Racing has always been about progress. From backyard mini-motos to world championships, every rider dreams of leveling up. In WorldSBK, that first big step used to be World Supersport 300. It was fast, frantic, and full of promise. But times are changing, and so is the path to the top.
Starting in 2026, World Supersport 300 will make way for a new class called World Sportbike. This isn’t just a rebrand, it’s a reset. The world of small sportbikes has evolved, and the entry-level class needs to catch up.
When WorldSSP300 launched in 2017, it made a lot of sense. Lightweight bikes, tight racing, and real opportunities for young talent to shine. But over time, the bikes fell out of step with what manufacturers were building and what the market was buying. Riders were jumping from 40-horsepower machines to 120-horsepower Supersports, and the gap was just too wide.
That’s where World Sportbike comes in. Designed around mid-capacity motorcycles, it promises a smoother, more logical step up for racers. These will be bikes that reflect what’s actually out there in showrooms today—agile, modern machines that sit between entry-level and full-blown race bikes. Take note that the FIM has yet to disclose what specific makes and models can participate in the series, but given what’s currently in the market today, it’s probably safe to think that 400cc to 500cc twins, maybe even some high-revving inline-fours or detuned middleweights, will be part of the series.
Clearly, this isn’t just good news for riders. Manufacturers get the perfect excuse to develop and showcase some flashy new hardware. The class is expected to attract a broader mix of brands, especially newer names looking to break through. CFMoto, QJ Motor, and even Voge could step into the spotlight, while the likes of Aprilia, Honda, and KTM might bring sharper versions of their current offerings.
So yeah, we might finally see the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR on a world stage, duking it out with the KTM RC 390, Aprilia RS 457, and maybe even a race-prepped Honda CBR500R.
That kind of variety could spill over to the bikes we see on the road. More race-developed tech, more performance-oriented trims, and a renewed focus on the small and middleweight sportbike class could give consumers a lot to look forward to.
That being said, while World Sportbike may still be under wraps when it comes to exact specs, the intent is clear. This is about future-proofing the sport, giving young riders better tools to grow, and creating a more exciting show for fans. And who knows? With the right mix of bikes and talent, this class could end up being the most fun to watch.
Source: WorldSBK
