QUICK SPIN
Beta Evo 4T 300cc
The Beta factory has a true sporting heritage and along with its new Evo models this trend continues with the 2014 models and their new, elegant styling. Last year the fourstroke models missed out on the upgrade to the new Hydro-Formed Aluminium frame as used in the 2013 Evo 2T models, but for 2014 it is now standard on the Evo 4T. Trial Magazine had an enjoyable morning in the company of avid Beta four-stroke fan Bruce Storr who has just taken delivery of one of the new models to replace his 2013 Evo 4T.
JOHN: “Four-strokes are so good to ride on a day when you want some fun factor in your life as the exhaust note always brings a smile to your face, and this new Beta was no different. The Montesa four-stroke machines have established themselves so well on the trials scene whereas the Beta has not proved as popular; why? I have no idea as the price is so attractive. The machine has all the right credentials for four-stroke success as it’s always easy to start and has plenty of power on hand. The new frame just made a good machine even better. The clutch action is good and very positive, as is the slick gear selection, with very little mechanical noise from the reliable engine unit. In action I felt very at home on the machine, with all the controls easy to reach with the hands and feet, and the slimline feel from the new frame meant my precious knees did not get caught on anything. Our test hazards were mainly on rocks in rivers, which always gives a true indication of a machine’s balance, and the Beta was excellent. It does not feedback any neutrals or give a top-end heavy feeling due to the two-valve cylinder head but inspires you, as with the four-stroke power you always feel that little bit smoother. The machine was out of the box apart from the pre-delivery inspection, but it was very impressive and if I owned one I would change very little.”
“It’s very rare I compete in trials these days but one point with the Beta that’s important is how friendly it is on the body and your joints when you have ridden it. As you get older you need something easier on yourself and for me that is what ticks the box with the
Beta Evo 4T!” – Bruce Storr
BRUCE: “My first impression of the new 2014 model was a good one as I like the new graphics which give it a very quality look and along with the new frame it looks very competitive. The fact is I really like the Beta four-stroke motor and how it performs, and with it now inheriting the new frame is was a pretty easy decision for me to take delivery of a new one. As with all the modern machines it’s very functional and the machine starts easily with a sharp prod on the aluminium kick-start lever. This is the same whether the motor is hot or cold. I personally do not feel it’s fair to compare the two-strokes with the four-strokes as the engine characteristics are so different but one secret I will let you in on is they go forever on a tank full of fuel, which suits a Yorkshireman like myself well! What is noticeable with the Beta though is that it doesn’t have the harsh engine-breaking sensation associated with the four-strokes but more of a smooth shut-off feeling, maybe nearly a two-stroke sensation. The overall balance of the machine and the new hydro-formed frame is very neutral and gives you confidence immediately, with no tendency for the steering to feel loose or delicate when turning. The suspension settings feel better although I will maybe adjust them when I have ridden the Beta a few times. Four-strokes can be so much fun to ride and if you’re having fun the enjoyment factor of trials riding is soon appreciated by the owner — me!”