The Beta Alp 400 is not a bike that holds big secrets. Beta’s goal was to improve its current
Beta Alp 200
by offering the user not only more power, but also a set of suspensions and bodywork that allows it to expand its possibilities.
One of the aspects that we wanted to keep under control at all times is the weight, since if there is one thing that has always characterized the saga of Alp models, it is its great manageability in order to offer skills linked to the philosophy of
trial excursions
. The suspensions have little to do with those of its little sister, despite the fact that in both cases, as usual with the brand, they are signed by Paioli.
The fork is of the conventional type composed of thick 46mm bars, while the rear monoshock works by linkages and can be adjusted in preload according to the needs of the rider.
As far as the brakes are concerned, Grimeca supplies all the material, while the discs are 260mm and 220mm on the front and rear axle, respectively. Obviously, the rims are made of aluminium and they have been fitted with Metzeler tyres that successfully mix the trail and enduro concept, being valid even for urban use.
The bodywork of the Alp breathes futuristic airs, giving the Alp 4.0 a more modern personality than it is basically made of. The base is a new fuel tank with a large capacity – 10.5 litres – on which the two side covers are anchored, equipped with air intakes, thus facilitating the cooling of the engine.
Other exclusive details that we can find in the Alp are its mixed footpegs, in which we find a rubber cover that we can disassemble to enjoy greater grip in the field, and it is also worth mentioning the small hole that we find under the seat, very useful to store the wallet or any accessory.
BETA ALP 4.0 RELIABILITY
Having analyzed almost all the elements of the Beta, we can already say that this is a very nice bike, but surely you will find it much better after revealing its great secret, the engine.
Once again,
Beta
has turned to Suzuki to equip the mechanics of its excursion model, although in this case it is not the typical Japanese engine that is only marketed there, but this time it has bet heavily on a winning horse.
The chosen one in question has been an air-cooled four-stroke single-cylinder engine, which cubes 349cc, and you will surely remember for the star model that has equipped it for years, the Suzuki DR 350SE.
One of its main virtues is that it is electrically operated, with the battery located under the seat. A good detail has been to keep the starter lever, which never hurts for those cases in which the battery decides to stop sending current.
To start it, simply press the clutch gently and pull the red “trigger” next to the throttle grip. The first sensation it transmits is that of a great smoothness, with very few vibrations and a fairly contained noise. We set off in search of a dirt track, but to get there it is necessary to travel a few kilometers on the road, a place where the Alp is very pleasing. We start to link gears and the engine responds by pushing with great force from a few revolutions, all with a smoothness that we had not imagined.
It’s a lot of fun on twisty roads, as its excellent brakes allow you to push hard, and its powerful engine helps you get out with the front wheel in the air easily. Its gear ratio is quite long in its final gears, which allows it to reach speeds close to 140km/h while enjoying great stability, something to take into account for long journeys. Once on the dirt track you have to be more careful, because if you intend to do the same as on the road, you will probably get a scare.
It’s easy to slide from behind, especially in tight corners when starting on high throttle, so if you’re looking to go fast the Alp looks a bit limited. Where he is most comfortable is undoubtedly on the wide dirt tracks, away from rough terrain and trials, although with other more off-road tires his off-road skills could be improved. Its suspensions are ideal for trail riding, as they enjoy a rather hard setting and their response on road sections is sensational.
Text: David Quer / Photos: Beta
