Miguel Oliveira (BMW): “It’ll be very different with Michelin”

Miguel Oliveira competed in MotoGP from 2019 to 2025, riding bikes from KTM, Aprilia and Yamaha. This year, he had to switch to the BMW Superbike. The M1000R is the bike on which Toprak Razgatlioglu won the World Championship in 2024 and 2025.

MotoGP bikes are prototypes – with around 300 PS, sophisticated aerodynamics and packed full of electronics. Superbikes, on the other hand, are modified production bikes. They, too, feature sophisticated electronics. However, the aerodynamics are kept simpler and the engine output is around 250 PS.

Which does Oliveira enjoy more – the MotoGP bike or the Superbike? “It depends. If you’re fast on both, then they’re both a lot of fun,” emphasised the 31-year-old. “There’s no clear preference, because the Superbike is also a motorbike that’s great fun. But they’re so different – you can’t really compare them.”

Several changes have been agreed for the 2027 Superbike regulations, such as the introduction of carbon-ceramic brake discs from Brembo. In addition, Michelin will supply standard tyres for the production-based world championship. So far, Oliveira is only familiar with the French tyres from MotoGP. However, a prototype chassis is much stiffer than a Superbike frame, where much more movement can be felt.

“The movement comes more from the tyres. But it’s true that the Superbike moves around a bit more. Unlike a MotoGP bike, it requires a different approach,” explained Oliveira. “I haven’t tested the Michelin tyres yet – I haven’t had the chance. But it will certainly be very different.”

Oliveira will have this opportunity on 9 and 10 September, when the French manufacturer conducts a test at the Cremona Circuit.