Words: Trent Maher

The 2025 Beta RX models have arrived in Australia and MotoOnline was on location at Queensland Moto Park’s national media launch to ride the updated RX 450 and RX 300 for this Tested review.

Starting off with the RX 450, I rolled it out in its completely stock trim, as it would be straight from the showroom floor. The only difference was that our test bikes were fitted with Pirelli tyres, while production models typically come with Maxxis tyres on the RX 450 and Michelins on the RX 300.

Image: Supplied.

Initial impressions of the RX 450 were positive, with notable refinements over the 2024 model. The bike felt a bit more polished, showing improvements in the small, finer details that add up to a smoother ride. The KYB suspension, however, felt slightly soft for my riding style and weight, and the bike had a front-end-steering balance that gave a slight twitchiness in the front end. That said, the engine stood out with its smooth and highly manageable power curve, which can be intimidating with their aggressive power delivery. Overall, I was pleased with how easily I adapted to the RX 450’s handling and characteristics.

After spending some time warming up on the RX 450, I decided to adjust the suspension settings to increase its stiffness and allow for a bit more control when pushing the bike. Initially, I tried going three clicks stiffer on the fork compression and four clicks stiffer on the rear shock, which improved the feel but still left room for more firmness. Eventually, I found a sweet spot with six clicks in on the fork and four on the rear. To further tune the bike, I slid the forks through to the top cap and set the sag at 110 millimetres. These changes made a substantial difference, transforming the bike’s handling and balance.

As a heavier rider weighing over 90 kilograms, I found that the 2025 RX 450 would benefit from a few personal tweaks. Beyond the suspension adjustments – which were essential for my weight – I would consider a more raked-out clamp offset to reduce the minor front-end twitchiness, especially under acceleration. Additionally, I would go for a one-tooth larger rear sprocket, as I found myself in between gears when riding in third gear throughout the day. These changes are relatively minor and reflect personal preferences, but even in its stock form, the RX 450 impresses with premium components and a race-ready setup. Although the 2025 RX 450 doesn’t have any major updates compared to the previous model, the improvements Beta has made are noticeable, particularly in the bike’s overall rideability.

Image: Supplied.

Moving on to the RX 300 two-stroke, it’s clear that this model received more extensive updates for 2025. Not only is it now built on the same frame as the RX 450, but it’s also equipped with a 50 millimetre KYB shock and a new five-speed gearbox. These upgrades have effectively transformed the RX 300 from a slightly stiffer off-road machine into a dedicated motocross bike that’s ready for the track.

Riding the RX 300 was an exciting experience, especially given the unique feel of this big-bore two-stroke compared to your usual 250 two-stroke, its power delivery requires a distinct riding style, but once you adapt, it’s incredibly fun and offers a light, nimble ride with ample power.

As with the RX 450, I made similar suspension adjustments on the RX 300 to better accommodate my riding style and weight. Out of the box, the RX 300 felt a bit too soft for my needs, so I went four to six clicks stiffer on both fork and shock compression, set the sag to 108 millimetres, and positioned the forks to the cap in the clamp. These settings brought the RX 300’s feel closer to that of the RX 450, making the bike more stable and responsive.

Image: Supplied.

For riders upgrading from a 2024 model, the 2025 RX 300 will feel like a completely different bike. The 300 two-stroke engine’s broad power curve brings it closer to a four-stroke feel in some respects. When riding off the bottom end, the bike feels smooth and powerful, while revving it high tends to bind up the suspension slightly. Riding it a gear up and lugging it – almost like a four-stroke – seemed to be the most effective way to get the best performance out of the bike.

In my opinion, the RX 300 is a top choice for two-stroke fans, as it combines competitive performance with the classic characteristics of a two-stroke bike. It retains that iconic two-stroke sound and delivers a nostalgic riding experience while standing out as a real competitor in today’s motocross environment.

Overall, the 2025 Beta RX 450 and RX 300 offer exceptional rides, each standing out in their respective categories. Whether you’re an A-grade or pro-level racer or a weekend social rider, I believe that Beta’s RX range has something that can cater to both.

Specifications

RX 450
Engine type: 449.3 cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke
Bore/stroke: 97.0mm x 60.8mm
Transmission: Five-speed
Starter: Electric
Clutch:Hydraulic adjustable diaphragm multi-plate clutch
Traction control: Yes
Front suspension: 48mm KYB AOS closed cartridge fork, 305mm travel
Rear suspension: KYB link suspension, 300mm travel
Front brake: Nissin caliper, 260mm front disc
Rear brake: Nissin caliper, 240mm rear disc
Tires: 80/100 – 21 Michelin Starcross 6 / 110/90 – 19 Michelin Starcross 6
Weight: 104.5kg (dry)
Availability: Available now
Price: $15,295
Further information: www.betamotor.com.au

RX 300
Engine type: 293.1 cc, liquid cooled, single cylinder, two stroke
Bore/stroke: 72.0mm x 72.0mm
Transmission: Five-speed
Starter: Electric
Clutch:Hydraulic adjustable diaphragm multi-plate clutch
Traction control: Yes
Front suspension: 48mm KYB AOS closed cartridge fork, 310m travel
Rear suspension: KYB link suspension, 315mm travel
Front brake: Nissin caliper, 260mm front disc
Rear brake: Nissin caliper, 240mm rear disc
Tires: 80/100 – 21 Michelin Starcross 6 / 110/90 – 19 Michelin Starcross 6
Weight: 100kg (dry)
Availability: Available now
Price: $12,445
Further information: www.betamotor.com.au