KTM 390 Supermoto: Is It Possible?

by Jhon Lennon 35 views

Hey guys! Ever wondered if you could transform the KTM 390 into a supermoto beast? Well, you're not alone! The idea of a lightweight, agile supermoto built on the reliable KTM 390 platform is super appealing. In this article, we'll dive deep into what it takes to convert a KTM 390 into a supermoto, exploring the modifications, challenges, and the overall feasibility of this exciting project.

What is a Supermoto?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's quickly define what a supermoto actually is. Supermotos are essentially motorcycles that blend the best of both worlds: the lightweight agility of a motocross bike and the road-going capabilities of a sportbike. They typically feature 17-inch wheels with street tires, powerful brakes, and a torquey engine, making them incredibly fun and capable on both paved and unpaved surfaces. Their upright riding position and nimble handling make them perfect for carving through twisty roads or tackling urban environments.

Supermotos originated from a racing format designed to crown the ultimate all-around motorcycle rider. This format mixed tarmac and dirt sections, demanding bikes that could handle both disciplines. This led to the development of specialized motorcycles with long-travel suspension for absorbing bumps and jumps, powerful brakes for quick stops on asphalt, and a riding position that allowed riders to easily transition between sitting and standing. Over time, supermotos transitioned from race-only machines to street-legal bikes, gaining popularity among riders who appreciate their unique combination of performance, versatility, and hooliganism.

The appeal of a supermoto lies in its ability to deliver an exhilarating riding experience in a variety of conditions. The lightweight chassis and powerful brakes make them incredibly responsive and fun to ride on twisty roads, while the long-travel suspension and torquey engine allow them to handle rougher terrain with ease. Their upright riding position provides excellent visibility and control, making them ideal for navigating urban traffic. Plus, let's be honest, they just look plain cool! The aggressive styling, high-mounted fenders, and distinctive wheels give them a unique and eye-catching appearance.

Why a KTM 390 Supermoto?

So, why choose the KTM 390 as the base for a supermoto build? Well, the 390 Duke and RC 390 offer a fantastic foundation. The engine is a punchy single-cylinder that delivers plenty of usable power, and the chassis is lightweight and responsive. Plus, the KTM 390 is relatively affordable, making it an accessible platform for customization. The combination of these factors makes it a great starting point for creating a fun and engaging supermoto.

The KTM 390's engine is a key factor in its suitability for a supermoto conversion. The 373cc single-cylinder engine is known for its strong mid-range torque, which is essential for accelerating out of corners and powering through challenging terrain. It's also a relatively simple and reliable engine, making it easy to maintain and modify. While it may not have the outright horsepower of a larger engine, its lightweight design and responsive throttle make it a blast to ride.

The chassis of the KTM 390 is another major advantage. Its lightweight trellis frame provides excellent rigidity and handling, allowing riders to confidently carve through corners. The suspension is also well-suited for supermoto use, with enough travel to absorb bumps and jumps while still providing good feedback and control. While the stock suspension may need some upgrades for serious supermoto riding, it's a solid foundation to build upon. Furthermore, the KTM 390's compact size and nimble handling make it perfect for navigating tight urban streets and tackling technical tracks.

The Conversion Process: What You'll Need

Alright, let's get down to the fun part: the actual conversion process. Transforming your KTM 390 into a supermoto isn't just about slapping on some new tires. It requires careful planning and a few key modifications. Here’s a breakdown of what you'll likely need:

  • Wheels and Tires: This is the most obvious and crucial change. You'll want to swap out the stock wheels for 17-inch wheels, typically with wider rims. These will accommodate supermoto tires, which offer superior grip on asphalt. Popular tire choices include brands like Dunlop, Michelin, and Pirelli.

  • Brakes: Supermotos need serious stopping power. Upgrading the front brake caliper and rotor is highly recommended. Consider a larger diameter rotor and a radial-mount caliper for improved braking performance.

  • Suspension: While the stock suspension is decent, it's worth considering upgrades for more aggressive riding. Stiffer springs and re-valved forks and shocks can significantly improve handling and control.

  • Gearing: Supermotos often benefit from shorter gearing to improve acceleration and low-end grunt. Experiment with different sprocket sizes to find the sweet spot for your riding style.

  • Aesthetics: While not essential, many supermoto enthusiasts like to customize the appearance of their bikes. This can include things like aftermarket bodywork, graphics, and handguards.

The selection of wheels and tires is critical for achieving the desired supermoto performance. 17-inch wheels are the standard for supermotos, as they offer a good balance of agility and stability. Wider rims allow for the use of wider tires, which provide more grip and improve handling. Supermoto-specific tires are designed with a soft compound and a tread pattern that provides excellent traction on both paved and unpaved surfaces.

Upgrading the braking system is essential for ensuring safety and control on a supermoto. The stock brakes on the KTM 390 may be adequate for street riding, but they are not up to the task of handling the demands of aggressive supermoto riding. A larger diameter rotor provides more leverage, while a radial-mount caliper offers improved stiffness and braking power. Consider also upgrading the brake lines to stainless steel braided lines for improved feel and responsiveness.

Potential Challenges and Considerations

No project is without its hurdles, and converting a KTM 390 into a supermoto is no exception. Here are a few challenges you might encounter:

  • Cost: The cost of parts and labor can quickly add up. Be sure to budget accordingly and prioritize the most important upgrades.

  • Fitment: Not all aftermarket parts are created equal. Ensure that the parts you choose are compatible with your KTM 390 and that they fit properly.

  • Legality: Depending on your location, there may be legal restrictions on modifying your motorcycle. Check your local laws and regulations before making any major changes.

  • Maintenance: Supermotos tend to be more demanding on maintenance than street bikes. Be prepared to perform regular maintenance, such as oil changes, chain adjustments, and brake pad replacements.

One of the biggest challenges in converting a KTM 390 into a supermoto is ensuring proper fitment of aftermarket parts. The KTM 390 is a relatively new model, and not all aftermarket parts manufacturers have developed products specifically for it. This can make it difficult to find parts that fit correctly and perform as expected. It's important to do your research and choose parts from reputable manufacturers who have a proven track record of producing high-quality parts for the KTM 390.

Another important consideration is the legality of modifying your motorcycle. Many jurisdictions have laws and regulations that restrict the types of modifications that can be made to street-legal vehicles. These laws may cover things like exhaust systems, lighting, and suspension. It's important to check your local laws and regulations before making any major changes to your KTM 390 to ensure that your modifications are legal.

Is it Worth it? The Verdict

So, is converting a KTM 390 into a supermoto worth the time, effort, and money? In my opinion, absolutely! The result is a seriously fun and capable machine that's perfect for carving up canyons, tearing around town, or even hitting the occasional track day. The KTM 390's inherent agility and punchy engine make it a natural fit for the supermoto lifestyle.

However, it's important to go into the project with realistic expectations. A KTM 390 supermoto won't be as refined or comfortable as a dedicated street bike, and it will require more maintenance. But if you're willing to accept these trade-offs, you'll be rewarded with a unique and exhilarating riding experience.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to convert a KTM 390 into a supermoto comes down to personal preference and riding style. If you're looking for a versatile and engaging motorcycle that can handle a variety of conditions, a KTM 390 supermoto may be the perfect choice for you. Just be sure to do your research, plan carefully, and budget accordingly to ensure a successful and enjoyable conversion.

Final Thoughts

Building a KTM 390 supermoto is an awesome project for anyone looking to create a unique and exciting motorcycle. With careful planning and the right modifications, you can transform your KTM 390 into a supermoto that's sure to turn heads and put a smile on your face every time you ride it. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start wrenching!