Suzuki DR-Z4SM vs. KTM 390 SMC R in the 2025 Supermoto Showdown

This comparison has been eagerly awaited: The Suzuki DR-Z4SM and KTM 390 SMC R are two bikes that the Supermoto community has been longing for. Both models promise to bring fresh energy to a segment that has been somewhat neglected in recent years. Finally, we have lightweight, dynamic single-cylinders with a clear statementand we've tested them where they belong: on the Supermoto track and the open road.

The Suzuki DR-Z4SM follows in the large footsteps of its legendary predecessor, the DR-Z400SM. With its proven 398cc single-cylinder engine, delivering 38 horsepower and 37 Nm of torque, it offers familiar, robust performance, particularly shining in the low to mid-range revs. The suspension, with 260 mm travel at the front and 277 mm at the rear, is clearly tuned for agility and reserves typical of Supermoto bikes. The classic double-cradle steel frame, combined with premium components like the adjustable telescopic fork and Kayaba shock, emphasizes its functional character. While Suzuki forgoes frills like a TFT display, the DR-Z4SM comes equipped with modern aids such as ride-by-wire and traction control. Its not a radical new start, but an evolutionwhich in some respects, can also be a drawback.

Find all detailed information and riding impressions in NoPain's test: Suzuki DR-Z4SM Test Report.

The KTM 390 SMC R brings fresh momentum into the Supermoto segment, leveraging a proven technical foundation: it shares its engine and electronics platform largely with the current KTM 390 Duke but is specifically tuned for tarmac and Supermoto tracks. The 398.7cc single-cylinder pumps out a robust 45 horsepower and 39 Nm. Complementing this is a modern electronics package featuring ABS, riding modes, and ride-by-wire, underscoring its sporty intent. The suspension from WP offers 230 mm of travel both front and rear, paired with a lightweight trellis frame. The 6-speed gearbox provides more flexibility across the rev range, while the radial front brake with a 320 mm disc signals serious stopping power. Despite its affordable price, the 390 SMC R delivers a comprehensive package with a TFT display and modern ergonomicsbut does it offer enough of the Supermoto feel?

Find all detailed information and riding impressions in NoPain's test: KTM 390 SMC R Test Report.

Find current prices, offers, and promotions here: Buy A2 Supermoto New and Used.

Before diving into the test, we established equal conditions. The ContiAttack SM 2 was used as the standard tirea sport-oriented tire specifically designed for Supermoto use on both road and track. With its optimized rubber compound and reinforced carcass structure, it offers high levels of grip, precise steering behavior, and maximum feedback at the limit. Its short warm-up phase makes it suitable for ambitious hobby riders as well as sporty everyday useideal for a fair comparison of both motorcycles under identical conditions.

Find more information about the tire here: ContiAttack SM2.

KTM 390 SMC R - Accessible, Sporty, Yet Everyday-Ready

The KTM 390 SMC R performs on the Supermoto track just as you'd expectaccessible, easy to ride, and with a hint of a naked bike feel. It's no surprise since it shares much of its technical foundation with the 390 Duke. This lineage is particularly evident in its ergonomics: the tank is relatively high, preventing you from leaning too far forward on the handlebarsa downside when maximum freedom of movement is desired. Additionally, the handlebar position is set lower, deviating from typical Supermoto standards, resulting in a neutral, almost touring-like riding posture.

Nevertheless, the KTM is very easy to handle and provides a good feel for the front wheelideal for beginners or those who simply want uncomplicated fun on the track. Compared to the competition, the suspension travel is shorter and the setup is correspondingly stiffer. Its less suited for big jumps or aggressive Supermoto riding, which is further emphasized by the low-mounted exhaust underneath the bikeit limits ground clearance and clearly indicates that extreme racing is not the aim of this machine.

The KTM 390 SMC R is the perfect entry-level machine for anyone looking to gain their first Supermoto experiences or hit the track occasionally without having to commit to a hardcore device.

Suzuki DR-Z4SM - The Supermoto Classic Returns

On the Supermoto track, the Suzuki DR-Z4SM feels like a real veteran that never ceased to embrace the discipline. Its design strongly echoes the legendary DR-Z400SM, possessing all the features you would expect from a "real" Supermoto. The long, flat seat allows for maximum freedom of movement, while the high-mounted handlebars actively encourage an aggressive riding style. Not only does the bike look like a genuine Supermoto, but it also rides like one.

The suspension is tuned on the softer side with its long travel, offering both comfort and reserves for jumps or more demanding rides. Those with the necessary riding skills can maneuver the Suzuki on the track just as a Supermoto should beusing lots of body movement, precise cornering, and controlled slides. By positioning oneself far forward on the seat, the geometry and layout generate significant pressure on the front wheelideal for experienced riders.

Overall, the DR-Z4SM is the bike for those who want to regularly hit the Supermoto track without giving up street legality. It is not an entry-level machine but rather an homage to the classic Supermotoraw, direct, and engaging to ride.

KTM 390 SMC R - Practical, Comfortable, Yet Playful

Even on the open road, the KTM stays true to its character. It brings its accessible, sporty lightness from the track straight to the street. The comfortable seat, paired with the lower seat height, is particularly noteworthy. This ensures that even shorter riders feel at ease, with a secure footing at stoplights or while maneuvering.

The KTM's engine is eager to rev, which means you need to ride it actively. Those looking for a single-cylinder with a lot of low-end grunt might be disappointed. However, the 398.7cc single-cylinder rewards with sporty thrust in the higher rev range. The optional quickshifter with blipper function is particularly recommended, allowing for seamless gear changes and adding an emotional touch to every ride.

Technically, the KTM offers a lot: The TFT display is easy to read and intuitive to operate, and the electronicsincluding ride-by-wire, riding modes (Street/Sport), ABS, and traction controlwork reliably and are well-tuned. This allows it to adapt perfectly to road conditions. In summary, the KTM 390 SMC R is an all-rounder that impresses not only on the track but also in everyday use, appealing to a wide audience with its versatility.

Suzuki DR-Z4SM - Pure Riding Pleasure with Classic Single-Cylinder Charm

On the open road, the Suzuki DR-Z4SM reveals its other sideor rather its true nature, as it stays true to itself: honest, direct, and purist. The single-cylinder engine delivers strong torque even at low revs, behaving just as you would expect from a traditional Supermoto engine. It pulls robustly without nervous peaksideal for winding country roads with constant load changes.

In contrast to the KTM, the Suzuki does without a quickshiftera point that purists may not mind, but it will likely stand out in a direct comparison. Comfort is not its strong suit: the seat is uncomfortable, and longer rides require stamina. The knee angle is sportier, the seat height is higher, and the handlebars are set higherall contributing to an aggressive riding ergonomics, but also limiting everyday usability.

A frequently debated point is the five-speed gearbox, but during the test on the open road, it barely registered as a drawback. Even at a speed of 100 km/h, the engine feels calm and low in vibrations. In direct comparison to the KTM, which produces noticeably high-frequency vibrations at higher revs, the Suzuki scores with its tranquility. The electronic controls are simple yet functional. Riding modes and traction control are easy to adjust. However, the LC display with its minimalist readoutlacking a tachometerappears outdated.

The DR-Z4SM is not about comfort; it's a true rider's motorcyclefor those who consciously forgo unnecessary frills and seek a genuine, mechanical riding experience. For those who desire this, the Suzuki is a faithful companion with plenty of character.

Given the significant price difference between the Suzuki DR-Z4SM and the KTM 390 SMC R, many of the riding impressions are put into perspective. The Suzuki offers a more authentic Supermoto experience, scoring with classic ergonomics, long suspension travel, and strong low-end torquebut it costs about 3,000 euros more. In contrast, the KTM provides a surprisingly balanced mix of everyday usability and sporty potential for significantly less money, including modern electronics, a TFT display, and an optional quickshifter. For those who are not seeking the ultimate in Supermoto authenticity but instead want a versatile, well-equipped bike with modern technology, the KTM offers an excellent overall package at an attractive price. It's clear: both models deliver high levels of fun, but in terms of value for money, the KTM is hard to beat right now.

For most people looking for a fun Supermotoperhaps as a second bike for sunny after-work rides, occasional track days, or simply for maximum riding pleasure on the open roadthe KTM 390 SMC R is likely the better choice. It's not as uncompromising and aggressive as the Suzuki, forgoing the last ounce of Supermoto radicality, but it makes riding incredibly easy. Its accessible ergonomics, modern electronics, easy handling, and fair price-performance ratio appeal to a broad audience. Those who just want to have fun without worrying about lack of everyday usability or technical quirks will quickly warm up to the KTM.

Despite the KTM's rational appeal and attractive price-performance ratio, one must make a strong case for the Suzuki DR-Z4SM. In a time when the Supermoto segment has been long neglected and true, purist models have become rare, it's a bold statement that Suzuki brings this legendary name back to the streets. The DR-Z4SM is not a smoothed-over mainstream bike, but a machine with edges, quirks, and genuine characterexactly what many Supermoto fans have been wishing for. It demands more from the rider but offers an unadulterated, intense experience in return. The fact that a major manufacturer has the courage to revive such a motorcycle deserves respectand gives hope to all who yearn for authentic, rider-focused machines, even if it requires digging deeper into their pockets.