedure for changing the rear brake linings.

Wheels, Tires

Removing the Front Wheel

Installing the Front Wheel

Removing the Rear Wheel

Installing the Rear Wheel

Checking the Tire Condition

Guidance on checking tires for damage, tread depth, and age.

Checking Tire Air Pressure

Cooling System

Checking the Antifreeze and Coolant Level

Procedure for checking antifreeze protection and coolant level.

Checking the Coolant Level

Detailed steps to check the coolant level in the radiator.

Draining the Coolant

Refilling the Coolant

Instructions for refilling the coolant and ensuring proper bleeding.

Tuning the Engine

Checking the Play in the Throttle Cable

Adjusting the Play in the Throttle Cable

Carburetor - Adjusting the Idle Speed

Procedure for adjusting the engine's idle speed.

Emptying the Carburetor Float Chamber

Service Work on the Engine

Checking the Gear Oil Level

Procedure to check the gear oil level.

Changing the Gear Oil

Filling up with Gear Oil

Cleaning, Care

Cleaning Motorcycle

Storage

Preparing for Use After Storage

Troubleshooting

Technical Data

Engine

Specifications for the engine, including displacement, bore, stroke, and control.

Engine Tightening Torques

List of engine component tightening torques and required threadlockers.

Carburetor

Specifications for the carburetor, including type, jets, and needle position.

Capacities

Fork

Specifications for the front fork, including damping, spring rates, and oil type.

Shock Absorber

Specifications for the rear shock absorber, including damping, spring rates, and sag.

Chassis

Chassis Tightening Torques

List of chassis component tightening torques and required threadlockers.

Substances

2-Stroke Engine Oil

Brake Fluid DOT 4; DOT 5.1

Coolant

Engine Oil (15 W;50)

Fork Oil (SAE 5)

Super Unleaded Gasoline (95 Octane), Mixed with 2-Stroke Engine Oil (1:60)

Summary

Safety Advice

Use Definition - Intended Use

Specifies that KTM sport motorcycles are for competitive use in closed areas, not public roads.

Safety Advice

General instructions for safe vehicle operation and importance of reading the manual carefully.

Degrees of Risk and Symbols

Defines risk categories (Danger, Warning, Caution) and associated symbols for hazard identification.

Tampering Warning

Safe Operation

Provides safety advice regarding impaired judgment and exhaust gas poisoning.

Protective Clothing

Emphasizes the importance of wearing proper protective clothing for injury prevention.

Important Notes

Guarantee, Warranty

Service

Highlights the importance of correct service and tuning for optimal operation and longevity.

Preparing for Use

Advice on First Use

Guidance on child readiness, protective gear, tire patterns, riding behavior, and passenger rules.

Running in the Engine

Instructions for the engine break-in period, specifying performance limits.

Riding Instructions

Checks and Maintenance Measures When Preparing for Use

Pre-ride checks covering fluid levels, tires, controls, and general condition.

Starting

Procedure for starting the engine, including cold start and precautions.

Starting Off

Shifting, Riding

Guidance on shifting gears, throttle control, and clutch usage.

Braking

Advice on proper braking techniques, adapting to conditions, and avoiding brake failure.

Stopping, Parking

Refueling

Detailed instructions and safety precautions for refueling the motorcycle.

Service Schedule

Table outlining required maintenance tasks at different intervals (operating hours/annually).

Tuning the Chassis

Adjusting the Compression Damping of the Fork

Procedure for adjusting fork compression damping using the adjusting screw.

Adjusting the Rebound Damping of the Fork

Procedure for adjusting fork rebound damping using the adjusting screw.

Adjusting the Compression Damping of the Shock Absorber

Procedure for adjusting shock absorber compression damping.

Adjusting the Rebound Damping of the Shock Absorber

Procedure for adjusting shock absorber rebound damping.

Measuring Rear Wheel Sag Unloaded

Steps to measure the rear wheel's unloaded sag for suspension setup.

Checking the Static Sag of the Shock Absorber

Procedure to check the static sag of the rear shock absorber.

Checking the Riding Sag of the Shock Absorber

Steps to measure the riding sag of the rear shock absorber with rider.

Adjusting the Spring Preload of the Shock Absorber

Instructions for adjusting the spring preload on the rear shock absorber.

Adjusting the Riding Sag

Guidance on selecting and adjusting the spring rate for rider weight.

Service Work on the Chassis

Raising the Motorcycle with a Lift Stand

Removing the Motorcycle from the Lift Stand

Removing the Fork Legs

Installing the Fork Legs

Checking Play of Steering Head Bearing

Guidance on checking for play in the steering head bearing.

Adjusting the Play of the Steering Head Bearing

Procedure for adjusting the play in the steering head bearing.

Removing the Shock Absorber

Installing Shock Absorber

Cleaning the Air Filter and Air Filter Box

Changing the Glass Fiber Yarn Filling of the Main Silencer

Dismounting the Fuel Tank

Installing the Fuel Tank

Cleaning the Chain

Checking the Chain Tension

Guidance on checking the chain tension.

Adjusting the Chain Tension

Procedure for adjusting the chain tension.

Checking the Chain, Rear Sprocket, Engine Sprocket, and Chain Guide

Inspection of drive components for wear and damage.

Checking the Fluid Level of Hydraulic Clutch

Changing the Hydraulic Clutch Fluid

Brake System

Checking Free Travel of Hand Brake Lever

Procedure to check and adjust the free travel of the front brake lever.

Checking Brake Discs

Instructions for checking brake disc thickness and for damage.

Checking Front Brake Fluid Level

Procedure to check the front brake fluid level and identify potential issues.

Adding Front Brake Fluid

Instructions for adding front brake fluid.

Checking the Front Brake Linings

Procedure to check the minimum thickness and condition of front brake linings.

Changing the Front Brake Linings

Procedure for changing the front brake linings.

Checking the Free Travel of the Foot Brake Lever

Procedure to check and adjust the free travel of the rear brake lever.

Adjusting the Free Travel of the Foot Brake Lever

Adjusting the Basic Position of the Foot Brake Lever

Checking Rear Brake Fluid Level

Procedure to check the rear brake fluid level.

Adding Rear Brake Fluid

Instructions for adding rear brake fluid.

Checking the Rear Brake Linings

Procedure to check the minimum thickness and condition of rear brake linings.

Changing the Rear Brake Linings

Procedure for changing the rear brake linings.

Wheels, Tires

Removing the Front Wheel

Installing the Front Wheel

Removing the Rear Wheel

Installing the Rear Wheel

Checking the Tire Condition

Guidance on checking tires for damage, tread depth, and age.

Checking Tire Air Pressure

Cooling System

Checking the Antifreeze and Coolant Level

Procedure for checking antifreeze protection and coolant level.

Checking the Coolant Level

Detailed steps to check the coolant level in the radiator.

Draining the Coolant

Refilling the Coolant

Instructions for refilling the coolant and ensuring proper bleeding.

Tuning the Engine

Checking the Play in the Throttle Cable

Adjusting the Play in the Throttle Cable

Carburetor - Adjusting the Idle Speed

Procedure for adjusting the engine's idle speed.

Emptying the Carburetor Float Chamber

Service Work on the Engine

Checking the Gear Oil Level

Procedure to check the gear oil level.

Changing the Gear Oil

Filling up with Gear Oil

Cleaning, Care

Cleaning Motorcycle

Storage

Preparing for Use After Storage

Troubleshooting

Technical Data

Engine

Specifications for the engine, including displacement, bore, stroke, and control.

Engine Tightening Torques

List of engine component tightening torques and required threadlockers.

Carburetor

Specifications for the carburetor, including type, jets, and needle position.

Capacities

Fork

Specifications for the front fork, including damping, spring rates, and oil type.

Shock Absorber

Specifications for the rear shock absorber, including damping, spring rates, and sag.

Chassis

Chassis Tightening Torques

List of chassis component tightening torques and required threadlockers.

Substances

2-Stroke Engine Oil

Brake Fluid DOT 4; DOT 5.1

Coolant

Engine Oil (15 W;50)

Fork Oil (SAE 5)

Super Unleaded Gasoline (95 Octane), Mixed with 2-Stroke Engine Oil (1:60)

KTM 65 SX Specifications

General

Engine Type	1-cylinder, 2-stroke engine
Displacement	64.9 cm³
Bore x Stroke	45 mm x 40.8 mm
Starter	Kickstarter
Transmission	6-speed
Cooling	Liquid cooled
Rear Suspension	WP XACT Monoshock
Front Brake	Disc brake
Rear Brake	Disc brake
Front Brake Diameter	198 mm
Rear Brake Diameter	160 mm
Seat Height	750 mm
Tank Capacity	3.5 l
Weight (without fuel)	53 kg
Clutch	Wet multi-disc clutch, Formula hydraulics
Frame	Chromium-Molybdenum steel
Front Suspension	WP XACT USD, Ø 35 mm
Fuel System	Mikuni TMX 24 carburetor