FIM applies increased restrictions following latest performance review
The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) has announced crucial Balance of Performance (BoP) updates affecting two major manufacturers in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK), as well as key changes in the Supersport World Championship. Let’s break down what Aussie fans and racing aficionados need to know.
Following the assessment of Concession Checkpoint 3, both BMW Motorrad Motorsport and Ducati have been found to exceed the predefined performance threshold under Article 2.4.3.2 of the WorldSBK technical regulations. This breach triggers a significant revision to fuel flow restrictions for both manufacturers.
Previously receiving a 1.0 kg/h fuel flow reduction, BMW and Ducati will now operate under a stricter Fuel Flow Limit penalty of 1.5 kg/h. This adjustment reflects their continued overperformance based on the latest data, evaluated under the FIM’s newly introduced linear penalty algorithm.
The updated system replaces the former step-based model with a proportional, continuous scale of penalisation, with penalties applied linearly between -0.250 and -1.000:
- Minimum penalty (-0.250): 0.5 kg/h
- Maximum penalty (-1.000): 1.5 kg/h
- Formula: Fuel Flow Penalty = Performance Threshold × 1.5
These penalties are cumulative and remain in place unless recovered through improved relative performance, as defined in the same article. Thus far, the restrictions applied appear to have little effect on the leading two riders in Razgatlioglu and Bulega, who dominated the last round at Misano in much the same manner they have all season. Behind them, the gaps are closer, though Ducati still appears to have an edge over the rest of the field.
YAMAHA YZF-R9 COPS WEIGHT PENALTY
In related news from the Supersport World Championship, Yamaha’s latest machine – the YZF-R9 – has been riding high on competitiveness. After reviewing six consecutive strong performances and taking into account Yamaha’s recent swingarm update, the FIM has decided to impose a 5 kg increase to the bike’s hard minimum weight.
Effective from this weekend’s Donington Park round, the Yamaha YZF-R9 weight regulations will be adjusted as follows:
Updated Yamaha YZF-R9 BoP:
(*Combined figure includes minimum weight for rider and motorcycle)
This BoP change is being enacted in accordance with Article 2.5.3.1, which governs balancing among different motorcycle concepts within the Supersport class. While Yamaha’s engine performance parameters remain unchanged, gains in chassis and ride dynamics – particularly post swingarm update – have pushed the YZF-R9 ahead of the curve.
