Leon Camier might have endured less than ideal preparations for this year’s World Superbike campaign – but ahead of round one the Ashford ace insists his confidence remains as high as ever.

Camier heads to Phillip Island for his second full season in the world paddock having ended a rollercoaster debut season in 12th place overall, including three podium finishes.

While Camier proved he has the pace to challenge the big boys he was frustratingly forced to sit out the last three rounds with a wrist injury.

Despite now fully fit, Camier has been forced to endure more setbacks in the run up to his 2011 campaign with his testing time limited by adverse weather.

Expectation is high for the 24-year-old with the proven quality of his Aprilia Alitalia machinery – teammate Max Biaggi took the title last year.

And despite seeing his preparations cut short, Camier is adamant he can be on the pace when the season kicks off in Australia this weekend.

“The weather was a nightmare while we were in Portugal which was a little bit frustrating,” said Camier – who set a new record of 18 wins from 26 races on the way to the British Superbike title in 2009.

“I managed to get a couple of laps in which put me quite high up. Then we made a few changes and had a few other things to try and we had a few problems.

“That meant I wasn’t able to register any more lap times in the end so I ended up in ninth at the end of the test. But despite that I know that’s not what we are capable of as a team and I am looking forward to the season. I am really confident we are going in the right direction and we can have a good season in 2011.”

• WSB races will be shown on British Eurosport, with all European rounds in HD. British Eurosport – Sky channel 410 & Virgin Media 521. Eurosport HD is on Sky 412 & Virgin Media 522. Watch races live online at www.eurosportplayer.co.uk