The 26-year-old Englishman narrowly won the first race of the season in Australia and was denied a Down Under double by veteran Carlos Checa in the closing stages of the second event.

Haslam, who heads to Portugal this weekend as the man to catch, told foxsports.com.au that he expected the challengers to come thick and fast at the Portimao circuit. And he's ready.

"As soon as I got on the Suzuki in October I knew we were on a bike that could challenge for the championship," Haslam said from England before jetting out to Portugal this week.

"In all the testing we were in the fastest two bikes but you never are sure how that will pan out on race day.

“We've got people like (Australians Troy) Corser and (Chris) Vermuelen who have won races and titles before struggling to even get points in the first race of the season. ” – Leon Haslam Bikie from Britain

"The championship this season is so close and competitive, anyone could win it," he added.

"We've got people like (Australians Troy) Corser and (Chris) Vermuelen who have won races and titles before struggling to even get points in the first race of the season.

"It shows the depth of the field.

"Those two guys and so many others are going to be trying to improve and push this weekend.

"The championship has started and every round of the season is so important.

"I am confident we can repeat the success of Australia but I know we can't just expect it. It's going to be tough."

Haslam, the WSB rookie of the year in 2004, joined Suzuki after a sixth-place finish in the championship with Honda last season.

The line to sign Haslam was a lengthy one but he didn't take long to settle on his team of choice.

"There were a number of options there for me but it was Suzuki that really wanted me," Haslam said.

"They came to me and I was the only one they wanted. It's important. It meant a lot to me to know they had the confidence in me.

"It was a no-brainer really. They have everything you need, they have the resources for a winning package."

As Haslam's season unfolds he will no doubt be linked to a move to MotoGP.

That, however, will not distract a rider comfortable in his current environment.

"MotoGP is the pinnacle right now if you have got a factory bike," Haslam explained.

"World Superbikes is getting stronger and stronger all the time and now I feel I am in a position to challenge for a world championship.

"It's a good opportunity for me here with a good bike and good equipment.

"I wouldn't just jump to MotoGP at any opportunity."

This weekend's round, to be shown live and exclusive on Fox Sports, looms as a great test for Haslam.

Last time he rode at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve he failed to finish due to troubles with his Honda.

"That was a hard one for us last year," Haslam said.

"We were capable of finishing in the top three but the team had run out of money and those two DNFs in Portugal were really tough.

"I have had some success at the track though. I got my first podium there in 2008 as a wildcard so I do like the track. It's been good and bad to me I guess."