Copyright 2002, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

According to MSMA (Motorcycle Sports Manufacturers Association) Secretary Takanao Tsubouchi, Japanese manufacturers will likely return to the Superbike World Championship with 1000cc four-cylinder racebikes in 2004, but 2003 will be a transitional year with no Japanese factory or semi-factory teams in the series.

Speaking at the Valencia MotoGP event last weekend, Tsubouchi also said that MSMA members were aware of problems regarding machine and parts availability for private teams and riders in various National Superbike Series around the world.

MSMA members include Aprilia, Ducati, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha.