2017 New Montesa Cota 300RR and 4RT260
American Honda announced its lineup of 2017 Montesa
trials bikes. Between the exclusive Cota 300RR and the capable Cota 4RT260,
Honda Montesa has something for trials riders of every level. 2016 saw Repsol
Honda rider Toni Bou land an incredible 20th World Championship (10 outdoor, 10
indoor), while U.S. Montesa Honda rider Marc Freixa won the AMA/NATC MotoTrials
National Championship.
Introduced last year, the Cota 300RR (“Race Ready”)
is the production model closest to the factory prototypes. For 2017, the 300RR
is even better, with new ECU mapping that improves engine response in the low
and middle rpm ranges that are especially important for trials motorcycles.
Another aspect that contributes to engine response is the new three-ring piston
(up from two), which helps prevent leakage and improves durability. The piston
is now lighter and has a flatter top, reducing vibration and making combustion
more efficient at low rpm. The cylinder has also been redesigned to match the
new piston, further improving engine efficiency.
The chassis has also been
updated, with new, suppler settings for the Tech fork, similar to those used by
factory riders. Finally, the muffler is more robust with reinforced mounts, and
the rear-brake pedal has been shortened to avoid impacts and allow the rider
more freedom of movement. Price wiil be US$ 9,999 available in December 2016.
A cutting-edge machine for trials enthusiasts and
those looking for a cross-training tool, the 4RT260 was first introduced to the
U.S. market in 2015. Now offered in a striking new White/Blue/Red livery, the
2017 version also has the longer kick-start lever from the 300RR, making
starting easier. The aesthetic changes can also be noticed on the fork, now
included with a chromed tube and black leg. The 4RT260 retains the reliable
260 cc four-stroke engine that was improved last year, boasting a strong power
curve, with an emphasis on bottom end and midrange. A clever crankcase
decompressing system reduces the engine-braking effect at closed throttle,
improving handling and making the bike feel lighter. Also standard is top-level
suspension, with a fork from Tech and a shock from R16V—both well known in the
trials world. Price: US$ 7,899. Availability: November 2016.
