BSB: New class structures and bye bye R6 Cup

BRITISH Superbikes will say goodbye to the R6 Cup at the end of this season. The Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board (MCRCB), the creator and organiser of the British Superbike Championship have announced the 2008 British and National Championship classes.

2008 MCRCB BRITISH CHAMPIONSHIPS

• Superbike - Championship & Privateers' Cup

• Supersport - Championship & Cup

• 125 Grand Prix - Championship & U18 Cup

2008 MCRCB NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

• Superstock 1000

• Superstock 600 (for riders aged 16 - 25 years old)

2008 MCRCB NATIONAL CUPS

Two manufacturer promoted "one make" series will also be planned, subject to contract; a 1000cc 4 cylinder and a "naked streetfighter" class.

Commenting on the class structure, Series Director Stuart Higgs, said, "We have to provide a platform that serves many different and often conflicting demands, trackside and television entertainment, rider/team progression and the industry at large". We believe that in the refined 2008 structure there is something for everyone and there is now a greater clarity between the various titles.

One notable change is the return of a "Junior" Superstock category. "The industry at large, teams and riders recognise that this class is a valuable stepping stone and a great shop window for the 600cc sector. It is genuinely achievable to have a seasons racing at National Championship level for a net cost of £20,000".

The Virgin Media Cup for the Yamaha R6 model will cease at the end of 2007 and we are satisfied that it has met all its objectives in its 5-year term. "Virgin Media, Yamaha and Rob McElnea had fantastic vision with this project and clearly it is ultimately responsible for fast-tracking some of the best young riders for a generation onto the next level."

The National Superstock 1000cc Cup also ceases however we feel that this will ultimately serve the overall series structure better as it will properly define the National Superstock 1000cc Championship as the senior sports production series in the UK, particularly accessible for those moving from senior club racing level into the National Championship, whilst the two one-make National Cup series will offer further choice and variety for those with an appetite for 1000cc capacity equipment.

The flagship classes remain the MCRCB British Championships for Superbike, Supersport and 125 Grand Prix, replicating the respective. World Championships for each category with each competition retaining both a championship and Cup class.