Following the EURO MOTO Superbike races at the Nürburgring, the season’s third performance checkpoint has been reached. The goal of this evaluation is to continuously monitor the competitiveness of the individual manufacturers. The results form the basis for the work of the Safety/Technical/Sporting Commission, or CSTS for short.
The evaluation has two specific consequences for the grand finale at Hockenheim: Yamaha must reduce its maximum engine speed, while Honda has been granted approval to use the kit camshaft set.
The performance checkpoint is conducted in accordance with the EURO MOTO Superbike Technical Regulations. The basis for this is the best-placed motorcycle of each make in each race under dry conditions.
Performance Points Compared
After every four races, performance points are analyzed as part of a performance checkpoint. This typically results in three checkpoints per season. If a manufacturer shows overperformance—defined as a lead of at least nine performance points—the CSTS will take appropriate measures.
For motorcycle models already equipped with concession parts, these parts may be revoked and/or the engine speed reduced. For motorcycle models without available Concession Parts, the engine speed may be reduced. The scope of the measures depends on the extent of the identified overperformance.
There is also a regulation at the other end of the performance spectrum: Motorcycle models that are at least 24 Performance Points behind the motorcycle model with the most Performance Points at the Performance Checkpoint may be granted permission to use Concession Parts following an analysis by the CSTS.
Yamaha needs to step it up, Honda can step it up even more
After the Nürburgring races, Yamaha holds a lead of 10 performance points. Honda, on the other hand, trails by 24 performance points. This necessitates action by the CSTS regarding the performance factors.
The following adjustments therefore apply to the Hockenheim finale from September 25 to 27:
For Yamaha motorcycles, a maximum permitted engine speed of 14,500 revolutions per minute has been set. This is 300 revolutions less than previously allowed. Honda has been granted approval to use the kit camshaft set. The specifications for the set are defined in the current version of the Eligible Parts List.
This means that the grand EURO MOTO finale isn't just about awarding the titles, but also about the next round of the manufacturers' technical competition.