MotoGP and Superbike set the standard: concessions arrive in Japan too

The system of assistance through the concessions contemplated by the MotoGP and World Superbike regulations has its pros and cons. However, based on the evidence, it has clearly set a precedent. Proof of this is that it has been adopted in All Japan to rebalance the technical situation of the Superstock (ST1000) class for the 2026 season.

All Japan ST1000 features a high-level grid of teams and riders with virtually all manufacturers represented. However, in 2025, Honda dominated the scene: 5 wins in 6 races held (only Shota Ite on Yamaha won the final race at Suzuka), and a championship Top 3 monopolized by, in order, Taiga Hada, Yudai Kamei, and Takuma Kunimine. All on CBR 1000RR-Rs, fielded by three different teams: Shinichi Ito’s Astemo Pro Honda SI Racing, RT Japan, and TOHO Racing. No fewer than 4 Honda riders are in the Top 5 (the only exception being the aforementioned Ite in fourth) of the final standings, with 6 in the top 8.

There is no doubt that the Honda CBR 1000RR-R is an extremely competitive motorcycle in Superstock configuration. Such dominance certainly doesn’t help, especially in a category where manufacturers are directly involved. Kawasaki, for example, competes with two riders and its own factory team (Kawasaki Plaza), with the other outfits not far behind. Even Aprilia, through Piaggio Japan and TATARA, is present, running not only Ruka Wada but also Akito Haga.

To ward off the specter of another Honda sweep, for 2026 the MFJ (Motorcycling Federation of Japan) has decided to adopt concessions. All manufacturers, except Honda itself, will be granted various forms of assistance. The rules are clear and defined well in advance: all manufacturers that do not achieve a podium finish in any race held on a dry track during the 2025 season will be eligible for these concessions. Honda aside, that means practically all of them, considering that Shota Ite at Suzuka, with the AKENO Speed RC Koshien Yamaha R1, won on a wet track and remains the only non-Honda rider to place in the top three all season.

Getting into the details, the Yamaha R1 will be allowed to modify the engine filter cover assembly, while the Suzuki GSX-R 1000 may change the camshaft set. The Kawasaki ZX-10R may also modify camshafts, valves, and the throttle body support, with various concessions for the Aprilia RSV4 Factory ranging from the throttle body to the fuel pump. These parts are listed in the 2026 regulations and must be marketed by the manufacturer itself, with the MFJ reserving the right to offer additional concessions during the season in order to further level performance among the various bikes on the starting grid.

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