KTM 950 Supermoto R 2007

Almost a decade ago, when I tested the KTM 950 Supermoto R for 1000PS, I already sensed that this bike was something special. Today, after countless conversations with owners and a wealth of documented long-term experiences from the community, it's clear: the first impression was spot on. But first things first.

It was a sunny day at the Pannoniaring when I first took a close look at the KTM 950 Supermoto R. What immediately struck me was that, visually, the R-version stood out significantly more than the base model. The orange frame, the sleeker lines—KTM had truly done a stellar job with the overhaul. But would it ride as well as it looked?

The first laps on the track quickly revealed the bike's character. The upright seating position and wide handlebars immediately instilled confidence. Back then, I noted: "You get fast, very fast"—a statement that proved to be prophetic. The 950 could be flicked into corners with ease, and the V2 engine pushed with authority. Only the footpegs, which touched down early, slightly marred its sporting potential.

Today, a decade later, it's exciting to see how my initial impressions align with the community's long-term experiences. The V2 engine, which we once chuckled at for its carburetors, has proven to be remarkably robust. Owners report mileage beyond 100,000 kilometers in forums—provided maintenance was taken seriously.

Interestingly, many of my observations from back then have been confirmed by the community. The excellent touring capability that I praised at the time is now cited by many long-term owners as one of its greatest advantages. The comfortable seating position and forgiving handling truly make the big Supermoto an ideal all-rounder.

What we naturally couldn't identify in the short test back then were the typical long-term characteristics. The community has gathered valuable experiences here. The regulator/rectifier of the early models turned out to be a weak point but was replaced by many owners with improved aftermarket parts. The carburetors I praised do require more maintenance than modern fuel injection systems but are still appreciated for their smooth throttle response.

The steel frame, however, confirms my initial assessment—it shows no signs of fatigue even after years of intensive use. These things are rock solid!

What pleases me the most is that the 950 Supermoto R has become a sought-after used motorcycle. Well-maintained examples fetch impressive prices, underscoring the bike's status. Over the years, the community has built up impressive expertise in maintenance and optimization.

Looking back, my initial conclusion "Not just for freaks" was spot on. The KTM 950 Supermoto R has proven to be a versatile motorcycle that performs well both in everyday life and on the track. The combination of character and everyday practicality is still unmatched today.

Anyone looking for a 950 Supermoto R today should consider a few points that have become clear over the years. The maintenance history is crucial—especially valve clearance checks must be documented. A low mileage is less important than diligent upkeep.

What the community has learned in recent years: The electrical system should be carefully examined. Many owners have already made optimizations here, which can be a plus for well-maintained examples. The availability of original parts is still guaranteed by KTM, which is not a given for a motorcycle of this age.

Looking back at my initial test today, I'm amazed at how many of our first impressions have been confirmed. In many ways, the KTM 950 Supermoto R was ahead of its time. While modern motorcycles come with more and more electronics, it offers a raw yet highly competent riding experience.

The community has proven over the years that the concept works. Yes, the machine demands more attention than modern bikes, but it rewards this care with a unique character. For riders willing to embrace the quirks of an analog motorcycle, the KTM 950 Supermoto R remains a highly appealing option even today.

My conclusion from back then still holds true, albeit with a few nuances: the 950 R is a motorcycle for enthusiasts seeking something special. It isn't a low-maintenance, generic bike, but that's precisely what makes it so appealing. In an era where motorcycles are becoming increasingly interchangeable, it stands out with its distinctive character—perhaps even more so today than ten years ago.

On the used market, the KTM 950 Supermoto R is usually hard to find. These machines are in high demand—enthusiasts rarely part with them. However, it's always worth checking back to see if anyone is offering a 950 for sale.