The KTM 390 SMC R is not your regular motorcycle. It’s wild, loud, and kind of crazy. Built for riders who love chaos on two wheels, this machine mixes power with madness. You twist the throttle, it answers instantly. It doesn’t care about comfort much. It’s just pure thrill. For someone who loves control and that raw rush of speed, the KTM 390 SMC R feels like a dream that bites back a little. Simple, honest, and full of fire.
Quick Info – KTM 390 SMC R Key Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 399cc Single-Cylinder, Liquid-Cooled |
| Power | 43.5 PS @ 9000 rpm |
| Torque | 37 Nm @ 7000 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-Speed with Quickshifter+ |
| Frame | Chromium-Molybdenum Steel Trellis Frame |
| Brakes | Front & Rear Disc with Cornering ABS |
| Weight | Approx. 150 kg (dry) |
| Expected Price | ₹3.6 to ₹3.9 Lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Launch Timeline | Early 2025 (Expected) |
Design and Looks
The first time you see the KTM 390 SMC R, it looks angry. Like it wants to fight the road. The sharp lines, tall stance, and exposed frame speak pure aggression. The orange trellis frame pops out under sunlight. The flat seat looks ready for action, not for comfort. It’s narrow, it’s light, and it feels fast even when standing still. Every inch screams performance. You sit on it, and you instantly feel connected. The headlamp design is minimal yet fierce, giving it that street-racer vibe. The overall build feels tight and purpose-driven, just like a proper supermoto should be.
Engine, Performance & Mileage
The KTM 390 SMC R gets its heart from the new 399cc engine. The same one from the latest 390 Duke, but tuned to behave differently. It’s punchy, loud, and very alive. Twist the throttle and it jumps forward like it’s been waiting all day for this. Gear shifts are smooth, thanks to the quickshifter. The bike feels super light under you. Every curve feels sharper. Every straight feels shorter. On open roads, it flies. In corners, it dances. Mileage is decent for such a wild machine, around 25 to 28 kmpl if you behave, but let’s be honest — few will ride it calmly. The engine’s sound, its pulse, it all makes you forget about fuel economy.
Features & Technology
The KTM 390 SMC R is loaded with clever tech, but nothing feels overdone. It gets a bright TFT screen with Bluetooth pairing for calls and music. Ride-by-wire throttle gives smooth control. Cornering ABS and traction control step in when you push too hard. Supermoto mode lets you lock the rear wheel and slide like a pro. It even has adjustable suspension, which makes it easy to tweak for track or street. Every feature feels built for a purpose, not just to fill a spec sheet. It’s tech that listens, not tech that bosses you around. And that’s what makes this bike special.
Price & Variants
The expected price of the KTM 390 SMC R in India will sit between ₹3.6 and ₹3.9 lakh. Not cheap, but you get a full-blown supermoto with world-class hardware. KTM will likely bring just one top variant, fully loaded with the best parts — WP Apex suspension, cornering ABS, quickshifter, and all. It’s made for riders who know what they’re buying. This is not a showpiece. It’s a machine built to be ridden hard, and every rupee feels justified once you experience the ride.
Launch Date & Availability in India
The KTM 390 SMC R is expected to hit Indian roads by early 2025. KTM has been teasing its 390 lineup worldwide, and the SMC R is next in line. Initially, it will be sold only through select KTM Pro dealerships in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Bookings might open online first. Expect a waiting period because demand will be high and units limited. Once it arrives, it will surely stand out — not just because of looks, but because there’s nothing quite like it here yet.
Competitors & Comparison
Honestly, the KTM 390 SMC R doesn’t have a direct rival. You can compare it to bikes like the BMW G310 R or the TVS Apache RR 310, but they don’t give that raw, supermoto thrill. Maybe the Kawasaki Z400 could come close if launched, but still, the SMC R has its own madness. It’s not practical like a commuter or smooth like a tourer. It’s playful, jumpy, and wild. That’s the fun. Every ride feels like a quick fight between control and chaos. And that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable.
Expert Opinion / Conclusion
The KTM 390 SMC R is a motorcycle built with emotion, not logic. It’s for those who ride for the feeling, not the destination. The handling is razor sharp, the engine feels alive, and the power delivery is addictive. It’s not comfortable, it’s not calm, but it’s real. You ride it once, and it stays in your mind. For short riders, the seat height may be a little scary, but once you’re moving, it’s magic. It’s not just another KTM it’s an attitude on wheels. The KTM 390 SMC R is a reminder that riding is supposed to be fun, raw, and a little bit crazy.
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