2010 World Superbike Preview: Assen Hot

The fourth round of the World Superbike Championships brings riders to the Netherlands where they will compete at the legendary Circuit Van Drenthe in Assen. But the Circuit Van Drenthe has seen some changes in the past year. The Assen track is slightly shorter, at 4.542 km, and will be sure to keep riders on their toes throughout this weekend’s event.

Suzuki Alstare rider Leon Haslam will go into Assen ahead of the pack. Haslam has only finished once this season off of the podium, and holds an 18 point lead over Max Biaggi. Haslam finished both races at Assen last year on the podium.

"Two wins and three seconds in six races is a pretty good start to the season and I feel confident that I can carry on with this good form. I like the bike and feel very comfortable on it and that lets me push it hard. I used to like the ‘old' Assen circuit because it was a very flowing and great high-speed track,“ said Haslam.

“Since they modified it, I don't like it as much as the old one, but it's still a good track and very spectator friendly. I had two podiums in Assen last season and will be aiming to do the same again this year."

But a win at Assen will not come easy for Haslam. Biaggi, who is coming off of two podium races at Valencia, and a stunning double at Portimao,  will make sure to give the Suzuki rider a run for his money.

Ducati riders Carlos Checa and Noriyuki Haga are in a close battle for third. Checa is only one point ahead of Haga in the overall standings with 80 points. Haga, however, has history on his side. Nitro Nori is one of only  four riders in this years series to have won at Assen in the past. Last year, Haga took a race one second place finish, and set a record lap for his race two win. Coming off of his first win of the season at Valencia, Haga will be a prime contender around the Assen circuit.

"I was very happy to win at Valencia, my first win of the season and I will do my best to back it up with two great races at Assen,” said Haga. “Last year went well for us here, actually better than ever before at this track, and at this point I am very aware that I need two similar results this season in order to close the gap. Every weekend is a battle with so many strong riders but I'm confident we can do a good job."

The other previous Assen winners in this years race are James Toseland, Reuben Xaus, and Chris Vermeulen. Toseland is in 6th place behind Jonathan Rea.

Xaus and Vermeulen are both riding out of the top ten, but Vermeulen hasn’t had much of a chance to prove his speed this year. Vermeulen has missed the past two events due to an injury he suffered at Phillip Island. Vermeulen is rested and healthy and will be looking to make up some lost time at Assen.