Confident mood
11:11am Thursday 1st May 2008
KINGSWINFORD'S Michael Rutter is confident he can build on his flying start to the season when the British Superbikes Championship resumes at Oulton Park on Monday.
Oulton is one of Rutter's favourite circuits and he is relishing the second round test after opening the season at Thruxton with two third-placed finishes.
After a couple of disappointing seasons, Rutter can see better times ahead on his new North West 200 Ducati.
He said: "Oulton Park is probably one of my favourite circuits.
"I am really looking forward to it.
"I'm in touching distance with the leaders and, while I know there is still a long way to go, the team is good and everything is fine.
"There are a lot of people out there who are going to be really competitive.
"But I'm definitely much happier than when I was just testing the machine.
"I like the steering of the bike.
"The top end speed is not that high as compared to the Honda's but the actual ride-ability and drive out of the corners is excellent.
"To be third in the championship behind Carl Crutchlow and Shane Byrne so early in the season is a dream come true.
"If I can keep going as I am at the moment it will be fantastic.
"I know that Thruxton was only our first meet but it was a bit of a guideline to what could be in store for the rest of the season."