Image: Keith Muir.

The R3 Cup will continue in 2018 at the Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) with direct support from Yamaha Motor Finance (YMF), now in line with the Supersport 300 championship technical regulations.

That adjustment will enable cross entries between the two categories in a more simplified process, in what will be a primary benefit for riders competing aboard Yamaha YZF-R3 machinery.

“On behalf of Yamaha Motor Finance and Yamaha, we are eagerly anticipating the 2018 YMF R3 Cup season and the ensured success of ASBK at all levels of competition,” stated Brad Ryan, Yamaha Motor Australia group general manager Financial Services. “This year showcased entertaining, thrilling and cost effective racing for its competitors.

“The YMF R3 Cup is aimed at entry-level road racers with an emphasis on the enjoyment of riding and competing on equal machinery. Building a solid future for Australian road racing for a cost-effective price. Competitors can head to their local Yamaha dealer and attain the race ready version of the YZF-R3 with YMF.”

The YMF R3 Cup will be in attendance at Phillip Island’s opening round alongside the Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) opener, as well as Wakefield Park, Morgan Park, Winton and Phillip Island’s final round.