2002 WSB weight limits favour fours

FOUR cylinder WSB machines will be given a small extra helping hand next season against the dominant Ducati, Aprilia and Honda twins – in the shape of a 5kg (11lb) weight advantage.

At the moment there are no differences in the weight limits for 1000cc V-twins and 750cc fours. The minimum limit is 162kg (356lb). However, from the start of next year the minimum limits will be 159kg (350lb) for 750 fours, 162kg (356lb) for 900cc triples and 164kg (360lb) for 1000cc twins.

The new limits are designed to make the series more competitive and most teams have already welcomed the changes – even those the rule will disadvantage.

Claudio Domenicali of Ducati said: " This is the end of a long process of negotiation and is the best compromise we can hope for. The weight difference will have an impact, but not enough to ruin the series. "

Obviously, the four-cylinder teams are happier. A Suzuki spokesman said: " This is good news from Suzuki’s point of view. A weight advantage will allow us to be more competitive. "