World Superbike riders will now be able to come in to a change wheels during the course of a race if it rains as the series will revert back to flag-to-flag events.

Because there is a one-bike rule in place, the new regulation will not work in the same way as it does in MotoGP but those wishing to change tyres for differing conditions can swap wheels - but refuelling is strictly forbidden. The minimum weights have also seen the differential between the twins and fours. There is now a minimum weight of 165kg for both 1200cc twin cylinders and 1000cc four cylinders.

The four-cylinder weight is unchanged, but the 1200cc twins will be able to shed the six kilos that had been added for this season.

"A Superbike race will not be interrupted for climatic reasons except for extraordinary events and riders who wish to change tyres or make adjustments must enter the pits (at any moment) and do so during the actual race," said an FIM statement.

Other rules introduced for Superbikes include a new three-bike grid formation, use of a red rear safety light in wet conditions, front-brake lever protection to stop Tommy Hill-style mistakes and sport 17in wheels, which we already knew.

Superport teams are also now bound by the brake lever and rear light rules but will also now be constrained to eight engines per season for a permanent rider. If that rider is substituted, then it makes no odds to the allocation.