P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Garrett Gerloff will race a moderately updated Kawasaki ZX-10RR in the 2026 WorldSBK season.
The new Kawasaki ZX-10RR, a refresh of its flagship Superbike, was announced by the Akashi marque, marking the first update since 2021. The addition of winglets to the ZX-10RR for the first time brings enhancements to downforce.
Despite being outpaced by competitors like BMW’s M1000 RR and Ducati’s upcoming Panigale V4 R, the update shows the ZX-10RR is not yet spent as a racing contender. Changes in chassis geometry and air intake positioning aim to improve performance and rear traction.
With Garrett Gerloff’s underwhelming 2025 WorldSBK season, the new bike could be a pivotal chance to revitalize his career. However, the minor updates may not be enough to bridge the gap in engine performance compared to rivals.
Gerloff’s need for strong results in 2026 remains pressing, and the impact of the new Kawasaki on his performance in the highly competitive World Superbike Championship is yet to be seen. Time will tell if these changes can elevate Kawasaki’s WorldSBK campaign.
