If there’s a comparison test built purely around fun factor, this might just be it. In one corner is the new Beta RR 200 X-PRO – a pint-sized firecracker with serious attitude. In the other, Beta Australia’s best-selling machine, the Xtrainer 300. On paper, they’re worlds apart in build spec and power output, but out on the trail, both deliver grins for days.

I really like that Beta has carved out distinct options in its 2025 two-stroke line-up. The Xtrainer range is designed for newer riders and those who enjoy playing in tight, technical terrain – the engines are tuned for smoother delivery, and the suspension is considerably softer than on the X-PROs. The RR 200 X-PRO, meanwhile, sits in the middle ground as an entry-level full-size machine built to tackle just about any trail. And at the top end, the RR Racing models are full-blown racebikes, dripping in high-end bling and engineered to go fast. I’ve spent plenty of time on both the X-PRO and Racing bikes, but I haven’t had much seat time on the Xtrainer, so I was keen to throw a leg over something new and see how it stacks up against a known favourite.

BETA 200RR X-PRO 2T

Over the years I’ve developed a soft spot for the Beta RR 200 X-PRO – and for good reason. I’ve always loved the small-bore two-stroke life, and while bikes like 125s and 150s are a blast on fast, flowy tracks, adding an extra 50cc transforms the experience into something altogether more versatile. The RR 200 X-PRO delivers great power, sounds fantastic, has the convenience of electric start, and just feels like a complete package that’s built for pure fun.

Sure, the new ZF suspension is on the softer side, but because the RR 200 X-PRO is so light, it never really gets out of shape – you always feel in control. This was especially noticeable on the sketchy trails at QMP during the launch. While some of the bigger bikes felt unsettled and twitchy, the 200 held its line with minimal fuss. The jetting was spot-on too, with no bog or hesitation off the bottom, which is crucial for a small-bore two-stroke. And while the 200cc capacity lets you ride a bit lazier than you would on a 125, it’s such a fun bike that you can’t help but push it hard.

 

BETA XTRAINER 300 2T

I’m not going to lie – I had my doubts about the Xtrainer 300 at first. Its slimmer build, compact frame, thinner suspension and restricted pipe had me assuming it would feel underwhelming. But after throwing a leg over it, I was blown away. This bike is surprisingly capable and a whole lot of fun – just in a very different way to the RR 200 X-PRO. Where the 200 thrives on speed and momentum, the Xtrainer 300 encourages a slower, more technical approach. That’s exactly what it’s built for – a light, user-friendly trailbike with the grunt and control to take on tough terrain with ease.

I’m no hard enduro rider – I hate smashing parts and having to replace them – but I do enjoy the occasional play ride through hills and rocky terrain. And something strange happens when you’re on the Xtrainer 300: it draws you straight toward the nastiest-looking line. Horrible creek bed? Let’s climb it. Sketchy hill? Why not. Nasty log pile? Bring it on. The Xtrainer turned out to be way more fun than expected. Sure, I’d never take it onto a grass track or motocross loop – the soft suspension and mellow power aren’t built for that – but if you’re someone who rides singletrack (gnarly or not), wants a light, approachable bike, or is looking for a friendly way into the sport, this machine makes perfect sense. Its lower seat height also makes it a great platform for learning the tricky stuff and building your bike skills.

200RR X-PRO OR XTRAINER 300?

If you’re wondering which bike suits your needs best, here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide based on a few typical riding scenarios and features.

Rocks and roots

Both bikes handle technical terrain well, but the edge goes to the Xtrainer 300. Its smooth, torquey engine makes it nearly impossible to stall, letting you crawl through gnarly sections at near-zero revs without fuss. The RR 200 X-PRO is capable too, but it doesn’t quite match the Xtrainer’s low-down lugging ability.

 Fast and flowy

This is where the RR 200 X-PRO shines and clearly outpaces the Xtrainer 300. While the Xtrainer can handle flowing singletrack, its power delivery feels choked in the mid-to-top rev range, leaving you wanting more go. Built for slower, technical work, the Xtrainer simply can’t match the 200’s willingness to rev and stretch its legs when the pace picks up.

 Engine and power

This is a bit of a tricky one because these bikes are built for totally different styles of riding. If you want a bit of a torque and grunt monster, then the Xtrainer 300 is for you, whereas the RR 200 X-PRO is built to be revved and the clutch is there to be used and abused. I guess you just have to pick your poison – do you want to go fast or do you want to go slow?

 Suspension

As with the engines, the suspension on these two bikes is worlds apart – but both make sense once you’re riding them as intended. Jumping on the Xtrainer 300, I expected to hate how soft it was. And yes, if you ride it like the RR 200 X-PRO, it quickly feels overwhelmed. But slow things down, use it for its purpose, and the plushness turns into a real asset. It’s comfortable, super forgiving and the rear shock delivers excellent traction. The RR 200 X-PRO is firmer and more capable at speed – it thrives when pushed and handles aggressive riding with ease. That said, I’d love to throw a leg over the 200 RR-Race with KYB suspension… that combo could be something really special.

Final thoughts

Honestly, both of these bikes are a blast and will suit a broad range of riders. The RR 200 X-PRO remains one of the most fun bikes I’ve ever tested – there’s just something about a super-light two-stroke with crisp jetting and snappy power delivery that puts a huge grin on my face. Maybe it’s the sound of a little bike on the pipe for 90% of the lap, or just the pure simplicity of it all. Whatever it is, it makes me smile every time.

And then there’s the Xtrainer 300. I was genuinely surprised to learn it’s the most popular model in Beta’s line-up – but now I get it. Don’t let its lean appearance fool you; this bike is built to have fun, especially when the terrain gets tricky. It’s more than happy to crawl in and out of whatever mess you point it at, tackling obstacles with ease. I found myself grinning on this bike too – even if that smile came from going slow.

The fun factor of these two bikes is what dirt biking is all about – good times and smiles that last well beyond the ride. I had a fair idea of what to expect before swinging a leg over them, but what I didn’t anticipate was just how much I’d want to get back on them after riding everything else in the Beta range. That’s how much fun they are.

BETA XTRAINER 300 2T

ENGINE
TYPE: Single-cylinder, two-stroke, liquid-cooled
DISPLACEMENT: 292.3cc
BORE AND STROKE: 73.0mm x 69.9mm
COOLING: Liquid
COMPRESSION RATIO: 11.45:1
FUEL METERING: Keihin PWK 36
TANK CAPACITY: 8.8L
TRANSMISSION: 6-speed
CLUTCH: Wet multi-disc with reverse opening

DIMENSIONS
WHEELBASE: 1467mm
SEAT HEIGHT: 910mm
GROUND CLEARANCE: 320mm
WEIGHT: 99kg (dry)

SUSPENSION
FRONT: Hydraulic USD fork, 43mm, 270mm travel
REAR: Monoshock with progressive compound lever, 270mm travel

BRAKES
FRONT: Wave disc, 260mm, twin-piston floating caliper
REAR: Wave disc, 240mm, single-piston caliper

RUNNING GEAR
HANDLEBAR: NA
FRONT TYRE: 80/100-21
REAR TYRE: 140/80-18

PRICE & CONTACTS
RRP: $13,520 ride away
BROWSER: betamotor.com.au
WARRANTY: NA

BETA 200RR X-PRO 2T

ENGINE
TYPE: Single-cylinder, two-stroke, liquid-cooled
DISPLACEMENT: 190.2cc
BORE AND STROKE: 62.0mm x 63.0mm
COOLING: Liquid
COMPRESSION RATIO: 13.5:1
FUEL METERING: Keihin PWK 36
TANK CAPACITY: 9.5L
TRANSMISSION: 6-speed
CLUTCH: Wet multi-disc with reverse opening

DIMENSIONS
WHEELBASE: 1477mm
SEAT HEIGHT: 930mm
GROUND CLEARANCE: 325mm
WEIGHT: 97kg (dry)

SUSPENSION
FRONT: Hydraulic USD fork, 48mm, 295mm travel
REAR: Monoshock with progressive compound lever, 290mm travel

BRAKES
FRONT: Wave disc, 260mm, twin-piston floating caliper
REAR: Wave disc, 240mm, single-piston caliper

RUNNING GEAR
HANDLEBAR: NA
FRONT TYRE: 90/90-21
REAR TYRE: 140/80-18

PRICE & CONTACTS
RRP: $14,620 ride away
BROWSER: betamotor.com.au
WARRANTY: NA