Moriwaki Unveils 600GP prototype

[ChrisS]

Moriwaki has built a prototype of what it thinks a 600GP competitor should look like. Moriwaki had the prototype to display at the Suzuka 8 Hours as a statement of intent to take part in the new class.

http://www.mcnews.com.au/MotorcycleRacing2008/Superbike/Suzuka/Gallery_G/images/Moriwaki600_088Hr_1986_AN.jpg

The prototype uses a CBR600RR engine housed in a bespoke tubular steel chassis that allows the fitment of a much longer, MotoGP-style swingarm. Also present is GP-spec Öhlins suspension and a neat GP-style exhaust. The rest of the machine is fairly rough, running 250GP bodywork and stock CBR clocks for instance. This is to be expected, Dorna hasn’t finalized rules for the new class yet and it’s not even known if engines will be production or prototype-spec.

This appears to be a working concept from Moriwaki, brought out to gauge interest and sponsorship opportunities should they decide to enter the series.

[Dr. Gellar]

I originally saw this on the recent cover of MCN. I was surprised to see something like this so soon, but it's good to see that a company such as Moriwaki are already showing an interest in the class. Will be interesting to see what the rules end up being for this 600GP class, and how it changes the MotoGP series.

[jim mcglinchey]

It could be anything, it looks like a load of off the shelf top spec components, marchesini, brembo, white power, ohlin etc around an off the shelf motor. Im surprised at the tubular steel frame though.

[gco0307]

Obviously early days but will it be allowed to race if it keeps the CBR600RR motor?

Asking because of the WCM R1 Debacle of a few years ago where (if memory is correct) the bike was excluded and eventually thrown out because it used stock R1 engine casings or parts. Anyone remember the full details (may try to google later).




Garry

[Dr. Gellar]

It could be anything, it looks like a load of off the shelf top spec components, marchesini, brembo, white power, ohlin etc around an off the shelf motor. Im surprised at the tubular steel frame though.

Indeed. For example, the bodywork appears to be directly off of Moriwaki's RC211V-engined MotoGP racer of a couple years ago. Regarding the frame, they used a similar piece on their MotoGP racer as well.

[Dr. Gellar]

Obviously early days but will it be allowed to race if it keeps the CBR600RR motor?

Asking because of the WCM R1 Debacle of a few years ago where (if memory is correct) the bike was excluded and eventually thrown out because it used stock R1 engine casings or parts. Anyone remember the full details (may try to google later).

That's a very interesting question. If you get a chance, pick up the August 2008 issue of Roadracing World and Motorcycle Technology. Under the MotoGP notes following the article on the Catalunya GP, there is a rather eye-opening piece regarding Dorna boss Carmelo Ezpeleta and his definition of "prototype". It is very relevant both to WCM's struggles with the "prototype" rules, and the new 600GP class who's rules are yet to be finalized. Let's just say that Ezpeleta's definition of what a prototype is is making a major flip-flop...

[ChrisS]

its not up to Ezpeleta to define what prototype is. The FIM is responsible for that and the FIM has others to answer to.

In any case, I think the new 600GP class is supposed to use a purpose-built engine that will be used as a base and that the entrants will be able to modify.

[Dr. Gellar]

its not up to Ezpeleta to define what prototype is. The FIM is responsible for that and the FIM has others to answer to.

In any case, I think the new 600GP class is supposed to use a purpose-built engine that will be used as a base and that the entrants will be able to modify.

Perhaps, but Ezpeleta should know better. He comes off sounding very ignorant. Especially considering what happened to WCM and the issues they had.

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