The highest level of production bike racing is called "Superbike" and is contested mainly by 1000cc class 4-cylinder machines. The next class, "Supersports", has mainly been dominated by 600cc 4-cylinder machines, but this class is changing from 2022, and the new YZF-R9 may be introduced here.
A wide variety of models available, from the 955cc Panigale V2 to the 800cc 4-cylinder
"Supersport" refers to the mid-displacement class in the racing category, with engine displacements of up to 750cc for two-cylinders, 675cc for three-cylinders, and 600cc for four-cylinders. In addition, from 2022, "Supersport Next Generation" will begin participating in the WorldSSP.
The background is that many models with conventional displacements have been discontinued, and the aim is to encourage participation by adjusting performance outside of the engine displacement to increase the variety of motorcycles and manufacturers. In 2023, Ducati's Panigale V2 (two-cylinder 955cc) won the WorldSSP title instead of the YZF-R6.
Other three-cylinder machines participating in WorldSSP include Triumph's Street Triple 765RS (3-cylinder 765cc) and MV Agusta's F3 800RR (798cc). As an oddity, China's QJMOTOR's SRK800RR (4-cylinder 778cc) is also participating as a factory team, and there is a remarkable diversification of manufacturers and vehicles.
And the new YZF-R9, which is rumored to be released by Yamaha in 2025, may also join the next generation of super sports. The engine is expected to be an 888cc in-line three-cylinder, but it will be standardized with an electric throttle and minimum weight adjustment. It will be interesting to see if they can still break Ducati's stronghold.
YZF-R9 [CG projection] We predict a YZF-R9 based on the MT-09 with a full fairing. It will be the natural choice to replace the conventional YZF-R6 and become the base model for the WorldSSP.
The CP3 engine that is expected to be installed on the new YZF-R9 is a parallel 3-cylinder 888cc engine. The maximum output is 120PS, which is less than the 155PS of the Panigale V2, but the specs for the race should be different from those of the production model.
PANIGALE V2 [Ducati] The V-twin engine, once synonymous with superbikes, is now the main engine in supersports. Adrian Huertas is currently leading the race.
SRK800RR [QJMOTOR] An in-line 4-cylinder machine announced in 2023. The engine and frame show signs of having studied the CBR650R, which is popular in China, but it will be a proprietary super sports motorcycle.
