Brembo Brake Facts: World Superbike Phillip Island

Australia is hosting the opening round of the 2017 FIM Superbike World Championship

Brembo World Superbike Brake Facts Phillip IslandCourtesy of Brembo

According to Brembo, Phillip Island is one of the least difficult racetracks, braking-wise, for Superbikes. Having the Pacific Ocean nearby helps moderate brake temperatures, and abundant long, fast bends and lack of stop-and-go curves also help with cooling. Riders rarely brake and only for short periods of time.

  • Circuit Length: 2.762 miles
  • Number of corners: 12 (seven left, five right)
  • Number of braking zones: seven
  • Brake Effort: very easy
  • Important: Turn 1 is considered the most demanding for braking
  • Time Spent Braking: 22 percent

Riders using Brembo braking systems have won 25 World Superbike titles, including the last nine. During the last two years, bikes equipped with Brembo brakes have won 51 of 52 races, as well as 25 of 26 pole positions.

Compared to MotoGP, where riders rely on carbon discs, World Superbike teams use steel. In fact, for 2017, the carbon percentage may not higher than two percent of the total weight of the disc. Disc thickness differs from 6.5 to 7.1mm.

In addition, unlike MotoGP, which alternates between 320 and 340mm discs, Superbike riders can choose from either 328 or 336mm. Those who have a “gentle” riding style may prefer smaller-diameter discs, thus obtaining a small weight advantage.

Riders use Brembo Z04 pads, the same pad available to national racers and track-day riders. Continuing its strong presence in World Superbike, Brembo will supply braking components to 17 of the 21 riders competing in the championship.

2017 FIM Superbike World ChampionshipCourtesy of World Superbike