Be Wiser Ducati's Glenn Irwin is targeting a minimum of two podiums from this weekend's Bennetts British Superbike opener and believes he can be a 2018 title contender.

The Carrickfergus man performed well in pre-season, often matching or exceeding team-mate and six-time champion Shane Byrne, so has a lot to be confident about.

"I am looking forward to starting our season off this weekend at Donington Park. I feel I have made a big step up over the off season along with the team understanding what I want from the bike to make it a little bit better," said Irwin.

"It's great to be thinking that going into race weekend, I can target the podium in both races as a minimum. That said it's a strong series with a lot of depth and I'll not be resting on my laurels, although it was good to get a podium at Donington last year. The hard work has started but I’m confident we have what it takes to be a title contender this season.”