After helping reduce lap times in 2023, race-proven pressure measurement solutions from Druck, a Baker Hughes business, is set to help Hawk Racing achieve further success ahead of the 2024 British Superbike season.
The collaboration of the two Midlands based businesses follows a memorable 2023 season, which saw Hawk Racing, using Baker Hughes’ Druck sensor technology, shave more than two seconds from its fastest testing lap at Donington in March 2023, and its performance at the same track later in the British Superbikes season. This improvement, from 1:30.724 to 1:28.223, was directly attributed by Hawk’s race engineers to adjustments to the chassis setup, based upon analysis of brake pressure data recorded by Druck sensors.
Adding to the benefits of adopting Baker Hughes highly accurate and reliable Druck technology, the Hawk Racing Team in 2023 avoided its regular disposal of pressure sensors that provided inaccurate readings.
“During the 2023 season we only had to replace one Druck sensor,” said Steve Hicken, owner of Hawk Racing,” and that was due to a crash at Cadwell Park that physically ripped it from the bike!”
Baker Hughes’ Druck technology contributed to a successful 2023 season for Hawk Racing. Michael Dunlop claimed his 25th victory at the famous Isle of Man TT, earning the title as the second-most successful TT racer ever, while Hawk Racing’s Charlie Nesbitt was the most prominent British Superbike rookie, earning three podiums during the season and finishing in 11th position.
“The durability, reliability and accuracy of Baker Hughes’ Druck pressure sensors were undoubtedly a factor in our success,” continued Hicken. “Striving for further marginal gains in 2024 and leveraging the world class Druck technology to provide even more data points and benchmarks, we’re confident we’ll enjoy an excellent season.”
“Our advanced pressure measurement solutions enable motorsport teams to recognise small deviations in system performance, identifying changes before they become problems,” said Gordon Docherty, general manager of Druck, a Baker Hughes business. “We’re proud that Hawk Racing and our customers across all levels of elite motorsport are benefiting from our 30+ year legacy in motorsport pressure measurement technology and achieving the marginal gains that can make the difference between first and second.”
This season, Druck’s high quality PMP4300 and PMP4400 pressure sensors will feature on Hawk’s Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SPs measuring front and rear brake pressure and oil pressure. Small and robust, the Druck sensors can perform at temperatures from -20 to 175 Degrees Celsius, and withstand the extreme vibration and shock associated with professional motorsport.
The majority of the support class riders within the British Superbike paddock are privateer family outfits or professionally run teams with a “pay for your seat” set up. Anyone who’s ever raced a motorcycle will appreciate the costs don’t stop and entries and seat costs, the cost of competing for a full season without adding a competitive package element into the mix can hold a lot of talented riders and teams back and can see some riders having to withdraw from racing altogether when things go a slightly sideways, as is expected with a sport of this nature.
So how can we help these young riders progress and ease the financial burden on them so they can focus on the riding? Well one BSB superfan had the same thoughts.
Shane Farrow, having unfortunately endured a major family crises with the death of both of his sisters in a short span of time, truly came to understand the meaning of “life is too short” and In the pursuit of living his life fully, Shane made plans to start attending all of rounds of the British Superbike Championship. Being an avid supporter of the whole aspect of racing, and a passion to help and network it’s no surprise that Shane soon found himself working alongside Affinity Race Team Academy with weekend set up, grid walks and generally immersing himself into the paddock family culture. It was here that Shane saw first hand the commitment not only personally but also finically that young rider and their parents were making to race at a British level.
Having already executed a successful fundraising campaign for the MIND charity after the passing of his sisters, Shane looked towards the riders of the BSB support classes and ways that he could help the riders continue racing and to ease some of the financial burden that the sport brings, thus was born the BSB Barmy Army Rider Support Fund.
The sole goal of the initiative is raising funds by donations, raffles, events and sponsorship of the project to be able to supply riders with much needed items. The programme has been well received and so far they have been able to supply Helmets, Boots, Leathers and essential bike parts to young riders.
The fund has gained plenty of support from within the paddock with Lee Jackson becoming an Ambassador of the fund and having said .. “Helping the champions of tomorrow is something I have always been keen to be involved with and being an ambassador to this brilliant project I am pleased to be doing my bit to support and raise the profile of such a worthy cause.”
In the build up to the 2024 season, the BSB Barmy Army are in full swing with their fund-raising efforts and in addition to their ongoing raffles they host on their website, on May 15th the team with be hosting a bike night partnered with Completely Motorbikes, whom are a supporter and promoter of the Barmy Army project. They have also just launched their highlight of the 2024 campaign with the raffling of a Suzuki K1 GSXR 600. The raffle will run throughout the season with the winner being drawn at the final round at Brands Hatch. Full details found on their website linked below where you will also find merchandise and membership details.
The commitment the whole team at BSB Barmy Army have to development of the Rider Support Fund is very clear when you speak to Shane. He has seen a real need and a call to action to help young riders and with the ultimate goal of the project being able to fully fund a rider academy within the British Superbike Championship. Having witnessed the work that is going on since our interview and the preparations for the 2024 season, we are confident that we will see a Barmy Army academy in the paddock in the near future.
To find out more, please reach out to the BSB Barmy Army across their Social Media Channels.
Druck Pressure Sensor Technology Provides Hawk Racing with Competitive Edge Ahead of Local Donington British Superbike Round.
As the 2023 Bennetts British Superbike Championship gears up for Donington Park, Hawk Racing is hoping to build on positives from the season so far, gaining a competitive edge thanks to sensor technology from partner Druck, a Baker Hughes business.
Druck engineers joined the Hawk Racing team and scrutinized data from the Oulton Park round with riders Josh Owens and Charlie Nesbitt, during a session held at Druck’s Leicestershire HQ this week (16 May 2023).
The duo each race onboard Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SPs this season, which are equipped with Druck’s high quality PMP4300 and PMP4400 pressure sensors, measuring front and rear brakes, fuel, air, oil pressures.These provide best-in-class accuracy and reliability – and help pinpoint gains that can be made.
Prior to the Round 3 assault at Donington Park, an analytical review of the Round 2 sensor data was led by Druck senior electronics engineer, Neil Sands, who also supports Hawk Racing as a data engineer. In conjunction with rider feedback and following detailed analysis of the suspension position and the front/rear brake pressure, the team has identified adjustments that will further optimize the bike and rider performance.
These insights and others will guide the Hawk team and help deliver some marginal gains and a competitive advantage as they prepare for Donington, which is the local race for the Mallory Park-based family run team.
“This is our 25th year in racing,” said Steve Hicken, owner of Hawk Racing, “making us the longest established team in British Superbikes – and we want this season to be one to remember. Adopting world-leading sensor technology from Druck, alongside our new Honda machinery and two talented riders, we believe we can make a big impact. With the data we now have access to from Druck, combined with GPS data, wheel speed and other intelligence, we can take decisions round-by-round and tweak our approach. We believe this will set us in good stead for the series and help us see off some strong competition.”
The Druck sensors can perform at temperatures from -20 to 175 Degrees Celsius, and withstand the extreme vibration and shock associated with professional motorsport.
“With a 50-year legacy in pressure measurement, we’re proud that our unrivalled pressure measurement technology is providing Hawk with a competitive advantage and helping them improve performance,” said Jonny MacGregor, Global Engineering Leader at Druck, who is also a GT (Gran Tourer) racing driver in the Britcar British Endurance Championship. “We’re one of the few companies worldwide manufacturing piezo-resistive high quality motorsport sensors from silicon wafers, into a finished product that can withstand the punishing environment of top tier motorsport. Our lightweight sensors provide accuracy and reliability and deliver race teams marginal gains, which on the circuit are critical.
“We hope this collaboration, of two regional firms at the forefront of this industry, will deliver a best-ever season for Hawk Racing on the British Superbike circuit.”
During the visit, the Hawk Racing team and other guests went behind-the-scenes at Druck’s UK production facility, home to almost 700 employees, where around 100 individual processes are completed as part of the assembly of a high-performance pressure sensor.
Since 1990, Druck products have been successfully applied across the motorsport sector, with its products chosen by teams from all leading motorsport series.
Druck is a global leader for pressure measurement supporting customers in more than 70 countries. Its technology is trusted by customers in critical applications across many industries including aerospace, automotive, semiconductor, oil and gas, power generation, meteorology and hydrology.
Copyright Mike Sewell 2023 16th May 2023 Druck announcing their sponsorship of Hawk Superbikes.
Pirelli is ready for the motorcycle challenges of its motorsport season which will kick off next week in Australia, with the first round of the FIM Superbike World Championship. For 2023, innovation and technology remain the cornerstones of the Bicocca company’s commitment to racing.
Giorgio Barbier, Pirelli Motorcycle Racing Director: “This year we will be busy in several disciplines. Development activities will focus on the Superbike World Championship where, for the first time ever, we will introduce a front solution in the soft SC0 compound in the premier class. At the same time, we will continue to work on the extra soft SCQ rear, which has officially become part of the DIABLO Superbike range and is therefore now on sale on the market. As for the other classes, in WorldSSP we will add to the 120/70 front size, used up to now, the new larger 125/70 front size that is already available in the Superbike class, while in WorldSSP300 we will introduce, starting from the Misano round, a new benchmark set that uses renewable materials in the tyres. The goal always remains the same: to improve our tyres year after year, to then pour this know-how into road products.” NEWS AND TARGETS FOR 2023
Competition has been part of Pirelli’s DNA for over 115 years and today there are over 100 two-wheeled championships, at international and national level, in which the Milanese company participates every year. There are several new highlights for 2023, especially within the FIM Superbike World Championship:
Introduction of a front SC0 soft compound
After expanding the DIABLO Superbike range in past seasons with the introduction of rear solutions in softer compounds (SCX in 2020 and SCQ in 2022), Pirelli has decided to complete the development by working on a front soft SC0 compound that is capable to balance the very high level of grip offered by the soft solutions on the rear axle. This new front solution will be offered to riders starting from the first European races and this year it will be subject to constant development in order to make it a standard solution for 2024.
Inclusion into the DIABLO™ Superbike range of the SCQ rear
The SCQ rear solution was made available to Superbike class riders last season. This extra soft compound has been designed to offer the highest level of grip for short distance and therefore for use mainly in qualifying. In 2022, in some cases, it was also possible to use it to cover the 10 laps of the Superpole Race as well as in some local championships. Accepting requests from customers, riders and promoters of national championships, Pirelli has decided to include it in the DIABLO™ Superbike range that is regularly on sale. Therefore, from this year it will be available to all championships, professional riders and amateurs who want to use it. At the same time, in the Superbike World Championship, Pirelli will continue to develop this product so that it guarantees greater mileage and can cover the 10 laps of the Superpole Race on all circuits.
New 125/70 front for WorldSSP
In the Supersport class, Pirelli will introduce the new larger size 125/70, already supplied to Superbike riders, in addition to the current 120/70 size. This will also offer WorldSSP riders a better front-to-rear axle balance.
New benchmark set for WorldSSP300
Starting from the fifth round, the Pirelli Emilia-Romagna round at Misano, the riders of the Supersport 300 World Championship will use a new set of DIABLO Superbike tyres, in the front SC1 and rear SC2 compounds, which uses a percentage of renewable materials to replace those of fossil origin. However, since the first round, compared to past seasons, the riders will no longer use the SC1 rear compound but the SC2.
WORLDSBK: PLATFORM OF TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION SINCE 20 YEARS
Pirelli’s technical partnership with the FIM Superbike World Championship represented the first example of a single tyre supply in the history of top motorsport competitions and, twenty years later, proved to have been a winning choice, as followed by other two and four wheel championships. Pirelli’s strong commitment in this championship is not only justified by the important results in terms of media visibility and brand awareness growth but above all from a technological point of view. For Pirelli two-wheel competitions represent an open-air laboratory for developing and testing, with some of the best riders, their tyres, the same ones that are then put on the market and made available to all motorcyclists around the world. Since 2004, when the Pirelli single tyre supply began in the top production bike derived championship, the Milanese company’s approach has been to remain faithful to the philosophy of the Superbike World Championship by deciding not to supply prototype solutions but normal standard tyres. And, while always remaining faithful to this philosophy over the years, Pirelli has continued to make technological innovation its workhorse by dictating, from time to time, the new parameters of the racing tyres used all over the world: first, in 2013, with the historic transition from 16.5-inch to the new 17-inch tyres, and then, starting from 2018, with the adoption of new larger sizes.
PIRELLI IN MORE THAN 100 COMPETITIONS
Faithful to the strong sporting spirit that has always characterised it as a company, this year Pirelli will participate, in some cases as sole supplier and in others in an open competition between tyre manufacturers, in over 100 of the most important international and national motorcycling competitions, both on track and off road. Among those on asphalt, in addition to the FIM Superbike World Championship, also the FIM Endurance World Championship and, at national level, the British Superbike, Italian Speed Championship(CIV), German IDM Championship and French Superbike Championship, to name just a few. The commitment in off-road competitions has also been confirmed, primarily in the FIM Motocross World Championship in which the Italian tyre company boasts a palmarès of 79 world titles and of which it will be an official tyre supplier until 2025. Then there is the FIM World Supercross Championship (WSX) and AMA Supercross, as well as numerous national motocross competitions. Pirelli participates in all these championships using standard tyres, DIABLO Superbike and DIABLO Supercorsa for track and SCORPION MX in off-road competitions, all regularly on sale on the market and available to all motorcyclists
For more Pirelli Tyre news check out our dedicated page Pirelli Tyres
Suzuki has confirmed its withdrawal from the British Superbike Championship, ahead of the 2023 season.
Aligning with its global racing strategy – which saw the termination of its MotoGP project as well as a scaling back of factory support in the Endurance World Championship – and following the departure of the current GSX-R1000R model from European markets, Suzuki has suspended its official involvement in the premier domestic superbike series.
Over the past six seasons – in partnership with Hawk Racing – the Suzuki GSX-R1000R has won superbike and superstock races with the likes of Bradley Ray, Richard Cooper, Sylvain Guintoli, Kyle Ryde, Gino Rea, Tim Neave, Billy McConnell, and Charlie Nesbitt behind the ‘bars. And in 2019 Cooper also helped steer Suzuki and Hawk Racing to the National Superstock 1000 Championship title.
There has also been success on the roads, with Cooper taking podium finishes at the North West 200, while Michael Dunlop raced the GSX-R to victory in the 2017 Senior TT, the bike’s first appearance at the prestigious Isle of Man TT races.
Suzuki would like to thank the riders and fans for their support, and especially Steve and Stuart Hicken and everyone at Hawk Racing for their hard work and dedication over the last six years, without which none of those historic results would have been possible. Everyone at Suzuki wishes the team well for the future.
Suzuki will continue to support racers campaigning GSX-R machinery at all levels via its Race Parts Programme.
For more Suzuki GB news check out our dedicated page Suzuki GB News
R&G Factory carbon fibre lever defenders now approved by the Bennetts British Superbike Championship.
Since their launch in December, the all-new R&G Factory Carbon Lever Defenders have been an incredibly popular addition to the Hampshire-based crash protection specialist’s extensive range. Now, R&G is pleased to confirm the new collection has been approved for use in the competitive Bennetts British Superbike Championship.
The uniquely designed guards are perfect for protecting the front brake and clutch levers from being accidentally applied when riding on track or filtering through traffic. The stylish and lightweight product has been ergonomically designed to provide maximum coverage while also giving riders enough room to easily operate the controls.
Made from super-strong carbon fibre, the R&G Factory Carbon Fibre Lever Defenders are incredibly durable and long-lasting, giving riders complete peace of mind no matter where they are riding.
With the guards now approved for use in every class in the highly competitive Bennetts British Superbike Championship, many of the R&G-supported riders and teams will be utilising the guards when the series resumes for round three at Donington Park later this month.
The stylish guards are available for hundreds of machines and cost £135.99 (incl. VAT) per side or £249.99 (incl. VAT) for a pair. For more information, visit the R&G website at https://www.rg-racing.com/browsetype/Lever_Guards/ and stay up-to-date with the latest news by following R&G on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.
For more R&G news check out our dedicated page R&G News
For more information on R&G Racing products visit rg-racing.com
Fresh from a stunning Bennetts British Superbikes treble win at Silverstone, Honda announce plans to celebrate 30 years of the Fireblade at Round 3 at Donington Park.
In 1992 the first – the CBR900RR FireBlade – rewrote the rules of what a sports bike should be, light weight, but with real power. The 2022 CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, Fireblade SP and Fireblade SP 30th Anniversary have been 30 years in the making and are the very essence of pure performance.
And, fittingly, against a backdrop of white hot Bennetts BSB racing at Donington Park (and after an incredible start to the season for Glenn Irwin and his CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP) over Saturday/Sunday 21-22 May Honda UK is celebrating 30 years of competition. Because that’s what created the first and defines the latest Fireblade.
The four-man Honda Racing UK superbike team of Irwin, Ryo Mizuno, Takumi Takahashi and 2021 Superstock 1000 champion Tom Neave will be fighting hard for success on track but, for one weekend only, Honda is throwing a party and to get things started all Honda riders have a 20% discount off attendance tickets and exclusive parking at the Melbourne loop*.
Bikerpics will also be on the roads surrounding Donington taking pictures of Hondas riding in, with images free to download from www.bikerpics.co.uk
There’s a great deal more going on, however…
FOR FIREBLADES ONLY
The bikes are special which makes their owners special. So Fireblade riders will have some unique opportunities over the course of two days:
The chance to experience Donington Park up close, apex-to-apex by riding the track Saturday evening between 18:00-20:00**
Exclusive Fireblade only parking at the Melbourne loop
Ride with an absolute legend by joining TT hero John McGuinness on a parade lap Saturday and Sunday lunchtime***
Meet and chat with Honda Racing UK’s riders over the course of the weekend
Win exclusive prizes
FOR ALL DONINGTON PARK SPECTATORS
There’s a whole World of Honda to explore and it’ll be set-up and ready at the Melbourne Loop to welcome all race fans. On offer:
The Heritage Fireblade display – plus the chance to learn more about the 2022 CBR1000RR-SP’s updates, as well as its race-quality Öhlins Smart Electronic Control (S-EC) and full Brembo braking system
A Heritage race bike display, including a rare as hens’ teeth RC213V-S road-going MotoGP bike, Castrol Honda VTR1000SP1 and Joey Dunlop, Alex Lowes and Ryuichi Kiyonari replicas
All of the very latest 2022 models. Get up close to the NT1100, CRF1100L Africa Twin, CB1000R and many more
A chance to try something unique to Honda with the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) rolling road
Gravity-defying, two-wheeled amazement courtesy of the Steve Colley Trials Experience show
The opportunity to learn new skills with a booking for the Dave Thorpe Adventure and Off-Road Centre
Purchase the latest 2022 Honda Racing UK merchandise
To join this celebration of all things Fireblade and Honda, book your tickets online and please visit the MSV website at https://link.msv.com/honda3
*Strictly for Fireblade or Honda riders only; please do not enter if you own another make.
**Only Fireblade riders attending the event on a road legal Fireblade. There will be limited availability and it’s not about setting a lap time!
*** Only Fireblade riders attending the event on a road legal Fireblade and there is a 200-bike limit.
The FS-3 Racing Kawasaki team, the official Team Green entry in the Bennetts British Superbike championship, has today unveiled a striking new retro-inspired livery that will be used for all 11 rounds of the 2022 season.
Keeping with the same exciting line up of Lee Jackson and Rory Skinner, 2022 will be the sixth season that the Coventry-based team has partnered with Kawasaki. With both riders having had a year of development on the new Ninja ZX-10RR, they have firmly set their sights on building on their podium-finishing potential from 2021.
Following an incredible reaction to the ZX-7RR-inspired livery that World Superbike star Jonathan Rea used at the Argentinian round last year, the FS-3 Racing team has decided to create a similar retro-inspired them for their 2022 livery. The hugely popular design has been a hit across the UK, and for this year, customers who purchase a new ZX-10R or ZX-10RR from an authorised Kawasaki dealer can upgrade their bike to have the matching livery.
Unveiled for the first time at the MCN London Motorcycle Show, race fans will be able to see the striking liveries in action for the first time when the season gets underway at Silverstone on April 15th.
Ross Burridge, Head of Marketing & Racing Department at Kawasaki UK: “Having witnessed the incredibly positive feedback from racing fans across the globe after seeing Jonathan’s machine in Argentina, and then on our standard road bike at Motorcycle Live on the Kawasaki stand, we knew we had to see it on track in the UK this year. The guys at FS-3 Racing also fell in love with the design and are excited to see Lee and Rory debut the new look on track at round one in April later this year.”
Honda Racing UK and Motul – a brand-new partnership in BSB and on the Roads
Honda Racing UK and Motul – a brand-new partnership in BSB and on the Roads.
Honda Racing UK is pleased to announce a new sponsorship agreement with Motul, as they challenge the Bennetts British Superbike Championship, as well as making their long-awaited return to the Roads at the International North West 200 and the Isle of Man TT Races in 2022.
This year presents huge milestones for the Honda Racing UK team, one of which is the 30th Anniversary of the iconic Fireblade, which is represented on the livery of the teams’ CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP machines, as well as the rider leathers throughout the BSB and road racing season.
This is the first time Honda Racing UK and Motul have worked together in both the British Superbike Championship, as well as on the roads for the NW200 and the TT, which this year sees Motul brand ambassador John McGuinness return to Honda machinery and celebrate his 100th TT race start.
The team is busy preparing for the start of the season, with the first official BSB test set to take place at Snetterton on 25-27 March, but for those who can’t wait that long, the 30th Anniversary livery will be making its debut at the Carole Nash MCN London Motorcycle Show (11-13 February), where it will be on display on the Honda stand.
Havier Beltran, Honda Racing UK Team Manager: “2022 is an exciting season for the team across both BSB and the Roads; we have Tom stepping up into the Superbike class, John back on Honda machinery, Glenn finally making his TT debut, as well as celebrating 30 years of the Fireblade and we’re welcoming Motul as a new sponsor, which is the first time for us in the British Championship. Motul have a great pedigree on the Roads, as well as numerous successes across two-wheel motorsport, and we’re looking forward to getting the season underway and working with the team there.
Günter Steven, Head of Sales Export Motul Deutschland: “As one of the leading motorbike manufacturers in the United Kingdom, Honda trusts our premium range of high-performance lubricants and motorcycle care products as well as our sales concepts for their dealer network – we are very pleased about this and it is a solid basis on which we will build a successful cooperation. The fact that we also share the same values on top of that, as well as a great commitment to motorsport, offers both of us the perfect basis for a long-term partnership. We can’t wait to merge our collective knowledge and experience in both trade and motorsport to create a great synergy together.”
Neil Fletcher, Head of Motorcycles, Honda UK: “We are delighted to announce a new working partnership with Motul this year. They have a wealth of success across many motorsport series around the world and I have been impressed by their passion and professionalism. It’s great to form a new partnership together in such an important and special year as the Fireblade celebrates its 30th Anniversary in both BSB and the Roads. We have a busy few months ahead with testing starting soon, the BSB championship on the near horizon and we can’t wait to head back to Northern Ireland for the NW200 and then quickly on to the TT with Glenn making his first start and John his 100th!”
Motorcycle Live, in association with Bikesure Insurance, the UK’s biggest motorcycle show, is delighted to ‘welcome back’ BSB Day, following its success in previous years.
Teaming up with the Bennetts British Superbike Championship, showgoers will be offered a fantastic line-up of activities and events during the show following an exciting season.
The dedicated BSB Day will take place on Saturday 11 December – where visitors to the show will be able to experience all things ‘BSB’ – with live Q&A sessions with Bennetts BSB racing stars, 2022 news and signing sessions throughout the day.
Tarran Mackenzie, the 2021 Bennetts British Superbike champion will be attending BSB Day, and throughout the show his championship-winning McAMS Yamaha machine will also be on display, alongside the Cadbury Boost Yamaha his Father Niall won the series aboard 25 years ago.
Other Bennetts BSB stars confirmed for 11 December include Bradley Ray, Christian Iddon, Danny Buchan, Glenn Irwin, Jack Kennedy, Kyle Ryde, Lee Jackson, Luke Mossey, Peter Hickman, Rory Skinner, Ryan Vickers, as well as 2011 champion Tommy Hill.
Finlay McAllan, Managing Director of Motorcycle Live, comments:“BSB Day has proved to be a huge success in previous years, with the final Saturday being one of the most popular days to visit. The 2021 Bennetts BSB season has been exhilarating and we can’t wait to welcome the 2021 champion Tarran Mackenzie, who has always been very supportive of the show across the years attending and being part of it.”
Stuart Higgs, Bennetts British Superbike Championship Series Director, adds: “Motorcycle Live has traditionally been the final event of the year for the motorcycle industry, so we are delighted that there will once again be a day dedicated to all things Bennetts BSB. The 25th anniversary season didn’t disappoint with an incredible rollercoaster that went down to the closest finale since 2010, which poignantly ended with Tarran Mackenzie celebrating the title, we look forward to reliving that and look ahead to an exciting 2022 season during BSB Day.”
Motorcycle Live 2021 at The NEC, Birmingham opens its doors at 09:00am Saturday 4 December. Discounted advanced tickets are now on-sale and available from motorcyclelive.co.uk
For more Motorcycle Live News check out our Shows dedicated page Motorcycle Live News
or head to the official Motorcycle Live website Motorcycle Live
Pirelli introduce ‘SCX’ Slick (Super Soft) tyre for 14th year of Bennetts British Superbike Championship Sole Tyre Supply.
Pirelli enter their fourteenth season as Sole Tyre Supplier to the Bennetts British Superbike (BSB) Championship with the addition of the DIABLO™ Superbike Slick SCX (Super Soft) tyre to rider’s available options
Introduced into the WSBK paddock in 2019, the BSB series debut of the SCX tyre follows last season’s change to Pirelli’s larger size tyres.
Each BSB event will be now a triple header with a ‘Sprint’ race on Saturday after qualifying, ahead of two standard length Superbike races on Sunday. The new SCX tyre is likely to feature heavily during Saturday qualifying and the shorter ‘Sprint’ outing providing ultimate performance over the shortened distance races.
SCX also comes into its own when track temperatures are higher and on smoother asphalt, allowing teams to develop a chassis setting aimed at exploiting the increased grip levels provided by the SCX option.
Superbike riders will have the choice of the new SCX tyre and the almost universally used (in BSB2020) SC0 Soft rear tyre. After inclement weather at the early BSB tests, riders were able to evaluate the qualities of the new tyre at the most recent Donington test which was held in warm temperatures. Rear tyre sizes as introduced last year are 200/65R17, with a larger diameter for increased grip as riders exit a corner.
At the ‘front end’, riders can choose from the SC1 and SC2 (harder) option tyres with the SC2 giving a more stable feeling as a rider transitions into a corner (drops in). The front tyres were also increased in size last season to give a wider contact patch from a 120 to 125 section (now 125/70 17).
In the event of rain, there are two RAIN tyres in a soft or harder compound and the Diablo WET (Intermediate) tyre, which was used to good effect by Jonathan Rea at the recently held Aragon round of the World Superbikes Championship.
The Pirelli presence in the paddock has also changed as new logistics partner Protyre Motorsport will be bringing 4,000 tyres to each of the eleven events to service the Superbike, Supersport, Superstock, Junior Superstock, Junior Supersport and Ducati Tri-Options classes.
Jason Griffiths Pirelli UK Racing Manager explained, “Pirelli are ready for what will certainly be a very busy season with a compact race calendar. The introduction to the series of the SCX rear tyre will provide added interest in terms of tyre strategy. The high track temperatures at the recent Donington Park test allowed the teams and riders to evaluate the new tyre over race distance and it is clear that given suitable track temperatures and less aggressive asphalt the SCX option can be used for the full length races, as we have seen in World Superbikes. BSB continues to provide an incredibly competitive grid and we’re ready for the racing to begin.”
2021 (SUPERBIKE CLASS) TYRE OPTIONS
FRONT:
125/70 R17 SC1 (SOFTER):
This is the softest solution available for the front. This compound was developed to provide high grip, performance and riding precision with a versatility of use.
125/70 R17 SC2 (HARDER)
This new medium solution is sturdier and quicker in direction changes, gives more support, good grip, maximum lean angle and better absorption of any bumps on the track.
REAR:
200/65 R17 SCX (SUPER SOFT)
This solution, which uses an extremely soft compound, designed to sit between the performance of a qualifying compound and that of a soft racing tyre.
200/65 R17 SC0 (SOFT)
This option was the tyre of choice for the 2020 BSB series. It offers consistency for long races and also delivers maximum performance across a wide operating temperature range.
RAIN TYRES
DIABLO™ RAIN
There are two RAIN rear tyres which were first utilised in BSB in 2019 (now in size 200/60) with different groove angles in the grip area, which allow a more consistent wear across the tyre and greater tread stability. Revised shoulder grooves improve water dispersion and improve grip when leaning and traction coming out of corners. Two compounds are available:
SCR1: compound intended for use in cooler conditions (asphalt temperatures lower than 15°C) or particularly smooth asphalt. This tyre gives the greater grip level.
SCR2: compound dedicated to higher track temperatures (asphalt temperatures higher than 15°C) or particularly aggressive asphalt. This should be the most used solution if the track is starting to dry out.
DIABLO™ WET
As previously an ‘intermediate’ tyre is available for the tricky damp / drying track which features less grooves than the ‘full’ RAIN tyre. Developed in 190/60 R17 sizing for the rear.
TYRE ALLOCATIONS 2021
A regular total dry tyre usage limit applies for the race weekend (free practice, qualifying practice, warm up and races). 8 Rear (dry) tyres and 8 Front (dry) tyres. Riders graduating to Qualifying 2, (the top six) from Qualifying 1 are authorised to use one extra set of tyres (1 dry front and 1 dry rear). In Qualifying 1 and Qualifying 2 all riders may use a maximum of one set of tyres (1 front and 1 rear) in each session. This will be indicated by a “Q” sticker on each tyre used.
SUPPORT CLASSES: DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SC V3
The all new (for 2019), third generation, PIRELLI DIABLO™ Supercorsa SC V3 has been completely redesigned in terms of structure, profiles, tread pattern and compounds to give a more consistent performance.
These tyres are available for the following classes: Quattro British Supersport 600 & 300, Pirelli National Superstock 1000 & 600 plus the Ducati TriOptions Cup.
The DIABLO™ Supercorsa range of road legal tyres are the ultimate in Pirelli’s customer range of treaded tyres for racing and track day use. The ‘SP’ version of these tyres are used by sports bike owners the world over for everyday road and trackday usage.
2021 Bennetts British Superbike Championship dates
(each event features three ‘BSB’ races)
June 25-27 – Oulton Park
July 9-11 – Knockhill
July 23-25 – Brands Hatch GP
July 30-Aug 1 – Thruxton
Aug 13-15 – Donington Park National
Aug 20-22 – Cadwell Park
Sept 3-5 – Snetterton 300
Sept 10-12 – Silverstone National
Sept 24-26 – Oulton Park
Oct 1-3 – Donington Park GP
Oct 15-17 – Brands Hatch GP
The Honda Racing UK team has pulled back the covers to unveil the 2021 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP that Glenn Irwin, Ryo Mizuno and Takumi Takahashi will race this season in the Bennetts British Superbike Championship, as well as Tom Neave in the Pirelli National Superstock Championship.
For the 2021 season, the Honda Racing UK Fireblade goes back to its roots and features the iconic Tri-Colour livery, with the addition of a carbon fibre mudguard, belly pan and rear hugger, which can be purchased separately through Honda Genuine Parts for the road going machine.
Eagle-eyed fans will spot the continuation of long-standing partnerships with Akrapovič and Castrol, as well as Performance Parts, Close Brothers, Nova Racing and Datatool, with a new sponsor onboard for the season, RK Chains.
Watch the full unveiling video on YouTube
as motorcycle journalist John Hogan introduces the stunning-new livery, while catching up with Team Manager Havier Beltran, as well as Glenn, Ryo, Takumi and Tom ahead of Round 1.
Honda Racing UK will debut the 2021 livery at the final official BSB test on Tuesday 8 June at Donington Park, ready for the start of the season at Oulton Park (25/26/27 June).
2021 Bennetts British Superbike Championship Calendar:
Round 1 Oulton Park 25-27 June
Round 2 Knockhill 9-11 July
Round 3 Brands Hatch (GP) 23-25 July
Round 4 Thruxton 30 July – 1 August
Round 5 Donington Park 13-15 August
Round 6 Cadwell Park 20-22 August
Round 7 Snetterton 3-5 September
Round 8 Silverstone (NAT) 10-12 September
Round 9 Oulton Park 24-26 September
Round 10 Donington Park (GP) 1-3 October
Round 11 Brands Hatch (GP) 15-17 October
The unveiling of the new Triumph Street Triple 765 RS for the 2021 Quattro Group British Supersport season marks an important step in Triumph’s future racing ambitions. In partnership with PTR, racing as Dynavolt Triumph, the aim is to demonstrate the performance credentials of the 765 triple engine and Street Triple RS chassis in the most demanding environment of top-level competition.
Dynavolt Triumph, managed by Simon Buckmaster’s PTR team, is the ideal partnership for Triumph, with proven capability in Supersport race preparation, trackside operations and the ability to co-ordinate with Triumph’s in-house engineering department.
Former WSS British rider Kyle Smith and former British MotoStar champion, Brandon Paasch are the two factory riders who will wear the Dynavolt Triumph team colours in this historical return to official racing for Triumph Motorcycles.
Brandon Paasch
The basis of the Dynavolt Triumph 765 is the Street Triple RS, a bike that has had significant global sales success and which is appreciated for it’s class leading handling and exhilarating, torque rich engine. Following discussion with MSVR and Dorna WorldSBK Organisation (DWO), Triumph are committed to helping establish a new Supersport formula allowing a wider range of engine formats to compete on level terms, thereby offering great potential for exciting racing which can feedback into the development of bikes that people can see in their local showroom.
Steve Sargent, Triumph’s Chief Product Officer explained: “We were offered the opportunity of testing the formula for expanding the Championship and see this year very much as a year for a proving ground for us to make sure we have a competitive bike. The ambition is to go beyond this and next year go into World Supersport, part of a longer term racing strategy and this is a key part in terms of developing a more road based racing class; so building something that you can actually go into the showroom, buy and ride and then convert into a race bike. I think, for a manufacturer like Triumph, that’s quite important.” Steve Sargent, about the competitiveness of the Street Triple RS, also added “We wouldn’t go into this project if we didn’t think that this is a bike that could genuinely compete. The Street Triple is a naked sports bike but it’s derived from the Daytona so we think, in terms of geometry, this is a really good starting point for a race bike. I think, as a starting package, you’ve got a chassis that really works and engine wise, we’ve got the 765 Triple. It’s an engine that we’ve been using in Moto2 for the last couple of seasons and I think the response we have had and the performance we’ve had will tell you that the engine, as a package, is something that is going to compete. Combining the two things together, the engine and the chassis, I think we’ve got a really good starting point”.
Regarding the expectation for the 2021 season, Steve concluded “Myself and Simon (Buckmaster) have talked about expectations and obviously neither of us are in this to do anything other than be at the sharp end. I know Simon is very much focused that way and I believe that we have a package that can deliver that; I believe that we have two riders who can deliver that and from the Triumph side, we want to demonstrate what a Triumph can do on the racetrack”
Simon Buckmaster, Dynavolt Triumph’s Team Principal also commented “I have to say, on behalf of PTR and Dynavolt and Triumph, I am really very proud of this machine and I really cannot wait to get started.I feel confident and slightly nervous; it’s a brand new project but we have to aim at challenging to win. That has to be our goal for the season.”
Brandon Paasch, Dynavolt Triumph Factory Rider #96: “Visiting the Triumph factory was an awesome experience, it’s amazing to see how much time and effort they put into every detail. That’s something that gives a rider an extra bit of confidence. It was also great to finally get to meet up and chat with the team and see the Dynavolt Triumph race bike! I’ve been thinking of this moment for months now, so to finally see everything coming together was so exciting! I’m fully focused on getting testing here pretty soon, and I can’t thank Triumph enough for all the hospitality and support! I hope everyone else is as excited about this opportunity as I am!
Kyle Smith, Dynavolt Triumph Factory Rider #11: “I am keen to get started in what will be a new challenge for me in a new championship with a new bike. When I got the call from Simon it was a no-brainer. I can’t wait to start testing at Silverstone to get our base set-up. I have no doubt the new Triumph will be a good bike and having worked with the PTR crew in the past, I am confident we can be competitive”
The Dynavolt Triumph Street Triple 765 RS is scheduled to make its debut on track during the first official BSB Test, at Silverstone, 28 April 2021.
