The success story of motor sport in Britain is without doubt Superbike racing. The thrills, speed and sheer excitement has not only attracted record crowds to the various circuits in recent years, but more importantly held them at high levels. Without a doubt, this championship is the dominant force of domestic action and features on Sunday afternoon television.

The magic attraction of Superbike racing is that the machines look just like the ones that are offered for sale to the public. The radical revision of the championship regulations four years ago opened the way for four cylinder machines up to 1000cc to take to the track. Thus road-going favourites such as the Suzuki GSX-R1000, Yamaha R1, Kawasaki ZX10R and Honda Fireblade were eligible to compete alongside the Ducatis. This created a synergy with the manufacturers able to present and prove their products in a high speed selling environment but, while the bikes might look the same as the road going versions, behind the silhouette there are important differences with upgraded suspensions, blueprinted engines, more power, special trick-bits and full race tyres.

Because of this, Superbikes have that special sexy appeal. They ooze power, passion, thrills and glamour. Add to that high speed, closely fought racing and top personalities and you have the winning formula that is the British Superbike Championship.