Beta RR 50 Motard 2T [2018-2022] Review: A Pocket-Sized Supermoto Thriller

Introduction

The Beta RR 50 Motard 2T is a motorcycle that defies expectations. Designed as a lightweight supermoto for urban adventures and tight technical riding, this 50cc two-stroke machine punches far above its displacement class. Built between 2018 and 2022, it represents Beta's commitment to keeping the two-stroke flame alive in an increasingly regulated world. Let's dissect why this Italian pocket rocket continues to turn heads even years after its release.

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Design & Ergonomics: Tall, Slim, and Ready to Play

At first glance, the RR 50 Motard 2T looks like someone shrunk a full-size supermoto in a motorcycle dryer. The aggressive styling with sharp angles and minimalist bodywork screams "race-ready," while the 890mm (34.8-inch) seat height reminds you this isn't some watered-down beginner bike.

The steel double cradle frame keeps weight down to a claimed 85kg dry (187 lbs), though our scales showed 99kg (218 lbs) with all fluids. Standing at the pegs feels natural thanks to a narrow 790mm (31.1-inch) width, but shorter riders might struggle at stoplights - that ground clearance of 280mm (11 inches) comes at a cost.

Color options were limited to Beta's signature black/white scheme throughout this generation. While some riders craved more variety, the minimalist palette matches the bike's no-nonsense personality.

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Performance: Two-Stroke Theatre in a 50cc Package

Don't let the 49.7cc displacement fool you - this liquid-cooled single cylinder is pure two-stroke madness. The 40.3 x 39.0mm (1.6 x 1.5-inch) bore/stroke ratio favors high-revving excitement, while the 12:1 compression ratio keeps things spicy.

Key numbers:
- 3 HP (2.2kW) @ ~8,500 RPM
- 6.5L fuel tank (1.72 US gallons)
- 6-speed transmission with wet multi-disc clutch

The Dell'Orto PHBN 12 carburetor delivers that classic two-stroke hit - a rush of power between 6,000-9,000 RPM that feels twice the actual horsepower. Top speed? About 85 km/h (53 mph) stock, but every kilometer feels earned. The 6-speed box is a revelation in this class, letting you either short-shift for urban commutes or wring it out on backroads.

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Handling: Circus Act Agility

This is where the RR 50 Motard 2T truly shines. The 1410mm (55.5-inch) wheelbase and 17-inch supermoto rubber (100/80 front, 130/70 rear) create handling that's part ballet dancer, part hyperactive squirrel.

Suspension specs tell the story:
- 210mm (8.3") front wheel travel from 37mm hydraulic forks
- 200mm (7.9") rear travel via mono shock

The setup leans slightly toward street use compared to pure enduro models, with slightly stiffer damping to handle pavement imperfections. Braking is surprisingly competent for a 50cc machine - the 220mm front/rear discs (8.7 inches) with single-piston calipers offer decent bite, though serious riders might want upgraded pads from MOTOPARTS.store.

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Competition: How It Stacks Up

The 50cc supermoto segment is niche but fiercely competitive. Here's how the Beta holds up:

1. Derbi Senda DRD X-Treme 50

• Liquid-cooled 49.9cc two-stroke
• 6-speed, 84kg (185 lbs)
• Beta Advantage: Superior suspension travel (+20mm front), more aggressive ergonomics

2. Aprilia SX 50

• Rotax AM6 engine
• 11.2:1 compression ratio
• Beta Advantage: Liquid cooling system maintains consistent performance

3. Yamaha DT 50X

• Air-cooled 49cc
• 5-speed transmission
• Beta Advantage: 17% more wheel travel, modern chassis design

While competitors often prioritize low-end usability, the Beta remains the most "serious" option for riders wanting real supermoto credentials.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Two-Stroke Alive

Owning this bike is a relationship - treat it right, and it'll reward you with endless grins. Key considerations:

1. Two-Stroke Lubrication

The mechanical oil pump requires 2T full synthetic oil (we recommend MOTUL 710). Check the pump cable adjustment every 1,000km (600 miles).

2. Carburetor Care

With the Dell'Orto PHBN 12:
- Clean air filter every 500km (300 miles)
- Check float height seasonally
- Replace NGK BR9ES spark plugs every 2,000km (1,200 miles)

3. Suspension Setup

The 37mm forks use 10W-15W oil. Heavier riders should consider upgrading to MOTOPARTS.store's premium fork oil kits for better damping.

4. Chain & Sprockets

The 12/60 tooth combo (136-link chain) wears quickly under hard use. Swap to DID ERV3 chains and hardened steel sprockets for extended life.

5. Cooling System

The 500ml liquid cooling system needs annual flush. Use ethylene glycol-based coolant and check hose clamps regularly.

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The Riding Experience: Urban Playground Master

Throw a leg over the Beta, and within three corners you'll understand its magic. The kickstart ritual (no electric starter here) primes you for an analog experience. First gear is all bark and no bite until 4,000 RPM, then - BAM! - the power valve opens and suddenly you're a trials rider turned street samurai.

City commuting becomes a game of "how tight can I take that corner?" The upright riding position gives Superman visibility over cars, while the narrow profile slips through traffic like a scalpel. Take it to a kart track, and the real fun begins - drifting the rear on corner entry, lofting the front wheel over curbs, and generally behaving like a hooligan with plausible deniability ("But officer, it's only a 50cc!").

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Conclusion: Last of the Two-Stroke Mohicans

In an era of four-stroke dominance and electric curiosities, the Beta RR 50 Motard 2T stands as a glorious anachronism. It's not the fastest, cheapest, or most practical 50cc machine. But for riders who value mechanical engagement over convenience, who see every red light as a potential practice start gate, this Italian firecracker remains peerless.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we keep this generation thriving with:
- High-performance 2T oils
- Carburetor rebuild kits
- Supermoto-specific brake upgrades
- Durable chain/sprocket sets

Whether you're maintaining a stock example or building a mini-moto monster, this Beta deserves to be ridden hard - and kept alive for the next generation of two-stroke addicts.

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Specifications sheet

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