2018 BETA 300 RR
FULL TEST
P68
W
hile the Beta motorcycle brand
seems relatively new in the Unit-
ed States, the Italian company
started producing bicycles in the early
1900s then switched over to motorcycle
production in the late 1940s. The found-
ing family still runs Beta and the current
production facility, near Florence, was
established in 1972. So Beta has a long
history of producing motorcycles and has
been increasing its presence in the U.S.
via Beta USA for several years. It is still a
relatively small brand, but the bikes have
proven to be competitive at the top levels
of off-road racing, with the UK's Steve
Holcombe winning the 2016 and 2017
FIM Enduro World Championships on a
300 RR model.
For 2018, Beta offers both 250 and
300cc two-stroke RR models as well as
the Race Edition version of each, which
include an upgraded closed-cartridge
fork and a few other upgrades. We have
spent several months riding and racing the
standard 300 RR and have come away im-
pressed with the Italian beauty. The 2018
model got a new frame with increased
rigidity, an upgraded cylinder, new clutch
and lost 10 pounds in the process. That
weight loss was due in part to removing
the backup kickstarter but that can be
added back if you prefer the security.
Standout features include an FMF
exhaust and silencer, electronic oil in-
jection system, Nissin brakes, Brembo
Hydraulic clutch, Keihin carburetor, plastic
skid plate, kickstand and an electric start.
The RR also includes a dual- map ignition,
very functional computer that includes an
odometer, two trips, miles, hours, time and
This bike is
a looker. If
you don't like
attention, then
the Beta isn't
for you.
