They LIED to us | 2021 KTM 125 XC Full Review

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Here is my full review of the 2021 KTM 125 XC. This is the first year KTM made this bike and as you can see, it won't be the last one I ever buy. I'll be putting my boys on a bike like this one as soon as they are tall enough to ride it. Don't make the mistake of thinking that it's a kids bike though. This is a man's bike!
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[@BigJobe21]

Of course the 125s are Big Boy bikes! I'm 48, still riding a 125 - keeps me young, fast, and makes me work more and have more fun than any lazy-man's bigger bore bikes! 😁😁😁

[@stmboat]

It is absolutely true more often than not anything over a 250 fourstroke offroad almost has to be ridden like a lazy ass. I try to help my friend at work understand that 2 strokes have DOUBLE the power strokes per rpm. That makes them super versatile and exhilarating.

[@M6BrokeMe]

The title is click bait. It worked didn't it?

[@Dirtbiker359]

Keep saying that while I’d be wheeling past you on the trail on your gutless bike ahaha

[@Dirtbiker359]

@@stmboat wrong I even have videos of me shit bagging my 450 if you think I’m lieing lol

[@Dirtbiker359]

@@stmboat kzbin.info/www/bejne/bmivk5Wmf86Uia8

[@SpeedDemonExpress]

About the not going into neutral thing. They aren't supposed to go into neutral while running. That's why you had such a hard time finding it. It's designed to prevent false neutral while riding.

[@Urfavoritefascist]

Kyle, your videos give me knowledge and confidence to enjoy a new hobby. I’m a new subscriber but have been enjoying your content for a while now. I’m a fairly new rider and your videos have helped tremendously. I can tell you put your heart and soul into your content. Well wishes for your future and I wish you fulfillment in your future endeavors. Much love brother.

[@jeffreyaranowski8868]

I bought two of these 2021 KTM 125 XC's last fall. One for me (52 yrs), and one for my beginner teenage son (14). After riding almost 20 hours on our bikes, my son is no longer a beginner, and mine gives me confidence to ride faster than other bikes (bigger) I've had!

[@adambatchelder4121]

They need to bring back the 200, best small bore ever

[@rabbidpotatoegaming4514]

The beta is your answer for that

[@tl5108]

Kdx200

[@kirt244]

@@rabbidpotatoegaming4514 would totally go for beta if you didn't have to go to a beta dealer for parts.

[@rabbidpotatoegaming4514]

@@kirt244 do people forget you can order parts online? Or just have parts delivered to any other dirtbike shop.

[@kirt244]

@@rabbidpotatoegaming4514 from beta or a beta dealer only. I'd rather have a 3rd party source.

[@happygnome4620]

HUGE quality improve. Fricking love it kyle!!

[@superaverageentertainment]

Reaply appreciate the content Kyle! Keep up the great work

[@joelcowdreyiii6745]

Great video Kyle! I like the energy level in the video.

[@INTEGRALPHYSICS]

Looking at the evolution of your content over the last two or three years is impressive! Its clear you have put tons of time into camera work, editing, scripting and focusing on making the vids more entertaining. Great job! Suggestion: The first 2:30 should have been more like 0:30. The hook into the intro took too long. Still love the review. Keep up the great work!

[@FaTalErrQr]

I’ve had my starter go out and was so grateful to have my kick start.

[@didickcheeseburger]

id love to have electric start and a kick back up but if i had to choose ill stick with the kicker on a 125

[@Yoda-em5mt]

Electric start on a 125 is just plain soft i can start my ktm 125 kick start with my hand and it is the easiest bike ever to roll start you dont even realize you stalled it 😊😊

[@nwredneckj]

Kyle, see if you can find a way to do an interview with Michael Boge. He is the guy that rode the KTM 2 stroke over 7000 miles in 11 days in the last Iron Butt rally. I’d love to also learn what brand of 2 stroke oil did he run. Take care!!

[@travdirtbikejunkie]

Makes me want to get another small bore... honestly I bet everyone who has only owned a big-bore 2-stroke would be shocked how capable and how much fun these bikes are

[@gmx0413]

Yeah!

[@therawlifefamily]

Just picked up a 150. It's great.

[@Maplicito]

I've never ridden a 125, but I used to ride an old 78 or 79 Yamaha IT175 . I ride an IT465 and a YZ490 now, but that 175 was definitely an adult bike and I would imagine a modern 125 would be that much more so.

[@draftwood]

Agree. My old Husky WR125 was one of my favorites.

[@jannep6772]

Yes, I agree this. I have two 250 2-strokes and two 125 2-strokes. All of them are nice and fun bikes to ride.

[@paskyy9527]

I love how excited he is about the bike, good vibes

[@captainamerica9353]

He's always excited.

[@philschreyer7088]

Spot on Kyle! I have the bike and couldn’t agree more. Especially the notchy shifting. Excellent bike though!

[@elitelawn9547]

125xc is a very nice bike....us 2 stroke guys do love that Kickstart backup.

[@leonliu7081]

I will continue to support your channel.

[@abramgalvez206]

I’m almost 14 years old and my family bought a used 2004 KTM 125sx. This bike is just bike enough for me to touch the ground. It’s loud, fun and a great bike. Kyle if you could make a video to talk about improvements that can be made to used bikes that would be great 👍🏼 thanks.

[@zanecargill3062]

Love the new style of videos Kyle!

[@OVwaterwatcher]

Fingers crossed 🤞my son is ready to step to a full size and this would be the perfect machine

[@FELiPES101]

When is it better for someone to get a 150 vs 125? Is the 150 actually better for an adult beginner because of the additional torque?

[@mikeb4708]

Key on the air fork “if you play with it enough”. I like the Enduro Engineering Radiator guards. Minimalist guard which has saved me on more than one occasion.

[@christofonobrown3659]

Glad you like it more than the 150’s. 🤙🏼

[@sburton223]

I am 62 and rode a RM 125 for years and I ride a 200 KDX now I love these small bore strokers

[@therawlifefamily]

You can make the big bike filters work for an 85 as well and vice versa. They are probably 1/4" shorter around - enough that it's hard to tell them apart.

[@shawnriley5844]

Awesome info....thank you. 66 yr. Old considering buying the 2023 ktm 125 xc

[@johnlastname2895]

Kyle please stop making it sound like the yz125x does not have a 6 speed gearbox.......because it does have a 6 speed.

[@MatthewC137]

The Yamaha also has far better suspension as well as being less expensive and probably more reliable.

[@rosselliott7375]

@@MatthewC137 more reliable ? Done 160 hours on my 125 xcw never had a problem ? They are all reliable as each other

[@MatthewC137]

@@rosselliott7375 That's good to know. I'm not against KTM even though I like Yamaha's suspension more. When it comes to 4 strokes, Yamaha is easily the most reliable because their valves are well known to stay in spec much longer than the rest.

[@nightfury6836]

Awesome review !!! ;-)

[@nickyherault1817]

Hey Kyle, love the energy! What drone are you using for the tracking scenes? Looks great.!!keep it up. 👍

[@bikez7641]

Skydio 2

[@Scottstunts]

40 years old still have a 125 in the Arsenal. They light and fun as hell.

[@jessegarrett7215]

I want a 125xc or 150sx sooo bad. My 300 lugs so great but I want a small bore to train on

[@racerx9223]

Man, how the heck are you not @ a million subs yet!?! Or atleast half a million!?! Ive been a sub for over 2 years and seen you give away multiple, multiple bikes.... wtf, for the quality you produce it seems like growth has been slow for the past year or more despite more people than ever having lots of time and devices to view and explore online content.. Seems like something is really hindering it. I love your stuff though, keep up the good work and i will be dilligent about sharing!

[@The2006200]

You didn’t seem to click with the 150 xcw. But you seem to like this bike. Would you say the 125XC would be better for hair scrambles and aggressive riding? Do you like this bike a lot better than the 150 X CW?

[@BSm2919]

Seems like an awesome bike! Do comments still affect your listing by KZbin? Seems like comments also are supposed to drive it upwards.

[@yorkchris10]

Always appreciate a light if I have to sneak out.

[@A1soldiersaint]

Kyle this is a little too emotional, but your reviews are the right length, and by no means, too much time. Its the only reason I come back to your channel, despite some inconsiderate blundering that hurt some small dealers.

[@brakel8r]

Im an original owner of a 2006 Honda CR125r(have a CR250r too). I ride the trails of Michigan with my dudes who run wr 250's, ktm250's and 450's, Husky's etc..... They all say mine is to hard to ride...they ask if i wanna ride theirs...i say no cause they are to easy to ride. It's all in fun. Im of the mindset of does not matter what ya ride as long as you are riding. Peace guys!

[@chasebolyard1962]

Hopefully this one will be in my garage when the sweepstakes is over

[@bluecollarblood1830]

Looking at getting the gaerne fastback boots.i havent rode in years.good choice,bad choice?

[@mattdude9865]

I just purchased a KTM 500 xcfw. There’s been an issue with their heim joint wearing out below the rear shock… I only have 8 hours on my bike and there’s a bit of ware already. I wasn’t doing anything gnarly out there. Just trail riding. Have you noticed this at all?

[@64maxpower]

Mount a 38 Kehien carb with a STIC. Just do it already Kyle. You will be AMAZED. I sold my Lectron for this set up. You'll thank me

[@slayer6936]

I was raised on 2 strokes in the 70s and am now 61 and have not rode for 20 years because of my military service and being disabled but i am fixed and getting the yz125x!! I do like both Husky and KTM. Buf loved Yzs my whole life, and they are cheaper and incan put on all my upgrades!!!

[@coconutcreampie3795]

Great enthusiasm at the intro :). Makes me happy to see this. I bought a couple of 1991 YZ125s that were in boxes (working on rebuilding them) have been wondering if they were going to be too little power for me.

[@bradsanders6954]

...I also liked the 200 a whole lot, it was the perfect size. 125 looks fun! I like carbs.

[@brycenwatkins9786]

what do you like better the ktm 150 or 125xc

[@matthewmittler6538]

I’m 39 and I ride a YZ125. It is so much fun.

[@ianondomisi8931]

how do you feel about the ktm 200 xcw

[@jdsilja]

I watch your channel all the time and ride all the time please could u get and review KTM FREERIDE E-XC!!!! I know a lot of people going electric and loving it.

[@Seth505Seth]

Totally agree on the rear fender/side panel design. Why take a nice grab area from the 17/18 and get rid of it??

[@kaoswiththekearneys8984]

I’m 300lbs and raced a RM125 in OCCRA last year. Loved it for short corse, out long course race had to many big hills for that small engine

[@draftwood]

The lighter rotating engine mass (less gyroscopic affect) is part of what makes the 125 class bikes feel flickable.

[@MatthewC137]

That's the biggest part of what makes it feel flickable and light.

[@walkeryost7135]

How's the mpg difference between the 125xc,250xc and 300xc?

[@Surrender2TheFlow]

i have spent thousands of hours trying to figure out what to get, I am sold.

[@flaviodesouza2120]

I am a beginer, What dirt bike is better for me, ktm 125 xc or ktm 150 xc w tpi?

[@ethermal1]

The notchy transmission sounds like you have clutch drag. I have experienced it on a couple KTM's. I haven't found a fix but I suspect there is a missing shim or out of spec clutch plate

[@johnchafin3817]

I have similar notchy shifting and finding neutral issues on my 2021 GG EC300. The only way I can find neutral is when the bike is not running. I have fixed the notchy shifting by using Type F ATF fluid. So far that is the best option for smoothing out the shifting. I have a laundry list of oils I have gone thru and tested, much like your laundry list of compatible parts. to come to this conclusion. (And yes I have used the OEM recommended oil in this testing) I do have a couple of others I want to test but so far Type F ATF is working the best. Speaking of which... that looks like the making of a good comparison video. Talk about controversial...

[@mackeymichael]

The YZ125X has a six speed gearbox. Weigh the yz125x you'll probably find it's going to be about 93 kg or less.

[@bradmcqueen8104]

Purchased one for my Son three years ago, purchased one for myself recently ☺

[@melon_vibezz8977]

Yo!! I just bought a 2022 ktm 125 xc. I cant find neutral either. Did you make any adjustments or something to make it easier to find?

[@mecalpsha4473]

KTM is where it is at - wish it had the PDS rear suspension on this bike would make more sense (ADDING a light - for night riding).

[@mackeymichael]

And that would also remove some weight off the bike as well.

[@GJGAMING5]

125 xc-w sounds like the bike for u then, has pds rear suspension and a headlight and speedo, still got 6 gears and can have an electric start fitted😝

[@AustinJ9917]

Could you do a video on TM bikes specifically the endro bike like the 200 250 and 300 carb and FI bikes?

[@alonsooyarce3134]

I come for advice, I'm a 16yo, I'm 5.7 and I have been using a Honda crf 150r for enduro for a year but it's getting small for me and I have been thinking about changing it for a 125 2t, I'll be waiting for your opinions.

[@grid99lsl88]

It depends on your skills but based on my experiences I think a 125 2t would work for you

[@rileyanstey8684]

Hi can someone give me an opinion im 5'8 and almost 14 what should I get I currently have a crf125fb

[@coryvansant3635]

Would you recommend this bite to my tall twelve-year-old who only has experience on a KLX110L with a clutch? I was looking at a crf150rb, but I feel like this would be a great learning tool and obviously fit longer

[@rossgraveley]

Yeah 150 Honda is a good dirtbike teens or younger like 8grader or so

[@Cadwerx1]

I'm a fan of all motorcycles, and this being the DIRT BIKE CHANNEL, I thought there would be a YZ125x Review by now, I hope you give your sons the option and the the blessed opportunity to ride the YZ12x and see the smile on their faces when that time comes. Heck if they dont like it... just give it away. lol. Why play with the suspension at all? I dont know what gear I keep grabbing on a YZ125x after 5 on a long straight? .... Would you call it 5.5, but not 6? Everyone have a great day!

[@ericewing3615]

Loving my new 150 XCW gets me anywhere that all our crew with 300’s go.

[@2strokeatv_bro248]

remember me when you become famous!

[@allenfilipowicz8369]

Lightest thing you ever tested? Try riding a 250 SX in the woods, same light weight with way more usable power. My 21' 250 SX trail conversion is probably about same weight as the 125 XC except the motor has way more usable power that I've tuned to deliver exceptional traction without sacrificing anything.

[@joeriding9951]

Kyle, we are all excited to know who won the bike. (Poke, poke)

[@KooLaidblue]

I've had the kick stand screw come loose and disappear on me during a week long trip. Luckily I had a longer bolt with the right pitch and tiny washer to make it work. Also my threads weren't badly toasted so I was able to replace it with the proper bolt along with plenty of lock tight.

[@gladegoodrich2297]

Owned every thing from a Hodaka to a 500 Kaw. Never ridden any of them as fast as my little Suzuki RM 125.

[@blarpieman]

Its easy to tune as long you upgrade the seals in the carb otherwise its a paperweight.

[@marco21falcon]

Só this bike is really tall. But it tics all my boxes. Except that I am short. Could you cover some options for what you would use to make this bike easier to mount for the vertically challenged?

[@jedielder7970]

BTW, Yamaha updated their 125 and 250 2-strokes... finally, let's get this trend moving. The YZ125 does have a six speed transmission, revised engine, updated brake system, updated carburetor, ergonomics, suspension, etc. Can you review it? Thank you. 👍

[@timonstrydom1272]

😋Love the energy 👌😎

[@Briank-ef5iq]

Put my 14 year old on a RM 125 a year ago , an now he’s 15 an rips on that thing in the woods the track anywhere ! An it’s 190lbs dry

[@kiddicool4616]

The best 125's I'm 14 and rip around on one daily

[@aaronmcelhinney1436]

I really like this bike & hope to win it!!!

[@guilhermebau3029]

make a video talking about the KTM 200 XCW please

[@Kickstart500]

I really may have over kicked my coverage buying a 500excf.. I just like the extra power on the pavement but never use half the power in dirt

[@chadlegault9993]

Yes!!! One HUGE problem, in Ontario, you can NOT insure 125's, so they are now inaccessible to us. Total BS because it is the only bike I need. Went to a Freeride as an alternative. 43 year old

[@chadrides914]

Why do you need it insured? For road use? Genuinely curious.

[@Greerboyz556]

I ride a 450 and I would love to have a 125 any day

[@benmartin6476]

Low idle speed makes neutral harder to get and I found amsoil took out some of that notchy ness from the motorex on my te300i

[@michaelhoobler7520]

U must check out the new yamaha 2022 yz 125 first changes in 15 years $6899 love all the vids keep them up👍

[@Turnerfamilyaquatics]

Super glad I am entered to win from my new strap purchase

[@dakotapettit4544]

Man, can you help me out Kyle? Or anyone lol I already have a yz250f for track. I’m so torn. So many options. I want a super fun, light, flickable bike for trails.... being that I’m 6’2, 195 without gear... am I simply too heavy for the 125xc or 150xcw... if not, which ones better, I don’t know if I’d like how the XCW is set up... or because of my weight... do I go beta 200rr or gasgas 200? Thanks

[@gabrielechimento8719]

20 going to 21, got myself a 125, all my friends got 450s and 250s. I swear that every ride you gotta wait the 450 guys coz they got all the power in the world but boy they scared, and I don't blame them for it coz I would be too.

[@dsm02c]

Same. I sold my 450. Moved to the 300i, zero regrets. Nobody needs a 450 for technical riding.

[@Regan_Tatham]

How does this compare to a 2018 ktm 150 xcw?

[@Nathan-ow7gf]

i ride husky 125s and i find it easier to find neutral while the bike is rolling

[@acousticguitars123]

what is the wheel size on this bike?

[@kylemitlyng6524]

Kyle, I saw a Honda 450RX today . Might be a cool review.

[@kawi5827]

Hey Kyle, can you talk about the new YZ125 and YZ250? I know they aren't releasing the X models until next year but can you still share your opinions and maybe your hopes for 2023?

[@kirt244]

Maybe when the have a hydraulic clutch and e start more people would be interested

[@64maxpower]

I looked but I can't find a record where KTM said the 125 bike was for children. It's crazy in off road riding how 125 can get around a course as fast or faster than bikes with 4x their displacement

[@user-gu4tu1th1j]

how much hp does it have?

[@dougderby9454]

Prob not the most fair comparison to the 150 XC-W. Suspension is quite different. Especially the shock.

[@nuebien]

How much does it weigh?

[@neilhintz8785]

If it was same weight, but 175cc. It would be perfect. Also TPI mk2.

[@goldendrifter3594]

could you please please please do a review on the Yamaha 125x. it would be greatly appreciated

[@jakehoskins8475]

11:20 OMG yes! finally somebody mentions this! My TE250 is basically bulletproof (dozens of guards and a extremely reliable engine) I mean you could throw this bike off a cliff and then ride back up the cliff no problem, but one tiny little bolt comes lose and all of a sudden I am worrying about tightening the kickstand bolt every time I leave the truck. I'm thinking about welding the dang thing in there.

[@gordonteuber3103]

I have a KTM 125 SX and I have the same issue with finding neutral.

[@turtleinwhalmart8114]

Good luck everyone.

[@carlatamanczyk3891]

My kids ride a 125 Beta and a 150 KTM.. They are great for lightweight riders.