From a press release issued by the FIM:

Mies, April 13, 2004

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

The Superbike Commission, composed of Messrs. Claude Danis (FIM), Paolo Alberto Flammini (FGSport) and Giulio Bardi (Team representative), has unanimously decided to introduce the following modifications to the Road Racing World championship Regulations for Superbike & Supersport, for immediate application:

1.15.2 Practice Sessions
iii) The end of practice will be indicated by the waving of a chequered flag at which time the pit exit will be closed. A rider’s time will continue to be recorded until he passes the finish line after the allotted time has elapsed (to delete the rest of the sentence). After the chequered flag riders may complete one additional lap prior to entering the pits.

1.22 Behaviour during Practice and Race
8) Riders may enter the pits during the race. Refuelling and changing motorcycle are strictly prohibited.

1.23.2 Red Flag and Red Lights
To delete: At the end of each practice session and warm-up, the red lights will be switched on at the start line.

2.4.6.7 and 2.5.6.7 Tyres
To add at the end of each article:
After the samples have been delivered to the Technical Director at the beginning of the event, modification of the tread pattern (with the exception of the normal wear) is not permitted.