2012 BETA Minicross Review

The BETA Mini Cross 50 R 12 is exactly what young riders need to get into the world of dirtbikes and motorcycles: fun. Without taking itself too seriously in the world of racing, the Mini Cross is geared toward riders from the ages of 8 to 12, and is meant more for buzzing around on trails and home tracks to get youngsters used to the feel of a bike. All over the world, kids are trying to get used riding, whether it be learning how to approach a turn or how to throttle over their first jumps. Not only is the Mini Cross ready for the first time on a track, it is also a safe bike so your little ones can get used to the control and handling of a motorcycle. It is designed with hopes that kids will train their bodies to move with the bike, keeping the balance centered.

The Mini Cross 50 R12 is powered by a 49cc, air-cooled, two-stroke fed by a 14mm Dell'Orto carb. For kids just getting used to riding or racing a mini, the BETA has an automatic transmission so they can concentrate on learning how to handle their machine without worrying about shifting and clutch work just yet. A durable steel frame, 30mm fork, and single shock keep the chassis simple. Also available is the Mini Cross 50 R10, which is the very same bike but with 10-inch wheels front and rear. The 50 R10 is lower to the ground so youngsters ages 4 through 7 years old (company advised age range) can feel comfortable on a motorcycle that’s a little more powerful, but not quite as tall.