All photos: KTM
Despite the backroom/boardroom drama, KTM chuffs on forward in North America with its new lineup. We’ve just seen news that the updated 390 models are about to show up here, or at least the first of the series is, with confirmation the KTM 390 SMC R is about to arrive in Canada.
It’s a semi-familiar machine, because KTM has been selling these 390 singles in North America for years now—first in the Duke 390 and RC390, and then the KTM 390 Adventure that Zac has enjoyed so much (he tested the first-gen and second-gen models). Now, a third-generation version of the platform is coming, and this supermoto is the first installment in what will be at least three models, and maybe as many as six.
Basically, this is a hybrid between the latest-generation street-based 390 Duke model and the new 390 Adventure model, which is yet to be released here in Canada. Of course the engine is the same, and KTM says the two-piece steel trellis frame is similar, “but features a different steering head angle, triple clamps, subframe mounts, and rigidity profile, purposely engineered for improved handling, control and stability.”
Long-travel suspension, similar to the Adventure lineup, ends in spoked 17-inch rims with sticky Michelin Power 6 street tires. KTM gave this su-mo a WP APEX open-cartridge fork with 230 mm of travel and compression/rebound adjustment, and an off-center WP APEX shock with adjustable rebound.
Supermoto riders generally want to hoon about with the greatest of ease, and to that end, the SMC gets a 320mm brake disc up front, with radial mount caliper, and a 240mm disc in back. Dual-channel ABS is standard, and depending what ride mode you’re in, you can select supermoto-style ABS with the rear still allowed to lock up and slide all around.
The engine itself has been around for a few months now; if it’s in the same tune as the Duke version, it should make about 45 hp at 8,500 rpm and 28 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. A quickshifter will probably be optional, paired to the six-speed gearbox. The bike will come with Street and Sport riding modes, as well as switchable traction control.
Other deets: The SMC has a new 4.2-inch TFT screen with user interface specifically designed for this scaled-down dash. Of course it supports KTM’s connectivity options, allowing you to control music playback, answer calls and navigate turn-by-turn with correctly-paired mobile device.
KTM doesn’t list a 2025 price, but says this machine should be here soon.
IF they’re still around. I can see this being rebranded as a CFMoto once the dust settles.
It’s great to see KTM bringing more exciting options to the Canadian market.
Kudos to KTM for continuing to cater to the diverse needs of Canadian motorcyclists. Can’t wait to see this beauty in action!
Great news for Canadian riders! The KTM 390 Supermoto is an exciting addition to the lineup, and it’s sure to bring some serious fun to our roads and tracks.