North Yorks' Linfoot sets out on Superbike challenge

Dan Linfoot began riding in 2001 on minibikes

North Yorkshire motorcyclist Dan Linfoot will break new ground when he starts his first full season in the British Superbikes Championship.

The 21-year old from Knaresborough competed in two rounds of the series last season but 2010 will be his first full campaign.

He told BBC Radio York: "It's all down to the first race at Brands Hatch this weekend.

"Everything has gone well in testing and I just can't wait to get there."

Linfoot said he and his team had been working hard in the off season.

"It's been a long winter. I think the last time we raced was early October last year so it's been six months off.

To be in the top five come the end of the year would be a good target for a rookie rider like myself

Dan Linfoot

"We went out to Spain a month ago to do some pre-season testing on the new bikes and the new equipment is really good."

Linfoot is moving up from the 600cc Supersport series, and acknowledged Superbikes presented a very different set of challenges.

"I've got to be a lot fitter because races are a lot longer and there are two races in a day rather than one. Also the bikes are bigger and a little bit heavier.

"But you've got to be able to throw the bike around and be as strong on the final lap as you are on the first. It's a case of getting there, seeing how we get on and gradually taking steps forward.

"Regarding the bike, I've got a lot to learn. I think it'll be the boss of me for a couple of races at the beginning of the year."

Linfoot said his initial aim is to win one race and then assess his goals from that point.

"To be in the top five come the end of the year would be a good target for a rookie rider like myself," he said.

"Then move forward for the year after and hopefully go on and win the series!"