Checa predicts tough challenge

Spanish rider Carlos Checa has predicted a tough 2010 season in the FIM Superbike World Championship after testing with his new team Althea Ducati

Checa, a former MotoGP rider, has quickly settled into his new set-up after leaving Hannspree Ten Kate Honda and is looking forward to next season.

"We're obviously going to have a competitive bike for the 2010 season on the same level as the factory Ducatis. I immediately liked the characteristics of the bike and established a good feeling with it," said Checa following his first test.

Of the 2010 season he said: "I'm full of enthusiasm and ready to do well. Obviously there's a lot of work to do but I'm not worried because I find myself in a team where I immediately realised they want to do well.

"Every year the competition gets tougher and it's not going to be easy but my aim is to consistently be up at the front of the field, because I want to be one of the protagonists of the 2010 WSB championship."