RICHARD COOPER AND HIS SMS NICHOLL OILS TEAM ‘VERY, VERY HAPPY’ AFTER FIRST TEST ON BMW AHEAD OF 2026 BRIGGS EQUIPMENT NORTH WEST 200 RACE WEEK ON MAY 4-9

‘The BMW is very fast and possibly better than most superbikes when it comes to electronics.’

That is the verdict of seven times Briggs Equipment North West 200 winner, Richard Cooper, following his first outings on the SMS Nicholl Oils M1000RR BMW.

The 43 year old rode the Superstock-spec BMW that is normally raced by David Allingham in the British Superstock series during a track day at Bishopscourt and a full blown test session at Kirkistown earlier in the week.

‘Me and the team left Kirkistown very, very happy.’ the Nottingham racer smiled.

‘The biggest thing was adapting to the speed of the BMW having not ridden a 1000cc bike since 2022. It was a big shock to the system after racing the smaller bikes but I felt comfortable.’

Such was his confidence that Cooper says he will now ride the BMW in the Superbike as well as the Superstock races at Portrush during the May 4-9 race week.

‘Our package will be at its best in the Superstock races and that will be our main focus.’ the two-time British Superstock champion explained.

‘But I want to put my focus on wherever I am competitive and if the weather changes or things go my way, I can maybe take advantage of the circumstances and go for it in the Superbike races as well. Let’s put our focus on where we can be competitive. I would love to win the big NW200 race but my main focus will be on the Superstock class.’

Richard Cooper celebrates winning the Tides Restaurant Supersport Race at last years Briggs Equipment North West 200 . The Nottingham racer will ride a SMS Nicholl Oils BMW in the Superstock and Superbike races at this years event.

Photo Stephen Davison/Pacemaker Press