Dunlop supports competitive Formula EWC and Superstock Trophy fields at Suzuka 8 Hours

Following the 24 Heures Motos in April and the 8 Hours Spa in June, this weekend Dunlop takes on the only FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC) race outside of Europe: the legendary Suzuka 8 Hours. In Japan, Dunlop will support a diverse and competitive line-up, equipping nine teams in the Formula EWC category and all 18 entries in the Superstock Trophy with Dunlop tires.

Among the full-season European entries in the Formula EWC category are the #6 ERC Endurance BMW, the #65 Motobox Kremer Racing Yamaha and the #99 Elf Marc VDS Racing Team/KM99 Yamaha. These teams are joined by six highly competitive Japanese teams representing BMW, Honda, Suzuki and Yamaha, demonstrating the confidence leading teams have in Dunlop’s performance and reliability. 

In addition to its presence in the Formula EWC category, Dunlop remains the exclusive tire supplier to the Superstock Trophy class. At Suzuka, this means supporting all 18 teams entered in the class, underlining Dunlop’s commitment to fostering a competitive and highly skilled field of both emerging talent and experienced contenders. 

The Superstock Trophy grid features a mix of local favourites and international entries. Home favourite #25 Team Étoile BMW, defending winner #93 TONE Team 4413 EVA 02 BMW and last year’s champion #55 National Motos Honda return to the grid as part of a strong field of challengers, making this one of the most competitive Superstock Trophy grids yet. They’re joined by a strong line-up of Japanese teams running on Dunlop tires across a range of manufacturers: Aprilia, BMW, Honda, Kawasaki and Yamaha.

Track evolution and tire innovation

In preparation for this year’s race, the unique ‘figure-of-eight’ circuit has undergone a complete resurfacing, with particular attention given to the East Course. Subtle but important layout changes have been introduced in Sector 1, including the addition of double kerbs at the Degner curves to improve rider safety through the fast and technical Esses.

To help teams adapt to the updated track conditions, Dunlop draws on combined expertise from its European and Japanese motorsport operations. This collaboration ensures all teams receive tailored technical support and access to a wide range of tires, including multiple specifications of the KR racing slicks, specifically the KR149F/KR151F for the front and the KR133 for the rear, designed to deliver the grip and durability required to perform for long stints in high-temperature and demanding conditions. A new tire profile featuring updated technology will also debut in the Formula EWC category this weekend, aimed at improving performance and consistency further.

The opening rounds of the 2025 FIM EWC season have already presented teams with unpredictable, mixed-weather conditions at Le Mans and Spa. Should similar weather return at Suzuka Circuit, all Dunlop-equipped teams will have proven wet-weather options available, including the KR189 front and KR405 rear full wet tires. In addition to the possibility of rain, Suzuka is known for its extreme weather conditions, including high ambient and track temperatures and intense humidity. These factors make it one of the most demanding races on the calendar, pushing riders, bikes and tires to their limits.

Wim Van Achter, Motorsport Manager, Dunlop Motorcycle Europe commented: “We’re proud to be supporting a diverse and competitive field of teams at the Suzuka 8 Hours. It’s one of the most technically demanding circuits on the calendar and this year’s resurfacing adds an extra layer of complexity. By combining Dunlop’s international racing experience with local expertise from our team in Japan, we’re able to provide consistent performance and trusted support to every Dunlop-equipped team. This allows each team to maximise their performance throughout the weekend, whether they’re chasing a podium in the Formula EWC class or battling for victory in the Superstock Trophy category.”

On-track action begins at Suzuka with free practice, qualifying, and night practice on Friday 1 August, followed by the top-10 qualifying shootout on Saturday. The 46th edition of the Suzuka 8 Hours gets underway at 11:30 local time (04:30 CEST) on Sunday, 3 August.

About Dunlop

Dunlop Europe is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of motorcycle tyres with an impressive track record of motorsport successes. Dunlop Europe is a technical partner of leading Endurance World Championship teams, and the most successful tyre brand in the history of the Isle of Man TT. Off-road, Dunlop is the choice of MXGP race winners and champions.