My New Favorite?? Beta 300RR Race Edition! Full Ride and Review!

Today the IRC Tire Guy reviews his 2021 Beta 300RR Race edition in hard enduro!
Time Stamps
00:00. Introduction
00:42. Where and How the Bike was Tested.
01:05. Power Characteristics Engine
03:05. Power related to Clutch
03:57. Power related to Carburetor
05:04. Engine Vibration
05:39. Stock Clutch Review
06:34. Gearing
07:19. Suspension
08:01. Ergonomics
08:42. Problem Areas
10:07. Extra Positives
10:37. Closing

[@GTisRule]

Love my 2020 300RR! Another thing to note, around 30 hours I suffered crank bearing failure, about 4 months out of warranty. Beta no questions asked shipped my dealer a crate engine and paid labor! Will definitely buy another when the time comes!

[@2stoked561]

My wife’s bike had the same problem twice. It was close to a year after we bought it. After the main bearing failure the 2nd time they shipped us a brand new engine and installed it free of charge also. I will be buying another beta as well!!

[@1969cmp]

@@2stoked561 ...hmm...not good about the failed parts but great about the service back-up.

[@russellcontracting1]

That's awesome, ktm would never do that...

[@TheCharillz23]

Yeah the 2019 and2020's had the bearing issue.. they also suffer from wire routing and moisture issues in the plug at the cdi box! Love my 2013 250rr hoping to get a new one!

[@GTisRule]

@@TheCharillz23 They recalled my bike when it was 3 weeks old for the wiring harness. At least they take care of their customers and any issues!

[@Leave_Nothing_Stock]

When the guy who's most responsible for your progress in riding ability buys the same bike as you...and then likes it! Great to see someone on youtube riding a beta!

[@AntiStressKit]

Here here!!!

[@Montana_lifestyle]

Yes

[@krazed0451]

Have a look at Johnny Walker's channel if you haven't seen it :-)

[@dennisgarryowen8885]

This channel has become the best for instructional videos on youtube. Rich Larson must be a very hard worker. He is able to articulate a lot of information in a short period of time in an easy to understand manner.

[@NaturallyCaffeinated]

I've been waiting for a review like this for some time now. There's a certain Dirt Bike channel out there that gave the Beta 300rr an ok review. I believe that rider didn't understand the capabilities and nuances of the Beta as well as you do (but I don't blame that rider for his preferences). This bike is truly an amazing bike and very capable in almost every type of riding situation. I believe that your review was very thorough and to point on this bike. You really understand the engineering and dynamics of the Beta but most importantly any bike you get on to review. I really appreciate how you ride this bike and utilize its strengths to benefit your videos. I also appreciate how you typically ride the bikes stock and use your skills instead of using bolt on's as security. Thanks for another great review.

[@firffighter]

Well said! Completely agree

[@okcmoparguy724]

I gave up on the Dirt Bike channel, his opinions seemed biased (and I ride a KTM). I appreciate Rich's unbiased opinions and definitely his thorough explanations. Now if I could only get my body to cooperate, still having fun though!

[@anonymousanonymous8306]

@@firffighter nah, KDM is bettah. My Beta 300 is really holding me back.

[@americandirtrider7662]

Are you talking about the same guy that gave the Beta low marks because the seat release button was too hard for him to push? haha

[@firffighter]

@@americandirtrider7662 Don't forget the front brakes almost killed him

[@exposingthetruth3821]

Subscribed. You must have some serious strength you manhandled that bike like a surgeon. It's always beautiful to watch advanced riders. I've ridden my entire life and I've never came close to your skill level, great balance btw!

[@vince5946]

Another great vid! I like hearing an honest review on the Beta, great job.

[@michaeldavison430]

Guess this explains why we're seeing more and more Betas around. Just a few years ago it seemed very few had even heard of the brand. Great vid as usual.

[@ezbeemer]

One of the most informative and useful reviews I've ever seen.

[@TwistedTriggerEnduro]

Thanks for breaking down the bike and letting us know what's up. I'm sure your incredible skills can make almost any bike amazing. However, I do hear the beta's are getting better and better. People who I know that own them, love them. 💪🔥

[@fullthrottleenduro6889]

Very pleased to watch this video as well as the comparison video. As a hard enduro rider that owns both a 2020 Beta 300 Race and a 2022 Beta 300RR these reviews are dead on and can’t wait to see Rich review a 2022

[@kentbradford7298]

That was the best and most thorough review I’ve seen. Great job Rich and your riding is awesome!

[@carlatamanczyk3891]

I use the Suzuki NECJ needle with stock pilot and 158 main. The float has been adjusted slightly lower. I ride 5,000 to over 10,000 ft and the bike works great.

[@user-rk8mk8nt4g]

which position you use on the needle;

[@AdamAdam-yd4le]

6:32 - wow! where are you going? 😂 Awesome skills! Loved your review.

[@samot365]

Awesome video Rich!! Thank you so much for all the great work you do. You knocked this one out of the park! I've been waiting for this review since you first got the bike.. I wasn't disappointed. Looking forward to getting a 22 Beta 300 RR Race Edition soon!

[@Scottymuffins]

Mines gonna be here in March! So pumped

[@samot365]

Same here! I'm stoked, can't wait

[@right_on_riggins]

Rad video! Just put 50 miles of semi hard enduro yesterday. My ‘22 Beta 300RR race edish is the best bike I’ve ever ridden! Happy trails y’all ✌🏼🏜🏁

[@lisimahus]

Finally, a good review from someone who can actually judge and appreciate what a bike (no matter what brand) has to offer! You made a fair comment about the clutch, I own the 2020 RE and, I have to say, it is the single characteristic of the bike I struggle with. I miss - sometimes - the feathery action and progressivity of the dds system. I am updating to RE 2022 so this is easily solved. One more thing I wish the Beta engineers would consider more carefully is the exposed bolt on the botton of the clutch cover - that bolt sticks out of the frame a fair bit and, no matter what frame protection you have, it will get hit in the rocks. One serious snag or blow and you're out of the race, with more than the little clutch cover to replace: the whole right side clutch cover is destroyed, with potential damage to the right side case as well (because that bolt is one of the longest on that side).

[@thisandthat176]

You are such a good a teacher and analyst. Really love your videos. The only downside: you just make it look too easy... When I watch your tutorials, I allways think "ok, that's doable", ten minutes later on the bike I think "oh shit, that's really hard...". Thank you so much for your time and effort! Greetings from Bavaria!

[@dsandusky123]

did not hear you talk about it but the map switch on the beta 300 I think is phenomenal and it really actually does something compared to the KTM one when you hit that button it totally tones down the snap and provides a little more traction at lower speeds..like a slippery hill climb ... great review though!

[@garretthorner]

Yooo been waiting for this review

[@IRCTireUSAMoto]

Stoked! Thanks for watching.

[@medyaker2]

Gotta say it feels good to be a gangsta.... having a 300re ;). Nice review. Educated me about a few things I didn't realize about the bike. Thx!

[@ajr.1272]

The clutch is significantly lighter on the 22 when compared to older models even after modding the old ones, it surprised me at how light it was after installing one of those midwest type levers. The engine on these betas is perhaps everything we ever wanted out of a modern 2 stroke, it has so much torque down low and snappy power at the same time. Keep up the good work, cheers from Brazil.

[@utahspahghettzibjorker7537]

what is the lever you are talking about? my 2021 250rr has a fairly stiff clutch lever and want to go softer

[@ajr.1272]

@@utahspahghettzibjorker7537 It's the Midwest Mountain Engineering clutch lever. Yes, they are really stiff, I have a 2020 xtrainer and shimmed the clutch springs about 1mm and thinking of shimming an extra 1mm to lighten up even more. I also use a Brazilian made BMS clutch lever, pretty much the same as the midwest. Do some research here on KZbin about tips for the beta clutches.

[@oskarschneider2341]

Excellent review!!

[@enduro-parts-aus]

6:30 dude thats a cliff 😂 camera angle really does that justice 🤘🏻

[@bradaltergott2786]

Yup!! I agree. Love this bike!!

[@yuriastafiev1042]

I was waiting for this review 🤙🤙🤙

[@IRCTireUSAMoto]

Hope you like it! Thanks for watching!

[@2WheelDerness]

​@@IRCTireUSAMoto how about the older models? 2014-1016+?

[@DirtZen]

Best reviews by far 👍✌️

[@bradcameron1376]

Thanks for all you do here. It definitely is helping us, or me anyway. I ride a 2021 beta 300rr and absolutely love it. Seems like the gnarlier it gets, the better it works. I have the open chamber Sachs forks, but at my age and ability, they seem fine for now. I also went with 13 /48. And more sag, I’ll try the Suzuki needle . Did you adjust the power valve, or change the spring in it? Mine is all the way out and middle spring. Lots of bottom and mid, then whip the clutch and hang on.

[@wonderbae.]

Thank you for the review sir. i learned a lot.

[@professionalpiddler1071]

Awesome review! Thanks

[@cd155mx]

Soo informative. Thanks!

[@montanamountainutv]

Wow you are good man! Great KZbin video and looks like you ride like a pro! (But better then me lol) 2017 Ktm 300 xc-w was my favorite until this one! Just got the 2021 Beta RR Evoque. Loved your input and agreed with everything! Subscribed. Thank you.

[@vompras]

I have already the 2022 300 rr .the bike is amazing the power delivery are Very smooth like tpi bikes for sure is different bike then 2021 .the map's between slow and fast have differents and the front kyb also amazing

[@dirtbikesicehockey4788]

One thing I could say is those tires look awesome.

[@jonnyhumphreys9133]

I just picked up the 2022 300RR (non-race). Forks are supposed to be softer than the Race Edition. I hope to see you review one of these! Love the reviews and the instructionals!

[@Fmontes]

Great riding. Great footage. Great review. That's all us gumbies ask for.

[@jonathondavis170]

Love my Italian brands - was going to get Beta, but ended up with a new TM Racing EN300ES 2-stroke - carb version.

[@PNWEnduro]

Great review Rich. Pretty much all the same thoughts I had on this bike. Motor and transmission are great, plastics and composite subframe are the weak points. I did find the steering radius a bigger issue in the tight woods.

[@AudiMotorsport]

I've cracked two beta subframes in two weeks. They were cheap compared to other brands tho....

[@sutt5828]

I like this guy. Great videos great information great attitude

[@IRCTireUSAMoto]

I appreciate that!

[@utahdesertrider1806]

Great review. My 2017 Beta 300 has had no issues. Great reliability. I put a Lectron on it. It increased the already very great low end power. My opinion you don’t need a Lectron on the beta. The stock Kehin is amazing.

[@carlatamanczyk3891]

Once the stock 36mm carb is properly set up there is no need to waste money on a Lectron. I've tuned 2 strokes since 1965. I ride 4000 to over 10,000 ft elevations. With stock pilot, 158 min, Suzuki NECJ needle and the float set lower than stock, my bike runs great! And I geared 13/48. Works awesome in the technical terrain.of the rugged central Idaho mountains. I also put a lowering link on and trail valved the forks. It's plush!

[@H8er-Maker]

I agree, a perfectly jetted carb feels more crisp than EFI ever does. Resetting your expectations is easier said than done. My Sherco feels like a slug compared to what I remember my 08 YZ250 felt like. But ultimately its way easier to ride well on goat tracks. When you spend $8k on newer bike it's kinda disappointing that it doesn't feel fast compared to sumthing you had 10yrs ago.

[@chadrides914]

Bro same here, my 2024 beta race 300 feels like a slug compared to my 2020 yz250x! 😂

[@chadkschmidt496]

great video!

[@pedrosimoes6780]

Between these two, Sherco or Beta which would you choose? Continue with the excellent videos!!

[@RideWithTheWolf]

Put a washer and lock washer on every frame bolt and they won't come loose. I love IRC tires. Haven't tried a front one yet.

[@Cyril_Harperink_87]

I have owned the 2021 300 Sherco and i would definitly buy the next race edition from Beta. I have this bike in my target for a long while.

[@lukefish7562]

Nice video. Getting a Husky te300i.

[@110west]

Awesome video and great info. Curious, why do you prefer the NECW needle over the popular NECJ? What clip position do you run?

[@ridetilldead3164]

Yep great review ✊ Nice to hear it's trackability I'm got a beta 300rr 22 on order I've had 4 katos 300.time 4 a change. Are u still running with standard Sprocket. Obviously u must change tyres Yes I do understand it takes a couple rides to get used to different feel overall you sound like you're happy with the beta. Also how many hour's you upgrade to another moto.

[@247enduro]

I bought the 22 200 racing and came from 300 tpi best decision ever! And I absolutely know what you mean about the clutch 😂

[@CoachHankSC]

I have 2022 beta 300 rrr, is just like you say, the kyb is great

[@jameschavez7069]

Send your suspension in to the Factory Race Team in Paso Robles CA. You will get the same guy building your suspension as the team racers.

[@Motoinc]

Good info about 9mm master cylinder. Is it universal to go smaller at the mster to get softer at the handle for cluch? Same on brakes?

[@mattgallizioli5978]

Like the review! Get relationship advice as well. Hahaha been looking forward to this review. I have a 22 on order and can’t wait for it to come in. Are you putting locktite on the bolts that are coming loose?

[@christophernicola9293]

I nailed it. From the first moment I watched you on that bike I said you looked more at home on it.. glad you're lovin the beta mate 😎

[@RACEgale]

I broke the left subframe support. It was $35 for a new one. I bought three, now I have a spare right and left to bring with me on long trips.

[@user-rk8mk8nt4g]

Hi !! I like very much hou you ride . Congratulations!Could you help me with the clicks you use for the suspensions;

[@somedude1129]

I just rode the 400 race edition at a demo day. I really liked it but was hoping to compare the suspension to the regular. They only had a 200 and some 4 strokes. Do you think the open cartridge forks on the base model would be more appropriate for a bronze class hard enduro rider? The demo loop didn't have a lot of technical stuff to test out low speed stuff.

[@danielrodgers5117]

Hi what would you recommend as a motocross tire? Front and rear? Thanks for any help. Daniel

[@jonnoMoto]

Thinking of making this or the 250rr race my next bike

[@fabianmergner1263]

Wich suspension Setting do you run in? As für as i know there is no recommended Setting from the Faktory.

[@gpaull2]

6:15 Looks INSANE! 😎👍

[@treyspencer3101]

Lol I was looking for this comment. Nuts!!

[@pierredelecto139]

Any information regarding the needle used that you felt made the bike run best?

[@dsandusky123]

hi Rich. which 9mm master cylinder did you use ? a variation beta part number or did you use a KTM part number ? please advise

[@matthewtoes6433]

Talented rider getting the bike over them big tyres and logs is not easy you should enter Erzberg your on par with the European extreme riders good description about the Beta

[@chriscardoza9785]

I ride off road trails mostly but since I'm really old l don't ride to hard of trails anymore but it's very interesting to see how the bike works for you in your races and l see that I will never ride it like that anyway.

[@levisalvini4110]

You should try the TM Racing 300... The legend hand made in Pesaro Italy. That's a bike...

[@nacnac3601]

Your videos are great, what carb setting do you use? With Suzuki needle (necw), what main jet and slow jet do you use? At what height? What configuration with necw can you recommend to ride at sea level until 600 meters?

[@IRCTireUSAMoto]

So my Elevation is much higher.I'm at 5k to 10k. Sea level is a tough guess but id say NECJ 2nd clip.

[@madMX96]

NECJ is my favorite too...have one ready to go on new bike...when i get it :)

[@patrickholmes001]

I like my Xtrainer 300, just wish the suspension was a bit stiffer...Didn't want to shell out for a brand new model and thats what was available.

[@GTisRule]

It's not to expensive to upgrade springs and revalve! Lot cheaper than new bike payments!

[@nklx_moto]

sounds so great and I am stoked about beta since I got my 350 rr - but I want to add an 2 Stroke Beta. I am a beginner so I really dont know which is the right one for me. Would you recommend the 200rr for a beginner or better go directly to the 250/300? I dont like to rev high all time dont want to think about the gear all the time - so I think the 250/300 is a little lazier to ride - but I am feared by the power of them - what do you think?

[@allenfry4023]

Where can you pick up the 9mm clutch master cylinder?

[@jdracing551]

One very cheap and easy mod to gain some more usable low end power is to put the powervalve cover spacer off a xtrainer. Its an old trick from the early 2000 Rm250s. More volumn in that chamber.

[@IRCTireUSAMoto]

I've heard that! Looking forward to trying it!

[@MR-ry6oj]

The 22 300 model has it stock

[@Kawiboy]

Well done 👊.. Old G

[@trevorknight8764]

Hi Rich, what's your opinion on the 300 xtrainer?

[@jandrews377]

300rr or yz125x for my shortlegged 5'5 16yrold son? We mainly trailside. He currently rides husq tc85 and has been riding forever.

[@ridendrive]

Solid Review. Curious regarding suspension what SAG numbers you are running. Also are you finding that running more sag and increasing nose pressure is still leaving you with a balanced feel on the chassis or do you find that you have to ride the bike with heavy rider input constantly to get the response you are expecting in that moment? Additionally have you attempted to play with any aftermarket carbs like the SC2 or lectron?

[@recombi123]

In his first video he said he is running sag at 120. Seems high to me but how can I argue. This guy rips. I have always run mine around 105 but maybe I’ll try more.

[@ridendrive]

@@recombi123 If he is running 120mm of sag than he is running the opposite direction he says. You sure 120?

[@recombi123]

@@ridendrive yea that’s what he said. Check out the video. Here is the link. Take care. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aIu7h3qkgtCElac

[@Varkreker]

@@ridendrive that's in mm not % I presume

[@cepope]

Really like you videos I also ride a 2022 300RR Like to get you recommend on a rear tire for mostly single track little if no rock Lot of clay soft and slick Any recommendation will be appreciated Thanks

[@IRCTireUSAMoto]

M5BEvo! 👍

[@Superdisco199]

Be nice to see what you think of the Rieju (old gas gas) since it's carbed and the KYB matches the chassis a little better. Also wondering if the 22 new beta engine is better for hard enduro. Meant to be very torquey.

[@anonymousanonymous8306]

22 motor is same as 21. It's awesome.

[@Superdisco199]

@@anonymousanonymous8306 "The 300 RR Race Edition’s engine gets a makeover. While the 300’s motor continues to displace 293cc, it is now a slightly oversquare design. With that comes a new cylinder head, a larger bore and correspondingly wider piston, a new crankshaft, and a new power valve. The diameter of the muffler exhaust has been reduced, and Beta claims the change “improves the top-end performance and tractability of the engine.”

[@toulioss]

what's these transparent hand guards?diy?

[@matthewtoes6433]

Have you got the part number for that Suzuki needle why can't the beta Needle be used

[@soilsmanadv6673]

i Love my 2021 300rr...but it will let you know if a bolt didn't have the right amount of loc-tite on it!

[@williamleonardo8478]

I love the Italian styling they build a great motorcycle avenue 22 430 RR great machine own a 2012 TM 300 en awesome machine as Good as it gets TMS are stable powerful and very very reliable and bullets proof very good handling characteristics over the top power go Italians feel great machines

[@Evadingmoto]

What altitude do you ride. Do I need to change the jetting for 1,800’

[@sorindobria2315]

What gearing do you use please?!

[@alechall1120]

when you discuss the composite subframe I see a leather grab strap over the rear fender. What brand is that?

[@IRCTireUSAMoto]

Those are Off Grid Syndicate straps.

[@EnduroWurx]

That hill at 6:14...crikey. My butt cheeks clinched just watching that.

[@IRCTireUSAMoto]

Pretty gnar!

[@mulimen1]

Have you ever had electrical or speedometer malfunctions in the beta?

[@mocksoul]

you **can** make tpi feel like beta's carb with aftermarket ecu and injector relocation. But this is not what middle level riders should do. tpi is just much more friendly for new-to-middle riders.

[@adamniswonger8015]

The new clutch feels remarkably lighter than the ‘21. It felt lighter than the Gas Gas sitting next to it!

[@IRCTireUSAMoto]

I can't wait to try!

[@sublime929]

I'm not so patiently waiting for my '22 race edition 😔

[@shercocheng5412]

Would like to know who is stronger in the endurance race between Beta and sherco?

[@IRCTireUSAMoto]

Personally I think the Beta wins

[@user-rk8mk8nt4g]

How sag you use ;

[@Ivan_0046]

How is Beta 300RR for taller riders with height something about 6 3"? BTW. after this review I want to buy Beta 300RR!

[@chadrides914]

I bet that it is really good the 2024 race edition has adjustable triple clamp for mounting your bars, forward and back or neutral. It also sits higher than any other bike I’ve ridden, which is the opposite of what you read online the new beta 24 race edition is a very tall bike , I assume that would work good for tall riders I’m 5 foot seven and it’s a bit too much for me but I’m making do

[@SreidMX]

Sounds like a super fun bike to ride! Great review!

[@IRCTireUSAMoto]

Truthfully thats exactly what it comes down to! FUN!

[@damianmullin]

@@IRCTireUSAMoto On the button there Rich. I ride a 21 Beta Xtrainer (have you ever tried one?) and believe I am riding better than ever because I am having ++fun on the bike. I reckon that fun is the secret to the bike most suited to you rather than the one that you think will be the fastest.

[@2stoked561]

@@IRCTireUSAMoto What clip setting did you use with that needle? And did you leave pilot and main stock?

[@gailyoung9911]

There's not question the carb has the best predictable power delivery and low end torque delivery. I love the fuel mileage of the tpi bikes but i just could not get past the off idle issues when needing a throttle snap in extreme enduro scenarios. I spent a lot of money and just couldn't get it good enough. Eventually went back to the carb and like you said when you no longer have to think about how the bike runs its a dream. more focus on the obstacles and technique. Its crazy to see the pros riding as well as they do when they have to compensate for all the tpi bike issues. but then again its a new bike every race for them.

[@2stoked561]

I have a 20 beta 300 race edition and my 2 buddies have a 20 Ktm 300xcw and a 20husky te300. We all had full tanks when we left to go ride some Idaho singletrack and they both ran out of fuel. I even pulled the Ktm about 5 miles on a gravel rd headed back to camp and I still didn’t run out.

[@kimojon9665]

I'm the opposite - the TPI bikes deliver the perfect punch and mine was super easy to dial in and no idle issues whatsoever. Carbs are a thing of the past, I was constantly messing with them as I ride in different altitudes all the time. I think it's just a riders selection.

[@turcottewill3]

When you rejet the carb do you need to have the maps updated from the dealer?

[@IRCTireUSAMoto]

No

[@Max-ye9xg]

Maybe that's the only terrain you guys have we have desert and it's nice and open Idaho Colorado beautiful Terrain

[@MJ-dg4nx]

Have you ridden the Beta 390 RR Race Edition 4 stroke yet?.... Call Tim Pilg at Beta USA and see if he has one to loan you. I think you are going to have a new favorite

[@johnykryll]

Love your channel friend but may I make a suggestion. Try adding some more lighting in your studio, feels very dark and gloomy

[@azlanhelmi138]

What about price

[@fmtnic]

I only have one complaint about Beta. Not being able to get OEM parts from Rocky Mountain.

[@andybj4091]

This alone is the biggest issue I would have with beta.

[@firffighter]

OEM parts to my front door in 2-3 days from Beta USA online

[@NaturallyCaffeinated]

Man you aren’t kidding! Rich, can you call the big guy at RMATVMC and take care of this issue?! Hahahaha

[@andybj4091]

@@firffighter You can buy direct from beta?

[@firffighter]

@@andybj4091 Yes. Beta USA website for OEM and many aftermarket. I've owned 3 Beta's since '17 and never waited for anything. No different than the dozen or so KTM's I've owned in the ability to get parts.