KIWI RIDER 06 2020 VOL1 | Page 91

DIRT NEWS Underneath all that red are updated side-panel mounts for easier fitment, along with a new airbox with improved waterproofing. While dirt bike seats aren’t known for their comfort, Beta has set to work in this area with improved foam and base plate to provide not only a more comfortable ride but also provide better rider support. While the engines see no significant updates, Beta has swapped in a new electrical system from Kokusan, which it says offers improved charging efficiency while also updating the speedometer for better reliability and precision. With suspension a crucial component on any bike, Beta hasn’t left the ZF suspenders alone either. In addition to new shock absorber settings to help increase traction, there have been internal component upgrades to the ZF fork to improve its action and reliability. Beta says, “This relentless quest for success, which has been built on top level competitions, exhausting tests of Beta’s research and development team, and feedback from enthusiasts, have made it possible to fine-tune and apply numerous improvements on the new RRs for 2021” Our test riders were impressed with the Beta models when they were launched here in New Zealand last year, so they’re chomping at the bit to get a go on the new bikes. Jock in particular is mighty fond of the 480 big bore machine. Beta Motorcycles NZ’s Brand Manager, Mike Ramsey, said pricing has yet to be set and that globally the new Beta RR line is becoming available this month, with NZ machines due to land on our shores in September. KIWI RIDER 91