There is an interesting article by Kevin Cameron (on page 22) in the March issue of Cycle World magazine. His TDC column discusses the concept of "technology creep" in racing and the sport's technical rules committees' attempt to restrict technology over the years. He says that the racing bodies would like to see a "lead carousel" running around the track with 6 or 10 machines trading the lead every lap. That generates "Pure Excitement", which the racing promoters believe is what brings in the paying audience to the tracks.
He comments that if promoters had their way, racing motorcycles would not have throttles and would still be using an ignition cut-out to control speed; or the hot tube pilot light, instead of electric spark ignition; no dampers on spring suspension; or cam-operated valves, instead of suction intake valves; etc. Well you get the idea.
He was really commenting about racing technical committees trying to block electronic computer controls being installed on IC motorcycles to make them easier to ride on the track. But I can certainly see a parallel that could be drawn to racing rules for electric motorcycles and their attempt to level the playing field by restricting technical advances.
Personally, I would like to see a production class for electric motorcycles and one for "whatever you can build". The production class would give buyers of each brand something to root for and would help compare one model to another for bikes that you can actually buy. It would also spur advancements under the theory that what wins on Sunday sells on Monday (assuming that most motorcycle shops were open on Monday - which they aren't).
The "run what you brought" class would spur and test new ideas, concepts and equipment - which would advance the entire industry.
