Reportedly, the 390 SMC R supermoto was equipped with the newly developed 350cc engine, which will also be used in the 390 range of Duke, RC & ADV bikes in India
The KTM 390 SMC R was spotted for the first time on the Indian roads last year. Now, fresh images of the bike have emerged again on the web, hinting that it could finally go on sale in the coming months in India. However, the biggest surprise that awaits us is the newly developed 350cc engine instead of the signature 399cc motor seen in the Duke, RC, and Adventure models in the KTM line-up. Reportedly, the upcoming KTM 390 SMC R was spotted testing with this downsized (350cc) engine. The supermoto segment is still in the nascent stages in India.
Just a few days back, KTM had announced a hike in price across its 390 range of motorcycles due to higher tax. Earlier, all the ICE-powered two-wheelers, irrespective of their engine capacity, attracted a uniform GST of 28 percent. However, post the introduction of GST 2.0 in Sep 2025, two-wheelers with engine displacement below 350cc and above 350cc were taxed at 18 percent and 40 percent, respectively.
During the rollout of GST 2.0, KTM had absorbed this incremental impact and did not hike the prices of its 390 range. However, it was an interim relief, and the brand was compelled to announce an increase in price of the 390 line-up in Jan 2026. No surprises for guessing, KTM also simultaneously started working on a downsized version of the 399 LC 4 engine in order to avail lower tax benefits akin to its arch rival Royal Enfield, which has the biggest portfolio of 350cc bikes in India.
Coming back to the KTM 390 SMC R, it is based on the 390 Enduro R, which is sold in India at Rs 3.54 lakh (ex-showroom). However, it rides on 17-inch alloy wheels instead of the 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel setup of the Enduro bike. The brand has used smaller wheels to ensure it stays at the top in the Supermoto format, which consists of track, motocross, and flat track.
Apart from the wheel setup, it shares most of the cycle parts and engine with the Enduro R. Powered by the tried-and-trusted 399 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled petrol engine, it has max power of 44.3 bhp and peak torque of 39 Nm. It has been learnt that the new 350cc engine, developed from this 399cc engine, could generate top power of around 40 bhp, as KTM is not likely to compromise much on performance.
The media reports indicate that the new KTM 350cc engine could first be seen in the existing Duke, RC, and Adventure range. Hence, it could take several months before the 390 SMC R is fitted with this new powertrain. It is safe to assume that the KTM 390 SMC R could be launched ahead of the festive season of Diwali around Aug 2026 in India.
