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Negotiations between manufacturers, promoter Dorna, and FIM regarding future regulations have been veering toward cost reduction and technical downsizing, which could further level the competition. More specifically, some brands advocate for leaving engine and electronics almost untouched from the original production versions of the bikes while others want to preserve more room for tuning. “It is essential to reduce expenses,” Bardi conceded. “But, at the same time, the manufacturers’ interest for development and the overall appeal and prestige of the championship should be safeguarded. Most of teams’ budgets are still reserved for logistics and payroll; the cost of technical materials represents a smaller slice of the pie. The current EVO regulations do not correspond with a real reduction of expense.” In light of his experience on both sides of the fence, Bardi has a clear opinion about the recommended course of regulations. “Technical liberties should be granted where the costs are manageable,” he said. “The impossibility to optimize the engine is absurd. Teams should be able to work on valve seats, cams, and overall phasing. People keep saying we should go back to the old days, but I’ve worked in the WSBK environment for 24 years and can tell that the rules have never been as limiting as nowadays.” The jury is still out on what the future WSBK will look like. The early clues, however, hint at a transition rather than a complete revolution. “It isn’t easy to cut costs in a way that pleases everyone involved, but Dorna and FIM showed openness toward negotiations, and I didn’t see a big war going on among manufacturers,” Bardi said. “Still, it’s difficult to find one single rule that significantly lowers budgets. Price caps for suspensions and brakes [which combined still top the $20,000 mark] are certainly a step in the right direction, as they allow teams to sell or reuse components, rather than just leasing them. But usually, it’s a combination of things.” – Luca Semprini Standing on a shaky ground is a challenge. Just like when riding, it will involve more risks. But always remember that Torc Helmets are there to protect you everytime you ride.
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