Supertwin machines won’t be excluded from next year’s Briggs Equipment North West 200, the organisers have confirmed.

Race Director Mervyn Whyte said traditional Supertwins will be eligible to compete alongside the new Sportbike machines in 2027.

The announcement comes after the introduction of new regulations for the Isle of Man TT next year, with only Sportbikes permitted and Supertwin racing phased out at the event.

NW200 boss Whyte said he felt it was “only fair” to allow Supertwin machines to continue competing at the Ulster road race next May.

placeholder image — Supertwin machines will remain eligible to race at the 2027 Briggs Equipment North West 200. (Photo by David Maginnis/Pacemaker Press)

However, some significant changes have been introduced, with the Supertwin and Sportbike competitors starting separately within both races. There will also be standalone podiums and prize funds for both classes

“Not everyone will necessarily have sufficient time to produce and develop new Sportbike-spec machinery for 2027,” said Whyte.

“With so many teams and riders having invested a great deal of time and money in developing Supertwin machinery over many seasons, we felt it was only fair that they should continue to have the opportunity to compete on the Triangle course this year.

“After consultation with a number of competitors and teams, it is felt that this joint format will provide the fairest opportunity for everyone involved and will ensure full grids across both races.”

Regulations across the Superbike and Superstock races will remain largely unchanged while the Supersport class adopts the Next Generation-spec.

The NW200 said full details of its regulations for the 2027 meeting, which takes place from May 11-15, will be available on its website.