BSB: A Recap of the 2023 Season So Far

The 2023 British Superbikes (BSB) season has undoubtedly kept us all on the edge of our seats. As the main season has drawn to a close, we find ourselves at the precipice of The Showdown. Here, every race session counts for even more, as points positions award increased points, and the race winner bags an extra seven points to boost their tally.

However, there’s been so many moments to relive and so much analysis to unpack already. As we gear up for the climactic final three races of this year's BSB championship, let's take a moment to look back at the season that was and brace ourselves for the electrifying finish that awaits.

Ducati Dominance

BSB has been well and truly rocked by the impeccable performance of BeerMonster Ducati, who have been flying this season. Tommy Bridewell sits comfortably at the top of the championship and teammate Glenn Irwin completes the dominant duo at the top with a second-place spot as things stand.

The team’s ascent wasn’t immediate, as they faced fierce competition from Australia's speedster, Josh Brookes for FHO Racing BMW, in the early rounds. This rivalry ignited the tracks, but with consistently fast qualifying results, Ducati’s perseverance and dedication shone through at every twist and turn.

A standout moment that encapsulates their breathtaking season performance was Bridewell's grand slam at Snetterton. Sweeping all three races, he not only displayed his individual brilliance but also underscored the team's dominating presence this season.

As we look forward to the remaining races, one thing is certain: BeerMonster Ducati has set the gold standard this year, and their competitors have some serious catching up to do.

Disappointment For Yamaha

LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha are the reigning champions in BSB after last year’s season with Bradley Ray, but Ray has left for World Superbikes. This year, without their star rider, they’ve been second best at almost every turn to Ducati. There have been some moments where they have come out on top, such as when Aussie driver Jason O'Halloran achieved a trifecta of race victories at Thruxton, but it will take something special to take the championship at this stage.

Elsewhere, Mar-Train Racing Yamaha has a one-man team of Jack Kennedy, who graduates from the British Supersport Championship as the most successful rider of all time. Naturally, hopes have been high for the Irish rider but has struggled to make an impact this season so far. With his best result being a fourth-place finish at Brands Hatch, he sits 10th in the standings.

Despite individual team performance, Yamaha bikes have dominated the season alongside Ducati. Aside from BMW Motorrad’s two race wins in the early rounds, Yamaha and Ducati have won every race this season, which speaks to how consistently Yamaha still provides race-winning performance. If you are looking for a Yamaha bike of your own to experience all of its might and power for a reduced price, browse our collection of used Yamaha bikes online today.

Kawasaki’s New Stars

There’s a theme of Kawasaki’s teams looking towards the future with their 2023 roster. Bradley Perie has stamped his authority on the British Supersport Championship and has earned himself a spot at Lee Hardy Racing. Recent performances have bagged him consecutive points finishes, indicating a promising trajectory.

On the other hand, Cheshire Mouldings Kawasaki is now joined by reigning Pirelli Junior Superstock Champion Max Cook. He’s been a revelation for the mid-table team and has captured attention with his scintillating drives, most notably two impressive fourth-placed finishes at Thruxton.

If you see your future with Kawasaki as well, take a look at Wheels Motorcycles’ awe-inspiring range of Kawasaki motorbikes. Now stocking the brand new Vulcan S Special editions, our store is paired with our workshop full of expert mechanics, as well as the latest diagnostic technology to handle Kawasaki bikes. This way, you’ll be sure to receive and keep your motorcycle running in top condition for years to come.

Wildcard Honda

MasterMac by Hawk Racing Honda was responsible for one of the highlights of the season at the Thruxton sprint race. Charlie Nesbitt was locked in a blow-for-blow fight with LAMI OMG Racing’s Ryan Vickers that extended into the final lap. As the field yo-yo’d between positions, Nesbitt saw an opportunity on the home straight and powered through to second with a photo finish in the sprint race. It was his first BSB podium finish, and supported by the power of Honda, was a hard-fought 2nd place.

The next race weekend is at Oulton Park on September 15-17th and while we’re all itching to see how the season ends, browse the Wheels Motorcycles collection of new and used motorbikes to experience the same thrills as you see on track for an affordable price with quality aftercare service.