Beta’s four-stroke Race Edition lineup has four displacements: 349cc, 386cc, 431cc, and 478cc. These thumpers feature a more rigid double-cradle chromoly steel frame in 2024 to improve stability in corners and reduce flex under heavy load. All Race Edition models are intended for more of a serious racer with several upgraded performance parts along with race team livery. Here are some highlights of the smallest-displacement four-stroke in Beta’s up-spec off-road motorcycle range, the 350 RR Race Edition.
Beta’s 350 RR Race Edition is not to be mistaken for the standard model with its bold red and blue bodywork, up-spec components, and race team graphics.Mark Kariya
The Italian-built fuel-injected liquid-cooled four-stroke 349cc single-cylinder engine has a bore of 88.0mm, stroke of 57.4mm, and compression ratio of 13.2:1. Cylinder head is a DOHC finger-follower design, and throttle body is a 42mm with dual injectors. Peak figures from this mill on our rear-wheel dyno are 38.7 hp and 24.9 lb.-ft. of torque.Mark Kariya
Gearbox is a wide-ratio six-speed, and there’s twin oil pumps with separate compartments for engine and transmission oils. If desired, you can add a kickstarter for backup.Mark Kariya
Most Beta dirt bikes have a thermostat to keep the engine at proper temperature for those in colder climates.Mark Kariya
The electronics under the seat and air filter are accessible without tools. Beta uses a lightweight lithium battery and high-end Twin Air air filter.Mark Kariya
The sleek and streamlined muffler has a good tone and no spark arrestor.Mark Kariya
A well-designed fuel tank makes it hard to believe it holds a generous 2.4 gallons.Mark Kariya
There’s an engine map switch with settings described as sunshine or rain, the latter for wet and slippery conditions, and traction control that can be turned on and off.Mark Kariya
Engine start and stop switch has large buttons that are easy to reach and use.Mark Kariya
Dashboard displays mileage, trip distance, engine hours, and time.Mark Kariya
The most significant feature of Beta’s Race Edition models is the suspension. Up front, we find a KYB Air-Oil Separate (AOS) 48mm closed-cartridge coil-spring fork that offers 11.6 inches of travel, and compression and rebound damping adjustability on both legs.Mark Kariya
Fork is complemented by a KYB C46 shock with a 46mm body and full adjustability including spring preload, low- and high-speed compression damping, and rebound damping tunability. Rear wheel travel is 11.4 inches.Mark Kariya