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WSBK Will Host WorldSSP 300 Small-Bore Feeder Class For 2017

FIM launches a new WorldSSP 300 class for young talent to hone their skills.

September 30, 2016

The European Junior Cup ran at select WSBK events in 2016 and all competitors rode spec Honda CBR650Fs. It made for some close racing, but we’re excited about the prospect of seeing four makes competing together in the new WorldSSP 300 class.©Motorcyclist

For 2017 the World Superbike schedule will add another race series to its prestigious roster. Beginning next spring the new WorldSSP 300 (World SuperSport 300) class will run alongside the 600 and 1000 classes. The new small-bore class is open to riders age 15 and older and includes bikes like Honda's CBR500R, Kawasaki's Ninja 300, Yamaha's YZF-R3, and KTM's RC390. WorldSSP 300 will be a production-based platform and is designed to be the new beginner class for the WorldSBK Championship, feeding the higher categories with new talent.

The WSBK World SuperSport 300 (WorldSSP 300) class will be an easy-access championship platform to grow future roadracing stars.©Motorcyclist

“This new platform will be the perfect environment for developing future talent,” said Vito Ippolito, President of FIM. “The intention of WorldSSP 300 is to create a benchmark for National Championships to follow. We want to offer an environment that is regulated and relatively equal in which future talent can grow, and where manufacturers can accompany young riders as they take their first steps towards stardom.”

“The focus is to have an affordable series for these young competitors,” said Javier Alonso, WorldSBK Executive Director. “There has been great interest for low-capacity motorcycles in this sport and the new WorldSSP 300 class strives to offer that. It will be promoted by Manufacturers as an easily accessible championship, the best possible platform to grow future stars where Manufacturers can accompany riders from an early age and as they progress through their career.”

Motorcyclist staffers Ari Henning and Zack Courts play tag on KTM's RC390 and Yamaha's YZF-R3, two bikes that are sure to be popular choices in the upcoming WorldSSP 300 class.©Motorcyclist

WorldSSP will differ from the KTM RC Cup racing we saw in MotoAmerica this year in that four brands in total will participate. WorldSSP isn’t a spec class, but strict rules regarding modifications and alterations (including rev limits and weight limits) should ensure parity among the machines.

If the KTM RC Cup is any indication, this new WorldSSP class should prove hugely popular, offer spectators very close racing, and serve to catapult a few lucky youngsters on to greater things. We're excited to watch! For technical information regarding eligible machines, CLICK HERE.