BMW R 1300 R Superhooligan: A Custom Tribute to Daytona Racing
BMW Motorrad has officially revealed the BMW R 1300 R Superhooligan, a special custom motorcycle built to celebrate 50 years since the first AMA Superbike race at Daytona in 1976. During that historic event, Steve McLaughlin secured victory riding a BMW R 90 S.
Engine and Performance
The Superhooligan is engineered for high performance, utilizing a robust powertrain:
- The motorcycle is powered by a 1,300cc boxer-twin engine.
- This engine delivers an output of 145 PS and 149 Nm of torque.
- BMW states that the race-inspired build is capable of reaching top speeds of around 274 to 275 kmph.
Classic Design and Aesthetics
The aesthetic of the Superhooligan pays homage to BMW’s historic racing success at Daytona. Key design features include:
- The bike sports the classic colour scheme of the 1970s R 90 S race bikes that competed under the Butler & Smith team.
- It prominently displays the ’83’ race number, referencing McLaughlin’s original winning machine.
- Blue highlights on the aluminium rear frame and fork tubes add visual contrast to the build.
Premium Race-Oriented Components
To enhance track performance and reduce overall weight, the Superhooligan integrates several high-end components:
- The motorcycle uses carbon fibre bodywork and a carbon front wheel sourced from the BMW M 1000 RR.
- The brake calipers are also borrowed from the BMW M 1000 RR.
- The suspension features a fully adjustable Wilbers upside-down front fork, extended by 30 mm for greater lean angles, alongside a Wilbers rear shock.
- Other race-specific additions include fully adjustable Advik hand levers, milled BMW Motorrad footrests, and an Akrapovic titanium exhaust with a carbon end cap.
Track Debut
BMW Motorrad brand ambassador Nate Kern will pilot the R 1300 R Superhooligan in the Mission Foods Super Hooligan championship. This will take place during the MotoAmerica Daytona 200 weekend, scheduled from March 5 to 7, 2026. Alongside the new custom bike, BMW will also showcase the original 1976 Butler & Smith R 90 S race motorcycles in the paddock.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the top speed of the BMW R 1300 R Superhooligan? The BMW R 1300 R Superhooligan is capable of reaching a top speed of approximately 274 to 275 kmph.
What engine does the Superhooligan use? The motorcycle is powered by a 1,300cc boxer-twin engine that produces 145 PS and 149 Nm of torque.
What historic event does this custom motorcycle celebrate? The Superhooligan celebrates the 50th anniversary of the inaugural AMA Superbike race at Daytona in 1976, where Steve McLaughlin won on a BMW R 90 S.
Where are the carbon fibre parts sourced from? The carbon fibre bodywork and carbon front wheel, as well as the brake calipers, are sourced from the BMW M 1000 RR.
When and where will the Superhooligan make its racing debut? Nate Kern will ride the bike in the Mission Foods Super Hooligan championship during the MotoAmerica Daytona 200 weekend, taking place from March 5 to 7, 2026.
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