Supermoto Bikes: The Ultimate Thrill Machine

What Exactly is a Supermoto?

Supermoto motorcycles deliver some of the purest, most adrenaline-filled thrills available in the entire world of motorcycling. Originating from a unique blend of road racing, flat-track, and motocross, these bikes were initially conceived as single-cylinder motocross machines converted for a televised US race series in the 1970s. This innovative concept was later embraced in France, where it was renamed ‘supermotard’. The home-grown street versions that followed became so popular that they eventually led to the production of factory-built models.

Today, Supermoto racing continues to thrive, and for street riders, there's an ever-increasing range of road-legal versions. These span from accessible 125cc models perfect for learners, through to mid-range fun bikes, and all the way to outright, full-bore 600cc+ track refugees designed for the most hardcore riders. Manufacturers like KTM, Suzuki, and Ducati are all actively involved, with new models such as KTM's 2025 offerings, Suzuki's DR-Z4SM, and Ducati's popular Hypermotard range showcasing the evolution of this exciting genre.

While by their very definition – being dirt bikes fitted with street tyres, wheels, and brakes – Supermotos might have limited practicality for activities like touring, they more than compensate with their lively, lightweight performance, incredibly nimble handling, and an abundance of excitement and pure 'hooligan' pose value. They are bikes designed for pure, unadulterated fun.

Choosing Your Supermoto: A Buyer's Guide

Selecting the right Supermoto depends on several key factors. It's crucial to consider your riding experience, licence category, intended use, and budget to ensure you find the perfect machine for your needs.

• Engine Capacity and Licence: Your first consideration should be the engine capacity, which directly relates to your motorcycle licence. Whether you hold an A1 (sub-125cc), A2 (under 47bhp), or a full licence (unlimited), there's a Supermoto out there for you.
• Riding Intentions: Think about what you want to do with your Supermoto. Are you looking for a 'lairy' toy for weekend blasts, or something more versatile that can handle longer distances and offer greater comfort?
• Riding Experience: Your level of experience is paramount. Relative novices might find middleweight bikes like the Suzuki DR-Z400SM more approachable, while experienced riders will have the world at their fingertips with high-performance machines.
• Budget: Supermotos can range significantly in price. The most extreme models can cost upwards of £10,000, but you can find excellent used middleweights for under £5,000, and the cheapest used 125cc models start from under £2,000.

Top Supermoto Picks: New and Used

Here's a look at some of the best Supermoto options available, covering a range of capacities and price points:

1. Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono RVE

The Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono, all-new for 2024, is a purpose-built street Supermoto that has redefined perceptions of what this type of motorcycle can be. Its punchy power delivery and fabulously nimble handling make it one of the most enjoyable motorcycles launched in recent years. Based on a unique, ultra-short-stroke single-cylinder engine (effectively half of Ducati's old 1200 Panigale V-twin superbike motor), it's the largest and most powerful single-cylinder Ducati has ever produced. Combined with an extremely lightweight chassis, top-tier suspension and brakes, and the latest electronics, it offers an incredibly entertaining and adrenaline-fuelled experience.

Key Specifications:

Pros: Peak Supermoto performance and fun, yet easy to ride; latest electronics and cycle parts.

Cons: Peak Supermoto price; lofty seat height; limited practicality.

2. KTM 690 SMC R

Hailing from Austrian off-road experts KTM, the 690 SMC R was the benchmark for peak performance and unbridled thrills in the Supermoto world until the arrival of the Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono. Refined over the years, its 692cc single-cylinder engine is now surprisingly smooth and capable, even for occasional motorway use. Coupled with high-quality, fully adjustable WP suspension, a potent four-piston Brembo front caliper, and a slipper clutch, it offers exceptional performance in tight, technical bends.

Key Specifications:

Pros: Raw, pure, original Supermoto appeal; cheaper and more proven than the Ducati; plenty of used examples.

Cons: Even less practicality; Husqvarna/GasGas versions offer more exclusivity; not for novices.

3. Aprilia SX125

The Aprilia SX125, first launched in 2008 and comprehensively updated in 2018, is arguably the best four-stroke A1 class learner-compliant Supermoto available. Based on the Aprilia RS125 sportster, it uses that bike's 15bhp liquid-cooled single-cylinder motor within a bespoke chassis shared with its RX 125 trail bike sibling. The SX version features 17-inch wire wheels, an LCD dash, and distinctive Italian styling and quality touches, all at a competitive price point.

Key Specifications:

Pros: Best A1 class Supermoto on the market; great value; lots of nice touches.

Cons: Only 15bhp; specification is a little basic; tall for some learners.

4. Suzuki DR-Z400SM

The Suzuki DR-Z400SM remains the benchmark for mid-capacity, A2-licence compliant, mainstream Supermotos. So successful was the original model that, despite its discontinuation in 2009, Suzuki has updated it to meet the latest emissions regulations and is relaunching it as the DR-Z4SM for 2025. The original, a true embodiment of the Supermoto formula (taking a dirt bike and fitting it with street-focused wheels, grippier tyres, stronger brakes, and firmer suspension), was introduced in 2005 as the most impressive of the Japanese Supermotos. While its power is modest, its weight is too, leading to superb handling across various conditions. Reliability is excellent, though rider neglect can still cause issues.

Key Specifications:

Pros: The best mid-range Supermoto; fun and surprisingly functional; solid and durable.

Cons: Watch out for converted DR-Z400Ss; big bore kits can cause reliability issues; good ones are becoming rare (wait for the DR-Z4SM).

5. Ducati Hypermotard 950

Introduced in 2019, the Hypermotard 950 is the latest iteration of Ducati's V-twin street Supermoto lineage, which began in 2007. Its V-twin configuration offers more substance and flexibility than most single-cylinder versions, making it adept at carving through mountain hairpins and technical corners. It packs ample power for spirited riding and features light steering and an easy-to-manage riding position. For those seeking even more, Ducati offers the SP version with premium components and the stylish RVE variant.

Key Specifications:

Pros: Great compromise of road and race-inspired performance; more flexible V-twin engine; exotic Ducati appeal.

Cons: Pricey compared to some; still impractical; SP version is very extreme.

6. Yamaha WR125X

The Yamaha WR125X, available from 2009 to 2017, was a leading learner-legal, A1-class Supermoto of its era, renowned for its excellent handling, lively character, and quality build. It remains a sought-after used bike today. Powered by a slick, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected four-stroke single, it features quality suspension, wheels, and brakes, exuding an air of quality and durability rare in the learner 125cc segment. Finding a well-maintained example can be challenging due to its popularity, but it offers a brilliant blend of learner-bike usability and Supermoto fun.

Key Specifications:

Pros: Great style; well-made and equipped; more versatile than most.

Cons: Now slightly ageing; very tall seat; good examples are rare.

7. Husqvarna 701 Supermoto

Sharing its platform with the KTM 690 SMC R, the Husqvarna 701 Supermoto offers a slightly different flavour with distinct styling, graphics, taller gearing, and unique wheels, suspension, and brake components. It boasts the same raw, extreme appeal as the KTM but with an added layer of Husqvarna exclusivity. It's powered by a lively 692cc single-cylinder engine producing 74bhp, delivering impressive mid-range and top-end power. The handling is equally commendable, making it adept at navigating congested city streets or dominating a go-kart track.

Key Specifications:

Pros: KTM-derived with added exclusivity; punchy, pure performance; great fun.

Cons: Not for novices; specification lacks a fuel gauge or rev counter; impractical.

8. Aprilia SXV550

The Aprilia SXV550 was a bold move, introducing a V-twin engine to a class previously dominated by single-cylinder machines. Launched in 2007, its bespoke V-twin offers reduced vibration and increased power, all within an impressively compact and lightweight unit. This contributes to its featherweight 128kg mass and a potent 70bhp output (with race exhaust), making it an agile and exhilarating machine. It's more civilised than many raw singles and comes in full road trim, though its 5500-mile service interval involves piston replacements. For those with the budget, it represents a superb blend of usability and outright lunacy in the Supermoto market.

Key Specifications:

Pros: Mental engine; brilliant stunt bike; exclusivity.

Cons: Now ageing; a race bike with lights; needs constant attention.

9. Rieju MRT125 LC SM

From Spanish lightweight specialists Rieju, the MRT 125 LC SM is a stylish, fun, and lightweight Supermoto option, making it an enviable first bike. Previously powered by two-stroke engines, Rieju now uses liquid-cooled four-stroke single-cylinder motors, adhering to the 15bhp learner restriction. The specification includes impressive features like cast 17-inch wheels, snazzy styling, and disc brakes. A minor drawback is Rieju's dealer network, which is not as extensive as some competitors.

Key Specifications:

Pros: A stylish A1-class Supermoto; lots of 'bling' for your buck; decent all-round performance.

Cons: Can be a little fragile; dealers are few and far between; less well known than some.

10. CCM Scrambler Street Moto

British brand CCM has enjoyed considerable success with its bespoke, single-cylinder Scrambler family. The Street Moto is one of its latest and most Supermoto-styled variants. Based on the same ex-BMW enduro bike engine producing a punchy 62bhp, housed in a hand-crafted tubular steel trellis frame, the Street Moto is an urban roadster with 17-inch wheels, Supermoto carbon fibre bodywork, and high MX bars. While not the purest Supermoto and offering limited practicality, it boasts immense style, is unintimidating, enjoyable, and stands out from the crowd.

Key Specifications:

Pros: Bespoke charm; easy, evocative ride; British heritage.

Cons: Not a 'true' Supermoto; short service intervals; limited practicality.

Other Supermotos to Consider

• KTM 125 SMC R (£4,899): New for 2025, this Duke-based Supermoto promises authentic styling, proven A1-class performance, and decent specifications.
• Suzuki DR-Z4 SM (Price TBA): The updated DR-Z400SM is due in summer 2025, promising 37bhp and plenty of fun, despite stricter emissions regulations.
• KTM 390 SMC R (£5,699): The larger sibling to the 125 SMC R, this model, also new, should offer a hoot with its punchy, A2-compliant 44bhp single and nimble chassis.

Top 10 Supermotos | Key Specifications Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Supermoto?

The original Supermoto racers were motocross bikes fitted with road wheels and tyres, designed to compete on mixed dirt and tarmac circuits. Their popularity led to the development of homemade street-legal versions, often based on trail bikes, which in turn spawned factory production models. While most are still single-cylinder, some twin-cylinder versions now exist. They are characterised by their off-road roots and are typically converted for tarmac use or a mix of both surfaces. In their purest form, they are raw race bikes capable of wheelies and slides.

What are the benefits of a Supermoto?

With their punchy performance, light weight, and nimble handling, Supermotos are incredibly fun bikes that deliver plenty of thrills. They excel at stunts like wheelies and skids and possess a distinctive cool aesthetic. However, while they can be decent A1 learner and town bikes, they generally lack versatility and long-distance comfort.

What licence do I need for a street Supermoto?

The licence required depends on the motorcycle's capacity and performance. 125cc versions can be ridden on an A1 licence if their maximum power does not exceed 11kW (15bhp). Larger models can be ridden on an A2 licence if they produce under 35kW (47bhp). More powerful versions will require a full A licence.

Buying a Used Supermoto

When purchasing a used Supermoto, especially from a private seller, it's essential to proceed with caution. While softer Japanese models are generally reliable and often used for commuting or everyday fun, some harder-edged European offerings may have been ridden extremely hard, potentially involving stunts or even racing. These bikes can be maintenance-intensive and prone to reliability issues.

The safest option is to buy from a dealer, but ensure you fully understand the warranty coverage and get it in writing, as some dealers might classify them as competition machines, limiting your recourse in case of problems.

Dedicated internet forums and Supermoto Facebook groups can be excellent resources for finding used bikes. These platforms also allow you to check owners' post histories to gauge potential issues with specific models. Don't hesitate to ask direct, honest questions about any bike for sale, such as its condition and previous use.

Consider the intended use: softer Japanese bikes are well-suited for the road, while edgier European models can be less practical. Older bikes might lack electric starts, require frequent oil changes (as often as every 200 miles), have firm seats, significant engine vibration, and other 'characterful' traits. However, for pure, unadulterated fun, few machines can match the raw appeal of a Supermoto.

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