Bahattin Sofuoğlu Targets Historic Superbike Podiums

Turkish motorcycle racer Bahattin Sofuoğlu is aiming for historic podium finishes in the Superbike category. After achieving success in the World Supersport 300 and Supersport categories, Sofuoğlu has been competing in Superbike for two seasons.

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I am happy to race in Superbike. The difference of 400 cc between a Supersport engine and a Superbike engine, and the modifications in the championship, make the engine's power much harder to control. But this is a struggle I enjoy. I feel I am improving myself, and I am happy about that.

Sofuoğlu, who continues his training under the coordination of Kenan Sofuoğlu, a significant role model for Turkish motorcycle development, stated his satisfaction with racing in Superbike. He noted the substantial difference in engine size and power between Supersport (600cc) and Superbike (1000cc) motorcycles, acknowledging the greater difficulty in controlling the latter. However, he finds this challenge enjoyable and feels he is improving.

Recalling his start in motocross at age four, Sofuoğlu mentioned that a small motocross bike, a birthday gift from his father, changed his life. He has been riding motorcycles for nearly 20 years, initially competing in motocross before transitioning to supermoto and then the racing category he currently competes in. He emphasized a step-by-step career development.

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Kenan abi represents first and foremost an older brother to me. He is also a person I look up to. He has supported me in every aspect since I was little, and he continues to do so today. I consult him on even the smallest matters.

Sofuoğlu described Kenan Sofuoğlu's role in his career as deeply special, viewing him as both an older brother and an admired figure who has provided continuous support. He also highlighted the benefits of joint training sessions with world champion Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and the Öncü brothers at the Kenan Sofuoğlu Circuit in Sakarya, crediting Kenan Sofuoğlu for the current level of Turkish motorcycle racing.

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Superbike was always the category I wanted to race in. When I first rode a 1000 cc motorcycle at Istanbul Park, its power was very impressive. However, when I switched to a real Superbike motorcycle, I saw a huge difference. This power did not scare me; on the contrary, it motivated me. The important thing here is to control that power in the best way possible. Toprak abi did this perfectly for years. I am also trying to improve myself to use the motorcycle in the best way, just like him.

He revealed that the decision to move to Superbike was carefully considered, with his first 1000cc training session at Istanbul Park being pivotal. While the power of the 1000cc engine was initially striking, he found a significant difference upon switching to a true Superbike. This power, rather than intimidating him, motivated him to refine his control skills, aspiring to emulate Toprak Razgatlıoğlu's mastery. Sofuoğlu believes success requires patience and dreams of becoming a factory rider.

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Every motorcycle racer's dream is to become a factory rider.