Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/1031651
2018 BETA 125 RR FIRST IMPRESSION P124 Overall, just like any other small-bore dirt bike, riding in the high rpm range is the best way to get the most out of the Beta. The six-speed transmission changes gears smoothly, which is a good thing because you shift it a lot, compared to what you're prob- ably used to riding these days. There was, however, an odd noise, like two rocks rubbing against together, that came from the clutch when put under a heavy load. It didn't appear to mean anything harmful and didn't affect the way it performed, so we just kept riding it and ignored it and nothing terrible ever hap- pened. Otherwise, the clutch felt smooth and operated well. A 36-inch seat height will have some people stretching a bit to reach the ground, but overall, the Beta is a comfortable motor- cycle. Ergos are neutral and the fairly large 2.25-gallon gas tank blends in smoothly with the rest of the motorcycle. The tank is slightly smaller in capacity than the 250 and 300 RR tanks. Suspension is good but a little on the plush side. When trail riding, this bike has no problems devouring rugged terrain or any obstacles that might get in its way. That doesn't necessarily mean it's set up from the crate to go terrorize the local track, but right out of the crate, for a lighter rider, it's easily enjoyable for slow-speed turns, single-track, and technical trails. Heavier and more aggressive riders, and those who will be hitting the MX track often on the Beta, will most likely look for ways of stiffening up the suspension. Overall, the Beta 125 RR is a pretty cool motorcycle. It's way faster than we thought it would be and a lot easier to ride, too. And it's just plain fun to rip around on. It's not for everyone, though, but that's not the bike's fault, just the nature of a 125cc two-stroke off- road bike. However, a young rider wanting to learn how to ride off- road fast in the shortest amount of time possible, a bike like the Beta would be a fantastic way to go. 125s make great teachers and the Beta 125 RR would certainly be a great teacher, while being capable of winning races before graduating to a bigger bike. It's an outstanding performer and pretty much race ready right off the showroom floor. Just mix the fuel, slap on some hand guards and you're ready to go. CN S P E C I F I C A T I O N S 2018 BETA 125 RR ($7999) ENGINE: ...... Liquid-cooled, case-reed, 2-stroke, single DISPLACEMENT: .......................124.8cc COMPRESSION RATIO: ................... 15:1 EXHAUST VALVE: ...... Beta Progressive Valve (BPV) IGNITION: .................. AC-CDI Kokusan SPARK PLUG: ...........NGK BR9ECMVX LUBRICATION: ............................Premix CARBURETION: .... Keihin PWK 36mm CLUTCH: ........................ Wet multi-disc TRANSMISSION: ...................... 6-speed FINAL DRIVE: ..................... O-ring chain FRAME: ..... Molybdenum steel/double cradle FRONT SUSPENSION: .....48mm Sachs USD fork, fully adjustable REAR SUSPENSION: ...Aluminum body Sachs single shock, fully adjustable FRONT WHEEL TRAVEL: ............. 11.6 in. REAR WHEEL TRAVEL: ............... 11.4 in. FRONT BRAKE: .................260mm disc REAR BRAKE: ................... 240mm disc WHEELBASE: ............................. 58.1 in. SEAT HEIGHT: .......................... 36.6 in. GROUND CLEARANCE: .............. 12.8 in. FUEL CAPACITY: .....................2.25 gal. DRY WEIGHT (CLAIMED): ........207 lbs. WARRANTY:................ 6 month limited It might be fast up top, but the 125 RR also delivers respectable bottom-end and torque.