OPEN ROAD At highway speeds, the SMC-R is capable but not built for it. There isn’ t much wind protection, and the upright riding position means you’ ll know when you’ re travelling quickly for extended periods. It’ s also geared fairly low, so the engine is really humming at motorway speeds. Sprocket changes could improve that, but that’ s not really the point. Find a series of bends and the SMC-R comes alive. Its compact dimensions, responsive engine and agile chassis encourage you to search for corners rather than straight roads, rewarding riders who are willing to work with the motorcycle. Brake late. Move your weight. Turn quickly. Get back on the throttle. Comfort is reasonable, but this isn’ t a touring motorcycle. The riding position is natural and the suspension can deal with rough roads impressively well, but the narrow seat and limited wind protection make long highway journeys less appealing. For commuting, weekend rides and short adventures, however, it works remarkably well. And if the route includes plenty of corners, you’ ll probably forgive it any shortcomings in comfort.
WHO IT’ S FOR The 390 SMC-R makes sense for a particular kind of rider. It’ s ideal for someone who wants a lightweight bike with genuine personality and doesn’ t need huge horsepower. It’ s also an interesting alternative to the increasingly common middleweight naked-bike formula. Instead of chasing more power, the KTM takes the opposite approach: Make the motorcycle light. Make it responsive. Give it enough power. Let the rider have fun.
KIWI RIDER 65