P1racenews AI automatic summary:
How can Bimota improve after a strong opening WorldSBK season with the KB998 in 2025?
The Bimota KB998 achieved four podium finishes in its debut WorldSBK season, showcasing its competitiveness, particularly with Alex Lowes at the helm in 2025. Moving forward, the focus shifts from the bike’s overall competitiveness to its development potential to transition into a race-winning machine.
Despite its promising start, the KB998 still lags behind in engine performance compared to top contenders like Honda, Ducati, and BMW, which impacts its straight-line speed due to its unconventional aerodynamic setup in comparison to the ZX-10RR it succeeded.
As a production-based series, World Superbike restricts significant engine modifications unless mirrored in the production model. However, recent rule changes, specifically the Superconcession regulations from 2023, offer some flexibility for Bimota to seek enhancements without a revamped Kawasaki engine.
Bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team manager Guim Roda emphasized the ongoing battle with regulations, highlighting the need for upgrades in the production bike or utilizing flexible engine tuning to bridge the performance gap.
The team utilized the post-season Jerez test to fine-tune various aspects of the KB998, aiming to maximize concessions and Superconcessions to enhance the bike within the regulatory framework and refine setup strategies for future races.
