Here at Roxstar Performance, we have been in the performance game for nearly two decades.
Our history is built through racing Superbikes, and this has given us considerable insight into the motorcycle performance parts industry.
Back when we were heavily involved in the racing scene, Sportbikes / Superbikes were making serious headway in terms of production standards.
This was an era in which the Superbike monsters such as the Suzuki GSXR 1000 and Yamaha R6 were still in their infancy, around 2001–2007.
This was what some call the golden age of racing, with tight battles being waged in the World Superbike Championship, whilst Valentino Rossi had just begun his dominance in the premier MotoGP classes.
In this article, I shall look into what performance upgrades can make a difference both on and off the track for your Sportbike.
Performance Exhaust
Swapping out your standard exhaust system for an aftermarket set of pipes is perhaps one of the first modifications I would do.
First, it eliminates the catalytic converter, which restricts gas flow and weighs a ton.
It’s also as ugly as all sin.
We highly recommend upgrading your exhaust system for enhanced horsepower, torque, and improved handling due to a lighter bike — plus better visual appeal.
Sounds like a win to me.
Check out our Scorpion Exhausts page or our Brocks Performance Exhausts page for more information.
Air Filter
Standard air filters are pretty average in terms of what they could be offering your bike regarding performance.
Replacing the standard air filter will help your motorcycle breathe better and assist the exhaust system, enabling the engine to ramp up performance.
Performance air filters aren’t cheap, but they will breathe life into your motorcycle’s performance and provide excellent long-term value as they last for an exceptional length of time.
Tail Tidy – Fender Eliminator
Yes, I understand that this may not provide a huge change in performance.
However, over the years, standard fender eliminators have grown uglier and heavier, especially in critical areas of the bike.
We recommend installing an aftermarket fender eliminator kit. It’s going to give your bike a more edgy feel and, in your mind — which is where the greatest performance is held — you will literally think of your bike as looking faster.
Yes, it makes that big of a visual improvement. The result? A much better-looking bike in terms of design.
Professional Suspension
Suspension cannot be overlooked under any circumstance.
After years of racing experience, we can confidently say that suspension setup will increase your riding confidence if you choose to have it professionally adjusted.
Modern Sportbike suspension is far better than what we had at the turn of the century when front ends would simply give way without warning.
Every rider has a different style. We recommend you set up your suspension according to your weight and riding style.
A professionally set suspension will provide:
- Better handling
- More confidence in cornering
- Improved trail-braking control
- Earlier throttle application
All of this results in faster, more controlled lap times.
You will be amazed at what a correctly set-up bike can do on and off the track.
Tires
Tires affect both handling and ride quality.
We agree that the new stock tires on Superbikes are impressive these days. However, if you plan on doing track days, you’ll want SC1 or SC2 Pirelli race tires.
The difference between race and road tires is huge.
In 2007, I found that switching from standard road tires to race tires improved my lap times by an average of 2–3 seconds — which is massive in racing terms.
Performance Camshaft
To maximise engine performance, consider installing a performance camshaft.
Performance cams increase the duration and timing of valve openings during the engine stroke, boosting horsepower and improving acceleration.
They deliver:
- Massive mid-range and top-end pull
- More torque out of corners
- Better straight-line performance
Cams need professional installation, but if you want extra horsepower and torque, they are a great option.
Performance Ignition
Performance ignition systems automatically optimise fueling at all temperatures and altitudes, resulting in cooler cylinder temperatures and better overall performance.
Contact Roxstar Performance if you’re looking to upgrade your ignition system.
Fueling Module
A fueling module optimises the fuel-to-air ratios your engine demands.
It adjusts for air temperature and altitude, ensuring your bike is always running at its best.
We stock a wide range of performance fueling modules for Sportbikes. Check out our homepage for more information.
All the products and upgrades mentioned in this article are available at Roxstar Performance.
We suggest you look at our Scorpion Exhausts or Brocks Performance Exhausts pages for more on exhaust options, or visit our Exhaust Systems page to see our full range.
We’ll be adding more detailed upgrade guides to the website soon.
Please feel free to call us on 082 572 3914 for more information or assistance.