KTM has showcased to us the 890 SMT. This model brings back the SMT nameplate after a dormancy of almost two decades. For the uninitiated, SMT stands for SuperMoto touring as per KTM. This effectively means KTM is calling it a ‘tall-roader’, very similar to what we see with the BMW F 900 XR.
KTM 890 SMT: What Do We Know So Far?
We had the KTM SMT experience with the 990 SMT. And same is the case with the 890 SMT as well. It shares a slew of parts from the Adventure and the Duke models, thus shaping its own identity. The liquid-cooled, 889cc, parallel-twin engine has performance ratings of 105 HP and 100 Nm. These figures are exactly the same as the 890 Adventure.
Suspension duties are taken care of by WP. The setup consists of a 43mm fork at the front and a monoshock for the rear, both fully adjustable. However, the SMT gets 180 mm of suspension travel for both front and rear. This is as compared to the 200mm figures on the Adventure. There are some revisions to the chassis on the SMT as well. The SMT gets ‘tighter’ geometry in comparison to the Adventure as claimed by KTM. In fact, the monoshock too is angled downward to make room for the longer swingarm. Staying true to its Supermoto DNA, the SMT rides on 17-inch cast alloy rims wearing the Michelin PowerGP tyres.
Key Features On Offer
The 890 SMT also benefits from a comprehensive suite of electronics. This includes four riding modes – Rain, Street, Sport and Track. Cornering ABS and traction control too are standard fitment, that comes courtesy of the IMU. And yes the rear ABS can be switched off.
For the first 1,500km, we are made aware that all 890 SMT owners will make use of the bi-directional quick-shifter and cruise control, as part of the Demo mode. After this, you will have to purchase these features separately. Customers can even choose to get a separate accessory Bluetooth module. This will enable you to pair your smartphone to the TFT dash, thus adding navigation prompts and notification alerts to the features list.
Also Read: KTM launches 390 Adventure X variant in India at INR 2.8 lakh, electronics skipped.
