KTM is gearing up to bring something seriously exciting to India – the all-new 390 SMC R. If you’ve been waiting for an affordable, proper supermoto under 500cc, this one’s going to catch your eye. While it hasn’t launched yet, test mules are already being spotted on public roads, hinting that the official debut is just around the corner.
Design
The 390 SMC R is based on the same platform as KTM’s new 390 Adventure and the upcoming 390 Enduro R. But where those are more touring and off-road focused, the SMC R is a no-nonsense supermoto. It rolls on 17-inch spoke wheels at both ends – the classic supermoto setup – and these appear to be tubeless, just like the ones on the 390 Adventure.
You also get the signature supermoto stance – tall, narrow, and aggressive. The bike looks like it’s ready to slide around corners and hop over kerbs. And with fewer body panels compared to an adventure bike, it’s likely to be lighter and more agile too.
Suspension
One of the standout features of the 390 SMC R is its suspension setup. It gets 230mm of travel at both ends – the same as the international-spec Enduro R and more than the 390 Adventure. That’s a lot of room for movement, especially when paired with sticky road-biased tyres on 17-inch wheels.
Up front, you get WP Apex upside-down forks that are fully adjustable for compression and rebound. At the rear, there’s a WP monoshock that’s adjustable for rebound and preload. That means riders can really dial in the suspension for street play, stunting, or even some light trail riding if needed.
Engine
The heart of the 390 SMC R is the tried-and-tested 399cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that also powers the 390 Duke, Adventure, and Enduro R. It makes 45.3bhp and 39Nm of torque. That doesn’t sound like much on paper, but in real-world riding, it’s more than enough – especially in a lightweight chassis.
This engine is known for its strong mid-range punch and responsive throttle, making it ideal for the kind of quick, nimble riding supermotos are built for. Expect sharp acceleration, easy wheelies, and lots of sideways fun with this setup.
Features
As for tech, the 390 SMC R is expected to come with a 4.3-inch TFT display – the same unit used in the 390 Enduro. It should have Bluetooth connectivity, so riders can hook up their phones for call alerts, music, and maybe even navigation through a companion app.
The bike also gets dual-channel ABS, and more importantly, Supermoto ABS. This lets you turn off ABS at the rear while keeping it active up front – perfect for sliding into corners or locking the rear for tricks.
Pricing
When it launches, the 390 SMC R is expected to be priced just over the Rs. 3 lakh mark (ex-showroom). That positions it as a premium yet relatively accessible option for enthusiasts who want something wild, different, and purpose-built.
The best part? It doesn’t really have any direct competition right now in India. The 390 SMC R could open the floodgates for sub-500cc supermotos in the country, and it’s about time.
For riders who love the thrill of aggressive street riding, urban stunts, and the occasional slide, this bike could be exactly what they’ve been waiting for. KTM seems to be pulling all the right strings again.
FAQs
What wheels does the 390 SMC R get?
It gets 17-inch spoke wheels, likely tubeless type.
Is the suspension adjustable?
Yes, both front and rear suspension are fully adjustable.
What engine powers the 390 SMC R?
It uses a 399cc engine making 45.3bhp and 39Nm torque.
Will it have Supermoto ABS?
Yes, Supermoto ABS mode will be included.
What is the expected price?
Expected to be slightly above Rs. 3 lakh (ex-showroom).
