The KTM 890 SMT 2024 perfectly embodies the balance between sports performance and touring comfort. This motorcycle is designed for motorcycle enthusiasts looking for a machine capable of dominating winding roads while offering comfort for long rides. It is a masterpiece of engineering and design, and here’s why.
Just like the creation of the KTM 890 SMT 2024, this article will be without compromise or artifice. Here is my humble opinion on this half “touring” half “supermoto” bike. It was a first for me!
Technical Specifications
Engine and Performance
The heart of the 890 SMT 2024 is its 889 cm³ parallel-twin engine. It delivers an impressive 105 horsepower. This engine, combined with a six-speed gearbox, offers smooth acceleration and instant throttle response. (Watch out for the “wheelies,” friends.)
The accelerations are surprisingly sharp! Each turn feels more like a supermoto than a touring bike. It was a first for me. It’s a dynamic and engaging riding experience, ideal for mountain roads and winding paths.
Be careful, this bike offers race car-like sensations. It’s hard to contain yourself and keep both wheels on the ground coming out of a turn. Due to the high fun factor, it is almost impossible to achieve the 4.6 l/100 km consumption stated in the specifications.
If you don’t believe me, book a test ride at a participating KTM dealer.
Chassis and Suspension
The chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame ensures exceptional rigidity and lightness.
I did my research and this alloy is also known as “chrome moly.” It’s a low-alloy steel, generally used for high-pressure and high-temperature applications. The additional strength of this alloy steel makes it ideal for lightening the vehicle and increasing corrosion resistance.
The front suspension of the KTM 890 SMT 2024 is provided by a WP APEX inverted fork. It offers generous travel to absorb road irregularities. At the rear, a WP APEX shock absorber, with preload adjustment, ensures a comfortable and stable ride.
The choice of suspension was well thought out. In sporty riding, the precise and responsive handling of the suspension is amazing. The proper adjustment allows you to avoid lag between the front and rear of the bike.
Technology and Equipment
Advanced Electronics
The KTM 890 SMT 2024 is equipped with advanced electronic systems to enhance safety and performance. Traction control, ABS, and multiple riding modes allow for easy customization of the experience based on road conditions and rider preferences.
- Street: offers a balance between performance and comfort for everyday riding.
- Sport: optimizes performance for a more dynamic and sporty ride.
- Rain: reduces power and adjusts settings for maximum grip on wet roads.
- Track (optional): designed for track use, with specific settings for maximum performance.
These riding modes are practical. Each mode adjusts the bike’s behaviour, and the rider can feel each of these changes. Not to mention its Quickshifter+ which allows shifting gears without even touching the clutch.
Comfort and Practicality
Designed for touring, the 890 SMT 2024 offers a comfortable seat. The engineers at KTM have modified the fuel tank geometry to allow greater freedom of movement for the rider.
Add to that a five-inch colour TFT display offering an intuitive interface to access all important information. You can connect with the KTMConnect mobile app via Bluetooth.
Optional side cases allow you to carry everything you need for long trips without significantly detracting from the bike’s look.
Design and Aesthetics
Bold Style
The design of the KTM 890 SMT 2024 reflects the brand’s sporty DNA with aggressive and dynamic lines. KTM’s iconic orange paint, combined with black elements and aluminum accents, gives this bike an elegant yet formidable look.
For KTM, it was important to retain the look of the iconic KTM SMT 990. This bike, launched in 2009, quickly became an icon in the world of sport and touring motorcycles. It combined the performance of a supermoto with the comfort of a touring machine.
Its last year of production was 2013, marking the end of an era for this legendary model. Appreciated for its robustness and unparalleled performance, it’s no surprise that it’s making a comeback.
Conclusion
The KTM 890 SMT 2024 is the perfect bike for those who refuse to compromise between sportiness and comfort. Whether you’re a fan of sporty rides or long-distance touring, this bike will meet all your expectations thanks to its versatility and advanced technology.
Personally, I loved its playful and precise handling. It allowed me to take sharp turns while maintaining excellent control.
I’d give a thumbs up for the ease of navigating the menus and riding modes. The shortcuts and selectors have been well thought out and are, in my opinion, some of the easiest to use in the industry.
That said, the seat isn’t comfortable enough for long rides. I’d add a bit of gel so my precious behind can endure more kilometres. Also, the mirrors vibrate a bit too much at high speeds, in my opinion.
A Word of Caution
If you’ve never ridden this type of vehicle, be careful with the “wheelies.” This little marvel has a lot of character in first gear. Go easy on the throttle.
Thanks to KTM Canada for lending this beautiful mount.
For more information and to discover all the specifications of the KTM 890 SMT 2024, visit KTM’s official website.
