BSB: What is the Pathway Class?

The British Superbike grid will have a new class this year, but what is the Pathway Class?

The BSB Pathway Class will run within the main Superbike race this year, which was first tested last year. It is an exciting addition to the British Superbike class with the possibility of bigger grids.

The bikes will be built to National Superstock specifications but are fitted with the British Superbike MoTeC ECU and wiring harness. This is compared to the standard electronics which are used in Superstock. There will also be lower regulation requirements on certain cycle and mechanical parts which are fitted.

The bikes will have a yellow background on the numbers, making them easily recognisable for fans. The bikes were first tested at Oulton Park, with Andrew Irwin, Dan Linfoot, and Richard Kerr riding the Fireblade.

“less physical” – Andrew Irwin

Speaking after his first time riding a Pathway bike, Andrew Irwin said: “The main difference between the two bikes is that the Pathway bike is really easy to ride, it’s less physical. There is less wheelie, and there is less power, but that power is usable, you don’t have to kill the power with the rear brake as much which means you are going, forwards.”

Three Pathway bikes were entered into the next round at Donington Park with Franco Bourne and Alex Olsen onboard the Pathway machines. The highest-place finisher was Franco Bourne, finishing sixth place in tricky conditions.

The idea behind the new class is to create an entry point for Superstock riders who move to the Superbike class. So far, Honda, Yamaha, and Aprilia Pathway bikes have been tested throughout 2023.

A similar concept has been used before with the BSB Evo class, which was announced in 2009.

British Superbike Championship Series Director, Stuart Higgs added: “It is really exciting to complete our first 2024 Class Technical Test. To be three rounds of the championship still to run and to be immersed in several projects for the future is really exciting.

“Firstly, the BSB Pathway Class, which is going to be really interesting bringing on new teams and new riders, many of which will be in combination. Which I think is something that is really needed.”

Image credit: Honda Racing UK