part of the 390 SMC-R package. Rather than simply adding technology for the sake of having it, the rider aids can be useful when you’ re pushing the bike hard. Switchable ABS and traction-control systems provide an additional safety net, while the SPORT or STREET selectable riding modes allow the character to be adjusted to suit the conditions and your riding style. The important thing is that the electronics don’ t completely isolate you from the motorcycle. There’ s still plenty of involvement.
SUSPENSION AND CHASSIS The suspension is arguably the star of the show. A supermoto needs to be able to deal with rapid changes of direction, hard braking and uneven surfaces, and the SMC-R’ s chassis feels built for that. The WP Apex suspension with its long-travel setup gives the motorcycle an unusual combination of agility and compliance. On a smooth piece of tar-seal, it feels sharp and controlled. On rougher roads, the additional suspension travel gives you considerably more confidence than a typical sporty naked bike. The trade-off is that the tall riding position can feel unusual if you’ re coming from a conventional street motorcycle. Give yourself some time, though, and it starts to make perfect sense.
CITY SLICKER The 390 SMC-R makes a good urban assault vehicle, sorry …‘ motorcycle’. The narrow chassis slips through traffic easily, the upright riding position provides excellent visibility and the single-cylinder engine has enough low- and mid-range punch to make city riding entertaining. The tall 860mm seat can be intimidating for shorter riders, however, once moving, the height becomes much less significant. At a standstill, you’ ll need to be comfortable with the fact that you’ re sitting considerably higher than you would on a conventional naked bike.
62 KIWI RIDER