The KTM 390 SMC R is not just another motorcycle—it’s a thrilling machine designed for riders who want a perfect mix of city agility, stunt-ready confidence, and track performance. Built around KTM’s “Ready to Race” philosophy, this bike is a compact powerhouse that appeals to enthusiasts who crave sharp handling, lightweight performance, and aggressive styling.
Design That Screams Attitude
From the very first glance, the KTM 390 SMC R sets itself apart with its razor-sharp design. True to its Supermoto DNA, the bike sports a minimalistic body with a high front fender, angular tank shrouds, and a flat, elongated seat that allows the rider to move freely. It wears KTM’s signature orange livery with bold graphics, making it instantly recognizable. The exposed trellis frame, slim profile, and compact headlamp unit give it a lean, mean, and race-ready appearance.
Power and Performance
At the heart of the KTM 390 SMC R lies a 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that churns out approximately 43 horsepower and 37 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a slick 6-speed gearbox, and for added performance and convenience, KTM offers a quickshifter+ as standard. Despite its relatively small displacement, this engine packs a punch, especially in the mid-range, making it ideal for wheelies, drifts, and aggressive cornering.
Thanks to its lightweight build—tipping the scales at just around 150 kg—the 390 SMC R offers incredible power-to-weight ratio. Whether you’re slicing through traffic or pushing limits on a twisty mountain road, the throttle response is immediate, and the bike stays planted and confident.
Supermoto Suspension and Chassis
One of the standout features of the 390 SMC R is its suspension setup. It features premium WP APEX suspension components—43mm USD front forks and a monoshock rear—both of which are fully adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound. This allows riders to fine-tune their ride according to street, track, or stunt preferences.
The steel trellis frame ensures excellent rigidity while keeping weight low, and the subframe design is narrow and lightweight—ideal for aggressive riding. The 17-inch wheels are wrapped in sticky Metzeler tires, which provide superb grip on tarmac, allowing for controlled slides and fast corner exits.
Braking and Electronics
Braking is handled by a powerful 320mm front disc with a radially mounted four-piston caliper, and a 230mm rear disc. The setup is assisted by Bosch dual-channel ABS, which includes a Supermoto mode. This mode allows the rider to disable ABS on the rear wheel for full control during slides—an essential feature for experienced riders who love drifting into corners.
The bike also includes a lightweight TFT display, ride-by-wire throttle, and advanced traction control systems. The electronics are intuitive and performance-focused, without overwhelming the rider.
Everyday Usability
While the KTM 390 SMC R is a beast on the track and an entertainer in urban conditions, it’s surprisingly usable as a daily ride. The upright riding posture, wide handlebars, and slim profile make it comfortable for city rides. However, the tall seat height may be a challenge for shorter riders, and the hard Supermoto seat isn’t designed for long touring comfort.
Fuel economy is decent for its class, and maintenance is straightforward, making it a relatively low-hassle bike for what it offers in performance.
Final Verdict
The KTM 390 SMC R is a rare breed in the Indian and global markets—a focused Supermoto that delivers pure riding thrills in a compact package. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re an adrenaline junkie who loves sharp handling, lightweight dynamics, and wants to stand out, the 390 SMC R could be your perfect two-wheeled companion. It’s the kind of bike that encourages you to ride harder, lean further, and play with the limits—whether on city streets or on the racetrack.
