The BMW Motorrad division has officially unveiled its latest custom project - the BMW R 1300 R Superhooligan. The machine was created as a technological and stylistic bridge to the brand's historic victory in the first Superbike race in Daytona exactly 50 years ago.
The public premiere of the motorcycle will take place during the Daytona 200 race weekend (March 5-7, 2026) in Florida. The project was implemented by the specialized department BMW Motorrad Custom Speed Shop under the leadership of Philipp Ludwig.
The model is a direct reference to March 6, 1976, when Steve McLaughlin won his debut race in the Superbike class with the BMW R 90 S. The new Superhooligan carries the starting number 83 and is painted in the classic color scheme of its predecessor, including the characteristic details on the tank and fenders.
Although it is based on the modern R 1300 R roadster, the design is deliberately clean in the spirit of the “naked” racing machines of the 1970s. Key elements are the wide handlebars and minimalist bodywork, which emphasize the aggressive nature of the motorcycle.
The Superhooligan project demonstrates the customization possibilities of the new R 1300 platform, while maintaining the focus on the brand's sporting heritage. In terms of engineering, the project combines production power with high-performance components:
Engine: Twin-cylinder boxer engine with 145 hp.
Suspension: A fully adjustable Wilbers fork and rear shock absorber are used, with the front part extended by 30 mm for greater ground clearance when leaning. The elements are anodized in blue, a reference to the brake calipers of the M 1000 RR model.
Lightening: Carbon wheels from the M 1000 RR are installed, as well as numerous carbon fiber details from Ilmberger Carbon Parts.
Exhaust system: Titanium generation from Akrapovic with carbon muffler.
Dynamics: The maximum speed of the machine is limited to 275 km/h.
During the event in the USA, the new model will be exhibited next to the original 1976 BMW R 90 S racing bike, provided by the BMW Group Classic collection. The ceremony is expected to be attended by legendary riders Steve McLaughlin and Reg Pridmore, who marked the beginning of BMW's dominance in the American AMA Superbike Championship.
