Richard Cooper ‘very, very happy’ after first BMW test ahead of North West 200 race week

Richard Cooper celebrating winning the Tides Restaurant Supersport Race at last year’s Briggs Equipment North West 200. (Photo Stephen Davison/Pacemaker Press)

Seven-time Briggs Equipment North West 200 winner Richard Cooper says he and the SMS Nicholl Oils team are leaving their first test sessions on the BMW M1000RR “very, very happy” — with confidence building rapidly ahead of race week at Portrush from May 4–9.

The 43-year-old Nottingham rider has been getting to grips with the Superstock-spec BMW, usually raced by David Allingham in the British Superstock series, during a track day at Bishopscourt followed by a full test session at Kirkistown earlier this week.

It marks Cooper’s return to 1000cc machinery for the first time since 2022 — a step up he admits came with an immediate impact.

Adapting quickly to BMW power

“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,” he said.

Despite the jump in performance, Cooper’s early impressions of the machine have been strongly positive, particularly when it comes to its technical capability.

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

That combination of speed and control appears to have accelerated his confidence, with the experienced road racer already expanding his plans for the upcoming North West 200.

Superbike entry added to race plans

Initially focused on the Superstock category, Cooper has now confirmed he will also ride the BMW in the Superbike races during the event — a decision shaped by how competitive he feels on the machine.

Such is his growing belief in the package, he is keeping his options open depending on conditions across race week.

“Our package will be at its best in the Superstock races and that will be our main focus,” he 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.”

Momentum building ahead of Portrush

With testing complete and confidence high, Cooper and the SMS Nicholl Oils team now turn their attention to the demands of race week, where conditions, strategy and opportunity can shift quickly.

His willingness to adapt — combined with early pace and comfort on the BMW — positions him as a rider to watch as the North West 200 approaches, particularly in the Superstock class where he believes the package is strongest.

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At a glance

• Richard Cooper “very, very happy” after first BMW M1000RR test sessions

• Testing took place at Bishopscourt and Kirkistown earlier this week

• First time on a 1000cc bike since 2022

• Describes BMW as “very fast” with standout electronics

• Will compete in both Superstock and Superbike races at NW200

• Main focus remains on Superstock class

• Open to capitalising on conditions in Superbike races if competitive

• North West 200 race week runs May 4–9 in Portrush