Rule change submission:

Current Rule:
3.7.B. Modern Vintage motorcycles must use a frame and engine case 15 years old or
older, as determined by manufacturer’s model year. Example: for 2023, the
manufacturer’s model year must be 2008 or older.

Suggested change
3.7.B. Modern Vintage motorcycles must use a frame and engine case 15 years old or
older, as determined by manufacturer’s model year. Example: for 2023, the
manufacturer’s model year must be 2008 or older.
3.7.B.1 Modern vintage will be split into two categories which will qualify, grid and race together, and be defined as "Modern Vintage Pre 2006" and Modern Vintage Post 2006" with each category awarding points to riders in that category.

Reason:
It is widely acknowledged that the 2006 onward R6 has a significant competitive advantage over other motorcycles of similar vintage due to significant technological advances. As we enter 2024, there will be 4 models years of the R6 eligible (2006, 7, 8 and 9) for modern vintage which provides a significant disadvantage for those competing in the class on machines of a 2005 and older model year.
With so many model years of a bike that was produced in such large numbers, it is inevitable that this class will essentially have two separate races occurring concurrently, whether we recognize them as separate or not, due to the volume 2006 onwards R6 bikes in existence.
This change enables riders on older machines to remain involved in a class in which their machines can be competitive, without adding additional races to the weekend schedule, and without placing an arbitrary ban on specific models, or model years, of motorcycles.

Written on behalf of Tim Ellis.