World SBK

[eso]

Maybe someone can clarify this for me.

It seems like several of the top contenders in SBK have moved to Moto GP this year. Would that be for a new challenge for the riders or because of the GP rule changes making SBK more or less redundant?

I was watching the races at Sugo, Japan last night and the competition just doesn't look as good as it did last year. I did notice that Colin Edwards and some other riders were competing in MotoGP this year, although I've only caught one race so far. I know with the allowance of 4-stroke enginges in GP now that the engines are similar to the displacement of SBK motors. Are some teams shifting their focus?

Top level bike racing is one of the most exciting forms of motorsport, as the best riders have more options for racing lines than an F1 driver has. If you want to see serious on track battles, there's more in one race than in a season of F1.

eso

[Henrik]

Eso,

You should check on the threads about MotoGP and Superbike! I can only say that I share your enthusiasm for two wheel racing!

About the level of competition in SBK. Well yes, it really is down to the fact that MotoGP has gone 4 stroke. This has brought over Ducati, but also Kawasaki. Honda has also completely tuned its focus to MotoGP, leaving just some scraps in SBK. It is a pity as the competition there in the past has been outstanding (check my posts from last year!). I suppose it is a question of evolution and budgets.....

[eso]

Thanks Henrk. That's what I had suspected, but as I don't read up on the bike racing scene I wasn't sure.

It's a pity that SBK is turing into the dregs of bike racing.

eso

[Henrik]

Eso,

You being in the States should still be able to get American SBK, which is still highly competitive.

Personally what I like best is the 125cc races. It's not the size of the bike that makes the racer!!!! Those guys are either insane, or have balls the size of bowling balls!!

[eso]

I'm more into the bigger displacement bikes: more acceleration, more speed, etc.

When you watch one of those guys accelerating out of a corner in a drift with the front whell in the air, you can't help but be awe struck at the control and commitment those guys have.

I sometimes watch AMA Superbike, but I really like international competition. With only a few exception, the best of our riders are only average by international standards. The racing is still quite good, but I like to see the best of the best...

eso