The 2023 Beta RR Race Edition lineup of two-strokes is here, and there is one big change this year. These high-performance enduro motorcycles from Italy now get a KYB C46 rear shock to match the KYB AOS closed cartridge fork. The standard RRs continue to use Sachs ZF suspension. Otherwise, the quartet of two-strokes in the eight-model RR Race Edition lineup is virtually unchanged from last year.While we have you, we can give you a quick rundown of what differentiates the RR Race Edition two-strokes from the standard RR enduro bikes.2023 Beta 300 RR Race Edition
The Beta 300 RR Race Edition’s engine significantly differs from the standard RR. It has a different cylinder head and power valve. Additionally, the transfer and exhaust porting is different, as is the ignition timing.
The Beta 200 RR Race Edition’s engine has some differences compared to the standard RR. The Race Edition gets a different cylinder head and a stiffer single-power valve (there are two power valves on the RR). These changes increase the mid-range and top-end power.
Handguards. Not only do the RR Race Editions get handguards, but this year they have new Beta-designed and manufactured hand protection. They’re larger in previous years for more hand guarding.
Billet aluminum footpegs. These pegs are wider and have stainless steel gripper pins.
2023 Beta 125 RR Race Edition
Quick release front axle pull. To aid in wheel changes in race conditions, the front axle of each race edition gets an alloy lever with red anodization.
Metzeler tires. Although the photos show Maxxis MaxxEnduro tires on the 2023 RR Race Editions, Beta assures us that the bikes will arrive in the United States with Metzeler Six Days rubber.
Gripper seat. It has an anti-slip cover with a built-in pouch, plus a stylish blue color.
2023 Beta 200 RR Race Edition
ZF hybrid rear sprocket. It has a lightweight aluminum base with a toothed steel outer ring for enhanced durability. Also, the chain tensioner is red billet aluminum.
Black-anodized shift lever and brake pedal, plus a billet-aluminum transmission filler cap with red anodization. These upgrades are primarily cosmetic.
The graphics are new and specific to the Race Edition. That includes the red-and-blue wheel decals.
You won’t have to wait long to get the 2023 Beta RR Race Edition two-strokes. They’ll be at Beta dealers in November. Prices range from $10,399 for the flagship 300 RR Race Edition to $8999 for the 125 model.2023Beta 300 RR Race Edition(250 RR, 200 RR, and 125 RR)SpecsENGINE
Type: Single-cylinder 2-stroke w/ counterbalancer (125: no counterbalancer)
Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory + Steve ’Stavros’ Parrish
byMotos and Friends by Ultimate Motorcycle
Hello everyone and welcome once again to Ultimate Motorcycling’s weekly podcast—Motos and Friends. My name is Arthur Coldwells.
Our first segment features the new Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory. Senior Editor Nic de Sena brings us his report on the flagship version of Aprilia’s upright middleweight machine. He gives us insight into whether it’s worth spending the extra money on the Factory version, and also of course, whether this sporting Aprilia is really the motorcycle for you.
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The next guest segment of Motos and Friends is brought to you by the faster and most technologically advanced, 2023 Suzuki Hayabusa—one of the most iconic sportbikes ever. Check it out in person at your local Suzuki dealer now, or visit suzukicycles.com to learn more.
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In this segment, Associate Editor Teejay Adams chats with (arguably) one of the most interesting Suzuki race riders of all time. the iconic RG500 alongside teammate double World Champion Barry Sheene. The two were almost as famous for their exploits off-track, as for their success on it. Those were the days! Steve also raced the Isle of Man TT for about ten years where he won 13 Silver Replicas, and got a podium finish. His insight into that particular brand of mayhem are fascinating.
But there’s waaay more to Steve Parrish than his motorcycle racing. He is also the most successful Semi-Truck racer ever, and, little known piece of useless trivia—he’s my birthday twin: 24th February. He is a natural entertainer and you can’t miss his recounting of the world’s most entertaining—and arguably terrifying—double-decker bus ride ever. If any of you were actually on that hell-ride then we’d love to hear from you!
