First Ride Vlog: 2017 Beta 500 RR-S - KTM Alternative!

[@BigRockMoto]

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[@joelappin9735]

I just bought a 2022 390RRS it's replacing my 450L. It had all the upgrades. The Beta's are a really nice bike. The power delivery fits my riding style much better. I had the opportunity to ride all of them at a demo day, and my 450 on the same trail.

[@BigRockMoto]

Very nice!

[@SuperiorTim989]

That 390 is a pretty awesome bike I hear. I also own a 450l and would love to try one of those beta test days

[@copybooknano854]

I wish the 390 had the same internal gearing as the 430 & 500 so it would cruise nicely at 60mph. The 390 engine is a gem though. Perfect power delivery, easy to ride in technical stuff and lighter than a 450L!

[@MichaelShaw206]

Went into a local dealer June to buy a PR7 but fell in love with the Beta 390rr-s, which is much lighter, nimble and modern. For single track, I'm told the 390, while only a few pounds lighter than the 500, feels much lighter on the trail because of the engine dynamics. Yet, like many, the maintenance schedule and the relatively poor mpg, which is consistent with performance bikes, put me off. My WR has spoiled me regarding oil changes and valve checks.

[@Mothaibayo87]

Very envious of your ever revolving garage of toy's. Keep up the good work

[@thesmoness]

A thing to note is that KTM is sneaky on weights since they are not wet or ready to ride weights. My understanding is that a KTM 500 EXCF is actually like 270 lbs ready to ride. The Honda CRF450RL is like 290lbs. However swapping the stock muffler out on the Honda drops around 10 lbs of weight so your down to around ~10 lbs of the KTM. Quite possibly worth it for a significantly stronger sub frame if your packing like a full Rackless 80 liter bag set up. Then the honda reliability. Those were my logic points anyhow, just picked my 450RL up yesterday so we will see!

[@darthtyrannosaurus946]

good points on the weights

[@johnfryman4428]

Do you own either - or does one pontificate. PS - That Honda RL is a pig, as in Porky ! KTM's Rule

[@thesmoness]

@@johnfryman4428 I own the 450RL

[@MHix63]

I have a 2021 500 RR-S and love it so far. I'm a heavy guy so had to re-spring, but I have to do that on any bike. I've had it out on double/single track in the Southern CA mountain areas. Next month I'll be in the desert, so we'll see how it goes with some sand. My buddy has a KTM EXC, and the Beta just feels better for me. Thanks for the video!

[@BigRockMoto]

Awesome

[@raybaker8726]

I ordered a 390rrs back in march of 2022 picked it up in july. Love the bike.

[@emfl4437]

I would seriously consider a Beta. I have never ridden one, but seems like everyone that has one really likes it. A good performance orientated bike, with some nice features compare to the Husky and KTM

[@algee8228]

Nice that the EFI is sorted right from the factory.

[@robswain5586]

I’m buying a Beta. Fantastic for exactly the reasons you described.

[@systemicxdesign]

just bought a 2015 500rs with low hours and in very good condition for super cheap... it's a bit older but the thing is a real joy to ride and it rips.

[@trailrunnermike]

Looking at a used 390 and a 500. Trying to decide which is best for me.

[@jaythibodeau6961]

Great first impression. I’ll need to find your more recent videos. You’re my favorite bike reviewer.

[@cat1racer]

I have a BYOB (build your own Beta) 2019 500RR and I love it !

[@Porsche996driver]

I spent some time chatting with a couple guys riding 2 of these. They had a team van, they swore by them riding up Saddleback peak in OC.

[@Ryan-rn8gk]

I have a 2019 500 RR-S. Great bike. No real issues with it. I considered the Honda and KTM but like you said they both needed tuning.

[@johnfryman4428]

Long time KTM guy -Beta's look good . Lack of dealers and resale keep me riding Orange.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Damn it Ian! Why do you have a video for every bike I'm considering? lol You're a bad influence

[@BigRockMoto]

I can read minds... :)

[@davidgriego8722]

Nice bike. Like the set-up also. I tend to lean towards reliability more since I work on my own bikes. Maybe longevity is a better word. Most bikes are fairly reliable these days.

[@stopper90004]

Another great review. Thanks for putting the bike "in context" vis a vis the competition. Used makes so much sense, but many private sellers have unrealistic expectations, especially when they've farkled so much.

[@johnfryman4428]

Farkle-rific fo sure -

[@BigRockMoto]

Would you consider buying a Beta? Why or why not?

[@SamiNami]

Seems like a super fun bike, but the service intervals are too much of hassle for me.

[@jimhimesjr]

I considered a beta. None were in stock in my area, they don’t seem to get very many in. Went with a 21 500 exc instead as the local KTM dealer gets a lot of bikes. 650 miles on it so far and had flameout issues but the idle was low after the bike fully broke in, I adjusted it up a little and no flameout issues. My buddies 18 500 exc seemed to have more flameout issues when it was stock.

[@pokerhousewife2805]

Yes I would buy it but it's a little too pricey new. Totally worth it though

[@MrJasonmay69]

Knew nothing about Beta until i saw this review. You always deliver comprehensive reviews with minimal fluff - i really like that. Also, some Vloggers insert too much opinion without making it clear that it is just that, an opinion. You try to stay objective which is really helpful to those of us searching for their next bike. Keep it up 👍

[@kweholt]

Yes I would buy one, if I could find one to buy…my next 2 stroke will be a 2022 Beta if they ever make it to the local dealer

[@boodog4023]

I've never even heard of these bikes. Man those Italians build a lot of motorcycles.

[@chiptaxfree]

One of my friends just about a month ago bought a 2019 beta 500 and my other buddy bought a 2021 about 4 months ago. Getting to be very popular bikes and I think it's a great value. I actually just sold my 2018 beta 300rr. I love the bike long story why I sold it.

[@lifeoff-road280]

Absolutely GORGEOUS machine.

[@johnussher6990]

The anodising on the inside of the upper fork tubes were known to wear. I believe this is mostly from the lower clamps on the triple being tighten to much. Use a torque wrench. In fact go a little lower than spec.

[@jamessmith9786]

I would certainly consider one after this review. Seems as though everyone I know with a KTM spends a bundle to tune their bike to what this offers out of the box. Now, where do I find one, is the question.

[@kimmosuomalainen9945]

Beta (or TM or Sherco or some other small brand) may have technically very advanced and good bikes, but when it comes to spare parts availability, retail value and service it is hard to beat KTM (at least here where I live). Any year (I presently own 2009 EXC 530, 2011 TE 300 and 2014 690 Enduro R), any model, spares are in stock. Owning old bikes, that is important.

[@fynn8252]

I agree. My last bike was a 2006 525 XC-G and most parts were easy to find. They came at a cost but at least they were available. What's interesting is that Beta has been around longer than Ducati which makes it seem like they would have more experience. In my opinion, it's best to go with something that has been proven, has a large community and good dealer support.

[@johnfryman4428]

KTM's Rule - add a vortex and you are unstoppable!!

[@jeremiahjames6098]

What is your thoughts on the 14 690?

[@kimmosuomalainen9945]

@@jeremiahjames6098 Hi. First cons: 690 is tall, way taller than any of my dirt bikes. It has got an odd gearbox, not wide but narrow range, directly from street models. Third major flaw is making U-turns, handlebar does not turn as much as in dirt bikes. But I can live with those. Then pros: On forest and dirt roads it is really, really fun to ride, almost as good as 530 but 690 works even on pavement and on longer rides. -14 model is already quite modern, fly by wire is the biggest plus compared to older models. To my understanding the only serious mechanical flaw is cam follower, but if replaced with new parts they should be ok. Get one and enjoy, it offers you plenty of power that can easily be utilized.

[@steveh545]

looks great. What's the service interval? I think the main complaint with Beta's over the years have to do with electronics. But I'm all about something a bit different though, and the Beta is that. It won't be japanese bike reliable, but it's not Orange either, so good choice.

[@keithhyson9182]

Yeah this one and the 200 rt two stroke babiiii!

[@jayreillyphoto]

I have this same bike and year. I love it.

[@BigRockMoto]

Good to hear!

[@sc7244]

How’s the bike treating you now Jay? I’m thinking about getting one!

[@stevebiron3036]

I am particularly interested in engine vibration. Not vibration from knobby tires on the road. No one ever speaks of it except for Joe B on KZbin. I am more interested in a smooth motor and I know the fueling and throttle are much better on these than all the others. Just wondering about engine vibrations as I want to super Moto this as well. My riding would be 60 Street 40 dirt. From my research it sounds like the 350 and the 430 are the smoothest because of their bore and stroke as opposed to the other few engine sizes. Can anyone comment? Coming from a WR 250 X/R So the power would be more than plenty with any of them, especially considering weight as there are only a few lbs between them….just want smooth.

[@brianc8258]

I'm also interested in engine vibes. I bought a 2022 exc-f and the vibrations from the bars, seat and especially the foot pegs take the enjoyment of riding out of it for me. I was coming from a 2021 690 enduro and it has the 2nd balancer in the motor and it was very smooth compared to the 500 exc-f

[@golfncars5094]

Following vibration check

[@7x779]

I wish it had passenger pegs. I also agree with you and wish the husky 701 had a wide ratio transmission. It doesn't make any sense to put a close ratio Transmission in such a big motor, especially in the street legal dual sport version

[@АлександрМатюшевский-н5ъ]

There is a aftermarket set of other ratio gears for 690/701. If I am not mistaken it’s rally version of Lyndon Poskitt production. Buy can’t provide any links for a moment.

[@abones7243]

They have a factory option for pegs on their website

[@therealtashiro]

Great video Ian! Thanks for sharing! 👍🏻🍻🇺🇸

[@fredreyes8345]

Yes, I agree buy used with all the fixings. I recently bought a used Beta 390 rr-s and love it. However, it does have a fmf exhaust system, very loud and unnecessary for my type of riding.

[@kevlash41]

I own 2 Betas a 2014 300rr that I bought new and a 2019 Beta 390rrs that I just purchased. I also own 3 KTMs and to me, the Beta is superior. I ride mostly single track but some dual sport.

[@Lowdown13blues]

Wowww Do you have ANY vids on KZbin where you talk about your bikes ? I’m in between both 500 for adventure and off road use. I’ve checked your channel but I didn’t see much “bike talking”

[@philipparana9225]

This guy has like every bike ever made. I'm not sure how he even has time to ride them

[@MrJasonmay69]

What is the dealer and aftermarket support like ?

[@advmotonut8015]

I had a 2008 Beta 450 with the KTM Motor, I really like that bike back then, recently sold my well used 2015 Husqvarna 501 and bought a slightly used Honda 450l. I’m really trying to like the Honda, but it runs weird, flames out easy, way harder to work on , and the list kind of goes on. I really liked your review of this bike, I like the dash has RPM gauge, and GPS, even though I would probably not use that, and how you can lug the motor, my Honda would have stalled for sure lol.

[@SuperiorTim989]

I don't know how long you have owned the 450l for but it got better for me after it broke in.

[@scootypuffjr.]

Beautiful bike. My fear is this would be like a new Mercedes. Great for a year or two, and then endless nickel and dime issues combined with spotty parts availability.

[@krazed0451]

Beta been at it for a while with the enduro bikes now... Extremely easy to get parts for and seemingly very reliable to boot :-)

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

Very nice. Great the seller had some knowledge of what to do and not do to it. 👍

[@brucekendall52]

Looks a great buy.Enjoy.(As you said the Beta brand is a household name in Trials so gotta be good.Cheers.

[@riderpop]

Awesome video, thanks for sharing!

[@pokerhousewife2805]

Great video! Love the beta bikes!

[@brianreffner3548]

What engine temp are you seeing at slow speed riding in the hot summer days

[@fcalin21]

The 2022 is even better. I hope that in the future they will add ABS and a secondary balancer shaft.

[@brianc8258]

Does it vibrate just as much as the ktm?

[@fcalin21]

@@brianc8258 I don't know.

[@rydawgdawg]

Thinking about buying the 22' 500 but having second thoughts

[@matt23727]

Bro, do it. Got mine in feb. Its awesome

[@rydawgdawg]

@@matt23727 I just don't have any friends that have one so it be boring after a while

[@davidleblanc1964]

Thanks for another great video.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks for watching!

[@uncletom1971]

Racing in Mojave desert? Please make a video about it!

[@hairyyeti21]

beta all day

[@michaelahr1]

I love my GasGas, best bike i have ever purchased straight from the dealership but with that said. I am getting tired of everything being a KTM brand with Husqvarna and GasGas - what are they going to buy next? So for me, my next bikes will be anything but KTM brands which will be another Enduro and a ADV mid class because I'm a dirt first rider and not a starbucks run pavement princess. Maybe a Tiger 900, maybe a T7, maybe a Africa Twin - will figure it out eventually.

[@AustenARW]

Nice review! Not a lot of them on these bikes.

[@Broadus45]

@Big Rock Moto looks great! Have you looked at the SWM series of motorcycles? They seem to have good options as well as Italy designs for great prices. I will be watching you from Vietnam!

[@Broadus45]

SWM isn't as well known but the value is amazing for new bikes. Also, Italian like the Betas but pre-takeover Huskys. I rode a Husky TE310 here in VN via Tigit Motorbikes and it was really fun and way more approachable than the KTM350/500 bikes I have ridden.

[@uncletom1971]

But shouldn't the rear view mirror be on your left in this case?

[@uncletom1971]

What are your oil change intervalls on this bike, please?

[@nvmcrider8475]

Looks like you got a great deal. Does it have a 6 speed transmission and cooling fan?

[@BigRockMoto]

Yes

[@kevingarciamurga6890]

Finally!

[@gearyrodriguez4089]

Have you also tried any of the gas gas bikes and what do you think of them

[@Farmer_1776]

Do you still have this bike? Would you still recommend it after a year or so of riding it?

[@xzistpo]

what state is this ? It looks awesome !!

[@socalgix]

I also have the same bike and year. Mine has about 4600 miles. Not planning on rebuilding the top end until I feel a performance change. How many miles on yours?

[@BigRockMoto]

3000 miles here. Mine feels fine.

[@aarsenalfan]

How long did you have that 2016 Africa Twin ( 2 months) ? 😅

[@DarthSpaceBall]

I found a 2017 for a good deal. Would you recommend it after your time on it?

[@BigRockMoto]

Yes

[@kyledavidmathieu]

How do you guys think this bike would fit taller people , I’m 6’4 and ergonomics are important for me. I’m leaning towards the beta but if a ktm/ husky 17 + is considerably better for tall guys I might have to go that route and find a pre- modified used bike. I know there are modifications that can help tall guys , lower pegs, tall seat , clamps. Just curious, thanks and great video.

[@BigRockMoto]

They are all about the same ergos

[@felipe5875]

Is this the only video you've done on the Beta? Do you still own it?

[@Mr450pro]

Doesn’t Yamaha make something like this? Wondering since you never mentioned Yamaha

[@pikpikpik007]

Yay

[@geving4856]

Nice bike, but very expensive!

[@SraysAdventures]

Hey! Love your videos man. Keep up the good work 👍🏽 I wanted to ask what car do you have in that garage? 😊

[@fireteam_]

Mazda CX-5! He has a review on his second channel: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oaHPhHiafa-Ed9U

[@uncletom1971]

You say KTM don't make the engines for Beta anymore, then who makes the engine? Maybe the chinese?

[@Ron-n4s]

Ĺooking at 390 rs

[@fcalin21]

No ABS is a deal breaker for me. Such a shame.

[@ihbase]

You had a baby? That seems like a biological oddity.

[@nicholashoitsma1484]

This guys videos have no direction & he changes his mind on the "channels plans" / projects constantly. No follow through on his previous statements

[@andrew390]

... but look at all the awesome reviews he has done.

[@dc2090]

how's it compare to honda 450? can you put a rack on it? gun case?