Bimota confirms WSBK exit

Bimota has confirmed it will not compete in the remaining rounds of the 2014 World Superbike Championship after failing to reach the production quota required to meet homologation.

The Italian firm made a controversial return to WSBK competition this season with its new BMW-engined BB3 machine, with questions raised about how a small volume manufacturer could meet the quota necessary to be allowed to compete in the series.

A change in the regulations pre-season would see the quota reduced to 125 bikes and the final decision deferred to the end of July, during which Bimota could compete in the EVO class but could not score points.

However, with that deadline passed, Bimota has not met the required number, claiming it has produced and delivered 30 bikes, with the means and equipment to produce the remaining 95.

In the meantime, Bimota says it will restructure its racing plans by not competing in the final three rounds at Jerez, Magny-Cours and Losail, but is keen to return in 2015.

"As new owners, only 10 months after the change of management we have accepted this new challenge and brought back to competitions an historic and important brand. We are proud of this," said Bimota president Marco Chiancianesi in a statement posted to Bimota's Facebook page.

"We've been working very hard, added General Manager of Bimota, Daniele Longoni. "We will continue to work this way to complete the production and to be ready for the next season".

Despite a late appearance in the series and relatively minimal development, the Bimota BB3 - run under the guidance of former title winners Alstare - has proven competitive in the hands of riders Ayrton Badovini and Christian Iddon.

Though neither rider has been able to score, Badovini would be in contention for the EVO title against Kawasaki Racing's David Salom had his points counted having taken five class wins.