2021 Beta RR Models: The Upgrades

After unveiling eight completely overhauled two- and four-stroke RR machines for 2020 – all of which boasted sweeping changes to engines, chassis, suspension and bodywork (and the 250 and 300cc two-stroke powerplants were fitted with a counter-balancer for the first time) – Beta’s design team can’t be accused of resting on its laurels. In fact, this family-owned Italian manufacturer has made major inroads into the off-road segment’s market share in the past three years, during which time Beta has also won a total of nine Enduro World Championship (EWC) titles. So it doesn’t come as a huge surprise that the upgrades on Beta’s recently unveiled 2021 RR (enduro) models are more about refinement than reinvention; more about evolution than revolution.

Having been impressed with the performance and rideability of Beta’s 2020 RR models a year ago, we’re looking forward to sampling the 2021 machines to get a feel for the impact of their refinements. In the meantime, here’s a snapshot of the updates found on the 2021 models, which start to arrive in Australian dealers in August at pricetags that remain unchanged from their predecessors.

According to Beta’s PR, the updates to the 2021 bikes have come in response to both the demands of cometition and average riders: “In addition to the tests performed in competition fields, the huge success of the RRs among enthusiasts all over the world has enabled Betamotor technicians to further test, develop and improve the RR range, resulting in 2021 bike that combine high quality, technological innovation, and riding pleasure.

“This relentless quest for success – which has been built using top-level competition, exhaustive testing by Beta’s R&D team, and feedback from enthusiasts – has made it possible to fine-tune and apply numerous improvements on the new RR models. A more aggressive look and an all-red colour scheme are the icing on the cake for this model year, with the Beta logo taking centre stage on the radiator shrouds,” the PR went on to say.

2021 UPDATE SUMMARY…

ENGINE

• Optimisation of the airbox for improved waterproofing.
• New filter inspection side-panel mount for easier access.

ROLLING CHASSIS

• Updated chassis in the steering head area and in the reinforced plates for improved feel and durability. The accessories supplied have been modified to provide better protection against wear.
• Improved rear subframe, which is more robust and durable.
• Upgrade of numerous internal components of the ZF fork to further improve fluidity and reliability.
• New shock absorber setting to increase traction.

BODYWORK & COMPONENTRY

• The seat gets an updated baseplate and foam to provide better support and a more comfortable ride.
• Updated fuel tank cover cap for improved mounting.
• New electrical system with improved charging efficiency.
• New side-panel mounting for easier installation.
• Updated speedometer to give better reliability and precision.
• New bright red colouring and graphics.

2021 PRICING

Beta Motorcycles Australia has confirmed that there’ll been no change in pricing across the entire 2021 model range, detailed as follows:

RR125 2T – $11,495
RR200 2T – $12,295
RR250 2T – $12,595
RR300 2T – $13,095
RR350 4T – $13,295
RR390 4T – $13,595
RR430 4T – $13,795
RR480 4T – $13,995

NOTE: This pricing includes GST, but not pre-delivery or on-road costs.

Beta’s 2021 RR models will be arriving in Australian dealers from August, 2020.

SEVEN 2021 MODELS – IN A NUTSHELL

Here’s how Beta is ‘pitching’ each model in its two- and four-stroke RR range for 2021; the seven machine’s distinct personality, if you like:

THE TWO-STROKES…

125cc – The smallest bike in the Beta range, it is the lightest and easiest to handle. In pure racing style, it is suitable for both young riders coming up from the lower categories and expert riders looking for a fun bike.

200cc – The chassis set-up and engine is derived from its smaller sibling, ensuring it is extremely lightweight and has excellent handling, but with decidedly greater torque and power. Oil injection and an electric starter complete the package which is perfect for enduro enthusiasts.

250cc – Ideal for those looking for a gentler two-stroke bike with slightly less power and torque than top-of-the-range models to ensure excellent all-round performance.

300cc – Made for those who appreciate a big engine with significant torque at any speed. Suitable for those who favour long gearing.

THE FOUR-STROKES…

350cc – This is the easiest to handle bike in the four-stroke model range. It favours high-rev riding, yet retains a very linear power output.

390cc – With an ideal handling-to-power ratio, its winning feature lies in its outstanding torque and traction.

430cc – A high-performance engine that is at its best when the rider exploits the long gearing and significant torque.

480cc – This bike best expresses itself in wide-open spaces. Its characteristics are similar to the 430 model, but with even greater torque and power. It’s best suited to more experienced and physically fit riders.