The Supersport 1000cc class of 2006

The ram-air intake and exhaust systems have also been made freer flowing.

The compression ratio has risen due to slightly smaller combustion chambers in the new head, with the rpm scale increasing from 11,650 to an amazing 12,200rpm.

The crankshaft is also stronger thanks to the use of a stronger new steel alloy while the camshafts have had 450g shaved through the use of thinner shaft walls. The fuel injection system has been recalibrated to suit the changed engine characteristics with a 3.4% increase in top end power.

Other areas of weight saving have been realised by a lighter ECU, radiator, hoses and a new magnesium generator cover.

In fact, the 2006 model is 3kg lighter than before at 176kg which, along with the boost in power, provides a 3.3% increase in the overall power-to-weight ratio.

Additional refinements include the final drive ratio which has been changed to suit the higher revving engine with a 42 tooth rear sprocket replacing the previous 40 tooth item.

Other changes inside the crankcases promote further durability with new gears for the six-speed cassette gearbox, and the clutch now rides on new needle bearings that enhance engagement off the mark.

A shorter swingarm and a slightly steeper steering head rake all add up to a reduction in wheelbase, whilst the under seat exhaust system has also been shaved in weight.

...continued