ADAM Jenkinson launches his latest bid to be crowned a national champion when he races at Brands Hatch this weekend.

The Knutsford rider will make his debut for Direct CCTV SBR Kawasaki in the Pirelli Superstock 1000 Championship at the Kent circuit, hoping to go one better than last year when he finished as runner-up.

He is happy following a successful pre-season test in Spain.

“The main change for me this year is a different suspension,” he said.

“I’ve been trying to chase a base setting during testing, but with every session I’ve been going faster and faster.

“We’re in a strong position for the first round.”

Bucklow-Hill based Jenkinson missed out on first place by just four points to South African ace Hudson Kennaugh after winning the final race of 2013.

He was a victor at two other rounds, in addition to standing on the podium at the end of half a dozen others.

“I don’t think it’s unwise to suggest we will be at the front right away,” said team boss Steve Brogan after signing Jenkinson in January.