KTM 890 SMT

DESIGN

When you see the KTM 890 SMT in person for the first time, the first thing that catches your eye is its front ‘mask’. Aggressive yet balanced, it clearly continues the brand's style: the narrow LED headlight module in KTM's signature style creates a ‘hunter’ character, which is currently in vogue among motorcycle companies. The fairing is small but well thought out — it provides sufficient wind protection without losing the feeling of openness, which is important for the Supermoto Travel format. The front fender is short, close to the wheel — a 17-inch 3.5" wide aluminium disc — and visually emphasises the sporty proportions. The high ground clearance of 227 mm adds to the motorcycle's stance.

The SMT looks even more dynamic in profile. The orange tubular frame remains a key element of KTM's design, forming a strong yet lightweight visual foundation. The central part of the bike appears compact: the 15.8-litre fuel tank is integrated into the silhouette so that it does not visually overload the composition. Its shape tapers in the knee area, allowing for a snug fit — a detail that is especially appreciated by those who often manoeuvre in the city or ride on winding roads. The 860 mm seat height creates a feeling of control without excessive height; the motorcycle appears slim and light, which is confirmed by its actual dry weight of only 194 kg.

Cast aluminium wheels immediately indicate the road-oriented nature of the model, distinguishing the SMT from its relative, the 890 Adventure, with its spokes. The frame proportions and 15 mm wheelbase create a harmonious balance between stability and manoeuvrability — it feels like this is not a universal tourer, but a bike designed for an active pace. The LC8c engine is visually exposed, emphasising KTM's technical aesthetics: every line is functional, every element contributes to the form.

The tail of the 890 SMT is a model of minimalism. Visually light, with a compact LED light, it completes the silhouette sharply, like a knife line. On the sides are sharp plastic planes that emphasise the dynamics even in static. The high-mounted silencer adds sportiness and recalls the model's Supermoto roots. The 17‘ diameter and 5.5’ wide rear wheel looks more massive but does not upset the balance — on the contrary, it creates an impression of stability. It is from this angle that the SMT demonstrates its ‘touring’ maturity: despite the compactness of the tail, it offers a convenient location for luggage racks and passenger footrests.

The design of the KTM 890 SMT (2025) reflects the brand's philosophy: no decorative elements for effect. Every element, from the shape of the tank to the sharp lines of the tail, is subordinate to the idea of control, lightness and energy.

CHASSIS and HANDLING

The KTM 890 SMT is built around a Chromium-Molybdenum-Steel frame, where the engine is used as a load-bearing element. This solution creates high rigidity with minimal weight — the bike feels monolithic even during sharp manoeuvres. The powder coating not only adds corrosion resistance but also looks good. The rear aluminium subframe, also powder-coated, is lightweight but durable — it provides stability when carrying a passenger or luggage without sacrificing the feeling of lightness. When riding, this combination of steel rigidity and aluminium flexibility creates a feeling of control: the SMT responds instantly but not nervously.

The WP APEX 43 front fork is one of the best in its class. It provides excellent feedback from the front wheel: when cornering, the bike literally ‘reads’ the asphalt, allowing you to precisely control the lean angle. In city traffic and on uneven surfaces, the suspension softens noticeably, but without losing precision. The rear WP APEX Monoshock continues this philosophy — balanced compression and rebound keep the SMT on track even when accelerating or changing lean angle. The suspension feels sporty and precise, but with touring-like smoothness — this is the essence of the Supermoto Travel concept.

The steering column angle of 64.21° and trail of 111.6 mm strike the perfect balance between Supermoto responsiveness and Tourer stability. In tight corners, the SMT behaves like a sports car: it responds instantly to steering input but does not require constant corrections. At high speeds, the stability is impressive — even under heavy braking, the bike remains predictable. The 1502 mm wheelbase adds confidence on straights, while the crisp feedback from the front wheel creates a feeling of complete control. Every turn is accompanied by a feeling of surgical precision — SMT responds not only to the rider's hands, but also to their intentions.

Braking is another strong point of this model. Two radially mounted four-piston Brembo-type calipers with 320 mm discs are installed at the front. They provide not only braking power, but also perfectly modulated modulation: the first press is delicate, followed by a lightning-fast response without loss of stability. The rear brake — a dual-disc caliper with a 260 mm disc — works perfectly as an auxiliary element, especially when cornering, when you need to correct your trajectory. Together, the system creates a feeling of complete control over the bike in any situation — from slow manoeuvres to emergency stops.

The 520 X-Ring chain transmits power without loss, ensuring a smooth start and precise throttle response. The stainless steel primary and secondary silencer not only adds to the aesthetics but also optimises weight distribution — the sound is deep but not aggressive, harmonising with the character of the LC8c.

The result is that the KTM 890 SMT (2025) chassis is an example of how engineering precision can create emotion. Every technical parameter here makes sense and can be felt on the road: from the geometry angles to the frame materials. The SMT doesn't just obey — it interacts with the rider, turning every turn into a part of the dialogue between technology and man.

ELECTRONICS & SAFETY SYSTEMS

The KTM 890 SMT (2025) is built on the philosophy of ‘total control without losing the feel’. Its brain is the Rider Aids complex — an integrated electronic architecture that coordinates the engine, suspension and braking systems. Everything is controlled by a 6-axis Bosch IMU, which reads thousands of motorcycle position parameters every second.

This bike also features MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control), a system that constantly analyses the front and rear wheel speeds, lean angle, acceleration rate and loss of traction. When the wheel starts to slip, MTC instantly adjusts the power delivery via the Ride-by-Wire electronic throttle.

It has different control modes — from delicate in ‘Street’ to maximum sensitivity in ‘Rain’ and almost free in “Sport” or ‘Track’ modes. You get predictable bike behaviour even on slippery asphalt or gravel, without losing any of the sporty dynamics.

Quickshifter+ deserves a special mention — a bidirectional quick shifter that allows you to shift gears up and down without the clutch. The system works thanks to micro-sensors in the lever that detect pressure and synchronise it with the moment of gearbox unloading. This is not just convenience — it is an ergonomic advantage. In urban conditions, it reduces hand fatigue, and during dynamic riding, it allows you to maintain the stability of the motorcycle when entering a turn. The response is instantaneous — up to 40 ms per shift, which feels like ‘continuous traction’.

The KTM 890 SMT's braking system is based on Bosch 9.3MP Cornering ABS technology, which uses IMU data to adaptively control brake pressure when the motorcycle is leaning. In conventional ABS, pressure is regulated only by wheel speed, while Cornering ABS also takes into account the lean angle and acceleration vector. This allows you to brake even in the middle of a turn — without the risk of lifting or sliding the rear or front wheel.

A unique feature of SMT is Supermoto ABS mode — a true KTM ‘cult’ element. In this mode, ABS is disabled on the rear wheel and partially reduced on the front wheel. This creates the possibility of controlled rear wheel lockup, allowing experienced motorcyclists to perform the ‘slide-in’ technique — entering a turn while sliding. This approach is ideal for active riding styles on mountain serpentines or on the track. The Cruise Control system adds touring comfort. Controlled from the left handlebar, this system allows you to maintain a steady speed without constantly holding the throttle. This reduces hand fatigue on long stretches of highway and also helps to maintain consistent fuel consumption.

SMT is a rare case where the braking system is both sporty and touring, adapted for both aggressive riding and long journeys.

The updated TFT display in the KTM 890 SMT is not just a dashboard, but a central command interface. The display has increased brightness, better contrast in sunlight and an intuitive menu. It allows the rider to adjust the MTC, ABS, Quickshifter+ and riding modes in real time, tailoring the bike to their preferences.

The menu is based on a multi-level logic: quick mode changes (Rain, Street, Sport, Track) are made with a single turn of the scroll wheel on the handlebars, while advanced settings (Supermoto ABS, traction control sensitivity, throttle sensitivity) are accessed in the second level of the menu.

Integration with a smartphone via KTM MyRide allows you to display navigation, calls and media without distracting you from the road. In addition, the system performs a self-diagnosis of all electronic modules when the engine is started — a habit that increases confidence in the bike and the safety of the rider on the road.

ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS & PERFORMANCE

At the heart of the KTM 890 SMT is the legendary LC8c – a 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, parallel twin engine with a displacement of 889 cm³. It is a compact, tightly integrated power unit that also serves as a load-bearing element of the frame, increasing the overall rigidity of the chassis. Thanks to the parallel layout, the weight is concentrated closer to the centre, ensuring balanced handling and predictable behaviour in all modes. This engine is not only the technical heart of the SMT, but also its character: it combines the elasticity of a touring bike with the explosive response of a Supermoto.

The LC8c engine delivers 100 Nm of torque and 105 hp, allowing the bike to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5-4 seconds. In the lower range, the SMT moves smoothly, without jerks, but from 3000 rpm there is a deep ‘shoulder’ of traction that can be felt physically — the bike seems to squeeze the asphalt beneath it. In the mid-range, the engine comes alive — opening the throttle is accompanied by an instant response, and from 6000 rpm to the red zone, the SMT shows its true temperament.

The Bosch EMS with RBW electronic control system converts even the slightest movement of the throttle into precise, controlled power delivery. The feeling of direct feedback is crystal clear: the SMT responds to the throttle without delay, maintaining linearity even during rapid acceleration. Thanks to RBW, the engine adapts to different modes — from gentle city driving to aggressive track pace — without losing predictability. Vibrations from the twin configuration are moderate: balance shafts effectively dampen unwanted oscillations, leaving only a ‘live’ mechanical feel that reminds you that you are riding a real KTM.

The 6-speed gearbox is one of the most precise among bikes in this class. The first gears are short, which is ideal for Supermoto riding: the SMT easily lifts onto its rear wheel, accelerates quickly out of corners and does not lose momentum when changing speed. The fifth gear marks the beginning of the smooth touring section, while the sixth gear is designed for stability and economy on high-speed roads. The lever action is precise, the travel is short, and the clutch has a noticeably light, predictable response, making handling intuitive even on difficult sections of the route.

A liquid cooling system is used to maintain a stable temperature. It allows the engine to maintain the same efficiency in hot weather or under load on mountain serpentines. The system is designed with the compactness of the LC8c in mind, so air flows are optimally distributed even at low speeds.

The recommended engine oil is Motorex Power Synth SAE 10W-50, whose synthetic composition ensures stable viscosity and component protection even at extreme temperatures. This is especially important for two-cylinder engines with high specific loads, where lubrication is crucial for durability.

The environmental aspect has not been overlooked either — CO₂ emissions are only 107 g/km, which meets current standards and demonstrates how KTM has managed to combine performance with environmental efficiency.

The LC8c sounds confident and deep — in the city, it's a muted bass, but on the road, it turns into a clear, rhythmic ‘breath’. When accelerating, you can hear the characteristic hum of the twin engine, which gives you the thrill of pressing the throttle. The SMT doesn't just accelerate — it communicates through sound, vibration and traction, creating physical contact between the rider and the machine.

What we have is a KTM 890 SMT (2025) 889 cm³ power unit and 100 Nm of torque, controlled by the Bosch EMS with RBW system, which generate power, while the 6-speed transmission and liquid cooling do their job perfectly.

RIDING IMPRESSIONS

When I first sat on the KTM 890 SMT (2025), I had mixed feelings — it was as if two different characters lived in one bike. It has a high, almost ‘combat’ Supermoto riding position, but with unexpected touring comfort. Your hands rest naturally, the handlebars are wide — the bike seems to be saying, ‘Let's go.’ At the same time, the comfortable seat and balanced chassis geometry allow you to cover hundreds of kilometres without a hint of fatigue.

I take this black and orange dragon out onto the city streets, and the 890 cm³ Parallel Twin immediately shows its temperament. It doesn't explode from the bottom, but the mid-range is pure adrenaline. The throttle response is precise, even a little sharp — a classic KTM that doesn't forgive indifference. Thanks to Quickshifter+, the gears shift instantly, without clutch, with a pleasant click — the bike keeps up the pace even in heavy traffic.

The SMT is surprisingly stable on the road, as its extended wheelbase and stiff WP APEX suspension give you confidence at speeds of 140–160 km/h. I turn on Cruise Control, put one hand on the tank and catch myself thinking that this aggressive Supermoto suddenly turns into a smart tourer. The wind is distributed evenly, steering requires no effort — you just glide along the road.

But the real fun begins on winding mountain roads. Here, the KTM 890 SMT reveals its second ‘self’. It is incredibly precise — it easily leans into turns and responds to the slightest movement of the body. And then, when braking late, Cornering ABS kicks in — without sudden interventions, but with precise control. The motorcycle brakes even when leaning on the side of the road where there is a little gravel, leaving me with complete confidence in the front wheel that the system will work and it won't skid.

MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control) — just so you understand, this system does not ‘kill’ traction, but only provides backup when the rear wheel loses grip. This system creates the perfect balance between electronic control and freedom.

But the most interesting feature is Supermoto ABS. When activated, the rear wheel can be deliberately locked. This opens up a new level of control — sliding in turns becomes controllable, almost instinctive. The front ABS remains active, so it feels like you're on the track, but with the safety of road mode. It is at this moment that I realise that the KTM 890 SMT is not just fast — it allows you to feel the limit, but not cross it.

The updated TFT display clearly shows all parameters — from riding modes to MTC settings. Everything is intuitive, without distracting you from the road. It is this combination of metal and digital intelligence that makes the 890 SMT unique: aggressive, technological and surprisingly human sports touring bike.

FUEL CONSUMPTION

In the city, the KTM 890 SMT proved to be quite restrained, provided you didn't open the throttle too much. On average, it consumed 5.6–6.3 l/100 km, depending on traffic and air temperature.

In my case, that was 40 minutes in heavy traffic, with frequent starts and short distances between traffic lights. The 889 cm³ parallel twin with a 270° crankshaft angle allows you to coast calmly at low speeds — it pulls confidently from 2500–3000 rpm, so you don't need to constantly twist the throttle. When you play with the throttle, the SMT immediately reminds you that this is a Supermoto: the instantaneous response of Ride-by-Wire and short gears instantly increase fuel consumption. But if you keep the pace smooth, the engine remains surprisingly economical for its dynamics.

On the motorway, at a steady speed of 110–120 km/h with Cruise Control engaged, fuel consumption remained within the range of 4.9–5.3 l/100 km.

Here, the engine operates in its most efficient range — 4000–5000 rpm. The parallel twin performed excellently: in sixth gear, the SMT maintains a steady speed without the need for frequent gear changes. The lack of excessive fairing and the typical Supermoto geometry create greater air resistance, making it virtually impossible to get below 4.8 l/100 km. However, even with this, the SMT remains more economical than its larger V4 competitors.

In mixed mode, consisting of approximately 60% city and 40% suburban driving, average fuel consumption was 5.4–5.7 l/100 km.

This is probably the most realistic scenario for most SMT owners. The Parallel Twin engine runs smoothly here — there is enough torque at low revs to ride calmly, but at the slightest touch of the throttle, the SMT comes alive. Quickshifter+ helps reduce gear shift losses, and MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control) effectively controls power delivery, preventing fuel waste during sudden acceleration.

On rural roads and sometimes off-road, fuel consumption increases to 6.8–7.4 l/100 km, and sometimes even higher. This is where the SMT reveals its true Supermoto character.

Constant acceleration, active engine braking and quick shifts with Quickshifter+ keep the Parallel Twin in the upper range — 6500–9000 rpm. In this mode, the power delivery becomes explosive, and the sound of the dry engine literally provokes you to ride even more dynamically.

On narrow roads with frequent turns, it is difficult to resist ‘launching’ the bike into a slide, and then fuel consumption increases — this is the natural price for excitement. But even in such conditions, the SMT remains predictable and stable, without the sharp dips or excessive appetite typical of larger V-engines.

PRICING

The base price of the KTM 890 SMT (2025) starts at approximately €15,500, which is quite reasonable for a motorcycle that combines the sporty DNA of Supermoto with the comfort of a touring class. Even in the standard version, the SMT offers premium components — WP APEX suspension, a powerful 889 cm³ Parallel Twin (105 hp), Cornering ABS and MTC. And, like all modern KTMs, this bike is designed for individual configuration — and it is the additional options that determine the final price.

The Quickshifter+ option is activated by software and adds about €300–400. This is not just a convenience, but a key element of dynamics — it allows you to shift gears without the clutch in both directions. In the city, this reduces fatigue, and in an aggressive style, it provides clean, continuous traction. So, for those who buy an SMT not as a ‘tourer’ but as a ‘track on wheels,’ this is the first mandatory upgrade.

The optional Cruise Control (approximately €250-300) is an investment in true touring ergonomics. On long European routes, it takes the strain off your right hand, allowing you to maintain a steady speed of 110–120 km/h. For a motorcycle that straddles the line between sport and touring, this is a must-have option that transforms the SMT into a bike suitable for everyday comfort.

KTM PowerParts brand panniers cost around €800-1000 per set, but they radically change the functionality of the SMT, making it a full-fledged travel companion. They integrate into the geometry of the motorcycle without compromising handling.

Heated grips (approx. €200) and a comfortable seat are options that allow you to ride even at +5°C while maintaining a feeling of complete control.

For those who want maximum protection, KTM offers an alarm or GPS tracker, which increase safety and at the same time add another €300-500 to the final price.

A fully equipped KTM 890 SMT (2025) with all the key options can cost around €17,500-18,000.

CONCLUSION

So, let's sum up. The KTM 890 SMT (2025) is not just another sports tourer. It is a motorcycle that combines the DNA of the track and the serpentine road, with a touch of comfort for long journeys. In the Supermoto-Touring class, it faces serious rivals — the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+, BMW F 900 XR and Ducati Hypermotard 950 RVE. However, KTM's approach is unique: minimal excess, maximum control and emotion.

The heart of the SMT is a 890 cc Parallel Twin engine that delivers around 105 hp and 100 Nm. Its main feature is instant throttle response and a pronounced mid-range. In comparison:

• The Tracer 9 GT+ with a three-cylinder CP3 has a smoother but less explosive response.
• The BMW F 900 XR feels calmer, with its two-cylinder engine more focused on stability.
• The Ducati Hypermotard 950 RVE (114 hp) is more emotional but less predictable at low revs.

The Quickshifter+ in the KTM works amazingly accurately — both when accelerating and when shifting down. This is important for the Supermoto format: minimum torque loss, maximum concentration. Competitors also have quick shifters, but KTM has tuned it with an emphasis on aggressive, rhythmic riding.

The KTM 890 SMT is based on a lightweight tubular frame and WP APEX suspension with long travel (180 mm). This provides phenomenal manoeuvrability — the bike ‘falls’ into corners almost intuitively.

The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ is more comfortable but also slower to respond.

The BMW F 900 XR is stable but inferior to the SMT in terms of dynamics.

The Ducati Hypermotard 950 is closer in spirit but lacks the touring component.

In electronics and safety, KTM demonstrates true engineering accuracy.

• Cornering ABS (with IMU) provides tilt control.
• MTC (Traction Control) flexibly adjusts traction depending on the mode.
• Supermoto ABS — exclusive KTM: Allows rear wheel locking for controlled skates, keeping ABS only at the front. This is rare even among premium competitors.

However, Cruise Control and Quickshifter+ — are optional. In the Tracer 9 GT+ and F 900 XR, they are included in the base, which makes KTM more expensive when fully equipped.

The base price of KTM 890 SMT (2025) — is around €13,500, but with options can reach €15,000+.

For comparison:

• Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ — ≈ 14,000 € (with full electronics package).
• BMW F 900 XR — ≈ 12,500 €, cheaper but less sporty.
• Ducati Hypermotard 950 RVE — ≈ 15,500 €, more expensive, but more emotional.

Fuel consumption in KTM is — 5.2–6.0 l/100 km, which is better than Ducati, but slightly higher than Yamaha.

✅Pros of KTM 890 SMT:

• The sharpest handling in the class.
• Exclusive Supermoto ABS.
• A powerful engine with a distinct "sports" soul.
• High quality WP components.

❌Cons of KTM 890 SMT:

• Options (Quickshifter+, Cruise Control) are not included in the database.
• Less comfort and wind protection than the Tracer 9 GT+ or F 900 XR.
• Focusing more on experienced motorcyclists — requires a «confident hand».

So who cares about the KTM 890 SMT (2025)? — for a motorcyclist looking for drive and control, not just transport. It is suitable for those who love dynamics and want a Supermoto feeling on the travel platform. But it is not for those who appreciate maximum comfort, silence and ready-made “all-in-one” solutions — here every emotion is bought consciously. SMT — is about pure experience, not compromise.

KTM 890 SMT 2025 Service FAQ

• 1. When to carry out scheduled maintenance?

  First maintenance — 1000 km or 1 month after purchase. Next — every 15,000 km or 12 months (which will come sooner). The regulation includes replacement of motor oil, oil filter, inspection of valve clearances, chain condition and software update. With efficient cooling and the modern architecture of the 890th twin, KTM was able to increase the MOT interval without losing reliability.

• 2. What motor oil does KTM recommend for the 890 SMT?

  Use Motorex Power Synt 4T 10W/50 —, this is the lubricant listed in the official KTM manual. It provides stable pressure in the lubrication system even during active driving and at high temperatures. The use of lubricants of a different class can affect the operation of PASC Slipper Clutch and reduce the accuracy of switches.

• 3. How often should the chain be maintained?

  For SMT with its Supermoto character, the chain requires regular care: Lubrication — every 500–1000 km, After rain, washing or dust rides, — must be repeated. Active driving with frequent accelerations and braking creates an additional load, so tension control (35–45 mm sag) should be carried out more often than on a regular tourer.

• 4. Does Quickshifter+ need service?

  KTM Quickshifter+ itself does not require maintenance — it is integrated into the engine management system. But important: Regularly check the cleanliness of the hinges of the switch foot. Do not allow moisture to enter the sensor. If you experience “jerks” when switching, this may indicate the need to calibrate the — procedure performed by the KTM dealer.

• 5. How often should brake fluid and pads be changed?

  Brake fluid should be changed every 2 years, even if mileage is low. The system uses DOT 4, so KTM recommends using only high-quality fluids with a high boiling point. Brake pads should be checked every 5,000 km or after track days. If the friction layer is less than 1 mm thick, replace immediately.

• 6. Is it possible to adjust the WP APEX suspension yourself?

  Yes, WP APEX on SMT — is fully adjustable, but the exact setup depends on your weight, driving style and coverage. Front fork: adjustment of recoil and compression. Rear shock absorber: preload, rebound, compression. For track or aggressive driving, it is better to use the services of KTM Suspension Center —, they will set the base according to your Supermoto style.

• 7. How often do you need to update your motorcycle software?

  Updating of MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control), Cornering ABS, Quickshifter+ and Ride Modes systems is carried out during each scheduled maintenance at an official KTM dealer. It is impossible to update the firmware yourself —, it requires access to the KTM Diagnostics diagnostic interface.

• 8. What tire pressure is recommended for the KTM 890 SMT?

  For standard road driving: Front tire: 2.3 bar. Rear tire: 2.5 bar. For an active Supermoto ride or track, a reduction to 2.1 /2.3 bar is allowed, which improves contact and sensitivity, but increases wear. Use only Michelin Power GP or the equivalent of —, these buses are calibrated to the SMT geometry..