The last model to bear the name was the 990 SMT, which was discontinued in 2013. After a whole decade, the SMT will return, presumably using the same engine that powers the 890 Adventure and 890 Duke.
A slightly over-the-top press release heralds the impending launch of the 890 SMT, emphasizing its role as a sport-touring alternative to adventure and naked motorcycles. The press release reads:
Both the video and KTM’s teaser site show an illustration of the 890 SMT in a mock website article. A cropped version appears above, but you can see a larger version of it here (along with the fake site’s vaguely familiar-looking menu bar…), matching much of what the spy photos depicted, with the addition of a beak-style fender. The spy photos suggest the 890 SMT will employ a similar chassis as the Adventure model, but with cast wheels and a smaller version of KTM’s saddlebag-shaped fuel tank that ends just behind the radiator shrouds.
Additionally, a poster on Reddit shared what appears to be a screenshot from KTM’s dealer portal revealing more specific details. These include a claimed output of 77 kW (103 hp) at 8 000 rpm and 100 nM (74 lb-ft.) at 6,500 rpm, both figures about the same as the 890 Adventure. Also listed are 17-inch wheels, 7.1 inches of suspension travel (front and rear), and dedicated ergonomics. The alleged screenshot also mentions a rebound and compression-adjustable fork and a preload-adjustable rear shock.
We’ve still got a ways to go before the April 24 launch date. With such a long lead time, we wouldn’t be surprised if KTM releases a few more teasers between now and then.
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