Chinese manufacturer Kove Moto has officially completely overhauled its squad and machinery for the 2027 World Sportbike Championship. Led by Team Principal Paul Tobin, the factory outfit is taking a decisive step forward following a challenging inaugural campaign with the 450RR model, where a lower engine displacement made it difficult to fight at the front against stiff competition.
Despite achieving historical glory with Benat Fernandez, who secured the first-ever world championship title for a Chinese manufacturer in 2026, Kove struggled to convert that momentum in the Sportbike class. Former 300cc world champion Fernandez could only manage single-digit finishes, while teammate Phillip Tonn suffered persistent injuries, forcing the team to rotate through several replacement riders throughout the year.
With Fernandez bound for the Moto3 World Championship, Kove initiated the development of a brand-new motorcycle mid-season. The manufacturer's strong reputation in the paddock enabled them to persuade top-tier talent, successfully securing all-Spanish duo Antonio Torres and Iker Garcia as their primary lineup for the upcoming 2027 championship.
19-year-old Torres joins the team following an impressive campaign with Kawasaki squad ProDina, where he finished fourth overall in the standings with two victories and five podium finishes. "I am really happy to have signed with the team for 2027. I am highly motivated to start the season, give my best, and help bring the team to the top step of the podium," stated Torres regarding his new venture.
Alongside him, newcomer Iker Garcia brings serious credentials as the 2025 JuniorGP European Stock 600 champion. "I am thrilled and filled with anticipation to be part of Kove now. I can't wait to work with the team and give my absolute best this season," expressed Garcia on his step up to the world stage.
At the heart of Kove's revamped assault is the new 650RR, designed to rival established machines like the Kawasaki ZX-6R 636 and Honda CBR600RR. Featuring an inline four-cylinder engine housed within an aluminum frame, the road-going base model pumps out 125 hp at 13,000 rpm and 69 Nm of torque at 11,000 rpm with a wet weight of 180 kg. The machine is currently undergoing the official homologation process ahead of its World Championship debut.
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