Beta steps into the world of four-stroke motocross bikes for the first time with the new 2024 Beta 450 RX. The trail was blazed by the 300 RX two-stroke three years ago, and now it’s thumper time. Beta is known for its world-class enduro and trials bikes, which are hand-built in Florence, Italy. So, let’s see what the growing boutique brand offers the motocross world.
- Rather than aiming for the professional motocross racer, the 2024 Beta 450 RX is being touted as an everyman’s competition machine. According to a Beta insider, the 450 RX is “more forgiving while still providing performance that will encourage aggressive riding” while following in “the Beta tradition of rideability.”
- The engine is an all-new design, with input from Beta’s MXGP effort. Still, it’s a familiar solidly oversquare DOHC four-valve motor with a counterbalancer. Fuel is delivered via dual injectors and a 46mm throttle body, with air from a new airbox. There are two non-adjustable power maps and four levels of traction control, including off. Starting is electric.
- The 450 RX has a five-speed transmission and diaphragm-style clutch. The gearbox ratios are motocross-specific, and the clutch has three engagement settings.
- Beta gave the 450 RX its own frame. The main frame spar is wider than its enduro equivalent, and the aluminum subframe adds additional rigidity. This was done to make the RX durable enough for the big jumps found in motocross. Beta assures us that even though the frame has been beefed up, it is still “supple enough for cornering.”
- KYB handles the Beta suspension. Those are top-notch components. Our Beta source tells us that “the bike has been set up by the Beta technicians in Italy to make for a stable and supple ride.” This fits in with the rideability mantra.
- The wheels are quality components. The 21-/19-inch wheelset includes blue anodized Excel rims, soft/intermediate Maxxis Maxxcross MX-ST tires (R&D by Jeremy McGrath), and Nissin brake calipers. The rear wheel gets an aluminum/steel sprocket with red anodizing.
- A couple of goodies come with 450 RX. You also get a bike stand and four throttle pulleys that allow you to adjust the throttle response to your liking.
- The $10,999 price tag for the 2024 Beta 450 RX. Look for the new motocrosser at Beta dealers in December—just before Colt Nichols takes to the Monster Energy Supercross tracks, riding for the Liqui Moly Beta Racing Team.
2024 Beta 450 RX Specs
ENGINE
Type: 4-stroke single
Displacement: 449cc
Bore x stroke: 97 x 60.8mm
Compression ratio: 13.4:1
Valvetrain: DOHC; 4 valves
Fueling: EFI w/ 46mm throttle body and dual injectors
Lubrication: Separate oil for engine and transmission
Transmission: 5-speed
Clutch: Wet multiplate w/ Brembo hydraulics
Final drive: D.I.D chain
CHASSIS
Frame: Double cradle chromoly steel w/ aluminum subframe
Front suspension; travel: Fully adjustable KYB AOS closed cartridge 48mm inverted fork; 12 inches
Rear suspension; travel: Linkage-assisted fully adjustable KYB shock; 11.8 inches
Rims: Excel
Tires: Maxxis Maxxcross MX-ST
Front tire: 90/100 x 21
Rear tire: 110/90 x 19
Front brake: 260mm disc w/ Nissin caliper
Rear brake: 240mm disc w/ Nissin caliper
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
Wheelbase: 58.4 inches
Seat height: 37.2 inches
Ground clearance: 13 inches
Fuel capacity: 1.8 gallons
Wet weight: 239 pounds
Color: Red/blue
2024 Beta 450 RX Price: $10,999 MSRP
