Beta Motorcycles has unveiled the 2024 Beta RX 450, the anticipated motocross model finally reaching production and developed to produce a high standard of performance that will suit a wide range of riders.

In 2023, Beta’s project to expand the horizons of RideAbility officially entered the motocross market in Europe, first with the RX 300 two-stroke and now with its RX 450 four-stroke!

It is officially the first four-stroke motocross bike built by the Italian manufacturer, for enthusiasts of all riding abilities, this translates into the first chance to ride the Beta that is based off of the prototype that has competed in the MXGP World Championship for the last three years.

A race-ready bike in all respects, specifically designed for motocross tracks, the design is completely new from the ground up – the frame, engine and all of the components are of the highest level.

What does RideAbility mean for Beta? It means to design a motocross model that appeals to riders of all levels. Beta Motorcycles are designed by a team of engineers based in Florence, Italy, with a mission to provide all riders with a motocross bike that is easier to ride, while still providing performance.

Debuting in the MXGP circuit just a few years ago, the RX 450 prototypes have provided the knowledge that can only come from top-level racing. These early one-off models provided the base layout and design for the production model and will see the RX 450 join the RX 300 on tracks all over the world.

The frame is designed from the ground up as an all-new frame that is specifically designed and dedicated for motocross use. The main spar of the frame is wider in design to withstand the stresses from repeated landings, making it much stiffer overall, yet supple enough for cornering. This translates into a precise chassis that provides a planted feeling in corners and a light feeling while in the air.

The RX 450 has a new aluminium rear sub-frame which provides rigidity to the bike despite its lightweight, providing the strength needed for the demanding needs of motocross. This new component is perfectly integrated with the new air-filter box and is all-new for the RX 450.

The new filter box and air intake, combined with the new 46mm throttle body, provide a significantly different air-flow than that required by an enduro bike, creating optimum airflow to keep up with the performance of the new engine. Access to the filter remains on the left side of the bike, and is extremely easy and intuitive, as well as being tool-free.

While the front shrouds, recently redesigned for RR models as well, remain unchanged in their form, the rear features a new sleek and aggressive tail which, not being a structural component, fits into the new aluminium rear sub-frame and, as previously mentioned, allows access to the filter box via a convenient connection. The fuel tank is a smaller design and has a capacity of seven litres.

In terms of suspension, there is KYB with 48mm at the front and 50mm piston at the rear. Both components are completely adjustable, and represent an ideal compromise between rideability and performance, thanks to continuous development on the track.

The blue anodised wheels are 21-inch at the front and 19-inch at the rear, with 90/100-21 and 110/90-19 Maxxis tyres, while the braking system is by Nissin with floating callipers and a 260mm disc on the front and 240mm at the rear.

The front brake calliper is a smaller, more modern design. Also lighter than those previously used on Beta models, which provides noticeably more incisive performance when letting off the throttle at the limit, while on the rear the new brake master cylinder has a reservoir designed to leave more space for the exhaust layout.

The engine, designed specifically for motocross use, has been developed in close partnership with the official MXGP team. The gearbox is five-speed, with dedicated ratios, while the clutch has been designed to withstand the stresses from the engine’s high power output, while offering a light clutch pull at the lever. In keeping with the rideAbility goal which the whole design project was based on, the engine offers excellent torque that provides enjoyable and always controllable progressiveness in all situations.

In the wake of the recent introductions on the RR models, the RX 450 4T is also equipped with two specific engine maps (wet and dry) and four levels of traction control (on/dry, off/dry, on/wet, off/wet) to help manage the bike’s significant power in all terrain conditions. The button to select the map and traction control is located on the handlebar pad.

The handlebar controls have been reduced to a minimum, as has the electrical system. On the right-hand side is the start button, while the button to shut off the bike is on the left. There are then some special components which enhance the bike’s trim level as well, including chain tensioners in red alloy, blue anodised excel rims, red chain guide, red anodised dual-material sprocket and black alloy footpegs with steel pins.

Rounding off the package are brand-new graphics, featuring typical racing colours, but lending a unique flavour to the Beta’s first four-stroke motocross bike. Additionally, the RX 450 will be delivered with a customised stand and four different throttle pulleys, to customise the throttle response.

he Beta RX 450 will be available in Australia from January 2024, with a RRP of $14,495. For more information, visit www.betamotor.com.au.