Comparison: MotoGP and WSBK Speeds Under 2027 Rules

Recent announcements by MotoGP regarding its 2027 rules over haul have sparked discussions about the series’ future speed compared to World Superbike (WSBK). MotoGP’s plan to transition to 850cc engines and reduce aerodynamics aims to enhance on track excitement and align more with road relevance, sustain ability, and cost effectiveness.

However, concerns have arisen that MotoGP bikes could potentially become slower than WSBK machines due to the shift to smaller engine sizes. FIM president Viegas address these concerns by stating that new rules would be implement in WSBK in the coming years to ensure that MotoGP remains the fastest two wheel series globally.

Viegas emphasize the ongoing discussions with manufacturers to maintain a distinction between MotoGP and WSBK. Acknowledging that the latter still boasts more participate manufacturers.

To assess the potential speed differences between MotoGP and WSBK, let’s compare lap times at seven circuits shared by both series:

Phillip Island:

• MotoGP: Qualifying lap record – 1m27.246s; Race lap record – 1m28.108s
• WSBK: Qualifying lap record – 1m27.916s; Race lap record – 1m28.564s

Barcelona:

• MotoGP: Qualifying lap record – 1m38.639s; Race lap record – 1m39.939s
• WSBK: Qualifying lap record – 1m39.489s; Race lap record – 1m40.955s

Assen:

• MotoGP: Qualifying lap record – 1m31.472s; Race lap record – 1m32.500s
• WSBK: Qualifying lap record – 1m32.934s; Race lap record – 1m33.620s

Aragon:

• MotoGP: Qualifying lap record – 1m46.069s; Race lap record – 1m48.089s
• WSBK: Qualifying lap record – 1m47.973s; Race lap record – 1m49.028s

Algarve:

• MotoGP: Qualifying lap record – 1m37.226s; Race lap record – 1m38.872s
• WSBK: Qualifying lap record – 1m39.610s; Race lap record – 1m38.826s

Jerez:

• MotoGP: Qualifying lap record – 1m36.170s; Race lap record – 1m37.449s
• WSBK: Qualifying lap record – 1m38.247s; Race lap record – 1m39.004s

These comparisons provide insights into the current lap times at shared circuits between MotoGP and WSBK, highlighting potential differences in speeds between the two series.