The rules have changed for the MotoAmerica Superbike/Superstock 1000 classes for 2017 with the Superbike rules set to emulate those of World Superbike. The Superstock 1000 changes will bring those bikes closer to the Superbikes. Photography by Brian J. Nelson.
COSTA MESA, CA, AUG. 5 – When the technical rules for the MotoAmerica Superbike Championship were put in place prior to the start to of its inaugural season in 2015, the end goal was to eventually modify the rules to emulate those of the World Superbike Championship. For MotoAmerica’s third season of racing in 2017, that goal has been met.
In addition, MotoAmerica has also announced provisional rule changes to the Superstock 1000 category with an aim of moving the performance of that class closer to the Superbike class.
MotoAmerica is the home of the AMA and FIM North America Superbike Championship.
The 2017 AMA/FIM North America Superbike rulebook governing the MotoAmerica series will go into effect upon the official release of the 2017 FIM Superbike World Championship Rulebook.
“From the outset our plan has been to move our Superbike rules to match those used by the World Superbike Championship,” said MotoAmerica partner Chuck Aksland. “With a few minimal differences, we’ve actually been able to accomplish this quicker than we thought. The rules have proven to work well in the World Championship so moving toward those as quickly as possible was important to us for our growth as a domestic Superbike Championship. The alignment with the World Superbike Championship provides an easier route for manufacturers to participate in the MotoAmerica Series. Development resources can now be shared across multiple championships. The same parts developed for the World Championship can now be used here in MotoAmerica and vice versa.
“In addition, the changes we’ve made to the Superstock 1000 rules were made to give those teams and riders the freedom to make some changes that will help them get closer to the Superbikes, performance-wise with minimal cost. Ultimately the goal is to separate the two championships, but until that time comes we’d like the field to be as competitive as possible. We’ve seen a few times this year that the Superstock 1000 machines were not that far away. With a few more modifications, we hope to see the gap close up a bit on track to the Superbikes.”
For 2017, the MotoAmerica Superbike class will feature the rule changes outlined as follows:
Numbers And Number Plates
No specific background or number colors will be required.
Fuel-Injection Systems
The addition of fly-by-wire systems will not be allowed. Throttles must remain as homologated. No modifications to the variable intake track adjustment device if equipped.
Ignition And Electronic Control System
2014 “American Superbike Kit” not legal for 2017.
Main Frame
One-bike rule with complete spare motorcycle.
Front Suspension (Using World Superbike-Capped Components)
Fork can be replaced.
Swingarm
Swingarm can be replaced.
For 2017, the MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 class will feature the rule changes outlined as follows:
Frame Body And Rear Sub Frame
Frames will follow Superbike rules.
Front Fork
The upper and lower fork clamps (triple clamp, fork bridges and stem) may be modified or replaced.
Swingarm
Swingarm must remain as originally produced by the manufacturer for the homologated motorcycle with the following changes: Gussets and bracing may be added. A provision for shock absorber and spring clearances is allowed.
The range of axle adjustment may be modified by machining existing components. Any modifications to the swingarm assembly must be pre-approved by MotoAmerica.
Rear Suspension Unit
The rear suspension linkage may be modified or replaced. Removable top shock mounts may be replaced. If replaced, they must retain their homologated geometry.
Fuel Tank
Superbike fuel tanks will be allowed.
While the Superbike and Superstock 1000 classes have undergone rule changes for the 2017 season, the Supersport and Superstock 600 rules will remain as is.
“The rules for both the Supersport and Superstock 600 classes for the most part will be the same,” said MotoAmerica Technical Manager James Morse. “Hopefully, we will see enough riders make the move from Superstock 600 to Supersport so we can split those two classes. As for the Superbike class, having our rules inline with World Superbike will be beneficial to that class by attracting more manufacturers to participate.”
