the power output a little more
manageable for the rider. You
cannot adjust the power valve
separately. It's a one-package
deal that works harmoniously
with the bike's CPU, which oper-
ates fuel mapping and spark
advance.
The KTM has a five-speed
gearbox and weighs 232 pounds
with a full gas tank.
MATCH UP
On paper, the KTM and Beta
have several similarities. They
weigh within a couple pounds
of each other, have the same
293cc displacement and square
72 x 72mm bore and stroke
configuration, use hydraulically
operated clutches, and use the
same disc brake manufacturer,
Brembo. Their wheelbases are
nearly identical, and they both
rely on steel frames. They both
have electric starters, which is
the norm nowadays. (Beta, how
-
ever, offers a kickstart back-up
option, the KTM does not). The
KTM holds approximately a half-
gallon less fuel.
Technically, the main differ
-
ences between these two motor-
cycles are their fueling systems
(FI versus carb), transmissions
(six-speed versus five-speed),
and forks (air versus coil spring).
And there is also price $9199
(KTM) versus $9399 (Beta).
DING!
From the cockpit, the KTM feels
longer and lower than the Beta,
despite what the spec sheets
say. The KTM has supposedly
a half-inch on the Beta when it
comes to seat height, but it just
doesn't feel that way. The KTM
feels roomier. The Beta's front
end (tank and shrouds) is notice-
ably wider than the KTM's, but
the Beta's seat and rear end feel
narrower. The Beta's seat cush-
ion is also stiffer. Otherwise,
COMPARISON I 2023 KTM 300 SX VS. BETA 300 RX
P102
There is plenty to like
about both bikes.
