Is the KTM 990 SMT really a hooligan bike?
Some riders have taken to calling the KTM 990 SMT a 'hooligan bike'—a bike that encourages aggressive, spirited riding and can lift its front wheel with ease. Part of that is down to its V-twin engine, supermoto-inspired handling, and relatively light weight for its class. But not all owners agree with this characterization. Others say it's certainly capable of wild antics, but it is also a comfortable and practical bike to ride every day. But let’s find out if the 990 SMT is really as rowdy as its reputation suggests or if it’s actually a bit more versatile and well-behaved than the image implies.
Hell yeah, it lives up to the hype! The 990 SMT is a wheelie machine and sounds wicked. You can't not ride like a hooligan sometimes.
If you want it to be, it can be a hooligan bike, but it’s also surprisingly well-behaved for commuting and touring. It's really up to the rider.
It's a little bit overblown, the 'hooligan' reputation. Sure, it has plenty of power, but it’s not some uncontrollable beast. People don’t give it enough credit for how versatile it is.
But I think it's earned its reputation. That torquey V-twin and supermoto inspired handling is hard to resist the urge to act up a bit.
It's definitely a hooligan bike, but to call it a 'hooligan bike' does it a disservice. It’s a well-rounded machine that you can ride sensibly.
The 990 SMT is whatever you want it to be. It’s an absolute riot in the right hands. It’s happy to cruise along at a relaxed pace if that’s what you’re in the mood for, but it’s also happy to take you fast.
Compared to modern bikes with all their electronic nannies, yeah, the 990 SMT feels pretty raw and exciting. It’s not some unrideable monster, just a fun, engaging bike.
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Is the KTM 990 SMT really a hooligan bike?
14 January 2025 08:05
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