TL;DR
KTM is reportedly developing a 350cc Supermoto for India, the 390 SMC R, to optimize tax benefits and introduce the supermoto segment.
KTM is reportedly evaluating the introduction of a new 350cc version of its Supermoto, the 390 SMC R, for the Indian market. This strategic move aims to circumvent the higher tax slab imposed on motorcycles exceeding 350cc under the GST 2.0 regime, which levies steeper duties on larger capacity bikes that constitute a small percentage of the Indian market.
The revised engine is expected to maintain much of the performance characteristics of the existing unit, likely producing around 40bhp while adhering to the latest emission standards. Features anticipated for the 390 SMC R include switchable ABS with a dedicated supermoto mode, traction control, multiple ride modes, and a full-colour TFT display with smartphone connectivity, aligning it with KTM’s premium 390 lineup in terms of technology and rider interface.
Introducing the 390 SMC R in India would expand KTM’s portfolio into the relatively unrepresented supermoto segment, which remains largely unexplored compared to the established street, adventure, and dual-sport categories currently dominating consumer interest in the country.
