The Southern 100 Road Races are set to make history in 2025 as they officially introduce Next Generation Supersport machines to the iconic Motor Isle Billown Course. This move aligns the event with the evolving landscape of international and domestic motorcycle racing, ensuring the class remains competitive, diverse, and relevant to manufacturers, teams, and fans alike.
For decades, the Supersport category has been synonymous with high-revving 600cc inline-four machines. However, with shifting industry trends and manufacturer line-ups, the class has undergone a revolutionary transformation. The new era of Supersport, already adopted in the World and British championships, brings a wider range of machines to the grid, including the Ducati Panigale V2, Suzuki GSX-R750, and Triumph 765, alongside the established Yamaha R6 and Kawasaki ZX-6R.
Southern 100 Club Chairman, George Peach, expressed enthusiasm about the addition:
“The Supersport class has been a staple of the Southern 100 for years, and embracing the Next Generation regulations ensures that we continue to attract top teams and riders while maintaining an exciting and competitive racing format. This evolution of the class not only keeps pace with global trends but also enhances the spectacle for fans.”
Under the Next Generation rules, all competing machines must run standardised electronic control units (ECUs) and adhere to balancing measures such as rev limits, weight requirements, and performance parity adjustments. These regulations ensure that a variety of engine configurations can compete on equal terms, providing a more diverse and engaging racing experience.
The move comes at a time when leading road racers are already proving the potential of these machines. In 2023, the British Supersport Championship was won aboard a Ducati Panigale V2, while the Isle of Man TT saw record-breaking performances from the class, reaffirming its growing relevance in the sport.
The Southern 100’s commitment to innovation and adaptability guarantees that the ‘Friendly Races’ will continue to thrive as one of the premier road racing events. Fans can now look forward to seeing a dynamic mix of machinery battling it out on the fast and flowing 4.25-mile course.
Regulations will be available and entries open for the 70th Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Southern 100 Road Races on Friday 28th March at 10am.