Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

By David Swarts

The FIM Superbike Commission has issued revised rules to close a loophole in the new-for-2003 World Superbike tire restrictions.

Under the previously announced tire rules observed during round one of the 2003 World Superbike Championship at Valencia, Superbike riders were limited to a total of 13 marked, rear tires during free practice, qualifying sessions and Superpole but were not limited to the number of front tires or “wet” tires used.

The new rules did not define “wet” tires or state that “wet” tires could only be used in “wet” conditions.

Evidently, some tire technicians at Valencia saw the grey area in the rule and began making a few, small, thin cuts to rear tires used in practice and calling them “wet” tires.

FIM has acted quickly to close the loophole and issued the following press release today.


Superbike & Supersport World Championships
Regulations – Decisions of the Superbike Commission

The Superbike Commission, composed of Messrs. Claude Danis (FIM), Paolo Alberto Flammini (SBK International), Takanao Tsubouchi (MSMA) and Giulio Bardi (Team representative), has unanimously decided to introduce the following modifications to the Road Racing World Championship Regulations for Superbike (immediate application):

– Tyres (Superbike Art. 2.4.6.7)

At each event, during free practices, qualifying practices and Superpole, a maximum of 13 rear slick tyres may be used. A Technical Steward must mark these 13 tyres. There is no restriction on the number of front tyres that may be used.

Rear wet tyres have no restriction on the number that may be used in wet conditions (*).

All types of rear tyres used in dry conditions (*) will be included in the total quantity count.

On race day, there is no restriction on the number of rear slick tyres that may be used.

During free practices, qualifying practices and Superpole, no motorcycle may enter the track without the rear slick tyre being marked (except in wet conditions*)…

(* According to Art. 1.21.5)