KTM is known for its racing endeavors and performance-driven production bikes that often come with a premium price tag. But with a mutual partnership with the Indian manufacturer Bajaj, KTM applies its “Ready to Race” philosophy to affordable motorcycles such as the RC 390, 390 Duke, and 390 Adventure. Last year at EICMA, KTM announced it was extending the 390 platform with the addition of four new models, including the 2025 390 SMC R.

KTM’s new 399cc supermoto is just one of the new bikes based on the 390 Duke to enter the market for 2025. The 390 Adventure R, 390 Adventure X, 390 Enduro R, and 390 SMC R all utilize the same platform, but target different customers and use cases.

We recently rode the 390 Adventure R and 390 Enduro R and came away highly impressed with their performance, features, and value. The 390 SMC R promises to deliver the same characteristics, but in a supermoto package. For a deeper dive on the new 390 SMC R platform, check out our first look article here.

We have always loved the naked 390 Duke for its playfulness. So, naturally, when KTM announced the SMC R at EICMA, we couldn’t wait to get our hands on it. But the SMC R isn’t just a Duke with a motocross handlebar. KTM optimized the platform on the SMC R and the Enduro R (they share the same revised frame) to better suit their respective disciplines.

A new two-piece steel trellis frame is based on the third-generation 390 platform shared with the smaller-capacity Duke model. However it does feature a different steering head angle, triple clamps, subframe mounts, and rigidity profile, purposely engineered for improved handling, control, and stability for the intended usage of the SMC R.

EngineThe entire 2025 390 line utilizes the same LC4c engine, but each with dedicated mapping, ride modes, and rider aids. This powerplant is a 399cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine producing a claimed 44 hp at 8500 rpm and 28.8 lb.-ft. of torque at 7000 rpm. It features a six-speed transmission with a slipper/assist clutch, a ride-by-wire throttle system, and an adjustable electronics package that includes two ride modes (Street and Sport), each with dedicated traction control and ABS settings—both being non-lean sensitive. Riders can adjust settings via a 4.2-inch TFT display and a joystick on the left side of the handlebar.

Each ride mode can be tailored to your preference by adjusting the traction control and ABS settings in each ride mode, effectively making each ride mode a throttle map. And when you cycle the key, your chosen settings remain the same. Sport mode provides a looser Sport traction control and rear-off Supermoto ABS. Street mode gets Street traction control and Street ABS with both ends active.We spent most of our time in Sport mode with Supermoto ABS and traction control disabled while at the track. Supermoto ABS makes the intervention less intrusive than Street ABS on the front wheel and completely disables ABS at the rear wheel.

ChassisThe 390 SMC R utilizes a two-piece steel trellis frame that has been optimized for stability and control. The suspension components include a 43mm WP Apex open-cartridge fork offering 30 clicks of compression and rebound adjustment. At the rear is a WP Apex off-center linkless shock with rebound (20 clicks) and preload adjustment. Both ends of the suspension offer 9.1 inches of travel.

Seat height on the SMC R is reduced to 33.9 inches compared to the Enduro R’s 35-inch seat height. The claimed curb weight is also lower than the Enduro’s (364 pounds) at 355 pounds, despite having the same fuel capacity of 2.4 gallons. But the major separator between the Enduro R and the SMC R is the wheels, tires, and brakes.

KTM fitted the 390 SMC R with 17-inch lace-spoke wheels wrapped in Michelin Power 6 rubber. The SMC R and Enduro R share the same 240mm rear disc and single-piston ByBre caliper, but the supermoto shares a larger 320mm front disc and dual-piston ByBre caliper with the 390 Adventure R.

The SMC R’s handlebar is the same width as the Enduro R, but with a lower bend and shorter 42mm riser. Other features include adjustable levers, a USB-C charging port, and smartphone connectivity through the KTMconnect app, providing access to music, phone calls, and turn-by-turn navigation.

After recently riding the 390 Adventure R and 390 Enduro R, we came into this test with some expectations. The off-road variants of this platform offer three important things: performance, adjustability, and value. KTM’s 390 SMC R is no different.

On the Street and TrackWe criticized the LC4c engine in the Adventure and Enduro for not having enough low-end torque, but suspected that it was affected by the 10,000-foot-plus elevation of Mammoth, California. Riding the SMC R near sea level in Murrieta, California, the engine is noticeably more punchy in the lower revs.

Turning laps around Apex Motorsports Park, we were able to stay in second gear even on the tightest corners the track has to offer. Spin the engine up into the midrange, and it pulls hard to redline. On a tight supermoto track, the LC4c engine might just be one of the best applications for this engine, especially with the optional quickshifter ($274 accessory). The engine is punchy, lively, full of excitement, and especially rewarding when riding aggressively.

We started our first track session with KTM’s suggested Sport suspension setting (seven clicks out from all the way in on compression and rebound). At my weight of 125 pounds, the too-stiff front end robbed me of confidence on rough sections of pavement. Open up the compression an additional three clicks (10 total) and the fork is more supple, allowing the SMC R to utilize that large contact patch at the front tire without sacrificing holdup under braking.

Charging into corners, the chassis is sharp and responsive. The front end is laterally stiff and allows for heavy brake application without any hint or twist that would sacrifice stability. Around the entire track, the chassis remained balanced and supremely planted.

Riding the 390 SMC R around Apex Motorsports Park was a great test of the bike’s outright performance. But in reality, this bike is going to spend most of its time riding through the city or down the highway. And it’s a great bike for that. The engine is fun, manageable, and capable of running highway speeds comfortably. It has a sharp chassis with comfortable ergonomics—an excellent combination for a day of tearing up mountain roads or the local kart track. Adjustable electronics and suspension allow riders to tune the bike to their preference and not always a feature you find in a bike at this price point. KTM’s 390 SMC R offers a lot for $5500 and delivers on what the marketing campaign promises: a bike built for “riders who see every empty parking lot as a playground.”2025 KTM 390 SMC R Specs