blog about 2024s Top Supermoto Bikes Reviews and Buying Guide

Have you ever dreamed of navigating city streets like a skilled racer, effortlessly weaving through traffic on a nimble motorcycle while enjoying an adrenaline rush? Supermoto motorcycles are built precisely for this purpose. These road-going beasts, born from off-road racing heritage, continue to attract motorcycle enthusiasts with their unique appeal. This guide analyzes 2024's best street-legal Supermoto models from an analytical perspective while providing expert purchasing advice.

The Supermoto concept originated in the 1970s when off-road motorcycles were modified for mixed-surface racing. This hybrid motorsport gained rapid popularity, particularly in France where it was officially named "Supermotard." Enthusiasts soon began creating street-legal versions, eventually leading manufacturers to produce factory models. Today, Supermoto racing remains vibrant while consumer-oriented street models proliferate across categories from 125cc beginner bikes to 600cc+ performance machines. Leading brands including KTM, Suzuki, and Ducati continue expanding this niche market with new offerings.

While Supermotos have practical limitations (notably poor long-distance comfort), their lightweight construction, agile handling, and exhilarating ride quality make them ideal for thrill-seeking riders. Our selection covers ten standout models (including new and used options) with detailed evaluations.

When selecting a Supermoto, carefully evaluate these factors:

• Engine Capacity & License Requirements: Match the bike's specifications to your license type - A1 (125cc max), A2 (47hp restricted), or full unrestricted A license.
• Riding Purpose: Determine whether you prioritize pure fun, occasional commuting, or multi-purpose versatility.
• Experience Level: Novices should consider middleweight models like the Suzuki DR-Z400SM, while experienced riders can explore higher-performance options.
• Budget: Prices range from under £2,000 for used 125cc models to over £10,000 for premium performance bikes.

Engine: 659cc single-cylinder
Power: 78hp
Torque: 46.4 lb-ft
Weight: 151kg
Seat Height: 904mm
Price: £11,295

Ducati's 2024 Hypermotard 698 Mono RVE redefines street Supermotos with its potent new single-cylinder engine - derived from half of Ducati's Panigale V-twin superbike powerplant. This compact, high-revving unit becomes Ducati's largest single-cylinder production engine to date. Combined with premium suspension, braking components, and advanced electronics, it delivers exceptional backroad excitement. The upright riding position and limited practicality emphasize its role as a pure riding pleasure machine.

Pros: Peak Supermoto performance, advanced electronics, engaging ride character
Cons: Premium pricing, tall seat height, minimal practicality

Engine: 692cc single-cylinder
Power: 74hp
Torque: 54.2 lb-ft
Weight: 147kg
Seat Height: 890mm
Price: £10,399

KTM's 690 SMC R represents Austrian engineering at its most focused. The refined 692cc single-cylinder engine delivers strong performance across the rev range while the premium WP suspension and Brembo brakes provide race-ready handling. Though less practical than conventional motorcycles, it offers unmatched urban agility and backroad excitement. Husqvarna and GasGas offer badge-engineered variants with minor specification differences.

Pros: Pure Supermoto experience, mature platform, strong aftermarket support
Cons: Limited comfort, not beginner-friendly, expensive maintenance

Engine: 124cc single-cylinder
Power: 15hp
Torque: 7 lb-ft
Weight: 120kg
Seat Height: 880mm
Price: £3,530

Aprilia's SX125 stands out among A1-license compliant Supermotos with its liquid-cooled four-stroke engine derived from the RS125 sportbike. The steel frame, quality suspension components, and Italian styling deliver surprising sophistication for the price point. While limited to learner-legal power output, it provides an engaging introduction to Supermoto riding dynamics.

Pros: Best-in-class A1 Supermoto, strong value proposition, quality details
Cons: Restricted performance, basic instrumentation, tall for some riders

Engine: 398cc single-cylinder
Power: 39hp
Torque: 29 lb-ft
Weight: 137kg
Seat Height: 890mm
Price: £3,500-£5,250 (used)

Suzuki's DR-Z400SM remains the benchmark mid-capacity Supermoto despite its age. Based on the DR-Z400 enduro model, it features 17-inch wheels, street tires, and upgraded brakes for pavement performance. The reliable air-cooled engine and straightforward maintenance make it ideal for new Supermoto enthusiasts. An updated DR-Z4SM model is expected in 2025.

Pros: Proven reliability, accessible performance, good parts availability
Cons: Aging design, watch for modified off-road versions, limited power

Engine: 937cc V-twin
Power: 113hp
Torque: 72.2 lb-ft
Weight: 204kg
Price: From £13,095

The Hypermotard 950 represents Ducati's interpretation of a premium street Supermoto. Its 937cc Testastretta V-twin delivers strong midrange power while the upright riding position and agile chassis suit technical roads. Available in standard, RVE, and high-spec SP variants, it blends Italian style with serious performance credentials.

Pros: Flexible V-twin power, premium components, exotic appeal
Cons: Higher price point, still impractical, SP version extremely focused

Engine: 125cc single-cylinder
Power: 15hp
Torque: 8.9 lb-ft
Weight: 137kg
Seat Height: 920mm
Price: £2,000-£3,750 (used)

Yamaha's discontinued WR125X remains highly sought after on the used market. Its fuel-injected four-stroke engine, quality suspension, and durable construction made it one of the best learner-legal Supermotos. The tall seat height and limited availability of well-maintained examples are primary considerations for potential buyers.

Pros: Excellent build quality, capable handling, stylish design
Cons: Discontinued, very tall seat, scarce good examples

Engine: 692cc single-cylinder
Power: 74hp
Torque: 54.2 lb-ft
Weight: 149kg
Seat Height: 890mm
Price: £10,399

Husqvarna's 701 Supermoto shares its KTM-derived powertrain with the 690 SMC R but features distinct styling and slightly different gearing. The high-revving 692cc engine delivers strong performance while the premium chassis components ensure precise handling. Like its KTM counterpart, it prioritizes fun over practicality.

Pros: Unique styling, potent performance, thrilling ride experience
Cons: Not beginner-friendly, sparse instrumentation, limited comfort

Engine: 549cc V-twin
Power: 70hp
Torque: 35 lb-ft
Weight: 128kg
Seat Height: 918mm
Price: £7,000-£8,500 (used)

Aprilia's SXV550 broke convention with its compact V-twin engine in the traditionally single-cylinder Supermoto class. The lightweight chassis and race-oriented design deliver exceptional performance, though maintenance requirements are intensive. Well-maintained examples offer a unique riding experience for knowledgeable enthusiasts.

Pros: Exhilarating performance, lightweight handling, exclusivity
Cons: High maintenance, aging design, intensive upkeep

Engine: 125cc single-cylinder
Power: 15hp
Torque: 8 lb-ft
Weight: 114kg
Seat Height: 900mm
Price: £3,699

Rieju's Spanish-built MRT125 LC SM offers an affordable entry into Supermoto riding. The liquid-cooled four-stroke engine provides learner-legal performance while the lightweight chassis and quality components deliver engaging handling. Limited dealer support is the primary compromise versus larger manufacturers.

Pros: Affordable A1 option, quality components, lightweight handling
Cons: Limited brand recognition, sparse dealer network, basic performance

Engine: 600cc single-cylinder
Power: 55hp
Torque: 49 lb-ft
Weight: 136kg
Seat Height: 830mm
Price: £9,995

CCM's British-built Street Moto blends Supermoto styling with scrambler influences. The former BMW-derived single-cylinder engine provides tractable power while the hand-built chassis offers customizable options. Though not a pure Supermoto, its unique character and low seat height appeal to riders seeking distinctive styling.

Pros: Custom craftsmanship, accessible ergonomics, British heritage
Cons: Not a true Supermoto, frequent maintenance, limited practicality

What defines a Supermoto motorcycle?
Originally developed for mixed-surface racing, Supermotos combine off-road motorcycle chassis with street-oriented wheels and tires. Modern production models maintain this lightweight, agile character while meeting road-legal requirements.

What are the advantages of Supermoto motorcycles?
Their combination of low weight, responsive handling, and upright riding position delivers exceptional maneuverability and riding excitement, particularly on technical roads. The trade-off comes in limited comfort and practicality for longer journeys.

What license is required for street-legal Supermotos?
License requirements correspond to engine capacity and power output: A1 licenses cover 125cc models (up to 15hp), A2 licenses accommodate restricted middleweight bikes (up to 47hp), while full-power models require an unrestricted A license.