Image: Supplied.

Kawasaki Racing Team’s Jonathan Rea believes consistency will be more important than ever in 2020 as he makes a bid for a sixth-straight Motul FIM Superbike World Championship.

After being forced to come back from 60 points down in his successful 2019 campaign, Rea’s approach as the season commences next week at Phillip Island is somewhat of a conservative one, the Irishman looking to exit the Australian venue with a strong base in the title fight.

“Last year, I was super excited at the start of the season, but the wind was then knocked out of my sails a little bit in those first four races,” continued Rea, referring to Bautista’s early season dominance.

“Of course I’d love to leave Phillip Island with three race wins, but it’s a 39-race championship and it’s more important that I leave Australia healthy and with a platform for the rest of the year.

“More than ever, consistency is going to a vital asset in 2020. I’ll just continue to focus on myself, and after the first 4-5 rounds, everyone will eventually find their place. I had to come from behind to win the 2019 championship, and that was a valuable lesson in just focussing on my own form and not worrying about everyone else.”

Phillip Island’s opener is scheduled for 28 February-1 March at the Victorian location.