PTR aiming for WSB Evo class in 2014

Long time World Supersport front runners PTR are the first team to show serious intent to compete in the new proposed Evo class set to be introduced in to the World Superbike Championship in 2014.

The new class which will run as a class within the class of WSB will see teams operate under restricted technical regulations including engine limits and capped electronics is the brain child of new series owners Dorna and is set to come into effect next season.

PTR have proved themselves as a highly capable team at world level finishing runner-up three times in the World Supersport Championship with Eugene Laverty and Sam Lowes despite racing against full factory supported teams.

PTR Director Simon Buckmaster said: “The new EVO rules are sensible and a significant step in the right direction by DORNA, I think they have the potential to really improve grid size, interest and the number of teams racing in WSB.

“The cost reductions are sensible and something akin to the existing EVO rules in British Superbikes – and let’s face it, they are working well there so it is a good precedent to follow.

“Capped electronics costs and a limited number of engines are sensible measures, there is no need for unlimited spend in these areas as all that happens is the team with the most money tends to win.

“I think the new rules would allow PTR to run an EVO WSB Honda CBR1000RR race bike with a competitive engine for around £100,000 per bike more than it costs to go World Supersport racing. That is not a lot given the step up in category and extra media and TV exposure on offer.

“We are confident we can build an excellent bike to these rules that would be competitive right from the off with the right rider on it. This is something we are interested in and looking to see if there are sponsors or riders interested in joining us in WSB in 2014.

“For now we will concentrate on our WSS efforts and winning races but the new rules certainly open doors and new possibilities that are exciting us.”

It is not the first time that PTR have looked into switching their racing activities to WSB, but have their ambitions have always been put on hold due to securing the necessary budget to be competitive. The new rules will allow smaller teams to make the jump to WSB with the option of being genuinely competitive in the EVO class while being on track with full factory Superbikes.