long Enduro style racers . The next standout thing was the front brake . Given the wet ground conditions the front brake feel was super powerful and one could effortlessly lock the front at any speed , but there was still excellent feel . The 260mm disc and Nissin caliper does a tremendous job . The rear was great too with loads of power and feel . Because this is the RR Racing model , it has upgraded suspension . I ’ d not ridden the Racing before and the KYB forks are certainly a step-up in overall performance compared to the standard Marzocchi ones . The main improvement is in plushness throughout the stroke . They offered a
remarkably comfortable and competent ride . As the test was held in wet conditions on rolling terrain , I can ’ t really comment on hard-out bottoming resistance , but we did do a few modest jumps and they held up excellently . The ZF shock was very plush and nice riding too , but as it was set-up for Mark who is much lighter than myself , it was too soft for me overall and bottomed out a bit … as to be expected . At both ends the suspension is fully adjustable . Ergonomically the Beta is absolutely top shelf . Everything is in the correct place , all control action and feel is superb , freedom of movement is excellent , it ’ s very slim and
56 KIWI RIDER