KTM 990 SMT (2009-current)

This is far from the most powerful V-twin on the planet but it does have more than enough grunt to turn the KTM SMT into a rapid bit of kit. It can get a little bit lumpy down low but there’s a nicely judged throttle response that makes low speed work easy. Turn up the speed and the big 999cc lump keeps on revving. Enough power for a 140mph top speed. 

KTM has taken the 990 Supermoto WP suspension but modified the internals of the forks to take out some travel so the SMT is a bit more composed on the road. The quality of the suspension is first rate but it does get a bit light at the front when the speeds increase. The light steering never gets alarming and the payback is the way the SMT soaks up scabby British roads like it was fine-tuned here rather than Austria. The only slight issue is with the feedback from the standard-fit Continental tyres which isn’t a patch on some rival tyres.

Comprehensive instruments (only missing a fuel gauge), handguards, luggage rack, tall screen, race-spec Brembo brakes, top-line WP suspension, Marcheshini wheels…the list goes on. The panniers are an accessory and aren’t massive or waterproof (but do come with waterproof liners) and there is also a top rack and small bag as well as other accessories like a tankbag. The only thing missing are heated grips, which for nigh-on £10,000 new, the SMT really should have as standard. Compare and buy parts for the KTM SMT in the MCN Shop.