The latest episode of the Paddock Pass Podcast is out, and this time, David Emmett and Steve English get together to discuss the state of the WorldSBK series. In a long-ranging conversation, we cover a lot of ground, and Steve gives his deep insight into the goings on behind the scenes at the championship.

We start off with the domination of the Kawasaki and Ducati teams, and ask whether that is an accurate reflection of the strength of the field. We go through the other manufacturers, and ask how they are doing and what they need to catch up to the green and red bikes.

We go on to discuss how to make the various manufacturers more competitve, and ask what can be learned from the transformation of MotoGP, which went from having three factories, two of which were competitive, and only 17 bikes on the grid to a healthy 23 bikes and the closest racing we have seen in a very long time. We cover some of the silly season rumors in WorldSBK, and some of the options open and the possibiity of Suzuki joining next year.

Steve and David also compare the bikes raced at the Suzuka 8 Hour race, which Steve attended, with the WorldSBK machines, and where the difference is made. We wonder what effect declining sports bike sales have on WorldSBK, and contrast that with the interest for Suzuka. And we have a conversation about attendances, and whether Lausitzring was deceptive or representative.

Enjoy the show!

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