Beta (motorcycle manufacturer)
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Beta is an Italian motorcycle manufacturer, specialising in off-road motorcycles. Beta are best known for their popular trials bikes. In 2005, they launched a range of enduro motorcycles using KTM engines. In the 2010 they will launch the new RR series, with a new homemade engine. A Beta is now ridden by ex-world Trials champion, Dougie Lampkin.
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[edit] History
Beta was founded in 1904 [1] by Enzo Bianchi and Arrigo Tosi and originally based in Florence. Originally making bicycles, the company started making motorcycles in 1948. Focusing on two-stroke bikes through the 1950's and 60's, the company started focusing development and production to off-road motorcycles in the 1970's.
[edit] Trials Models
Beta have produced motorcycles for observed trials since the early 1980's and are now one of the leading manufacturers.[2]. Unlike the Trial and Enduro models, the trials bike have used Beta's own engines.
- TR240 (1983-4)[3] First trials model, twinshock suspension 125cc, 200cc engines, the majority with reed valve induction.
- TR32, (1984-5) Air-cooled, monoshock model, produced in parallel with the twinshock model, same engine as TR240
- TR33, (1985-6)
- TR34, (1986-9) Very successful trials model, stripey paintwork, 125cc - 260cc engines
- TR35, (1989-91) Air-cooled engine series
- Zero, (1989-92) Water-cooled monoshock
- Synt, (1992-4) Water-cooled monoshock
- SuperTrial, (1992-3) Air-cooled engine
- Gara, (1993-4)
- Techno, (1994-9) 125cc version from 1995
- Rev-3, (1999-) 2 stroke trials
- Rev-4, (2007-) 4 stroke trials
[edit] Enduro and Motorcross Models
Beta made a range of motorcross and enduro bikes during the 1970's and 80's.
The Beta Enduro bikes have used KTM engines since their return in 2004, though 2009 sees the launch of bikes with Beta's own power units.
[edit] Trail Models
The Alp trail motorcycle models have used air-cooled Suzuki DR-model engines and have a good reputation at commuters and 'green-lane' trail bikes. With a low seat height and a reputation as an easy to ride motorcycle, they are ideal to beginners of off-road riding.
- Alp (2000-), 125cc, 200cc and 350cc models. Air-cooled bikes with Suzuki engines.
[edit] See also
[edit] External links
- Beta Official site.
- Beta Racing UK Uk based Beta Trials site.
[edit] References
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