Where are the differences between MotoGP and World Superbikes? Both run to the same capacity limit of 1,000cc, and all are contested by four-cylinder machines. This is by regulation in MotoGP, and by default in World Superbikes – Ducati’s long-serving V-twins having been supplanted by the Panigale V4, itself closely based on the MotoGP bike.
MotoGP bikes are (also by regulation) genuine “prototypes”, in the sense that they use no production components and are purpose-built only to race. Chassis and suspension technology in particular are at the cutting edge.
Superbikes are showroom models, modified for racing. Although they are a little more than production bikes with the lights taken off, tightening of the regulations has cut back on special tweaks and materials, while variable rev limits are in place to punish too much technical superiority and success.
In numbers, one difference lies in minimum weights: 168kg for Superbikes, 157kg for MotoGP, which is not enough to make a very great difference in performance. Another is in power outputs. These are not revealed in MotoGP, but estimates put current engines at more than 250PS, with Ducati’s desmodromic V4 leading the pack
Superbikes, at least in basic road trim, are some way short, although those competing in Superbikes are impressive enough, with quoted figures comfortably above 200PS – Ducati’s Panigale and Honda’s CBR1000RR heading the tables at more than 214 apiece.