2022 BETA RR MODELS: THE UPGRADES

In 2020, Beta stunned the off-road world by releasing eight new-generation two- and four-stroke RR machines – all of which boasted complete overhauls to engines, chassis, suspension and bodywork. And these world-class machines put the Italian manufacturer’s bikes right there in the game in the hotly contested enduro bike market. Coupled with Beta’s ongoing title-winning success in the EnduroGP World Championship, it’s little wonder the brand has made huge market share inroads since – particularly in Australia, where sales have virtually doubled in the past two years.

After the 2021 RR models came in for judicious refinements (to frame, subframe, seat, suspension settings, electrical system, ergos and instruments), we weren’t expecting to see many, if any, substantial changes to Beta’s RR range for 2022. But we were wrong. The 2022 range actually gets a bunch of significant updates, with the 300cc two-stroke spearheading the model range with an all-new powerplant. All of which underlines Beta’s intent to continuously evolve and improve their bikes.

According to Beta’s engineers, the primary design goals for the 2022 RR range was to “fine-tune their vehicles without altering their unique character and accentuate all the outstanding qualities that set each individual model apart” and to create “high-performing and sophisticated bikes that to appeal to a broad range of users.”

So, let’s take stock of the most notable upgrades that these 2022 Beta RR machines receive – both the shared mods and those introduced to specific models…

SHARED UPGRADES

• Shock Absorber: New compression damping settings with independent high- and low-speed damping rates. This prevents the two parameters from influencing each other and limiting the customisation of the setting;
• Fork: The settings have been revised to improve rideability and precision during extreme use. The fork tubes are now different in colour, thanks to the new anodising process which improves its surface hardness and corrosion-resistance; and
• Graphics: All models now feature a new all-red colour scheme and new graphics, designed to perfectly match the shape and componentry of the bike and create a sleek, race-bred look.

RR300 2T UPGRADES

• Engine: The engine has been completely revised, with a larger-bore cylinder, a new piston and a new power-valve;
• Crankshaft: New shorter-throw crankshaft for a shorter piston stroke than the previous model;
• Cylinder head: The head is also completely new, and has been redesigned in consideration of the other new components and the new iridium spark plug;
• Silencer: The smaller-diameter silencer improves the top-end performance and tractability of the engine; and
• Clutch with Diaphragm Springs: The 300 model gets a new clutch, with diaphragm springs for a smoother and lighter action at the lever, more effective engagement and increased transmissible torque. This clutch also features mechanically adjustable spring preload, offering a choice of three settings with a specific adjuster ring.

The RR300 two-stroke has received the most substantial and far-reaching mods of the entire 2022 range. The new engine, combined with a dedicated new engine control unit map, boasts smoother and more progressive response to throttle input and more linear power delivery. Despite the significant hike in maximum power, the bike as a whole is also designed to be easier to handle and more intuitive and forgiving to use than before.

RR250 2T UPGRADES

• Clutch with Diaphragm Springs: As with the RR300, this solution makes the clutch action lighter, more progressive and more controllable, significantly reducing rider fatigue. Both engagement and disengagement have been improved, while the clutch is now capable of transmitting even more torque. And to allow for totally customisable set-up, three different (and easily adjustable) spring preload settings are available.

RR125 2T UPGRADES

• Cylinder Head & Power Valve: These two redesigned components work in concert to maximise torque at mid-to-high engine speeds, where the little 125cc Betamotor power unit truly shines. 

FOUR-STROKE UPGRADES

• Electronic Control Unit: The most significant new feature on all four-stroke models is the new and more sophisticated ECU. This unit has been improved to offer better “dry/wet” map management and take advantage of the engine brake effect more effectively. The map selector button is still positioned between the fuel tank and headstock, where it is easily accessible but protected against accidental knocks bumps;

• Transmission: A lighter new primary transmission has been introduced across the entire four-stroke range; and
• Clutch with Diaphragm Springs: Joining the 250 and 300cc two-strokes, the 2022 four-stroke range is now also equipped with the new diaphragm-spring clutch, which comes with three easily adjusted spring preload levels, more progressive and smoother lever action and increased transmissible torque.

PRICING & AVAILABILITY

Beta’s 2022 RR range is now available from Australian dealers at the following RRPs:

Two-Strokes

• RR125 – $11,695
• RR200 – $12,995
• RR250 – $13,195
• RR300 – $13,695

Four-Strokes

• RR350 – $13,695
• RR390 – $13,995
• RR430 – $14,295
• RR480 – $14,595

These RRPs include GST, but not freight, pre-delivery or on-road costs. Compared with the 2021 counterparts, the 2022 RR models’ prices see an increase of between $200 and $600, depending on the model.