SBK, the revolution is here: the combined weight rule as of 2024, and more besides

Revolution (or almost) in Superbike. There are significant changes afoot for the production-derived series, given that – as explained in the recently published release – “the FIM, Dorna and the MSMA have decided to work on the long term and have defined some concepts on which this Championship will have to evolve”. Which, in other words, means that many elements of the current regulation will be modified as of the 2024 season.

The SBK regulatory updates

Fuel flow control: it has been decided that, from 2025, a fuel flow control system will be mandatory to use. Therefore, in 2024, two bikes from each manufacturer will be required to fit a fuel flow meter and log data during both practices and races to validate the concept and define the value for 2025.

Fuel tank reduction: In 2024, a new fuel tank maximum capacity will be set at 21.0 litres.

Combined weight: In 2024, a combined weight for rider and machine has been defined by FIM-DWO-MSMA agreement. This point was discussed in combination with RPM limits. In 2024, RPM limits will be set prior to the beginning of the 2024 season by FIM-DWO-MSMA agreement and will not be reduced during that season (with the exemption of FIM-DWO RPM reduction intervention in case of superconcession overshooting). Article 2.4.2.2 (balancing calculation) related to RPM reductions will be cancelled.

Crankshaft and balance shaft weight: may be modified by +/- 20% from the homologated weight measured during the FIM homologation inspection and the corresponding parts ‘kit’ must be a listed part in the FIM eligible parts list.

Checkpoint and concession token calculation: From 2024, this will be reviewed every two events instead of three as present.

Super concession and concession parts: The outline approval will be one month prior to the event and final detailed approval 14 days prior to the technical control day of the event removing the necessity to describe the super concession parts in the FIM SBK regulations. A specific communication will be put in place instead.

As is clear from reading the aforementioned points, some rather important details are still to be clarified, not least the minimum combined weight ruling that, along with other topics, will be discussed on the Saturday of the Jerez round, during a meeting of the Superbike technical commission that definitely promises fireworks.