New NZSBK Trophy Class Bridges Gap Between Track Days and Championship Racing

• New Superbike Supersport Trophy class targets track-day riders stepping into competitive racing
• Dedicated grids at selected rounds and inclusion at the Burt Munro Challenge
• Exotic machinery like Aprilia RSV4 and Ducati Panigale V4 R already confirmed

A new entry-level racing category is already striking a chord with riders ahead of the 2026 New Zealand Superbike Championship, with the Superbike Supersport Trophy class shaping up as one of the most talked-about additions to the Star Insure NZSBK programme.

Designed to bridge the gap between casual track days and full championship competition, the new Trophy class has attracted strong early interest, particularly from riders who want the thrill of racing without committing to the intensity – or expense – of the Superbike or Supersport 600 championships.

NZSBK promoter Mike Marsden says the uptake has exceeded expectations so far, especially among experienced track-day regulars.

“Track day riders especially have welcomed the new class,” Marsden says. “It features its own dedicated grid at rounds one, three and four, and will also be slotted into the programme at round two during the Burt Munro Challenge.”

Up to 10 riders are expected to contest the opening round, with 14 already registered across the two North Island rounds – strong numbers for a class that’s brand new to the championship.

According to Marsden, the appeal lies in the concept’s inclusivity and focus on fair competition.

“It’s aimed at riders who aren’t ready – or simply don’t want – to race in the main Superbike or Supersport 600 classes, but still want a proper championship experience among riders of similar pace,” he explains. “Lap times will be strictly monitored to ensure equality on the grid.”

“Track day riders especially have welcomed the new class,” Marsden says. “It features its own dedicated grid at rounds one, three and four, and will also be slotted into the programme at round two during the Burt Munro Challenge.”

Importantly, organisers say it’s not too late for riders to get involved, with entries still open for round one and plenty of opportunity to join the later rounds.

Driving the initiative is Trophy Class co-ordinator John Webster, who believes the format removes one of the biggest barriers to first-time racers.

“I wanted to see more guys on the grid, lining up without feeling threatened by fast championship racers,” Webster says. “It’s a nice format, especially for riders who haven’t raced before.”

Webster hopes the class will encourage more track-day riders to make the jump into competitive racing – particularly older riders on larger-capacity machinery who may have previously felt out of place.

“We need to get more people on the track,” he says. “This could be the start of a great entry-level competition.”

There’s also an added bonus for fans and paddock watchers, with the Trophy class expected to showcase some rare and exotic machinery not commonly seen in the main championship line-ups. Webster himself will contest the season aboard his Aprilia RSV4, while early entrant Mark Tylden of Queenstown is set to campaign a Ducati Panigale V4 R – exactly the kind of high-end hardware the class hopes to attract.

With healthy early numbers, an inclusive ethos and a clear pathway from track days to racing, the Superbike Supersport Trophy class is already shaping up as a smart addition to the NZSBK landscape.

To check out the race format and class info, head to the dedicated page on the NZSBK website HERE.