Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/713106
IN THE WIND P34 NEW REGS FOR MOTOAMERICA SUPERSTOCK 1000 CLASS W hen the technical rules for the MotoAmerica Super- bike Championship were put in place prior to the start to of its inaugural season in 2015, the end goal was to eventually mod- ify the rules to emulate those of the World Superbike Champion- ship. For MotoAmerica's third season of racing in 2017, that goal has been met. In addition, MotoAmerica has also announced provisional rule changes to the Superstock 1000 category with an aim of moving the performance of that class closer to the Superbike class. The 2017 AMA/FIM North America Superbike rulebook governing the MotoAmerica se- ries will go into effect upon the official release of the 2017 FIM Superbike World Championship Rulebook. "From the outset our plan has been to move our Superbike rules to match those used by the World Superbike Championship," said MotoAmerica partner Chuck Aksland. "With a few minimal differences, we've actually been able to accomplish this quicker than we thought. The rules have proven to work well in the world championship so moving toward those as quickly as possible was important to us for our growth as a domestic Superbike Champi- onship. The alignment with the World Superbike Champion- ship provides an easier route for manufacturers to participate in the MotoAmerica Series. Development resources can now be shared across multiple championships. The same parts developed for the World Champi- onship can now be used here in MotoAmerica and vice versa. "In addition, the changes we've made to the Superstock 1000 rules were made to give those teams and riders the free- dom to make some changes that will help them get closer to the Superbikes, performance-wise with minimal cost. Ultimately the goal is to separate the two championships, but until that time comes we'd like the field to be as competitive as possible." For 2017, the MotoAmerica Su- perbike class will feature the rule changes outlined as follows: •Numbers and Number Plates: No specific background or num- ber colors will be required. •Fuel-Injection Systems: The addition of fly-by-wire systems will not be allowed. •Throttles must remain as ho- mologated. No modifications to the variable intake track adjust- ment device if equipped. •Ignition And Electronic Control System: 2014 "American Super- bike Kit" not legal for 2017. •Main Frame: One-bike rule with complete spare motorcycle. •Front Suspension (Using World Superbike-Capped Compo- nents): Fork can be replaced. •Swingarm: Swingarm can be replaced. For 2017, the MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 class will fea- ture the rule changes outlined as follows: •Frame Body And Rear Sub Frame: Frames will follow Super- bike rules. •Front Fork: The upper and lower fork clamps (triple clamp, fork bridges and stem) may be modified or replaced. •Swingarm: Swingarm must remain as originally produced by the manufacturer for the ho- mologated motorcycle with the following changes: Gussets and bracing may be added. A provi- sion for shock absorber and spring clearances is allowed. •The range of axle adjustment may be modified by machin- ing existing components. Any modifications to the swingarm assembly must be pre-approved by MotoAmerica. •Rear Suspension Unit: The rear suspension linkage may be modi- fied or replaced. Removable top shock mounts may be replaced. If replaced, they must retain their homologated geometry. •Fuel Tank: Superbike fuel tanks will be allowed. The Supersport and Super- stock 600 rules will remain as is. CN