The world of trials has not been exempt from the demanding anti-pollution policies set by the official bodies for the coming years. As a result, the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme has also set new rules regarding the mechanics to be used, in which greater respect for the environment prevails.
This brings with it two facts: the end of two-stroke engines, manufacturing an ecological 2-stroke engine is expensive and with so many anti-pollution “plugs” it would yield little power, and the birth of the new four-stroke trials, in which the brands are already working at a good pace. The The Sherco prototype, made by Josep Paxau, not only rolls but has even already entered the pre-production phase, and will be on sale at the end of 2003.
Rev… Weight Aja
The The Beta-Cabestany binomial has been revealed to be one of the most effective of the year, after achieving the aforementioned sporting successes, from which the third edition of the Rev-3 benefits, which arrives loaded with novelties and improvements successfully applied to Albert’s bike, and which accentuate even more if possible its exclusivity.
If we take a general look at the Beta, the first impression is that only its aesthetics have been worked on, which on this occasion gives prominence to yellow and grey, but the reality is quite different, as it has received numerous changes aimed at improving the response of its engine and reducing weight, which continues and will continue to be, probably, the most important challenge for engineers in the world of trial.
The chassis of the Rev-3 remains faithful to its scheme of the exclusive monocoque frame made of aluminium, which stands out, once again, for the quality of its finishes and the excellent rigidity it brings to the whole. Likewise, the same suspension scheme is maintained, although the Paioli monoshock without linkages has been completely redesigned, with the difference that the separate gas tank has been added to the body of the shock itself, providing greater effectiveness and lightness. Regarding the front axle, the fork, also Paioli, incorporates another hydraulic tare of the spring seeking greater homogeneity in the whole, in addition to giving a new “racing” finish to the lower seatpost.
The brakes receive few modifications, the most substantial being the incorporation of perforated discs with a new design. Along with this braking set, we see a different crown and lighter hubs. As far as the engine is concerned, the main novelty is found in the redesign of the crankshaft, lightened and with the same inertial effects as the previous model, in order not to compromise the reliability of the engine. The Beta also has a new flywheel with a smaller and lighter rotor that allows for faster rev climbs and gives it greater smoothness, reducing the retention effect when releasing the gas.
For Save another good handful of grams The clutch cover has been replaced by one made entirely of magnesium. In the depths of the engine we find some modifications in the gearbox developments, after the first gear was lengthened and the fourth gear shortened with the aim of improving the behavior in the areas. To finish with the mechanical section, mention the thinning work carried out on the exhaust system, with a notable reduction in the thickness of the material that makes up the manifold, to which is added a modification in the anchoring of the end silencer.
In the Cooling system: Changes are made to the water pump to optimize performance and achieve stability in the engine’s operating temperature. And to finish with the novelties of the Rev-3, we point out the new design of the rear fender, which incorporates a cover held by two screws that, when released, allows access to the air filter, an aspect that simplifies the maintenance work of the same significantly. With all these changes, the Beta has lost three kilos, so, although it does not achieve a record figure, it does allow it to enter the weight war.
Different
Gas Gas has had a busy year since its ambitious project called “Pro” was launched last year. Many components have had to be modified in order to ensure greater effectiveness and reliability of the bike, since in the first 2002 units, problems with the revolutionary gearbox and clutch made it clear that there was still much to be done to reach perfection. Little by little these flaws have been polished, to the point that the last 2002 units were already equipped with another clutch system and a deeply revised gearbox. Well, for this season we find a renewed Gas Gas in these and many other aspects, paying special attention to its engine.
Starting from the ’02 chassis, its geometries have been varied in order to achieve a more docile and manageable set. Inside is a pump, its revolutionary motor, improved in two directions: more reliability and smoother power delivery. This last problem has been solved with the installation of another cylinder head and a new clutch, which differs from the previous one by having more oil fluid – this, in turn, greases the gearbox and crankshaft bearings. The traditional Dell’Orto PHBH carburetor has been replaced by the new VHTS, which is proving to be very effective.
On the other hand The intermediate exhaust has been revised in its internal ducts, in order to optimize the response of
l Low-speed propeller. Other important details in this model are the placement of a more effective electric fan, and the redesign of the clutch cover in search of better cooling of the clutch.
In the area of the cycle part there are few modifications: shorter fork bars, increased tank capacity to 3 litres, and the most substantial change, which was already introduced in the latest units of the previous model, the adoption of another filter box that corrects leak problems and allows easy access to the filter itself…
Finally, the decoration has changed, as usual every year, this time giving more prominence to black, which can be combined with the traditional colors of the brand: yellow, red or blue; It’s up to you.
Passion Red
With the experience gathered by Montesa in the six previous editions of the Cota 315 R, with which four World Championships have been won, the 2003 model continues to maintain the solid and effective image of the previous set, but with some novelties. The line that has been followed this year is to adapt the current frame to the new requirements of the regulations, without compromising the reliability that characterizes the legendary brand. On the one hand, we have sought to optimize the performance of the thermodynamic group by redesigning the cylinder distribution diagram, as well as its nicolature. To complement this aspect, work has been done on the carburetion and the reed box, thus achieving a notable improvement in the engine’s response at any speed.
As far as the cycle part is concerned, Showa’s engineers have focused their efforts mainly on thoroughly reviewing the setting of the suspension set, which remains for another year as the strong point of the Cota 315. In order to achieve greater riding efficiency, a new handlebar signed by Domino has been fitted, whose design adopts the dimensions used in competition by Doug Lampkin.
Last we find new stickers that update the exterior image, while the main colour remains, once again, the characteristic red of Montesa, although this time with a somewhat livelier tone, highlighting, as always, the very high quality of finishes and the exclusivity provided by the HRC initials engraved on the engine.
Scor… Ignition
Surprising, that’s the word that defines the Scorpa. A bike that you all know by name but whose potential few have really discovered, which is why we rarely see it in a paddock or on a trial on any given Sunday. This year, with the addition of a top rider to its ranks , José Manuel Alcaraz The French factory has been able to take advantage of its work in competition to create a very competitive bike that will surprise more than one.
The SY 250 is presented in its third version with multiple novelties, such as the modification of the chassis geometries in order to improve driving precision. This detail has been joined by a completely redesigned swingarm, made of aluminum, which gives it a cleaner look, and at the same time gives a little more rigidity to the rear axle.
In the suspensions, once again the Sachs monoshock without linkages is relied on, as in the Beta Rev-3 , with the difference that in the French it is placed in a diagonal position with respect to the swingarm, going vertical in the Italian one. In this edition, the settings have been varied in order to create more homogeneous reactions with the fork, being able to regulate both the compression and the rebound without having to disassemble any element, undoubtedly a great idea that is at the same time very effective on the fly. As far as the fork is concerned, new seals and seal holders are fitted, and the settings have been adjusted to balance the assembly as much as possible, an aspect that has been successfully achieved.
The 250cc Yamaha engine, valued for its docility and response at low revs, now explodes furiously when turning the throttle grip, a clear sign that the guidelines taken for its set-up have been on the right track. The secret? Another compression ratio, modified ignition, lighter flywheel, different carburetion settings 145 main chewing gum, which is partly to blame for the big final stretch. Finally, the elbow of the exhaust has been shortened to improve response, and in turn protect it a little more from impacts.
Along with these most relevant novelties, we have others that demonstrate the high level of finishes of the Scorpa, such as The renewed, smaller chain tensioners rub less against obstacles and are more comfortable to handle the cams, they do not have splines. Continuing with the details, we can see that another handlebar has been placed – without a rebar – anodized in black, with removable cleats that adjust the height to the rider’s liking. And remember that you can directly attach the 5.5-litre tank of the Long-Ride trial-excursion version to this bike, with a built-in seat, which will give you more autonomy.
Experience
The new Sherco has been the result of the extensive experience gathered in competition by the brand, with changes aimed at maintaining the compromise between reliability and lightness already characteristic of its previous models.
To meet those goals, the first thing Sherco engineers focused on was the chassis, modifying its geometries to gain agility and handling. And
The next challenge was to fine-tune the suspensions looking for more progressivity in the rear axle and modifying the settings of the Paioli fork manufactured exclusively for Sherco, thus achieving greater homogeneity in the face of the requirements of the new regulations.
The improvements made to the engine have focused on the adjustment of the gearbox, applying a new ratio developed by the Sherco factory riders. To improve the response of the engine, it has been equipped with the new Dell’Orto VHTS carburettor, similar to that of the Gas Gas. Finally, several details have been polished: a tighter air filter housing, and a new, more efficient clutch crown.
On an aesthetic level there are few novelties, only graphics, with silver grey details, in combination once again with the brand’s emblematic blue and yellow.
Effective
The time has come to evaluate all the modifications declared by the manufacturers, in order to find out the effectiveness of the work carried out.
We start with the Beta, clearly the frame on which the most work has been done in the entire comparison, as it has been remodeled in numerous aspects and subjected to a slimming diet that has managed to reduce its empty weight to 73.6 verified kilos.
When we get on it we see that it is a tremendously stable bike, which, togetherwith the smooth operation of all its controls, translates into a pleasant riding position. The Italian is one of the three bikes in the comparison that are fitted with a 250 cc engine the others are the Scorpa and the Montesa, although Gas Gas and Sherco also offer a model of this displacement, a detail that makes them more docile motorcycles for those looking for a smooth response at low revs, although, let’s not fool ourselves, These engines are the ones with the most dazzling rev climb and enjoy the greatest final stretch.
Well Of the quarter-litre engines, the Beta is perhaps the best performing, especially at high revs, as it has a great final stretch and never seems to end. Of course, riding this bike for a long time we have observed that it produces some tiredness. Another point that can be improved is found in the intermediate exhaust , which rubs against the engine producing an unpleasant noise when falling in revs, although this is easily solved by placing a small separation rubber. The suspensions are one of the best in the comparison, successfully achieving a very homogeneous set that helps a lot to overcome obstacles, with sweet reactions that allow you to correct inaccuracies in the riding.
We continue with the Scorpa, a mount that has sought very different guidelines from its rivals when it comes to evolving and innovating. When we get on it we appreciate that it is a bike with a very low center of gravity, and if we add to that a more rearward position than normal, we get a positive feeling of balance and stability, along with greater traction. The French bike is an exclusive bike, with multiple quality details of impeccable finish , the swingarm or the seatposts. The suspensions are quite similar to those of the Beta, especially the Paioli fork, which transmits great precision, being very playful. At the rear, the Sachs shock absorber transmits somewhat abrupt reactions, since at the beginning of its travel it shows a rather soft setting and in its final section it hardens a lot.
The Yamaha engine is very powerful , with a very smooth response at low revs and a great final stretch, which helps the amateur rider to maintain control at all times. Of course, in expert hands it can be a bit lazy when going up the revs, but modifying a series of carburetion settings obtains a noticeable improvement in its behavior. As for the details to be checked, we highlight that the feel of the controls is hard – especially the clutch and accelerator controls, while the water pump is somewhat exposed to shocks as it protrudes.
Finally, we notice a small jump in the gearbox between fifth and sixth gear that leaves us somewhat “hanging” in the interzones.
Feelings
Few novelties for the reigning World Champion, who despite experiencing her seventh season on the market and being the heaviest in the comparison, continues to reap triumphs. In this new edition of the Cota 315 R we find a less abrupt and forceful engine, easier to drive, thanks to a more progressive clutch, together with new carburetion settings that fine-tune the response of the engine. The 75.8 kilos empty, verified on our scales, remain a mere anecdotal fact, since, once on top, the Montesa continues to be a light and manageable bike with little to envy to its revolutionary competitors.
We move on to the “fat” engines, both the 280 Gas Gas and the 2.9 Sherco. Engines with a sharper and more direct response at low revs for those looking for greater forcefulness in the throttle stroke. The Sherco has, perhaps, a more progressive power delivery, with a nobler downhill behavior than the Gas Gas, which on the contrary is more aggressive and less docile.
As far as
suspensions are concerned, neither of them is at the level of either the Beta or the Montesa, although the work carried out has been important as it has gained progressiveness, although the setting of the Sherco, unlike that of the Gas Gas, is soft.
Focusing on details to improve the Sherco, we miss the practical starter handle that was mounted in previous editions, and that made it easier to handle. On the other hand, we do not find perforated brake discs, something that all its rivals do and that increases braking efficiency in adverse circumstances. Other noteworthy aspects of the 2.9 are the good feel of the clutch, soft and efficient, and its excellent driving position.
The TXT “Pro” continues to have great potential at all levels, despite the fact that its level of finishes is quite debatable, and that the changes introduced have led it to gain weight, once again exceeding the barrier of 70 kilos, although it remains the lightest.
Beta Rev3 2003
What’s New
Engine
* Lighter crankshaft.
* Modified first, third, and fourth shift ratios.
* Different water pump.
* Lighter and smaller ignition rotor.
* Lighter, redesigned exhaust manifold.
* Magnesium clutch cover.
Cycle part
* Fork with modified set-up and a sportier look.
* Lighter shock absorber, with the gas reservoir built into the shock absorber itself (previously separate). Revised set-ups.
* Carbon fiber silencer protector.
* Lighter rear hub.
* Lighter rear brake disc with a different design.
* Different rear brake lever, less exposed to shocks.
* Separate filter access cover, removable with two screws.
* Different rear fender, designed in conjunction with the new filter box cover.
* Shock absorber baffle, plastic, different to improve cooling.
* Silent placed in the forward position.
Gas Gas TXT PRO 2003
What’s New
Engine
* Different stock, for a smoother response.
* Crankcase with more oil capacity.
* Reinforced clutch cover, with new oil passage ducts, which improve cooling.
* Different clutch discs. Increased oil flow throughout the system.
* Modified electric fan.
* Ignition cover with different anchorage.
* Better oiled crankshaft bearings, taking the oil from the clutch and gearbox.
* State-of-the-art Dell’Orto carburetor.
* Different intermediate and silent exhaust.
Cycle part
* Chassis with different geometry, in search of greater agility.
* Shorter fork bars.
* Larger fuel tank, with 3 liters capacity.
* Distinct crown guard.
* Tighter filter box.
*Decoration.
Montesa Cota 315R 2003
What’s New
Engine
* Cylinder with retouched distribution. Different nicosilate.
* Carburetion adjustments.
Cycle part
* Worked suspension settings.
* Domino “Doug Lampkin” handlebars.
* Different decoration and red body color in a brighter tone.
Scorpa SY 250R 2003
What’s New
Engine
* Modified ignition.
* More combustion chamber.
* Lighter flywheel.
* Carburetion with new settings. Main chewing gum of 145.
* Shorter, hidden exhaust elbow.
Cycle part
* Modified chassis geometry, in order to improve driving precision.
* Barless handlebar, anodized in black, more comfortable and with height adjustment system.
* Aluminium swingarm, cleaner and stiffer design.
* Paioli fork with different settings.
* Sachs shock absorber with different setting, adjustable without disassembling any other component of the bike.
* Smaller, faster-acting chain tensioners.
*Decoration.
Sherco 2.9 2003
Engine
* Different gear ratio.
* More robust and effective clutch hub.
Cycle part
* Different chassis geometry, for the sake of better handling and agility.
* Rear suspension with a different progressivity curve.
* Paioli fork with modified set-up.
* Airtighter air filter box.
* Updated décor. Finished in matt polished aluminium.
