KTM, Joins Husqvarna, GasGas With New-Generation 85cc Mini Motocross Ripper

All three Pierer Mobility Group brands - KTM, Husqvarna, and GasGas - have launched their 2025 85cc motocross bikes, as a new generation of the largest of the brands' junior motocross machines is introduced.

Being a part of the same parent organisation, it’s not a surprise that the 2025 KTM 85 SX, Husqvarna TC 85 and 2025 GasGas MC 85 are essentially the same bar the colour of the plastics. There are changes to the frame, elsewhere on the chassis, and in the engine for 2025 over previous years.

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Beginning with the engine changes, there is a new cylinder head, exhaust, ignition, spark plug, and carburettor settings which both brands say should “boost low-to-mid-range power and torque.” While GasGas only says that the engine is “repositioned,” Husqvarna and KTM are more detailed when they mention that the engine is rotated three degrees upward at the front for more “effective” weight distribution. Only GasGas mentions Pankl radiators and a revised airbox.

The new frame, according to Husqvarna, incorporates new geometry, including a new steering head angle of 63.5 degrees and a new position 6mm rearwards of the previous generation. "This has aided in cornering stability and a more planted feel in high-speed acceleration, further supported by a wider steering angle of 35 degrees," KTM says.

Suspension changes come at the rear with a new WP Xact shock that’s 16mm shorter in travel than before, with Husqvarna saying this is “to ensure a more balanced chassis.” The shock is mounted to the upper frame tube, which mirrors the design of the bigger motocross bikes of the PMG brands. The swingarm is new, too, with a weight reduction of 300g over the previous generation thanks to what KTM calls "an improved casting process".

At the front, the new 85s use a 43mm WP Xact AER fork, with reduced air pressure of 4.8 bar over the previous 5.0 bar "for a smoother ride and suspension compliance," KTM says. 

GasGas mentions new footpegs and a new shift drum, while only Husqvarna mentions the tyre brand: Maxxis, which supplies its MX-ST tyres for the new TC 85 and, from the photos you can tell, for the MC 85 and 85 SX, too.

Two engine maps are available to select, while Galfer discs are combined with Formula callipers to do the braking. The clutch is hydraulic, rather than cable, and the black rims (which look better with GasGas’ new red and black livery than the blue, yellow and white Husqvarna) have CNC-machined hubs.

All three brands offer their new 85s in both small (17-inch front, 14-inch rear) and big (19-inch front, 16-inch rear) wheel variants. Whichever you choose, though, the price is £6,399.