2023 KTM 890 SMT | Launch First Ride

[@geneharrogate6911]

Chris sets the hooligan bar high enough that you're never left wondering if a bike can do this or that. Bravo!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks, that's always been our goal, show what these bikes are capable of.

[@h2489-m2l]

@@BikeWorldTVshow you sure can ride a bit!

[@ultimatist]

@@BikeWorldTVshow keep on keeping on!

[@BurningAlive409]

For this very reason if I open a review video and it's not Chris riding, I don't bother watching it😅

[@geneharrogate6911]

@@BurningAlive409 That old bald bloke still goes alright tho. About 15 years back, Chad was the resident MCN longhair ratbag ripping wheelies on a supercharged Rocket 3 (private road..) Look it up. I remember that cos I'm an old fucker also..

[@k1mura92]

I'd watch Chris review bikes even if he didn't speak a word. No reviewer hoons around as hard as Chris. What a beast of a rider. I love it!

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Steve Kamrad test the Hell out of bikes as well and he has skills. Steve did a KLX 230 review and you could tell by the look on the photojournos around him that they were kinda intimidated by his hooning around... and he was just having fun.

[@TriAngles3D]

When either Chris or Rory Reid review something then 9 times our 10 I will end up watching it and then watch the tenth episode the day after. You know he can ride, he knows his bikes, he knows what is important, he talks about what you want to know and while he can be almost airborne on his bikes he is always down to earth and good spirited. In terms of skills, I remember that Chris had to intentionally slide his bike for a slide test. I could not believe how well he laid his bike down at speed.

[@tbHighlandRider]

Chris, wanted to tell you for a while now: you have the best reviews in today's entire motorcycle industry ! and I subscribed to all the major ones from US to UK and AUS. Always to the point with accurate specs and while riding with passion. BTW, this KTM checks all the boxes for me, except the price tag :)

[@tpowers1000]

The other journo's didnt seem pleased with the slide...prolly just jealous! awesome vid!

[@mbal4052]

Noticed that too 😂

[@j1j1j1j1j1]

What an inspiring little monologue at the end while hammering those apexes!

[@JohannesDalenMC]

I’ve just recently discovered this channel and I must say I’m very impressed. Particularly liked how you placed this bike in the KTM lineup. Well done!

[@cocky_potato]

I totally agree that this will be a very niche machine that (unfortunately) will only appeal to a limited amount of individuals, but it ticks all my boxes! Really a "segment" (?) more manufacturers could and should explore! Also, your energy and enthusiasm are always contagious Chris, love all your videos!

[@ericgustafsson9008]

I went from sportbikes to a 990 smt (through some other bikes for a few months 👎) and man do I miss that bike. The only things I don't miss is the cramped position and the smell in the clothes (exhaust fumes) after. I took that bike everywhere, mostly on one wheel, even through single tracks!

[@Dean-does-Stuff-81]

I have had mine now for a few months... Best bike I ever owned... love love love it...

[@CharlieboySLONDON]

Im a 890 Duke R and Tracer GT owner. I was hoping the SMT would combine my 2 favourite bikes and i would fall deeply in love... but i havent ! They have missed the smT mark. It should have the DUKE R tune its down on power for its size in comparison to the Tracer and Duke R. It hasnt got the touring capability with its tiny screen and luggage that looks like it was an after thought. The extras to get this to a true SMT are pushing on bikes like the Ducati multistrada 950s or Tracer GT+ both bikes are like big supermotos with all the toys. I think this should have been labelled the SMT/R with the correct tune and made the SMT more touring with better panniers , the electrics as standard and a better screen.

[@donkeizluv]

uhh I dont think the Tracer GT is even close. That bike has the worst suspension travel for any sport tourer. Its a naked bike with more plastic at best. Comparing it to this is just non sense.

[@darkarch1998]

this thing is brilliant, more than enough power for what it’s made for, super comfy, stable, very good wind protection even though i’m 6’2. you can’t compare the duke or the tracer to this because they are 2 seperate styles of motorbike that the smt isn’t meant to be. It’s called a SuperMoto Tourer for a reason. duke is a naked, tracer is a tourer they completely different. This is a supermoto made for long distance, change your perspective my brother.

[@bencatt6246]

Superb!!! This bike looks amazing and with Chris putting it through his paces it’s definitely been tested. I’ve got a old 950sm and this new machine is that plus more 👍👍👍

[@raydenny7197]

I've bought my first KTM a year ago. Just the 390 but I'm so glad I did. I'm now a KTM convert . They don't make boring bike's. They know motorcycles are supposed to be fun and a joy to ride.

[@NudaMan]

You’ll need to try more than the 390, when your ready put a leg over a 990 Super Duke and you’ll really love Ktm more 🤩 front wheel hovers in the first 3 gears and just a beautiful exhaust/intake sound

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Excellent look at the 890 SMT! All motorcycles, no matter how daft they may seem to the general populace are absolutely necessary for those of us who rely on them for day to day travel. Saving the planet 2 wheels at a time, and having a hoot doing it.

[@ans512]

No words for this man..............Chris you are the best.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers!

[@WillPerryAbuseCoach]

Chris is the Biking equivalent to Chris Harris, just awesome to watch and brilliantly insightful - love it! 🥰🙏

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers!

[@Ukmongoose3]

I dig what you’re saying about the 690 smcr as I have one. I can easy peasy do 200 miles in a day on mine and I LOVE it. If I could only have one bike, the 690 would be it. I have three others, but I ride the 690 the most. You probably know why Chris.

[@Justin-iw7pl]

Another Banging video Chris 👌 Definitely gonna make folk really think hard about what they actually want,need & will use. Good job KTM for bringing out another taste of orange

[@kawker]

Ride it like you stole it Chris! The other press didn't look to happy, but I think that's because you always out ride them. Class mate👍

[@johnDukemaster]

Best review! And yes, you nailed it! KTM does the thing we want. NoneKTM riders don't know it yet! Yes, I have one. A 690 Duke and I love it!

[@anxiousappliance]

People get it - it's not hard to get - the problem is KTM don't know how to screw a bike together to the level of modern standards. Shame really - but there are other very dynamic bikes out there.

[@kylekyle8131]

Yes, Chris is back!!

[@OHMMoto]

Chris is an incredible rider

[@logangallagher7050]

This guy has got to be the most skillful motorcycle journalist ive ever seen

[@MTBrider26]

Best reviewer and entertainer on KZbin. Well Chris and Ryan F9

[@nickrider5220]

That Chris Northover is a very naughty boy......top man 👍👍👍👍👍👍😎

[@petercarr6599]

Ya gotta love chris, what a rider! Chris please teach me how to wheelie 😊

[@newtype101]

An absolute mutant of a bike! Def this is the bike for Chris

[@bmacrc46]

I bought a Duke 890R after watching Chris review that bike. He was spot on with his assessment. I liked the idea of the 890 Adventure but the 21" wheel was a deal breaker as it negated the sharp handling of the Duke.. This is the bike I have been waiting for and I will be buying as soon as it becomes available in the USA. I am confident that once I have a chance to ride one I will confirm the glowing review offered by Chris.

[@seagee7100]

Same, though I really hope they actually plan to bring it here.

[@IDontKnow-bb6mt]

Chris is my absolute favorite reviewer!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers, we'll pass on the love.

[@scottc3]

Great video @Chris Northover! I loved my 990, for the noise more than anything else. Definitely want to try one of these...

[@Kelly-dz2wc]

Still have my 2010 990 SMT since new. Best bike ever. !!!

[@supfly51]

Love the KTM ethos of send it! perfectly matched to your style of test ride 🤣

[@paul.vanhout57]

Chris must have a substantial tire budget🙂

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

We are sponsored by Dunlop for a reason. 😂

[@Offroadjono]

Keep up the good work Chris 🔥🔥

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers!

[@craigjohnson6597]

Chris puts out the best reviews 💯✌🏽Sooooo entertaining👍🏼

[@nickbrown3232]

Now that sir, is a proper bike!

[@ktmkevin]

I have been looking forward to this one. You got it spot on and I identify as one among those "slim number of people". I actually wanted a 990 SMT but couldn't justify paying a lot for such an old bike. Endes up with a Tiger 800 XRX in the end. Did the suspension, exhaust and some grippy tires and it's a joy too ride.. But it doesn't have the hooligan feel. I will be at the KTM dealer for a test ride as soon as they got them in!

[@rayhan4502]

I really love that grab handle!

[@jimriley909]

Good balanced view of what is clearly a compromise, even within KTM's range. But the word 'cost' came up a few times and you can't deny that to get the bike into the 'T' for touring bracket you're shelling out serious dosh on top of the basic asking price. And to get the bike into the 'SM' for supermoto bracket you're shelling out serious dosh on top of the basic asking price. So for this bike to actually be the SM-T, it's serious dosh. Swing and a miss for me, I'll stick to my 890 Duke R, comfort settings and Kriega luggage thanks. A compromise, but then cheaper than the SM-T compromise.

[@bimmerfan729]

What a bike. I'm so glad ktm brought the smt back. I wanted a 990 so bad back then but wound up with a Speed Triple. Not mad at that decision but part of me always pined for the smt.

[@adamweisell]

Looks like a blast to ride!

[@OliNorris]

I ordered this last week on the day it was announced. Perfect replacement for my 701SM.

[@yefimZis]

pls update when receive you replacement

[@OliNorris]

@@yefimZis It gonna be awhile. The bike is coming in a week or so, but I will be travelling so won’t be able to pick it up until June.

[@jasonk7072]

I'd like to see the Husqvarna version of this. I think it's a great idea and I'd be very interested but KTMs are a bit too lairy and the headlight too buglike for my tastes.

[@Ilikethemotion]

There is an Vitpilen 901 in works, based on spy shots

[@etdbsub0]

Nuda 901.

[@PeanutButter6665]

​@@etdbsub0 same though here, can't waiting to see how Husqvarna gonna make bike with Nuda DNA design. Gonna be pumped up 🔥🔥🔥.

[@hendo337]

Could be a great Svartpillen 701 replacement.

[@SBarbati]

There are already some spy shots of a bike that is believed to be the new Nuda 901. I believe it will be the same base as this but with the Husky style.

[@ΒΑΓΓΕΛΗΣΓΑΛΑΝΟΣ-φ5ψ]

It's a lovely Indian bike

[@Ronburgundy75]

Chris is my hero!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

And you're ours Ron, You stay classy!

[@davidsampson3537]

Stunning bike and makes great sense to me !

[@juanpasillo3971]

Would take this over any similar concept right now; 17s and road tyres. Most people I know don't leave the tarmac, yet they are on mixed tyres and asymmetric diameter wheels. Adventure biked are a trend, nobody really use them for what they are. If you're tall, and like the "big bike" look etc... this makes much more sense. Phenomenal test as always Chris!

[@Motovibes91]

Too bad there aren't a lot of them you can buy

[@chriss6971]

Seems like a good commuter. Even goes hard on the rough roads

[@SBarbati]

Send it!! Awesome review and awesome bike. I’ll wait to see the Husky take on this. There are some spy shots of a bike that people believe to be the new Nuda 901.

[@rayhan4502]

The hooligan is high in this one.

[@JulienMPS]

Holy shit the slides 😅 guess you've found your next birthday gift! It suits you so well 😂

[@dbauernf]

Is it just me or did the old 990SMT look more high end/imposing/bigger/more serious? This looks small and cheap. I have zero doubts that the new one is better in every way but.. I kinda want the old one :)

[@karthik.g63]

1:30 had me a code brown just watching!

[@pepperlx9277]

When I saw this bike teaser on KTM Channel, Chris is the first rider I've thought of.

[@abymathew295]

Can't wait to see Chriss Trying the upcoming Nuda 901...😍😍😍

[@CurtisBrandt]

Really enjoyable video! Love the rolling burnout. Have to say, not a lot of "T", in that SM.

[@goldilocks913]

I’m a Harley rider but l love KTM for their excellent attitude- might tempt me to try it out myself! 👍🇬🇧

[@davidcolin6519]

You need to think long and hard about that. Because the orange drink is very addictive.

[@Waldo1122]

​@@davidcolin6519 Too bad that addictive drink has a shelf life of 1 month.

[@davidcolin6519]

@@Waldo1122 Not at all, a friend of mine has an original SD990 that he has had from new. It has been more reliable than any of the UJMs he had before.

[@nomading_in]

On the latter observations about KTM, I think it's a super smart move, as someone owning a KTM. Only got a little 390 Adventure, but its an infinitely better bike when you're pushing over 6500 revs, banging through gears, throwing into corners and just generally driving it to its (entertainingly legal) limits. In a review setting, if you were using a demo which hasn't even been broken in yet, a reviewer will mostly play by the rules, keep the revs low, maybe a little squirt of throttle here and there nothing serious. That's why its really hard to get "the point" of a motorcycle unless you're allowed to run it through its paces. Maybe not applicable for every bike type/manufactures, but for the KTM's, it's either hoon it about or you'll come away thinking a Royal Enfield is better.

[@sivanm2130]

I demand a separate video just on that front fender

[@jeffreymoorbeck2752]

Seems a great bike for hooning around on. But, I didn't get enough information on what its like to tour on. Does it have cruise control? Luggage options? Additional windscreens? How is it droning on the Interstate for hours? How is it in slow, city traffic?

[@donsmith3573]

And I’ve just gone and bought the 890 adventure s . Never mind it’s brilliant, but this is so so tempting.

[@JoeShep71]

Ugh Chris !!!! Why do you do this?!?!?!?! Every bike you review, i wanna go buy lol. Love your videos !! You do it right !!!

[@MistressDarkTruth]

I was going to put a order in for one but it's not coming to the States this year, I already have two 890 Dukes and a 1290 Duke but I feel like I have a place for this one as well.

[@GaryJohnWalker1]

Most questions nicely anwered - though why not use Duke 890 engine as this is a road bike? Tho in truth I'd not notice the extra power (v top end?) . And ... what happened to the new 990 we've had spy shots of apparently for ages?

[@k1mura92]

Damn that is one sick as hell bike. Whenever KTM decides to fix their reliability issues, I'll be first in line to buy one. Until then, I'll be hooning around on my 22 GSX-S1000.

[@anxiousappliance]

So much how I feel, unless a used one shows up at a good price. I have the s750 and an 821 strada that keep me happy, but wish these guys would get the reliability up.

[@Sarj_ent]

This version of the 890 is easily the best looking. I'd be tempted to put the tank from smt on the 890 adventure

[@paulr.8365]

Best review!

[@TimZ750]

Class review as always Chris, when backing it in do you pull the clutch in, or does the engine effectively stall while on the brake?

[@kpappa]

With or without demo mode ?

[@stuartmorton662]

'Kin brilliant! I currently have a 790 Adventure R amd my old 950 sm... The 890 smt is the all round weapon for me... Bikes for sale... 😂

[@ICEcoldNordicc]

I have a sticker on my bike "if it tries to kill you, it makes mad man happy". Thats why i love my 990 smt !!

[@xavley5452]

Now Chris should compare the Ducati hypermotard and the ktm 890smt

[@badcatsam444]

smooth skills😊

[@urbanadventurer5]

Personally, I love it, but I am a guy that’s torn between getting a nicer adventure bike or sports tourer next. I had settled on the Husqvarna Norden 902 with the same engine, but I think the combination of having this and a enduro dirt bike too could be perfect for someone like me.

[@bishnuprasadbarman5631]

Chris's mom be like, "I've made you, a better hooligan than KTM."

[@wayne_kurr]

Looks so much better with the dirt bike front mud guard removed!

[@chrisnicholls3169]

brilliant....but switch gear from gen 2 dukes ?

[@konastinkykid]

I wanted to get a tenere 700 and get a pair of 17" wheels for it, but WOW this this looks awesome. I hope they bring it to the US

[@i_observe9846]

Damn, dudes skilled

[@Mr450pro]

Would love to see Chris make a review of the new Honda Hornet. Every one else is driving like a grandma on them.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

It's coming!

[@MrMikey1703]

Wonder how an SMT890 would feel against my Super Duke R? I’ve been considering other bikes just bc the SDR is just too focussed as a daily rider. Terrific video Chris.

[@zombeloffical]

120 hp vs ~177hp and same wheight😵‍💫

[@fynn8252]

The 890 should feel more agile and playful in the corners (despite same weight). I recently got a hypermotard and it's the most fun motorcycle i've ridden. I've spent 1000+ miles on the Superduke, Tuono and new Streetfighter which are fantastic performers, but overkill. The 100-125hp middleweight range is the sweet spot for street riding imo.

[@cartaun5276]

Just a quick tip, the windshield for the duke 890 is 50 EUR. Bout the review, It is always an amusement to watch you hooliganing those wheels!

[@JQiRamos]

Can you wheelie with tc on at a lower level or does it have to be off like older ktms? Do you see them releasing an R version of this? Thinking of more power and stylema brakes

[@AVI.D]

Where on Sardinia is this?

[@Peruonwheels]

690 all the way !!

[@magellanicspaceclouds]

I would watch Chris ride any kind of Frankenstein contraption. 😆

[@endurojitsu3804]

Why not just put SM wheels to 890 Adv? ;) Speaking of that, do the new SMT wheels “plug and play” fit the 890?

[@shhmule]

The Akropovic on this looks huge, does it contain a catalytic converter or something? Surely there's a dealer option to have that removed and save weight and improve noise? This thing sounds too quiet for a fun SMT

[@weiderlow]

Doesn't that high exhaust get in the way of mounting luggage?

[@markreynolds8630]

Exactly! Why do they insist on these high level one sided exhausts? Its an smT for C sake. Give me a low level exhaust that will allow panniers to be their full size. Not cut away to allow for some styling.

[@lezarathustra]

it doesn't - I have a 2023 890 Adv, big Shad Terra's 47L on each side, zero problems, lot's of luggage

[@defylifeadventure]

@@markreynolds8630 It does. On the 890 Adventure, luggage frames stick out a mile. They really should have tucked it in tight to the frame like on the 950/990 adventure.

[@cocky_potato]

QQ: would you say this competes with the Ducati 950 Hypermotard? Would be cool to see a head to head comparison...

[@giovannirevelli8148]

Chris will you ever make a conparison between the smt 890 and the Ducati hypermotard 950/950 sp?

[@TheWatcherWatching]

Change the headlight and I'm in 😂

[@41teeth]

Could be my next bike to replace my RSV4. @SanDiegoRider lent me his KTM Adventure 790 with SM conversion and it was an absolute blast-a bike that did everything well. Amazing gearbox and brakes, crazy flickability, with adequate power and a surprising amount of torque. Supremely comfortable, too.

[@NudaMan]

You could just buy the original 990 SMT for 6500$ and just add it to the stable and keep the RSV4

[@dadtube1936]

Great review - thanks, very thoughtful. Love to know how it compares to the Hypermotard. A

[@joeblow5037]

BLOODY HELL!!!! 🤸‍♂

[@maamajhigouri1207]

Pocket rocket 🚀. Wish it had a single sided swing arm

[@XtremeCoke]

Can I put this set of 17 inches wheel from SMT straight onto my 890 adventure?

[@Evil.Turkey]

How is this compared to the Triump Tiger 900 Rally Pro?

[@JelloThatsMellow]

I can only guess significantly more aggressive and less comfortable than the tiger.

[@watchdancing]

You campared it to the 890 Duke R but how do you compare it to the only other Big-Supermoto on the market- the 950 Hypermotard?

[@hendo337]

I can't wait for the Husqvarna version to replace the Svartpillen 701.