With an eye toward the most aggressive and well-heeled dual-sport rider, Beta has introduced two upgraded motorcycles to its RS lineup of high-performance on- and off-road bikes. The 2026 Beta RS Special Edition models—a 500 and 390—are not simply bling or graphics. There are significant upgrades that will enhance the capability of the already impressive dual-sport bikes. Let’s take a look at the changes.
2026 Beta RS Special Edition Dual Sport Bikes First Look 9 Fast Facts
- That’s a KYB AOS closed-cartridge fork leading the way in the suspension department. The fully adjustable inverted 48mm fork is sourced from Beta’s RR Race line. Its sealed cartridge design keeps air and oil separate—AOS— cutting down on cavitation. This keeps damping consistent on rough trails or when taking big hits. The result is better control and less fade over long dual-sport rides. Kashima coating on the outer tubes fights wear and keeps things sliding smooth, while DLC on the inner tubes drops friction for that plush feel from small chop to heavy impacts. Advanced valving gives precise tuning and strong bottoming resistance without harsh spikes.
- A KYB shock takes care of the rear wheel of the 2026 Beta RS Special Edition dual-sport motorcycles. The piggyback reservoir shock is fully adjustable, including high- and low-speed compression damping. As a race shock, it’s ready for the most brutal trail rides.
- The footpegs are machined aluminum. The pegs are narrower to allow easier foot movement. To retain the needed grip, interchangeable steel pins can be set to the rider’s preference.
- Stronger handguards are ready for woods and desert action. The two-piece design enhances strength and durability.
- A hybrid sprocket from Poland’s ZF Sprockets transmits power to the rear wheel. The core of the sprocket is anodized aluminum for lighter weight, while the steel outer ring provides more durable teeth.
- A quick-release front axle makes trail-side tube changes easier. It even works in the garage when changing the front tire.
- The enduro racing seat focuses on grip and comfort. It also has a card holder, should you find yourself racing your 2026 Beta RS Special Edition dual-sport bike.
- Yes, there is bling! The oil filter cap, engine oil filler cap, and transmission oil filler cap are all aluminum with red anodizing. The gear shifter and brake pedal are black-anodized. The RS Special Editions also get race graphics. If all that’s not enough, you still have access to the Beta’s BYOB (Build Your Own Beta) program, which offers dozens of upgrade paths.
- The two 2026 Beta RS Special Edition dual-sport bikes have almost the same price. $13,990 will get you the 500, with the 390 having a list price $200 lower. Look for these limited production babies to arrive at your Beta dealer in the United States next month.
2026 Beta 500 RS Special Edition (and 390) Specs
ENGINE
- Type: Single-cylinder 4-stroke
- Displacement: 478cc (390: 386cc)
- Bore x stroke: 100 x 60.8mm (390: 88 x 63.4mm)
- Compression ratio: 11.9:1 (390: 12.5:1)
- Valvetrain: DOHC; 4 titanium valves
- Fueling: 42mm throttle body w/ dual injectors
- Cooling: Liquid
- Lubrication:
- Starting: Electric (kickstarter optional)
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Clutch: Diaphragm-spring wet multiplate
- Final drive: 520 O-ring chain
CHASSIS
- Frame: Double-cradle chromoly steel
- Front suspension; travel: Fully adjustable KYB AOS inverted 48mm fork; 11.8 inches
- Rear suspension; travel: Linkage-assisted, fully adjustable KYB piggyback-reservoir shock; 11.3 inches
- Wheels: Takasago Excel
- Tires: Maxxis MaxxEnduro
- Front tire: 90/90 x 21
- Rear tire: 140/80 x 18
- Front brake: 260mm disc w/ Nissin caliper
- Rear brake: 240mm disc w/ Nissin caliper
- ABS: None
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
- Wheelbase: 58.1 inches
- Seat height: 37.4 inches
- Ground clearance: 13.2 inches
- Fuel tank capacity: 2.4 gallons
- Curb weight: N/A
2026 Beta 500 RS Special Edition Price: $13,990 MSRP
2026 Beta 390 RS Special Edition Price: $13,790
