It seems like an age since Shane Byrne concluded his dominant 2008 British Superbike title triumph with his thrilling last lap win over Leon Haslam. Then again, for most motorcycle fans, six months without action does feel like a small lifetime…
A lot can happen in that time, not least the rapid deterioration of the world's economy, but despite the doom and gloom of financial hardship that has engulfed the sport over the winter, the BSB has remained remarkably strong and heads into 2009 brandishing a 30-strong entry list – one more than what ended 2008.
Of course, there are some big names missing, with the top four in last year's standings, Byrne, Haslam, Cal Crutchlow and Tom Sykes, all seeking their fortune on the international stage, while the withdrawal of champions Ducati certainly came as a surprise for many.
Nonetheless, the setbacks pale into comparison when you consider just how much there is to look forward to in 2009.
Indeed, a variety of new team, bike and rider combinations ensure this year's grid has very different look to it, to the point that, in the championship class, just two riders – Jason O'Halloran and Aaron Zanotti – begin the season with the same team and bike as they ended 2008 with.
It also means picking a favourite for victory this weekend, let alone the title, is proving remarkably difficult.
A couple of weeks ago, the smart money would be on GSE Racing. Although they are embarking on their switch from Ducati to Yamaha, one glance at how well the R1 is showing in the world championship, coupled to GSE's title-winning nous and two very capable riders, should have made the Airwaves Yamaha the bike to beat at Brands Hatch.
However, delays in getting the bike ready mean the first time James Ellison and Leon Camier ride the machine will be during the first free practice session of the weekend. It's a tough ask to expect the Airwaves machine to be fighting it out for wins just three days after it touched the tarmac, but there is little doubt that GSE will know how to turn it into a winner before long – it's a case of when, rather than if.
If the R1 does prove to be quick straight out of the box, then riders Ellison and Camier certainly have the capability to get in front. Camier is 2008's highest-placed rider to be continuing this year, while Ellison was definitely the best rider
not to win a race last season. Both have signed with GSE to win the title – a 'small' thing like not testing the bike won't skew their expectations.
Nonetheless, given GSE and Byrne's outstanding start to the 2008 season, this is the ideal opportunity for their rivals to take advantage and, leading that challenge, will be perennial rivals HM Plant Honda.
Still, their build up to the first race hasn't been without drama following the announcement that Joshua Brookes won't race at Brands Hatch due to visa irregularities. The former World Supersport frontrunner is an exciting addition to the field, but we'll have to wait for Oulton Park to discover exactly what he is capable of on a Superbike.
