2025 KTM 390 SMC R first look: A challenge for supermoto supremacy

For years — no, decades — one model was synonymous with the category: the Suzuki DR-Z400SM. Its stranglehold on the segment only strengthened when Suzuki announced the 2025 DR-Z4SM in November. Yesterday, a new contender arrived to challenge the DR-Z’s reign. It came in the form of the all-new KTM 390 SMC R.

A worthy challenger

The Austrian marque builds the 390 SMC R on the same two-piece trellis frame design as the current-gen 390 Duke, but key differences prep the chassis for hooligan behavior. That includes a different steering head angle and rigidity profile as well as new triple clamps and subframe mounts. 

Both models tout WP’s APEX suspension, but the SMC’s 43 mm inverted fork and monoshock boost suspension travel to nearly 9.1 inches. It’s just as functional, too, with the front end offering five clicks of compression and rebound adjustability while the rear shock’s rebound damping settings total 20 clicks. 

At both ends, the wee SMC rolls on 17-inch wire-spoke wheels wrapped in Michelin’s Power 6 tires. ByBre brakes bring the small-bore supermoto to a stop while two-channel ABS puts three settings (standard, Supermoto, and Supermoto+) at the rider's thumb. 

Within the model’s trellis frame resides KTM’s liquid-cooled, 398 cc single. The thumper reportedly produces 45 horsepower (at 8,500 rpm) and 28.7 foot-pounds of torque (at 7,000 rpm). KTM wasn't reluctant to boast about the 390 SMC R’s two ride modes (Road and Sport) and switchable traction control, either. 

KTM tops off the model with a new 4.2-inch TFT dash designed for the SMC’s compact cockpit. Even with its small footprint, the unit allows the user to answer calls, play music, and display turn-by-turn navigation when connected to the KTM Connect App. 

The word from Mattighofen is that the 2025 390 SMC R will arrive at North American dealerships in early 2025. When it does, the real question will be: can it dethrone the incoming DR-Z4SM.

For supermoto supremacy

While the SMC and DR-Z will fight over the same territory, each will do so in very different ways. In classic KTM fashion, the 390 will lean on its performance and sporty attitude. Based on the spec sheet, it already ekes out advantages in the engine, chassis, and technology department. Its six-speed gearbox doesn’t hurt its case, either. 

While the DR-Z4SM is technically a new model, it isn’t a far departure from its predecessor. Sure, it earned fuel injection, ride-by-wire throttle, and a host of other upgrades, but compared to KTM’s category newcomer, it’s practically a known entity. Plus, some will argue for Suzuki’s reliability over that of KTM’s. 

But, when it comes down to it, pricing will likely determine the success of both models. Unfortunately, Suzuki hasn't announced the DR-Z4SM's sticker price. What I can tell you is that it'll be hard to beat the 390 SMC R's $5,499 MSRP. That’s a highly aggressive price tag considering the outgoing DR-Z400SM still costs $7,899. But, that's a story for another day. For now, I'll just be grateful that new supermotos aren't as few and far between.  

2025 KTM 390 SMC R
Price (MSRP)	$5,499
Engine	398.7 cc, liquid-cooled, four-valve single
Transmission, final drive	Six-speed, chain
Claimed horsepower	45 @ 8,500 rpm
Claimed Torque	28.7 @ 7,000 rpm
Frame	Tubular steel
Front suspension	WP APEX 43 mm fork, adjustable for compression and rebound damping; 9.05 inches of travel
Rear suspension	WP APEX shock, adjustable for spring preload and rebound damping; 9.05 inches of travel
Front brake	ByBre four-piston caliper, 320 mm disc with ABS
Rear brake	ByBre two-piston caliper, 240 mm disc with ABS
Rake	26.9 degrees
Wheelbase	57.2 inches
Seat height	33.9 inches
Fuel capacity	2.37 gallons
Tires	Michelin Road 6, 110/70 R17 front, 150/60 R17 rear
Claimed weight	339 pounds (without fuel)
Available	Early 2025
Warranty	24 months
More info	KTM.com