KTM, renowned for its aggressive, lightweight, and performance-driven motorcycles, has officially unveiled the KTM 390 SMC R 2025. This latest machine is engineered for riders who crave adrenaline, precise handling, and the perfect balance between street and track performance. Designed as an accessible yet serious supermoto, the 390 SMC R takes inspiration from its larger siblings, offering a true supermoto experience with a manageable engine size and cutting-edge features.
A Fresh Supermoto Desig
The 2025 KTM 390 SMC R carries a completely refreshed design, with sharp lines, bold graphics, and an aggressive stance. Staying true to KTM’s DNA, the motorcycle is painted in the signature orange frame, complemented by black and white accents. The sleek bodywork is minimalist, ensuring lightweight performance while giving it an unmistakable supermoto silhouette.
A redesigned high-mounted front fender, sharp tank shrouds, and an updated LED headlamp contribute to both aesthetics and functionality. The bike’s narrow profile and flat seat design are intended for maximum rider maneuverability, whether sliding into corners or popping wheelies on urban streets.
Powertrain: Punchy and Playful
At the heart of the KTM 390 SMC R 2025 is a 399cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine, the same upgraded unit featured in the latest 390 Duke. This new-generation engine delivers improved power and torque, offering around 44 hp and 39 Nm of torque (figures may vary slightly depending on region).
Thanks to a lighter engine design, refined internals, and revised gear ratios, the bike offers quicker throttle response and a punchier midrange. The ride-by-wire throttle system ensures precise control, while KTM’s slipper clutch and optional quick-shifter (available in some markets) enhance aggressive riding, whether on asphalt or dirt.
Chassis and Suspension: Precision on Two Wheels
Built around a lightweight chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame, the 390 SMC R promises nimble handling with superb rigidity. The bike uses a die-cast aluminum swingarm for optimal weight distribution and stability.
Suspension duties are handled by WP Apex fully adjustable components. The front sports a 43mm inverted fork with adjustable compression and rebound, while the rear features a monoshock with preload and rebound adjustability. With around 240mm of travel, this setup is perfectly suited for absorbing urban bumps, dirt trails, or aggressive cornering on the track.
The long-travel suspension is complemented by a supermoto-specific geometry: a steeper rake and shorter wheelbase for quick directional changes.
Braking and Wheels: Ready for Stoppies and Slides
KTM has equipped the 390 SMC R with premium braking hardware. Up front is a 320mm disc clamped by a radial-mounted four-piston Brembo (or ByBre) caliper, while the rear uses a 230mm disc. Both are governed by cornering ABS with Supermoto mode, allowing the rider to disable rear ABS for controlled slides and stoppies — a supermoto essential.
The bike rolls on lightweight 17-inch spoked wheels, wrapped in grippy road-biased tires, ensuring excellent traction on both tarmac and light off-road surfaces.
Tech Features: Small Bike, Big Tech
The 2025 KTM 390 SMC R punches above its weight class with its modern electronics package. The TFT full-color display offers smartphone connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, and customizable ride modes.
Riders benefit from cornering traction control, Supermoto ABS, and an optional Quickshifter+ for clutchless up and downshifts. A bi-directional quickshifter might be offered depending on markets. The lightweight LED lighting system, including a new headlight and taillight, enhances visibility and styling.
Ergonomics: Built for Fun and Control
The slim body, wide handlebars, and flat seat allow aggressive body positioning whether attacking tight city corners or sliding into track hairpins. Adjustable levers and foot controls cater to various rider preferences.
With a seat height of around 880mm, it’s tall like most supermotos but manageable for average-height riders due to the bike’s slim waist.
Who Is It For?
The KTM 390 SMC R 2025 is aimed at riders who want lightweight agility, urban hooligan fun, and the thrill of supermoto riding without stepping into the high-maintenance world of full-blown competition machines. Whether you’re a beginner stepping up from smaller bikes or an experienced rider wanting a second fun bike, the 390 SMC R fits perfectly.
Conclusion: The Everyday Hooligan’s Dream
KTM’s 390 SMC R 2025 isn’t just a motorcycle — it’s an attitude. Lightweight, punchy, and packed with modern tech, it’s ready to tear up city streets, backroads, and kart tracks alike. With its combination of sharp handling, strong brakes, playful engine, and supermoto styling, the 390 SMC R redefines what a lightweight supermoto can be in 2025.
