By limiting the possible modifications on the Superbike World Championship motorcycles to bring them closer to the series, Dorna forces manufacturers to use very high-performance original machines, equipped with very developed technologies, and therefore very expensive for customers when they go to the dealerships. This is the point of view of Tom Sykes with the recent arrival of the Ducati Panigale V4 R in 2019, then the Honda CBR1000RR-R in 2020.
Sykes, who was World Champion on a Kawasaki, now rides a BMW, and both machines are derived for production motorcycle racing and relatively simple compared to the new Ducati and Honda.
“In some areas the Ducati works very well, but it also has its limits, » believes Sykes. “There is always a limit, because there is a subtle balance between the chassis, the engine, the suspension and the tires. When you take this combination into account, each track only allows certain things. You have to compromise. »
“On a lap, all the bikes are within a few tenths of a second, each manufacturer has its own way of working. »
“The BMW project is new and we are already doing amazing things. Every time a manufacturer introduces a new motorcycle, it gets better and better over the years. The S 1000 RR will be no different. »
" The promoter of the Dorna World Championship has brought the motorcycles closer to production over the past few years. This has changed the image, but the ride has not become cheaper. Now factories have to invest more in their production machinery, which makes it more expensive for customers. »
“In the past, engines were developed more intensively by teams, which was cheaper. I don't want to take any risks on this subject. I can only say that you can only work with the tools you have in your box. »
“The power of the production S 1000 RR, we see it in road races like the Isle of Man or in Superstock races. The current technical regulations are the result of the poor economic situation. Hence the single engine rule, which has a negative impact on the show.”
“I haven't understood a lot of things in recent years, but after a few months I stopped talking about it, because I can't change anything anyway. I have to deal with what the organizers tell us to do. »
“In 2020, I think it will be tighter. The Kawasaki was so well developed that it is still the benchmark today. I know exactly what level this bike is at. Over time, we will put together a unit to be able to fight for the championship title. »
Photos © BMW AG
Source: Speedweek. com
