2025 KTM 390 SMC R – Everything You Need To Know About The Design, Features And Price

KTM enthusiasts in India may soon have another exciting motorcycle to look forward to. Reports suggest that the KTM 390 SMC R, showcased at EICMA 2024, could launch in India during the second half of 2025. Positioned as a niche supermoto offering, the 390 SMC R will likely sit above the 390 Duke in terms of pricing and exclusivity.

With the expected launches of the new-gen 390 ADV and 390 Enduro R, the 390 SMC R will be another addition to KTM’s robust portfolio in the country.

Design

The KTM 390 SMC R embraces a typical supermoto design, emphasizing functionality and agility. Its tall stance, slim profile, and dirt-bike-inspired styling set it apart from conventional street bikes. The motorcycle sports a tall front mudguard and a compact 9-litre fuel tank, which is significantly smaller than the 15-litre tank on the 390 Duke.

This reduction in size contributes to its lightweight build, as the bike tips the scales at 154 kg, making it 11 kg lighter than its sibling. However, the 860 mm seat height—one of the tallest among sub-500 cc motorcycles—might be intimidating for shorter riders.

Engine

The KTM 390 SMC R is powered by the same 399 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine as the new 390 Duke. This engine produces 46 hp at 8,500 rpm and 39 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. Mated to a 6-speed gearbox, it also features a quick-shifter, making it a delight for performance-oriented riders.

Chassis

While the 390 SMC R shares the basic architecture of the 390 Duke, it introduces notable differences to suit its supermoto character. The bike features a two-piece steel trellis frame with a bolt-on sub-frame, but with alterations in the steering head angle, triple clamps, and sub-frame mounts. Additionally, the new aluminum swingarm and redesigned radiator packaging enhance its versatility and performance.

Suspension and Wheels

The suspension setup on the 390 SMC R is designed for rugged use. Up front, it features a 43 mm WP APEX open cartridge front fork with 230 mm of travel, while the rear comes with an off-set WP APEX shock absorber, also offering 230 mm of travel. The front suspension is adjustable for rebound and compression, while the rear is adjustable for preload.

The motorcycle rides on 17-inch alloy wheels, fitted with Michelin Power 6 tires. The tires measure 110/70 R17 at the front and 150/60 R17 at the rear, offering excellent grip on both tarmac and mild off-road conditions.

Features

The KTM 390 SMC R is packed with rider-centric features. It includes a 4.2-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, offering intuitive access to the bike’s settings and notifications. Riders can choose from three riding modes: Rain, Street, and Race, ensuring optimal performance in varying conditions. The bike also comes equipped with dual-channel ABS with a supermoto mode, allowing riders to disable rear-wheel ABS for enhanced control during slides.

Pricing

While KTM hasn’t officially announced the pricing, the 390 SMC R is expected to carry a premium over the 390 Duke, which is currently priced at Rs 3.14 lakh (ex-showroom). As a niche product, it will cater to riders looking for a lightweight, high-performance supermoto that excels on city streets and twisty backroads.

Key Takeaways

The KTM 390 SMC R is shaping up to be an exciting addition to KTM’s lineup, offering a unique mix of agility, power, and advanced features. Whether for spirited city rides or track days, this supermoto is designed to deliver an exhilarating experience. With its potential India launch in the second half of 2025, the 390 SMC R could become the go-to choice for riders who crave something extraordinary.

FAQs