(Editors Note: The 125 SMC R is not listed among KTM’s U.S. offerings.)
For 2025, the supermoto segment receives two welcome additions in the shape of the KTM 125 SMC R and KTM 390 SMC R. These small-capacity SMC R models offer the accessibility and ease of use of a compact single-cylinder motorcycle while providing dynamic riding experiences with real-world usability – with true READY TO RACE attitude.
MODEL RANGE OVERVIEW
The KTM 125 SMC R and KTM 390 SMC R bring supermoto thrills to a wider audience. Boasting long travel suspension, 17” wheels, grippy tires, and a specifically curated selection of rider aids and tech, they provide real-world, sporty riding in an accessible, rider-friendly package.
BODYWORK AND GRAPHICS
The KTM 125 SMC R and KTM 390 SMC R boast a slim and compact body profile, thanks to a very compact 9L metal fuel tank and slimline fairings. These not only reduce overall width but also protect the tank in the event of a fall while optimizing rider ergonomics when standing on the pegs or getting low into a corner.
CTG AND GRAPHICS
The 2025 KTM 125 SMC R and KTM 390 SMC R models feature a completely new, off-road-inspired styling, with a clear and definitive KTM CTG design set in resilient in-mold graphics.
SUSPENSION AND CHASSIS
A new 2-piece steel trellis frame design is based on the Gen 3 platform shared with the smaller-capacity DUKE models but features a different steering head angle, triple clamps, subframe mounts, and rigidity profile, specifically engineered for use off-road, with improved handling, control and stability. The new frame is also designed for greater clearance for the radiator package, with the footpeg location being optimized to fit better the riding style and requirements for aggressive supermoto-style riding.
SUBFRAME
The new subframe sports a sleek, off-road-inspired bolt-on steel trellis design. This unique design contributes to a strong and sturdy build, and the subframe was specifically crafted to offer a one-piece seat while having a long-stroke suspension, as well as being stylish, functional, and thoughtfully designed for purpose.
SWINGARM
The new off-road-ready, gravity die-cast swingarm has been specifically developed to take the punch, the swingarm derives from the new generation smaller-capacity ADVENTURE range.
SUSPENSION
Both the KTM 125 SMC R and KTM 390 SMC R both feature a 43 mm WP APEX open cartridge front fork, offering 230 mm of travel. The KTM 390 SMC R stands out with its effortless compression and rebound adjustability, allowing for quick tuning in convenient 30-click increments—no tools required, while the KTM 125 SMC R features the same in a non-adjustable setup.
On the rear, both models feature an off-center WP APEX shock absorber with 230 mm of travel, with the KTM 390 SMC R boasting adjustable rebound properties with 20 clicks. The preload is adjustable with a tool. The KTM 125 SMC R rear shock is not adjustable for rebound, but preload can be adjusted with a tool.
WHEELS AND TIRES
Both the KTM 125 SMC R and the KTM 390 SMC R feature 17” wheels at each end in 110/70 R17 and 150/60 R17 dimensions respectively. The KTM 390 SMC R boasts spoked wheels wrapped in Michelin power 6 tires, while the KTM 125 SMC R is equipped with cast wheels.
BRAKES
The KTM 125 SMC R and the KTM 390 SMC R are equipped with powerful 320 mm radial brakes on the front and 240 mm single piston brakes on the back for proper supermoto stopping power.
ENGINE
Both SMC R models are powered by a new generation of lightweight, compact small single-cylinder engines and dubbed the LC4c – c for compact, which debuted in the recent KTM DUKE range. Building off the experience gained with the previous generation of small single-cylinder engines, these powerplants are completely redesigned, with newly optimized cylinder heads and gearboxes ready for EURO 5+ compliant. This new engine platform introduces updated service intervals, with the first service occurring at 1,000
km, followed by regular services every 10,000 km thereafter. Valve checks are performed every 20,000 km.
CYLINDER HEAD
This new LC4c powerplant features a larger valve cover with a smaller cylinder head, reducing the weight at the upper end of the engine. A new thermostat position – mounted directly into the cylinder head – improves thermal monitoring and provides more stable running temperatures under different riding conditions.
FUEL INJECTION
New injectors are now angled directly into the inlet valves to reduce build-up in the inlet channel. These new injectors also provide a finer fuel spray, making for more efficient combustion and less emissions.
NEW AIRBOX
A new airbox has been optimized to suit the SMC R packaging. This has been done to allow the engine to sit higher, increasing ground clearance and allowing a more focused rider triangle.
EXHAUST
A unique, stainless steel exhaust design means the system fitted to the KTM 125 SMC R and KTM 390 SMC R does not need an end muffler. This has resulted in a total weight saving of 2 kg. The new exhaust is equipped with a Double-Catalyzer to comply with Euro 5+ regulations and features active control whereby the ECU not only adjusts the fuel mixture for optimal detonation but also adjusts the mixture to ensure an optimal temperature to reduce emissions. The active combustion system also works to detect any misfires, helping to diagnose the status of the catalytic converter and store
information for OBDII diagnosis. For riders looking for more, specially engineered and designed KTM PowerParts are available to add more style, clearance, or power to the overall package.
GEARBOX AND CLUTCH
Improved gear guidance reduces shift forces within the gearbox, and was achieved by replacing the previous 5mm guides with 6mm guides at the fork pins along with other small optimizations. The shift drum shape has been optimized for easier shifting between the 5th and 6th gears, making for smoother movements of the gears along the shafts. The shift lever travel has also been reduced resulting in quicker and responsive action. A Power Assisted Slipper Clutch is now installed on all models, with optimized gears on the clutch basket and flywheel reducing weight and making for easier clutch control, along with an optional Quickshifter+ system.
TECH
Setting the benchmark for the smaller displacement supermoto segment, the 2025 KTM 125 SMC R and KTM 390 SMC R boast real-world technological advancements that not only enhance the riding experience but also safety.
RIDE AND ABS MODES
The 2025 KTM 390 SMC R feature selectable Ride Modes. The default setting is STREET and for riders looking for more control, as well as SPORT Mode where Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) can also be turned off completely. A new memory feature is added to the 2025 line-up. The motorcycle will remember your selected Ride Mode when the motorcycle is turned off and will retain this mode once started up. All SMC R models are fitted with dual channel ABS, this is thanks to the Bosch 10.3MB Modulator. If a rider selects SPORT Mode, he or she can choose between Road, Supermoto or Supermoto+ ABS. The KTM 125 SMC R has no selectable Ride Modes.
LED LIGHTS
All models in the 2025 lineup feature LED lights, providing excellent visibility during the day and illumination at night.
NEW DASHBOARD
The SMC R range comes with a new 4.2-inch TFT dashboard with a unique UI specially designed for the compact screen size. Made from bonded glass, the TFT also features a polarization coating to reduce glare and improve readability on bright days. This ensures riders can quickly and easily see all relevant information such as speed, fuel level, and gear indicator. All new generation SMC R models will also be equipped with connectivity functions, such as a music player via the KTM Connect App, the ability to answer incoming calls, and turn-by-turn navigation. The new dashboards are supported by completely redesigned switchcubes featuring a 4-way Joystick with optimized ergonomics and Illuminated switches. These allow riders to control various functions of the motorcycle, such as lights, indicators, and Ride Modes, and of course, interact with different connectivity
features. Lastly, a new connectivity unit connects the motorcycle to the rider’s smartphone via Bluetooth. It enables the rider to access features such as turn-by-turn navigation, music library directly from the dashboard, call in and out and Remote Control Mode, which allows the rider to control their phone via the switch cubes.
