Superbike 2000

Superbike 2000 is a racing sim developed by the Italian studio Milestone and published by Electronic Arts in 2000 for Windows and PlayStation. It is the second entry in the officially licensed series based on the Superbike World Championship. Following the well-received Superbike World Championship released in 1999, Milestone aimed to push realism further while maintaining accessibility and building on the advantages of the official license, which included real riders, bikes, and tracks from the 1999 season.

What sets Superbike 2000 apart is its deep commitment to simulation. Each motorcycle is modeled with unique handling and performance characteristics based on technical data from the manufacturers. The circuits are faithfully recreated, not just in layout but also in elevation changes, curbing, and visual detail. The graphics engine was significantly improved from the previous entry, delivering smoother performance and more detailed polygonal models, as well as a better lighting system for the time.

One of the game’s strongest aspects is its handling model, which caters to both casual players and hardcore sim fans. With all assists turned on, the game is approachable and fast-paced. Still, when you switch to manual gears, disable braking and stability aids, and fine-tune your riding technique, it becomes a demanding and immersive racing simulation. Weight shifting, tire temperature, and track conditions play a real role in performance. Mistakes can easily lead to crashes, and mastering the controls takes time and patience.

Compared to other motorcycle games of the time, like Moto Racer 2 or Redline Racer, Superbike 2000 leans heavily into realism. While arcade-style titles emphasized speed and stunts, Milestone focused on delivering an authentic racing experience. Even later titles such as Valentino Rossi: The Game or the Ride series owe much to the groundwork laid by Superbike 2000 which helped define the standards of realism in motorcycle sims.

In terms of audio, the game features convincing engine sounds and ambient effects that bring the racetrack to life, along with competent voiceover commentary and race atmosphere. The game offers various modes, including quick races, practice sessions, full championship seasons, and an in-depth garage where you can tweak everything from suspension to tire pressure and gear ratios.

Critically, Superbike 2000 was praised for its authenticity and technical execution. For fans of motorcycle racing, it stood out as one of the best simulations available at the time. While it may not have appealed to those seeking instant thrills, it delivered a thoughtful, demanding, and rewarding experience that solidified Milestone’s reputation as one of the leading developers in the racing sim genre.