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The KTM 390 SMC R was once again spotted testing on Indian roads raising hopes and speculation of its launch in India. This supermoto variant gets a 399cc single-cylinder LC4 mill that churns out around 45 hp and about 39 Nm of torque. Majorly based on the 390 Enduro R platform, recent sightings include Indian specific bits like a saree guard and crash protection indicating homologation progress. However, with the regulatory taxes shifting on bikes over 350cc, this could weigh heavily in the actual launch plans making KTM work differently before officially confirming their beast's arrival in India.
Also Read: 2026 KTM Duke Range Revealed — New Updates, Models And Key Highlights
What The Test Mule Shows
Spy shots of the KTM 390 SMC R on test in India confirm a 17-inch
wheel set shod with road-biased tyres and a typical slim, mean-looking supermoto design to make it stick even better on tarmac. Unlike its ADV siblings, the SMC R gets specific suspension and geometry to ensure ultimate agility and urban usability. Front forks will be adjustable as well as the rear monoshock, TFT display with different ride modes included at launch too. The motorcycle carries several components that are specific to India meaning this is what KTM will use for local compliance tests and homologation.
Engine And Performance
The KTM 390 SMC R will house the same potent 398.7cc liquid mill found within its siblings, the Duke, Adventure, and Enduro range. This unit pushes out close to 45 hp with torque rated at 39Nm. It is mated to a six-speed gearbox plus suspenders you can tweak, built to chase that sweet spot between hauling hard and handling day-to-day tasks. Its dry weight sits somewhere mid-150kg range, which means less bulk than lots of bikes aimed at journeys on offbeat paths.
Potential India Launch Timeline
Reports suggest that the KTM 390 SMC R may be introduced in India soon after the homologation and testing phases are completed. An earlier estimate had placed its release towards the end of 2025 or at the beginning of 2026. If KTM goes ahead with plans to bring it right into showrooms, then pricing will hover around Rs 3.2–3.5 lakh (ex-showroom). The brand undertook multiple tests of this very same bike within on Indian roads. However, recent changes in GST and taxes on larger engines might delay or even change these plans.
Also Read: KTM RC 160 Vs Yamaha R15M — Price, Performance And Feature Face-Off
Market Position And Segment
The KTM 390 SMC R will be among the very first true supermoto motorcycles in India, positioned between Duke and adventure versions. It will face no direct competition within the domestic market, which means that this particular offering would feature some attributes shared with regular pathway bikes but offer an extremely sporty riding disposition for enthusiasts.
