Get ready, adrenaline junkies and asphalt shredders! The motorcycle world is buzzing with anticipation for the imminent arrival of the KTM 390 SMC R. Based on strong industry reports and dealer whispers, this purebred supermoto is expected to launch in India on June 15th, 2025, with a projected ex-showroom price range of ₹3.3 lakhs to ₹3.4 lakhs. This isn’t just another street bike; it’s a focused machine designed to dominate city streets and carve up canyon roads with unrivaled agility and punch.
What is the KTM 390 SMC R? Unleashing the Supermoto Spirit
Supermoto (or “Supermoto”) bikes blend the best of motocross agility with street bike performance. They typically feature:
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Lightweight, nimble chassis derived from off-road machines.
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Long-travel suspension tuned for pavement prowess and curb-hopping ability.
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Aggressive, upright riding position for maximum control.
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Powerful brakes (often with larger front discs).
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Dual-sport tires (17-inch wheels front and rear) offering grip on tarmac.
The 390 SMC R takes KTM’s proven 390 Duke platform and injects it with serious supermoto DNA, promising an exhilarating and visceral riding experience unlike any other in its price bracket.
Expected Launch Date & Price: Mark Your Calendars
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Expected Launch Date: June 15th, 2025 (Based on reliable industry sources and supply chain indicators).
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Expected Price Range: ₹3.3 lakhs to ₹3.4 lakhs (Ex-showroom, India). This positions it as a premium offering, reflecting its specialized components and performance focus compared to the standard 390 Duke.
KTM 390 SMC R: Expected Specifications & Features Breakdown
KTM is renowned for packing cutting-edge tech into accessible packages. The 390 SMC R is expected to raise the bar significantly.
Powertrain: Punchy Single-Cylinder Performance
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Engine: The same potent 373.2cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder powerhouse found in the 390 Duke and RC 390.
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Expected Output: Roughly 44 BHP and 37 Nm of torque. Tuned for strong low and mid-range punch, essential for supermoto hooliganism.
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Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch for smooth downshifts and rear-wheel stability.
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Exhaust: Sportier, more aggressive exhaust note compared to the Duke.
Chassis & Suspension: Built for Agility & Air
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Frame: Lightweight chromoly steel trellis frame, a KTM signature.
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Suspension (Front): Long-travel USD forks (likely WP Apex, 150mm+ travel) – a critical supermoto upgrade over the Duke for soaking up bumps and jumps.
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Suspension (Rear): Monoshock (likely WP Apex) with preload adjustability.
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Wheels & Tires: 17-inch alloy wheels front and rear shod with high-grip street-biased dual-sport tires. Expect a wider rear tire than the Duke.
Brakes & Electronics: Confidence-Inspiring Control
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Brakes (Front): A large 320mm disc gripped by a radially mounted 4-piston caliper (likely ByBre) – essential for the hard stopping supermoto demands.
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Brakes (Rear): 230mm disc with a single-piston caliper.
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ABS: Switchable Cornering ABS (featuring Supermoto mode that allows rear wheel lift/sliding) – a game-changer for the segment.
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Ride Modes: Expected inclusion of Street and Rain modes, adjusting throttle response and ABS/TC intervention.
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Instrument Cluster: Full-color TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity (via KTM MyRide) for turn-by-turn navigation, music control, and call alerts.
Design & Ergonomics: Pure Supermoto Aggression
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Styling: Sharper, more angular bodywork than the Duke, featuring a distinctive supermoto headlight mask, minimalistic tail section, and exposed frame elements. Signature KTM orange dominates.
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Riding Position: Tall seat height (expected ~890mm+), wide handlebars, and rearset footpegs for maximum leverage and control during aggressive riding.
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Weight: Expected to be extremely lightweight (likely under 160kg kerb), crucial for flickability.
The Competition: Who Should Be Worried?
The 390 SMC R enters a niche but growing segment. Its primary competition includes:
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KTM 390 Duke: The donor bike – more versatile but less focused on pure supermoto thrills.
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BMW G 310 R: A capable naked, but lacks the specialized suspension, brakes, and supermoto intent.
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Husqvarna Svartpilen 401: Shares the 390 platform but has a scrambler aesthetic, not a dedicated supermoto setup.
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Used Supermotos: Older, higher-capacity imports (like the DRZ400SM), but lack modern tech and dealer support.
The SMC R is poised to offer a unique blend of modern technology, accessible performance, and genuine supermoto capability unmatched at this price point in India.
Final Thoughts: Is the KTM 390 SMC R Worth the Wait?
If the expected launch date and price hold true, the KTM 390 SMC R is set to ignite the Indian performance motorcycle scene. It promises:
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Unrivaled Agility: That supermoto flickability for conquering traffic and corners.
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Thrilling Performance: Accessible yet potent single-cylinder punch.
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Cutting-Edge Tech: Cornering ABS, TFT dash, ride modes – segment-leading.
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Pure Adrenaline: A focused machine for riders who prioritize fun and feedback.
Mark June 15th, 2025, on your calendar. If you crave a motorcycle that blends motocross-inspired playfulness with serious street performance, the KTM 390 SMC R, priced around ₹3.3 – 3.4 lakhs, could very well be your dream machine. Stay tuned for official confirmation from KTM!
Also Read: Hero XPulse 421 Is the Adventure Bike You’ve Been Waiting For at ₹2.4 Lakh!
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