MotoAmerica and the AMA have released the 2016 MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North America Road Race Series Sporting Regulations with the most notable change coming to the points-paying system in the Superbike/Superstock 1000 class.
In the recently completed debut season of the series, Superbike and Superstock 1000 riders were issued championship points based on their finishing position in their respective class.
For 2016, however, Superbike and Superstock 1000 riders will be awarded championship points based solely on their overall finish - irrespective of class. In other words, if the top Superstock 1000 rider finishes fifth overall, he/she will be awarded fifth-place points.
If the second-placed Superstock 1000 rider finishes 12th overall, he/she will be awarded 12th-place points, etc. The same system will also be used in awarding Superbike class points.
Both classes, however, will continue to have separate podiums for the top three finishers in each class and purses will remain separate and will continue to be calculated on finishing order according to class.
"For the 2015 season, MotoAmerica, the AMA and FIM North America made the decision to combine the Superbike class with the newly introduced Superstock 1000 category in an effort to increase the grid numbers," MotoAmerica partner Chuck Aksland said. "Both classes were scored separately.
"However, this led to some confusion about who was in what position on track for our spectators. For this reason, we have chosen to adapt a similar format to the MotoGP Open Class Championship. Superbike will see both the Superbike and Superstock 1000 classes compete for positions and overall championship points on track.
"Superstock 1000 will continue to have its own championship outside the Superbike class. We believe in making the change that our trackside and viewing audience will find it much easier to identify the positions of the riders during the race.
"Additionally, we have made minor changes to reflect the continued process of adapting FIM rules and procedures as is appropriate for racing in the United States."
Other notable changes to the sporting regulations include: With the exception of Superbike, all MotoAmerica classes will now feature some variation of a one-bike rule; changes to the safety flag procedures when the racing surface is wet; and changes in the Superpole 1 qualifying procedure that will open it up to all riders within 107 percent of the fastest rider in any session.
Those wanting to view the entire 2016 Sporting Regulations document, can do so by
CLICKING HERE.
Top Image: MotoAmerica has released its Sporting Regulations for 2016.
Photo Credit: Brian J. Nelson.
