World Superbike News
After finishing runner-up to Max Biaggi in the 2010 World Superbike Champion, Leon Haslam achieved his best overall finish after five years (not consecutive) in WSBK.
The Derbyshire superbike rider finished 75 points behind Biaggi while competing on the Suzuki Alstare GSX-R1000. Once the season was completed, Haslam signed with the BMW Motorrad Team, where he will contest for Superbike points next to Troy Corser.
Haslam, the son of famed British Road Racer "Rocket" Ron Haslam, is now focused on preparation for the 2011 season, but looked back on his best World Superbike season.
Aboard the Suzuki, Haslam was the only real threat to Biaggi this past year, but he admitted that the odds were against him.
Leon Haslam says: "Suzuki made a decision before the season started that their efforts and development weren’t going to be in World Superbikes or with the Alstare team."
Due to no developments through Suzuki, Haslam said he had trouble competing with Biaggi. This became apparent during mid-season, and then progressively became tougher.
Leon Haslam says: "Max wasn’t ever too far ahead, but when he was on-form and doing well, he was getting double wins; we grounded out some wins and lots of podiums, but it was always a battle."
"I look back, and the Miller weekend lost me 30 points, which was my fault; for sure, we had other issues throughout the year, but in general I think the Suzuki team definitely got the most out of the package that we had."
"We still had some really good races, and to finish second in the world for my first time in a semi-factory team, I’ve got to be happy with that. Losing the championship was obviously disappointing, but I’ve had a fantastic season and really enjoyed it. Max was just super-consistent and fast and he finished every race in the points and that’s what wins titles."
During the post-season, three-day tests at Aragon in Spain, Haslam progressed quickly with his new team, BMW Motorrad.
Haslam piloted the S1000RR to a 10th fastest on Day 1, seventh fastest on Day 2 and third fastest on Day 3.
