Bimota has officially kicked off its 2026 WorldSBK campaign, unveiling a new bike livery that closely follows the design elements of the 2025 model. The company made its World Superbike return in 2025 with the KB998, built by Kawasaki, and enjoyed a strong season highlighted by a front-row start and four podium finishes—all courtesy of rider Alex Lowes, who stepped onto the podium once at Misano and three times at Magny-Cours.
Lowes is set to stay with Bimota through 2026, although his contract will conclude at the end of the year, the same situation facing teammate Axel Bassani. Bassani had a promising start to the 2025 season, but his performance declined sharply after a controversial crash with Nicolo Brega in the first corner of the Misano Superpole race—an incident that ironically opened the door for Lowes’ podium finish there.
The new racing colors for 2026 maintain much of last year’s scheme, incorporating white and red into the green shade introduced at Misano in 2025, but replacing the deep blue with black. While Bimota isn’t rolling out a completely new bike this season, the team has faced challenges due to the lack of dry track time during pre-season testing. Both planned test sessions at Jerez and Portimão were canceled because of rain, leaving Bassani and Lowes without any laps at the latter test, where test rider Xavi Forés handled all the running.
Bimota’s final winter test session is scheduled for Phillip Island on February 16-17, with the opening round of the season also set to happen there from February 20-22. Both team seats will be open for the 2027 season, and given the progress made this year, Bimota could become a highly appealing choice for riders looking to switch teams.
Fan Take:
This announcement is exciting for WorldSBK fans because Bimota’s steady progress shows real potential to shake up the established order. With competitive performances and promising talent like Lowes and Bassani, the 2026 season could see some thrilling battles and unexpected podium contenders, adding fresh energy to the championship.
