Posts by Category: Honda

Honda February 12, 2020 posted by Tad Diemer

Little Brother: 1989 Honda VFR400R NC30 for Sale

If you haven’t seen Honda’s legendary RC30 in person, it’s easy to mistake the smaller, 400cc VFR400R NC30 for that iconic homologation machine. The smaller headlights of the more widely produced NC30 give the game away, although it shares very similar looks, like an RC30 that was put in the dryer on high heat for a little too long. Most importantly, it retains the distinctive single-sided Pro-Arm swingarm that looks trick and simplifies rear-wheel changes under racing conditions.

Both bikes share the same engine V4 engine configuration, with gear-driven overhead cams and the same 360° “big bang” crankshaft that improves traction at the rear wheel. The NC30 is physically smaller than its bigger sibling, but is also significantly lighter at about 400lbs wet, compared to nearly 490lbs for the RC30. That means that the NC30’s 60hp or so can still move the bike along smartly, and the bike is famous for its agile handling.

The non-standard muffler of this example does feature a cool carbon-kevlar weave pattern that looks pretty evocatively 80s, but also betrays a bit of grindage on the leading corner of the can itself, and on the bend of the pipe as it snakes around the rear wheel. Extremely exuberant cornering, or evidence of a minor low-side crash? It’s hard to tell from the pics, but it doesn’t look like there’s any other damage to the frame, fairing lower, or brackets to indicate what’s gone on here. There’s also a bit of corrosion on the front fork lowers, but that’s to be expected on a bike that’s spent most of its life in a salty, humid environment.

From the original eBay listing: 1989 Honda VFR400R NC30 for Sale

Rare bike from Japan! VFR400R NC30

VIN: NC30-1007049

Year: 1989

Mileage: 4,500km (2,795 miles)

Condition: There’s tiny scratch, tiny crack on cowling. There’s broken a little bit at back side of right side cowling.

But still looks VERY GOOD condition, Original paint. Muffler is aftermarket product.

Of course, running very well. There is no American title. But Japanese registration, bill of sale and import documents are included.

We have more detail of pictures and movie for this bike. Please contact me feel free if you interested. This bike is currently stored in Florida, so there is no hassle to import in the United States. After a successful bid, go to Orlando, Florida to pick up and arrange a delivery. Please note that shipping fee will be charged separately.

This is newly-imported, and stashed in Florida, the very epitome of a permissive DMV. It just needs an enterprising new owner to brave the bureaucratic nightmare of their local DMV and give this sharp little bike a new home. I prefer the more common red/white/blue colors, but the miles are extremely low and the bike looks very clean, minor rash on the exhaust aside.

-tad

Little Brother: 1989 Honda VFR400R NC30 for Sale

Honda February 8, 2020 posted by Tad Diemer

Fireblade! 1993 Honda CBR900RR for Sale

Honda’s seminal CBR900RR remains a desirable 90s sportbike, and remains one of the most collectible motorcycles of the period. Subsequent versions of the “Fireblade” were always incredibly polished and competent motorcycles, but somehow failed to capture the original’s lightning in a bottle. So what made the original so special?

Most importantly, the CBR900RR was designed by Tadao Baba to be the ultimate roadgoing sportbike. That meant it didn’t bother trying to fit into any established production racing class, freeing Honda up to make a light, agile motorcycle with a much bigger engine. Without the need to maximize high-rev power, they stroked a 750cc engine to 893cc to keep the powerplant as compact as possible, then slotted it into a package that weighed just a few pounds more than their CBR600. The long-stroke engine could still rev but, more importantly, had an incredible midrange that spoke to the bike’s roadgoing intent.

The entire package prioritized rider feel and engagement over outright performance, but that didn’t mean the bike wasn’t blisteringly fast: 111hp meant it was plenty quick in a straight line. The 900cc engine combined with the light weight to leave it in a class of just one, since the big-bore superbikes from the other Japanese manufacturers were all 1000cc or more, and much heavier. The GSX-R1100 and YZF1000 were fast motorcycles, but compared to the CBR, they were more GT than pure sportbike.

From the original eBay listing: 1993 Honda CBR900RR for Sale

Re-listing because previous buyer’s check was fraudulent. priced to sell

I’m selling my 1993 CBR900RR restomod. I have invested over $10k in this bike.

List of mods:
Rebuilt motor bored out to 998cc. Done by professional race mechanics. Less than 600 miles on the motor. Odo reads 30k.
Front end from a CBR929, completely redone. Valves, spring and internals.
17 inch front wheel from an RC51
Brembo adjustable master cylinder
Galfer Rotors
Nitron 3 way rear shock
Carbs tuned by Erion Racing
Almost every bolt is titanium
Comes with a set of Flatslides
And more

The bike is beautiful and priced to sell. Don’t have time to ride it anymore. If you’ve ever wanted one, this is the perfect rider.

This example replaces the original RWU fork with more modern USD component from a later CBR, along with much more modern brakes. Significantly, it also ditches the ’93 model’s 16″ wheel that made for slightly twitchy handling then, and severely limits tire choice now. Miles are a bit high and the bike isn’t completely original, but this thing should be an awesome rider for anyone looking to recapture the experience of Honda’s famous Fireblade at the rock-bottom Buy It Now Price of just $3,500!

-tad

Honda January 17, 2020 posted by Mike

Head to the Cape: 1991 Honda VFR400R NC30

The iconic grey bike in the US, the NC30 – also known as the baby RC30 thanks to common family DNA – ranks as one of the sweetest of the 400cc set. There is nothing this models lacks: good looks, fantastic sounds (gear driven cams, don’t you know), razor sharp handling, adjustable suspension and all the performance you could expect from a bike of this capacity. Sadly never officially imported to our shores, these models have become more common in recent years as riders rediscover the joys of limited displacement motivation. There is a wealth of knowledge available, and parts are still in relatively decent supply. Rare in the US (and not that common elsewhere), a 400cc import could make a fine collector that is worth riding. Today’s example, while located in South Africa, ticks many of the right boxes and is worth a look.

1991 Honda VFR400R NC30 for sale on eBay

The VFR400R is the perfect example of the Honda philosophy. Whereas small-bore bikes were often the arena for starter motorcycles built on a tight budget, Honda jumped into the deep end of engineering. The chassis is a renowned twin-spar aluminum frame that holds a single-sided swing arm. This distinctive feature – taken from the all-conquering RC30 racer – originally was designed to facilitate rapid tire changes on the racetrack. With a single nut, the rear wheel can be exchanged quickly and without the need to readjust chain tension. Most of the rest of the bike follows that racetrack theme, including the bodywork and twin headlights that echo those of the endurance racer. Motive power is supplied by an oversquare V-4 featuring four valves per cylinder and driven by straight cut gears. That is part of the unique sound produced by these models. The rest of the soundtrack is the flat bark of the exhaust provided by the 360 degree big bang firing order. In all, figure 60 horsepower in this mid-300 pound package.

From the seller:
Thanks for taking the time to view my listing on this immaculate, low mileage example of an Honda VFR400R.
The pictures speak for themselves. It will be difficult to obtain one in this condition with such a low starting price and NO RESERVE!
All original body kit and paint.
The engine is in perfect condition and the fueling is spot on.
A full service was done recently which included the replacement of the fork seals and dust covers.
I have been involved with importing, selling and repairing NC30,s for the past 27 years and I have not seen a more perfect example than the one advertised in many years.

We have seen this particular seller before, and all the bikes look extremely clean. South Africa might not be the ideal locale for US-based buyers, but with just 11,000 KMs on the clocks it is not often we find such a nice example. The plastics look to be complete and serviceable, and the lack of obvious modification is a plus. Think about it: this bike was in the showroom nearly 30 years ago. Someone took good care of it for it to emerge in the shape it is today. Check out all of the details here, start planning your vacation, and Good Luck!!

Honda January 15, 2020 posted by Aaron

Pre-Tobacco Lawsuit: 1992 Honda NSR250 SP Rothmans

There’s something nicely poetic about a cigarette company springing for the racing efforts of some of the smokiest, dirtiest little rippers to ever grace the grand prix stage. It hearkens back to the devil-may-care days before airbag suits or adequate runoff, and celebrates a certain cavalierness that precious few subscribe to anymore. This 1992 Honda NSR250SP Rothmans will take you back to a time when even street riding required a level of focus that comes with the knowledge that the nerves between your brain and your hands are all there is to save you.

1992 Honda NSR250SP for sale on eBay

When unrestricted, these bikes made nearly 60 horsepower in a knife’s edge powerband and were known for their trim waistlines and extremely agile handling. As an SP model, this one got even lighter magnesium Marvic wheels, a dry clutch and fully-adjustable suspension. There is a lot of edge to this knife, and you have to have a very clear idea of what you’re doing to get the most out of it.

This example is a pure rider’s item. The seller says it wears aftermarket bodywork, which will be a ding for anyone who wants to tuck it into a garage and wait for the auction value to balloon. Those weird, non-stock Playstation stickers have to go, too. But, here is the good part: The bike was last owned by a mechanic and NSR freak, who, according to the seller rebuilt the engine and transmission bottom to top. It also wears recent and thoroughly modern rubber. It’s ready for the springtime riding season.

From the eBay listing:

Up for auction is a genuine 1992 Honda NSR250R SP (sport production ) Rothmans with a clear California title. I purchased the bike two years ago from a local motorcycle tech and NRS guru who has been working on and enjoying these bikes for many years. This NSR was completely rebuilt by him in his shop just prior to me purchasing it. Every part on the bike was inspected, rebuilt or replaced. The engine and 6 speed cassette transmission were redone using a brand new crank shaft, rods, pistons, and bearings. All plastic panels have been replaced with new. Other parts were repainted or polished as necessary. The original white MAGTEK magnesium wheels look great with newer Michelin pilot power tires. Mileage shown on odometer is not accurate. The original odometer has been replaced with a properly functioning used speedometer/odometer. The bike is all stock except for levers and stainless braided break lines and has also been de-restricted. This NSR performs as it should and is an absolute blast to ride. Unfortunately I am not able to ride it much and have only put about 1500 miles since its complete rebuild. I am a bit reluctant to sell this bike knowing that it will be very unlikely that I could find another one titled in my state. California has banned all future registration of 11 digit VIN numbers. Certainly this also means the value will continue to rise since the existing pool of California titled NSRs will never increase. I have done my best to describe the bike. Please ask any and all questions before bidding. Bike is available for viewing before auction end. I can assist buyer with arranging shipping. Buyer will be responsible for any shipping costs.

Pre-Tobacco Lawsuit: 1992 Honda NSR250 SP Rothmans

Honda January 13, 2020 posted by Donn

One Way or Another – 2004 Honda RC51 / RVT1000R Nicky Hayden Edition

Honda spent mega-$ designing their own V-twin Superbike, but reaped the benefits on both the AMA and WSBK scenes. This owner has identified the 2004 Nicky Hayden commemorative as the RC51 for the long term, and has kept it beautifully for the next owner.

2004 Honda RC51 RVT1000 Nicky Hayden Edition

for sale on eBay

Similarly to their Superbike nemesis, Honda chose a 90-degree L-twin, and added PGM-FI fuel injection with two injectors per cylinder. Power and torque were outstanding with 136 hp and 77 ft.-lbs., but the mystery resided in the alloy chassis. At the ends of the lighter and more rigid frame, 43mm inverted forks and Pro-link monoshock were tuned to keep the 17-inch rubber on the tarmac. The monoposto fairing wore a facsimile of Nicky’s livery, smaller sponsorship decals and white number areas front and rear.

Clearly an RC51 superfan, the owner’ states it’s his third of the model and is selling because he has another rider. With just second oil change miles and celebratory paint, it’s a sparkling example without so much as a scuff. A long but informative video is posted – here –. From the eBay auction:

2004 Honda RC51 Nicky Hayden replica in absolutely mint condition. This is a 1 owner bike with only 3047 original miles. The condition is 10 of 10 and its all original with the exception of a Yoshimura exhaust, a modification that anyone should make if they own one because nothing quite sounds like a RC51 at revs.

It was Honda’s take on the V-Twin replica racer, beating Ducati at it’s own game with multiple World Superbike Championships (Colin Edwards) and a AMA Championship under the late great Nicky Hayden whom also won the 2006 MotoGP championship with the Honda RC211V.

I’m selling this bike because its the 2nd RC51 in my collection and the other is more a rider so I might as well let someone else enjoy this beautiful bike. Add it to a collection or ride it, either way you can’t lose as you may never find a cleaner one offered for sale.

Hayden won the AMA Superbike crown in 2002, and was ushered into the factory Honda GP team making steady progress toward his 2006 championship. After his death in a bicycle accident in 2017, the Hayden replica is now a sadder commemorative. If not the singular superbike claimed by the owner, the RC51 is certainly in a select few, even at Honda with its multitude of winners. Bidding is quite active and shows over $10,000 with four days left to run.

-donn

One Way or Another – 2004 Honda RC51 / RVT1000R Nicky Hayden Edition

Honda January 11, 2020 posted by Aaron

The original: 1993 Honda CBR900RR

The 1986 Suzuki GSXR-750. The 1998 Yamaha R-1. The 1989 Kawasaki ZX-7R. The 1993 Honda CBR900RR “Fireblade.” If you seek a collection of the foursome of Japanese sportbikes that pushed our segment of motorcycling forward in a series of quantum leaps, there are no substitutes. The 1993 Honda CBR900RR you see before you would make an awesome start to such a collection.

1993 Honda CBR900RR for sale on eBay

With around 110 horsepower from an 893cc inline four in a package that was 75 pounds lighter than the Yamaha FZR1000, the Fireblade showed the world that liter-class bikes didn’t need to be pigs, and could, in fact, couple precise handling with wrath-of-God acceleration. There simply was not another bike in the early 1990s that was doing what the diminutive Honda was doing, and it was a good few years before the competitors caught up.

This example may not wear the signature red-white-blue bodywork of the early CBRs, but the black and grey is a worthy second to that livery, and the iconic vented twin headlight face is there in all its glory. It was reportedly kept in a garage as part of a collection, and has been made ready to ride ahead of the sale. The tires look new, and the period-looking Yoshimura pipe is a lovely touch. If the photo gallery is to be believed, there are precious few blemishes.

From the eBay listing:

For sale is a 1993 Honda CBR900RR in excellent condition. This bike is from a collection of 60+ motorcycles and is stored in a climate controlled garage. Brand new battery has been installed and it is ready to ride. Don’t miss this chance to get this iconic motorcycle! You won’t be sorry! Located in Southern California 40 miles north of San Diego.

Buyer pays for shipping but I will be able to help load if needed. Cashier’s check, money order, cash in person, or personal check (once cleared) accepted as payment. Mileage may change slightly and bike is occasionally ridden. Bike is also listed locally.

Unfortunately many bikes in the collection must go and I have many other bikes for sale, some of which are listed on ebay now and the others will follow. A partial list is below and you can text me at 760-521-5837 with any questions about this bike or other bikes available. Please be patient as I will get back to you as soon as I can. All bikes listed come with a CA title and registration for street use!

2009 Aprilia RS125 two-stroke electric start like new! (two of these available in like new condition; one set up for pre-mix but comes with injector parts!)
1992 Yamaha TZR250SP two-stroke 1 of only 500 Excellent condition!
TZR250 SP Parts bundle worth over 11k for sale 8k.
1989 Honda NSR250 MC18 Terra Racing aftermarket panels super fast!
1988 Honda NSR250 MC18 OEM Rothman’s!
1990 Honda CBR250RR Redlines at 19,000 RPM! Cosmetically rough but sounds and runs excellent!
2007 Aprilia SXV 550 Supermoto
1994 Honda RVF 400 available soon!
2008 CBR600RR Konica Minolta aftermarket bodywork Ready to ride!
1996 NSR250RR SE MC28 in Excellent condition. Good luck finding another one like this!

The mileage shows this one was well ridden before it was put in the collection, but that just means it has been mechanically cared for over its life. With a Honda, there should be nothing to worry about. For the rabid Japanese sportbike fan, this thing is a must-have. And if recent Bring A Trailer craziness is anything to go by, there are hungry buyers out there if you decide it’s not for you.

Honda January 2, 2020 posted by Aaron

Featured Listing: 2005 Honda RC51 SP2

Update 6.17.2020: This bike has SOLD! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc

The Honda RC51 got right to the point when it came out, knocking Ducati and the other Japanese brands off their seats at the top of the World Superbike grid beneath future MotoGP star Colin Edwards. To do it, they had taken a page from the Italians’ book, relying on rules that let v-twins have 1,000ccs to take it to the 916 and 998. It won the title again in 2002, and accomplished the same feat in AMA Superbike with the peerless Nicky Hayden.

The RC51 did it all with reliability, aplomb and majestic build quality — the only way Honda knows. It was a death blow to Suzuki’s wayward TL1000R, which never really hit its stride as either a street or race bike, and it showed the Italians that mechanical sex can also be totally reliable. The critical numbers from the throaty, snarling v-twin are: 130-ish horsepower at the crank, and the better part of 165 mph on the big end.

This 2005 Honda RC51 looks incredible, wearing the pretty charcoal fairings of the later bikes, and blessed with the SP2’s updated fueling system, which nixed spotty low-end fuel delivery from the SP1 machines. It has done just 5,750 miles, and wears a Sato titanium exhaust system and a custom-tuned Power Commander.

From the seller:

The RC is #189 and tastefully modified with all original equipment mint and in my possession. The bike has under 5,743 miles and has less than 1,300 miles on the latest Q3+ Dunlop’s. Sato Banzai titanium exhaust, Kyle Racing tuned power commander and tail tuck kit.

Also included: I have both front and rear stands and two OEM oil changes also a fresh set of OEM air filters in the box all
HONDA authentic. New and unworn matching Carbon fiber Bell Race Star RSD CHIEF and matching Honda Racing leather jacket.

The bike has never been down or repaired in any way. Spark plugs have been replaced at 4,000 miles. Meticulously maintained. I am the second owner. Have owned for last 1,750 miles. Bike is in top shelf working condition and needs nothing. Bike was built as is from zero miles. Has gear adjustment and speedo correction performed as well.

Honda December 29, 2019 posted by Donn

What Could Be – 1986 Honda NS400R

With most riders expecting the best part of 200 hp per liter, later two-strokes of middling displacement are often treated like caged animals. This Honda V-3 doesn’t appear to have been babied, but does boast current California registration.

1986 Honda NS400R for sale on eBay

Honda acknowledged that the 500cc GP formula was not going to be won with the four stroke NR500, and returned to the podium with the NS500. Wishing to capitalize on their success within Japanese regulations, they presented a 387cc race lookalike, which was brought stateside in a plain gray wrapper. The surprisingly symmetrical triple had two forward cylinders and the third more vertical. The bank of three 26mm Keihin carburetors are plumbed directly in from the top, with the outside exhausts riding underneath and the center taking a scenic underseat route to the license plate. Even with Honda’s ATAC power valve, acceleration below 7,000 rpm is gradual, then a controlled explosion to the 9,500 rpm peak of 72 hp.

Thirty-plus years on, almost every bike will have some unknowable history. This example has evidently received more attention on the mechanical side than to the out-front details that grab eyeballs. Seems like doing about 10% of the required beautification would make a 90% improvement. From the eBay auction:

Just serviced and ready to ride. Has some cosmetic issues as can be seen in the pictures, but the previous owner installed a brand new engine which has less than 1,000 km or less than 600 miles on it, even though the odometer reads 26,296 km which is about 16,400 miles. Odometer may change slightly as it is ridden occasionally to keep it in great running condition. Starts easily and runs great, but needs new kill switch assembly.

Previous owner had installed a new engine, and we rode this bike a few times over the years, but with 60 bikes in the collection it did not get ridden very often. I had it completely serviced in August 2019 and new CDI units were installed (this bike uses two). Just had the carbs cleaned last week so it is running fine. The bike has a CA title and registration and I have it in hand.

The livery on this NS400R is similar to Honda’s GP works livery in the early 1980’s, when Freddie Spencer was quickly drafted from Honda’s AMA Superbike effort. Spencer hit pay dirt in 1985, winning at Daytona as well as the 500cc and 250cc GP championships. This NS400R has a lot of question marks – high mileage, engine change, and pictures that serve only to start a conversation. But if some of those could be resolved, it might justify the owner’s reference to a high-dollar Mecum auction winner.

-donn