The Honda factories involvement in the series next season is in question with their line-up to be announced at the NEC show in early November, however the Blades they developed this season are likely to be a formidable force in both BSB and WSBK next year.
The R1 did not fair as well in its debut year despite the Virgin Yamaha's efforts to flood the grid with its four Red machines.
Next year may be a different story for Yamaha as they are keen to win in every major championship in their 50th anniversary year.
Quite how keen was demonstrated at the final round of World Superbikes from France. The Yamaha France R1, piloted by World Endurance rider Sebastien Gimbert, forced its way to fourth on the grid followed by two fourth placed finishes in the races. An impressive feat by both rider and machine first time out.
The Ducati of Sean Emmett and Monstermob was a factory F04 machine, but due to the influx of the more powerful four cylinder machines this season, the Ducati was almost left floundering. Emmett reportedly had many troubles in setting up the bike to get it to handle on the Dunlop tyres. In a recent test with his new team Virgin Yamaha Emmett said, “…with the 999 I rode last season, no matter what we tried there was no solution.”
Next season sees the confirmed return of GSE with a two bike Ducati team. GSE have had great success in both WSBK and BSB in the past and therefore will hope to put the V-twin back into regular podium positions next season.
There is no doubt 2005 will see the closest battle for the championship yet, with a bumper entry of teams and riders, all in with a chance of that race win.
