BMW R 1300 R Superhooligan: A Tribute to Daytona History
BMW Motorrad’s Custom Speed Shop has constructed a unique naked superbike, the BMW R 1300 R Superhooligan, which will compete at this year’s Daytona 200 event.
This custom motorcycle commemorates Steve McLaughlin's historic 1976 Daytona 200 victory.
Commemorating a Golden Anniversary
The project marks the 50th anniversary of McLaughlin's win in the inaugural AMA Superbike race at Daytona on March 6, 1976. McLaughlin and his Butler & Smith teammate Reg Pridmore piloted BMW R 90 S machines to achieve this historical feat.
The Visionary Team Behind the Build
The custom build was expertly managed by Philipp Ludwig. Andreas Martin served as the vehicle designer, with Theresa Stukenbrock defining the color and graphic design. Prototype builders Paul Summerer and Thomas Becker brought the vision to life. The design seamlessly merges elements of a modern custom naked superbike with distinct visual cues from the iconic 1976 R 90 S.
Heritage-Inspired Design & Power
The R 1300 R Superhooligan utilizes the R 1300 R’s potent 107kW boxer twin engine. Paying homage to its predecessor, the front fender and tank side panels are painted in the original BMW R 90 S color scheme. Furthermore, the starting number 83 proudly adorns the bike, a direct tribute to McLaughlin’s original Daytona entry number.
Advanced Performance Enhancements
For enhanced performance, the Superhooligan features striking blue accents, reminiscent of those found on BMW M 1000 RR brake calipers. These accents are applied to the aluminum rear frame and the fixed fork tubes of the fully adjustable Wilbers upside-down front fork. The fork has been strategically extended by 30mm to provide additional lean angle clearance. The Wilbers rear suspension unit further boasts performance with its distinctive blue springs.
Race-Ready Components & Specifications
The motorcycle incorporates a suite of race-oriented hardware. A BMW M 1000 RR carbon front wheel significantly reduces unsprung mass, contributing to agile handling. Overall weight control is managed through a variety of carbon fiber components sourced from both the BMW Motorrad accessories catalog and Ilmberger Carbon Parts. An Akrapovic titanium exhaust system with a carbon end silencer handles sound management.
The cockpit features precision-engineered BMW Motorrad milled footrests and Advik fully adjustable hand levers, ensuring optimal rider control. The R 1300 R Superhooligan boasts a top speed of 275km/h.
Daytona Event: Racing and Reverence
BMW brand ambassador Nate Kern will race the Superhooligan in the Mission Foods Super Hooligan series. This exciting race is part of the MotoAmerica Daytona 200 weekend, scheduled from March 5 to 7, 2026.
The event will also be a profound celebration of history. The original BMW R 90 S racing machines from the 1976 season, prepared by BMW Group Classic, will be displayed. Attendees scheduled to participate include legendary rider Steve McLaughlin, AMA Superbike Champion Reg Pridmore, the daughters of Gary Fisher, and former chief mechanic Udo Gietl, making for a truly memorable occasion.