2024 KTM 300 XC vs BETA 300 RR Race Edition
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- čas přidán 27. 08. 2023
- 2024 KTM 300 XC vs the 2023 Beta 300 RR Race Edition. We ride two of the baddest two stroke dirt bikes made and give you 3 things we like and 3 things we dislike about each bike. We're just regular riders, not pro's. That said, we are painfully addicted to all things dirt bikes and we know there's a ton of people considering these two bikes. Its our hope that this video helps you pick your new bike!
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Love my new 2023 Beta 300RR! I’ve ridden my friends KTM 300’s TPI’s and TBI’s and they’re all soft on the bottom, not crispy like my carby Beta. That can get a novice into trouble. Whiskey throttle is a definite possibility with the Beta if you’re used to the power delivery of the KTM’s. I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re mapped to prevent this. Easy software mod. The benefits of fuel injection. Betas are like beautiful Italian women. Gorgeous, but can fly off the handle for no apparent reason.
Make no mistake, the KTM void of bottom at all. It will leave without you! The power is super linear and smooth and plenty of it. When the RPM’s get up and the PV opens, it’s a whole new world. It hits hard. I’m getting ready to install the TSP head and ECU. Eager to see how that changes things. I’m just remembering now the Beta has a head on it too!
I might add you can tame that power of the Beta with simple jetting adjustments and running a gear or two high.
Married to an East Coast Italian woman...can confirm. Lol
The Beta’s are gorgeous in person too !
It’s purdy!
The cons you have for the beta could likely be fixed by setting up the rear spring for the proper weight of the rider. Especially if you are a lot bigger than the bikes owner.
If you are too heavy for the setup, it will act similarly to how it would if you are sitting way too far back on the seat when going fast. It will make it feel a little squirrely.
Thats why setting rider sag is so important.
You would think for the price tag on the KTM, you wouldn't have to buy anything aftermarket.
Of course! Every bike should be setup for that rider. This was just a comparison of two new bikes and initial thoughts. No question Suspenion makes them both better.
The handling thing with the Beta is the turning radious. 2 mods to do is take the nut off of the limit bolt and screw the bolt all the way in on both sides. It's done that way to keep the forks from hitting the radiators.
The second mod is to take a large socket or PC of pipe & mark where the forks can hit the edge of the radiators. Heat that area up carefully and dent in those areas slowly until you get good clearance for the forks. You now have a tighter turning radious and not have to worry about smashing your radiators with the forks. Oh, one other thing if you have radiator guards on, you'll need to modify them, too.
Thank you guys!! That's how a video needs to be made!! Nice bullet point opinions with a short ride video at the end. I'm thinking of getting another 300. My last one was a 2005 KTM 300EXC. I bought it new and sold it 13 years later beat to crud. I'm currently on a 2012 Beta 498. I'm looking for something a lot lighter for my debilitated body to be able to navigate on the trail.
Much appreciated!
Looks like some fun stuff out there! great video
Thanks, brother!!!
I have the new beta that’s in your video. My plus’s: Betas start awesome. Suspension, stability snd the balanced feel. Flickable, engine feel.
Cons: steering radius. Seat (but I don’t care really) air filter was a pain to install.
Good riding and thx for the comparison 👍
Absolutely. Thanks for watching.
Got a 23 beta about 3 weeks ago and am a big fan boy so far lol except the fact I dented my pipe yesterday on a slick root and can't find a plated fatty and I do miss being able to go to almost any shop and them have parts
Both good. I like carbs and kicker options so Beta. Id get a 19 KTM with a kicker option and carb for KTM. Still I like Beta. It’s just pick what you like.I got a 300 race edition 23’. Kicker kit put on.
If you want more mid to top from the Beta, back the power valve screw out a few turns and hang on
great video. to the point(s). thanks for sharing!
Appreciate that. I think too many people try and create suspense to hold the viewer longer. I’m not a CZcamsr by trade so view count and subs are nice but I couldn’t care less. I’d rather talk to riders the way I want my info and build a following of regular riders helping other riders. Thanks for watching!
@@dirtabletvI've worn gopros and other action cameras a lot.. mtb, motocycle, mounted on jeeps but last week I started talking to the camera to document progress when I was working on some offroad rides... not easy. Again, I think you did great.
@@gymratt88 thanks again. Yeah talking behind the camera is tough. In front of the camera can create some real brain farts. I take a simple approach, my audience is likely just like me. Just keep the message in mind and talk like you would to your friends. Sounds easy but it definitely takes some practice.
My '23 300 xc with the original map was great, tons of snap on the bottom end but while it was at the dealer for a issue with the fuel filter they updated the tune and is was to soft on the bottom. Just added a TSP head and the trail tune and it is amazing, big fat torque curve lots of bottom end.
A longer exhaust will put some more bottom power on the ktm. There’s a reason all the hard enduro pros run real long pipes. Probably won’t make HUGE difference, but you will notice it for sure
Appreciate the input.
Great comparison guys. Very unbiased. The only thing I found wrong is the way you pronounce beta. It's BETA and not bAta
I think that’s a geographical issue. Everyone in the States seems to say Bay-ta. Either way, it’s a cool dirt bike.
Back to the Beta KYBs. I believe beta did soften them up in 22 or 23, have you ever found them stiff or unforgiving while riding single track or slower technical riding? Assume they are stock, whats you weight? thx, good comparison.
I have two great friends with 21 Beta 300 RR Race Editions and they were much stiffer. 22 and newer is much better up front but now even more with the KYB rear shock. Jason owns the Beta and he’s a skinny little twerp. He’s probably 180 at the most. I’m 275 with gear. Both of these bikes actually feel good, especially in the slow stuff even for me! In Tennessee, you seldom get out of 4th gear. Guys that are 230ish and under can probably ride the bike stock and really like them. I need to respring mine just so I sit higher in the stroke. Surprisingly, I’ve not yet bottomed out the forks.
Thanks for the info. I’m interested how big you guys are? Like what are your height and weight?
6’/290 and 6’4 and 230.
Im pretty sure the lack of bottom end snappyness on the ktm can be fixed/improved with the proper fuel mapping
Absolutely can! Mine will soon have the TSP head and ECU.
Kinda figured@@dirtabletv
that beta from down low sounds so clean....from 0 rpm i just picks up so clean and crisp
It does! Great sound from a stock pipe.
Great bikes
I am proud owner of the 23 Beta 300 race edition and agree with both of you ! This is a fantastic bike !
On the Beta 300RR, what pilot jet, main jet and needle and needle position are you running?
I asked him for ya but all he said was that he installed the JD Jet Kit. Not sure what specific jets, needle or clip settings.
@@dirtabletv Could you ask exactly? she sounds beautiful
You said you're a bigger dude. How big are you? I love my 10 husky because of how big it is. But I also feel at home on The gas gas trials bike which is tiny in comparison. Trying to make sure I'll feel comfortable on this thing. Like to do tights on track but also like to do fast hare scramble style stuff
6’ and 290 butt naked. I feel at home on the KTM but a bit cramped on the Beta. Still a great bike but it really shines in the slower technical stuff. Outside of that, the Beta feels small. Both guys that had Betas I did reviews on have sold them for the Husky TE 300 Pro models. In fairness they were both seasoned KTM/Husky guys prior to Beta and just felt out of place. These are both smaller guys too. Well, normal size A riders. That’s just the way these two guys went. I have many friends that absolutely love the Beta. No right or wrong, just personal preference.
Good vid thanks. If you have stock gearing on the 300xc I would add a few more teeth. Comes geared way to high I think
Both of these bikes have been regeared. 13/48 on both. Thanks for watching.
KTM designed there bikes regeared internally to allow for a smaller final drive ratio sprocket, So the smaller rear sprocket for less hangups with the chain etc.
Yup 13/49 on the XC is prime
Surprised on the comment for the XC with less low end grunt (XC-W TBI yes), but not heard that for the XCs. I have heard they spin up fast especially for a 300. I like my 21 Beta 300RR (non Race model), but wish the suspension was better, the Race version would likely solve that problem.
Were both bikes run on their hot maps?
Both bikes have 13/48 in this video. KTM is stock and the Beta has a head. Make no mistake, the KTM has a good bottom end but it is softer than the Beta on bottom. Mid and upper is definitely stronger on the KTM. I’m installing a TSP head and ECU next. We’ll see how that does.
On trail that is more open and flowy, you’d really notice the difference in power but in 1st and 2nd. The Beta is snappier.
@@dirtabletv was that on white or green map?
Green. I’m never in white.
What's the sprocket combination on these 2 bikes? Thanks.
Both are running 13/48
If you change the KTM head to a TSP head they tune the ECU and have 3 maps settings . You get more power down low in one of the maps.
Have a riehu mr 300 Pro, very affordable bike but with a stonking motor and the finest of suspension from kyb
I like carb fed bikes oh and nice to have a kickstart as backup because you never know when a battery is gona pack up!
Can you do anything to get more bottom end on the KTM?
Gearing and a TSP head and ECU reflash. Works amazing! I haven't done it to my 24 but I have 260 hours on my 2021 Husky TX 300 with this done and its my favorite bike ever!
MotoMinded Bomber Bar Switches for the KTM...unreal
What is the power valve count of the beta in this vid?
I’m not sure I understand what you are asking?
Beta is a good first bike for the price for sure. They deff need to improve in some areas. The Carb is always a negative. U less you invest in a great 700 dollar carb. Ktms have there issues to.
How do the forks compare?
Both bikes have stock suspension. Jason, the Beta owner is an average size rider and is about 180lbs. The KYB setup was best for him. The KTM is a bit more rigid for the lighter riders. I'm a big dude and preferred the KTM because its stiffer stock forks. Most guys above the 210lb mark seem to really like the XC suspension. The KTM forks will rival the KYB on the newer models but KYB will always be one of the best forks ever. I'd say slight advantage to the KYB's but once properly setup for you, I'd say they are very comparable.
So the TBI stii doesn't have the low end of a carb bike?
I’ve got a buddy with a 17 that has a carb. Perhaps a future video! To me, it’s different power. It’s much more linear than days of old. I like the old snap too. I’m a Yamaha 2 stroke guy since 1979. That bottom you talk about is present in the Beta to a greater degree. Still not like the old days but there’s a time and place for that… these newer 2T’s are way more like a 4T than an old 2T.
@@dirtabletv I know what you're saying
I had a 2011 300 KTM. It had big bottom end.
What about vibration? The Beta vs. the KTM - I've found the Beta has quite a bit of vibration but it leaves your mind after you start riding it where the KTM there really isn't any vibration to speak of, silky smooth...what is your take on this issue? Nice vid BTW.
No doubt about it. The Beta does vibrate more. Buttery smooth on the Pumpkin.
If you have the $$$ I think the KTM/Huskys are far better motors. The power is much smoother and makes the bike much easier to place.
The betas take alot of work with the carb to get feeling good. 10 hours+ had to go into my beta...
In fairness, Jason jetted his Beta once and hasn’t had to touch it since. We don’t have much elevation change but still…
Have you ridden the 2024 KTM 250 XC.
It should have more throttle response and just feel lighter and more nimble
Better comparison would be the Beta 300RR Race Edition, and the Sherco 300 SE Factory. I've had a chance to ride all 3 back to back, and I'm biased because I own the Sherco, I would rate the Sherco 1st, Beta 2nd and then the KTM. The only thing that bothers me about the Beta is the turning radius.
That is easily corrected on the Beta's. I just described it in another comment on this video.
The beta has the best turning radius of them all.. there's a video about it
What would you say your three pluses and minuses of the sherco versus the beta?
Comparing XC bike to Enduro bike? You should compare top of the line KTM Enduro bike (blingy SixDays or Erzberg) to the RR race addition, not the XC
If we had an endless amount of bikes to choose from and could access them anytime we wanted, it would sure make your suggestion easier.
Beta is my choice for bike size. KTM’s are just too tall now for some of us. Taller and heavier guys have no idea what’s it’s like, they’ve been spoiled with choice for years. I love that Beta finally addressed that issue and they are selling like crazy because of it.
I feel your pain but I’m the exact opposite. Too darn heavy for stock bikes. No doubt the Beta being shorter helps a ton of people.
@@dirtabletv yeah, it’s tough being shorter and lighter than what the bikes are designed for. I can deal with the suspension being a bit too stiff, but new springs and revalving is easy enough, unfortunately it’s not cheap. The far harder problem to solve is seat height. Beta’s starting over 1” shorter out of the box is huge.
The Ktm is a better bike. I like the beta too but it’s not even close with technology. The Beta is way behind on a lot of upgrades like traction control, quick shifter and the Ktm has better map from 80-100%
@@HailMich who wants technology on a dirt bike?? All that does is cost more, initially and to maintain. Traction control on a dirt bike seems pointless. Besides, my throttle and clutch are all the TC I need.
@@seashackf1 I mean you got me there haha.
please Sir ! how tall are you guys ? i'm asking because i'd like a 300 Beta, but i'm 6'2" , i'm afraid it's too small , and I can't manage in a too small "cockpit" ,but i stand almost all the time and ride only tight tech stuff\woods
ocky slow trails... and i hate ktm
what do you think?
I think you can be just fine with lower pegs and bar mounts that allow your bars to move slightly forward. For me, the Beta feels better than the Sherco. The “cramped” feeling I get is having the bars too low and too far back making it feel like my hands are at my knees. If you are standing most of the time, I don’t think you’ll have an issue. Seated, it feels short. That can be useful though. We’re both 6’. I think you’re okay. Go sit/stand on one.
Thank you Sir ! you're right, i use the Rox 2" bar risers for years already, pointing them forward horizontally and thus the bar is far forward, and also lower pegs as you said ! greetings from Israel, and God bless!@@dirtabletv
Does the KTM being fuel-injected offer better fuel range than the Beta?
We didn’t test that but we’re great friends and ride together every weekend. I’d say range on both is at least 60. Gotta be more but we just haven’t put in the miles like that just yet.
I too thought FI injected bikes were more fuel efficient, but on a recent ride, my buddy on a 2023 XC-W, and me on an '07 300 XC-W with a Lectron carb, I used less gas than he did. (I used around 1.2 gal for 70 miles, and he was closer to 2)
Now that was all low rev riding, and I was short shifting like crazy. Not sure how they would compare on wide open trails.
@@brunomelli4679 1.2 gal for 70 miles? No way. Maybe on the highway but not in the trails.
@@OtisFlint I have a witness who was as surprised as I was.
Basically Rabbit Valley parking lot to Thompson Springs, Utah. Start with a full tank and refill at the 7-11 in Thomson.
I never once got in the power band because I was told it was 70+ miles so I rode as conservatively as possible.
Technically a very boring trail. Not much excitement besides a couple of very steep descents. The rest is very flat. I wouldn't ride it again.
36mm Lectron carb on an 07 KTM XC-W.
I would take the Rieju 300 over those two bikes. I had a 2015 KTM 300 which was a great bike but feel that the new KTM has gone way overboard with price and technology. Plus I love a kickstart, KYB suspension and a carb seals the deal for the Rieju
Haven’t seen a Reiju in person yet.
Sorry dude..the reiju is outdated and ridiculous with a clunky bolt on starter..no counterbalencer and is a heavy pig .
Beta looks better for sure.
Yes, KTM is graphically challenged this year!
A better comparison would be the KTM XC-W
Agreed but I recently did an XC vs XCW video. Give it a look. Maybe I’ll try and do that next.
Don’t forget the counterbalancer on the KTM. Nihilo sells better start / stop buttons. I’m gonna get a 24 Husky TX300 with the Rockstar graphics kit. Not a orange fan 😂
I need new buttons!
What we got here y'all...2 MORE Floridian - Tennessee transplants?? Lol
(Im headed thataway from Brevard county ASAP & a genx ripper East Tennessee bound.. wootwoot🤘🏽
Beta’s have also been counterbalanced since ‘20.
@@seashackf1 true but they’re not nearly as smooth as the KTM. That said, I’m an old two stroke guy and while the buttery smoothness of the KTM is really nice, I’m used to riding vibrating bikes. The Beta has more vibration but certainly isn’t a deal breaker. Nowhere near it.
@@dirtabletv no doubt Beta has a long way to go to catch up KTM. They’ve just been producing great bikes for so long. Beta has come a long way in a short time though and the enduro market is so much better off for it.
I’m a two stoke guy too. KTM deserves all the credit in the world for the he fact that they never stopped producing them and continued development on them. The two stroke market today would probably be dead without KTM. The fact we have so many great choices is the best part.
Good job guys !!!
Huge thanks!
Which one feels lighter
I hate to give you a non-answer but they both feel super light and agile. I think the KTM feels better in almost all situations but for the slow tight stuff. The smaller size on the Beta mixed with a great feeling clutch is super nice.
Huh what?.no bottom end.. did you look and the rear sprocket size.. ? Apparently not.. (47). The KTM is worlds faster than the Beta 300RE (I have one also) in all aspects, once a 49/50 rear sprocket is installed….yes, start stop switch is horrible on the KTM(easy cheap fix) as is the total lack of parts for the Beta… the TBI is infinitely more responsive that the Keihin carb… suspension wise ..it’s a draw….Looks wise.. Beta hands down…. Dealer/race support.. KTM hands down.
I can’t argue with almost all of what you said. There’s still decent bottom end in the KTM and it lugs awesome. What Jason and I are saying is the snappy bottom of the Beta feels stronger. Both bikes are geared at 13/48.
Ktm exc is the best!
It's a good one...
The forks on the beta are way too far up in the triple clamps {10mm}. Put them right under the gold cap and it will make a huge difference. At the cap is line 1 that Beta recommends and 5mm up is line 2.
We’re in really tight stuff out here.
KTM looks like a Chinese copy of a KTM.
Both suck as desert bikes.
I’ve ridden hundreds of hours in the Nevada and California Desert. I would take a 300 2T out there any day. We’re not just riding flat desert though. Washes with dried up water falls and high desert singletrack. So fun! What are you riding?
@dirtabletv The varies of the California Mojave desert . I don't know why all of a sudden 2 strokes became 2T's. The "T" doesn't make any sense. I grew up desert racing. Modern 4 strokes are a million times better for the desert.
Looks a lot like Pacific Northwest riding.
Tennessee is nice but the PNW has some world class riding spots!
Hahaha that’s to funny.. Beta is trash bro. I know 2 people who got em n regret it. Not to mention KTM has been around for years and own husky’s which is also much much better then lame ugly beta bikes. Italian made stuff is trash
Spoken like a true hater. I've had KTM guys ride my Beta and marvel at how easy it is to ride on rugged NorCal single track.
@@JoePass222 you are kinda right haha i am hating a little bit. I just love ktm bikes. But really I would ride any dirt bike there all great now a days. I have two new bikes a KTM xcf 350 and Yamaha TTR230 for trails and family plus few older ones. Idk if I’d buy anything but an electric dirt bike in the future a Stark, KTM, or surron!!