Toni Elias will begin the defence of his MotoAmerica Superbike title this weekend as the series kicks off at Road Atlanta.
The popular Spaniard comes into the 2018 campaign with the number one plate on his machine, which he said he understands is a big target.
“I know everyone is trying to knock me off the top spot,” Elias said. “The competition has stepped up and is even deeper this season with more strong teams and riders, but I am looking forward to the challenge. Our team works very well together and we will do everything we can to keep Yoshimura Suzuki on top.”
He will again be partnered by Roger Hayden on the Yoshimura GSX-R1000.