BETA EVO 4T - 2010 models
By TMX Archives on 22nd Apr 09
WHEN T+MX tested the new-for-2009 Beta EVO two-stroke range we were impressed with the noticeable jump in progress from the REV3 equivalent.
The new chassis was noticeably lighter than previous, the rear suspension improved by a return to a link system and the engines smoothed-out thanks to new crankshafts and other mods. We liked them so much that T+MX Youth Club column editor Beth Hoggarth bought one for herself! So it goes without saying that we looked forward to a first ride on the four-stroke version, the EVO 4T, and that chance came just last week with a trip over to UK importer John Lampkin's Silsden HQ and several hours riding in his nearby test venue.
Whereas the original REV3 four-stroke utilised what was obviously a modified existing two-stroke chassis, a good look round the new EVO 4T model brings the thought that, although the 2T was put into production first, the EVO was actually designed around the four-stroke engine. If this is true, it would be a relatively simple job to slot in the smaller, lighter, 2T engine. This is just a theory but the EVO 4T just looks so ‘right'.
As stated, the new-for-2009 EVO is Beta's latest evolution of their aluminium chassis which started back in 1989 as the Zero, then worked through the Techno and REV3 versions, each smaller and lighter than the last before they surprised us all with the EVO which for the first time featured a single-beam top ‘tube' which took the smaller, lighter theme to a whole new level.
The other big news was that Beta returned to a link-type rear suspension system following the linkless experiment with the REV3.
Our test revealed that the suspension action was improved while retaining the distinctive Beta feel - it offers a lighter feeling with a slower, more deliberate movement rather than the more sudden ‘vertical' action of some of its rivals.
The bottom line with the EVO 2T is that it represented a genuine improvement over its predecessor, something that we also expected when the 4T was released.
This year, the 4T is available in both 250 and 300 versions - and at 297.3cc it really is a genuine 300. In REV3 guise only the 250 was available as a production model although you could uprate to 300 via a kit.
Woody Hole was impressed with the EVO 2T range, so as a self-confessed four-stroke fan, how would he rate the EVO 4T.
Read the bike tests:
