Posts tagged as “RC51”

New in the crate: 2001 Honda RC51 SP1

Published May 15, 2023 by Dan

Located outside Montreal, reader Rod sent in this brand new RC51. Pictures seem legit though listing on Kijiji is slightly suspect for something of this caliber. Listing states make offer but the price listed is $38,990 CAD, which is $28,770 USD as of today. This bike falls a couple years short of the 25 year import rule but this was a bike offered here in the U.S. the same year. Not sure if that helps but on the other hand, it destined to remain a display model the rest of it’s life so maybe it doesn’t matter.

2001 Honda RC51 on Kijiji in Canada

From the seller’s listing:

Only one ,brand new Honda RVT, 0km one owner. Just one in the world. Time capsule. Make an offer.
Unique au monde, Honda RVT SP1 complètement neuve, un seule propriétaire . Dans crate origine. 0km
Neuf.
Faire offre sérieuse svp.

If you’re looking for an RC51 you can actually ride, Black Market Motorsports has this 2002 SP2 model with just 6,500 miles available:

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A Second Chance – 2007 Suzuki SV1000S Build

Published February 26, 2023 by Norman

2007 Suzuki SV1000S Build

We all know the girl. You went to high school with her. You had a non-zero chance considering you both occupied a mid-tier social strata but you were scared of getting hit by the pitch. She looked phenomenal at the reunion…and married. Oh well. Hindsight is 20/20, right? Who cares. One thing I think is true is that you don’t look backwards while riding a motorcycle. Today, I’m giving you the opportunity to learn from your mistakes. You overlooked her back then. Don’t overlook her again.

In a world where bigger is better, the SV1000S has actually lived in the shadow of its younger sibling in the SV650. People have generally gravitated to the smaller format SV due to its approachability and lack of competition at the time. The SV1000 came into play at a time when people were clamoring over the standard 4 cyl sport bikes so it never really made sense in the space if you were looking for outright performance. However, that doesn’t change the value proposition of the vtwin.

The steward of this SV definitely understood the potential of the vtwin and the SV platform and undoubtedly wanted to explore how far he could take it. See below for the mod list from the listing:

Custom built Balanced and blueprinted fully forged SV1000 race motor – race gas compression bump (will still accept 91 pump) with custom tune $7500

OZ Racing (Braking) Gloss black Forged lightweight wheels $2200

OZ Racing (Braking) 2 piece ultralight Superbike brake rotors front and rear (matched to the wheel design) $1100

Suzuki GSXR-1000 Superbike front brakes fully rebuilt, fresh powdercoat, new internals pads and fluid less than 1000 mi $750

Suzuki GSXR-1000 full front end – triple adjustable Superbike inverted suspension, triple trees, clipons $1000

Vortex Adjustable Rearsets $250

Shogun carbon frame sliders

Michelin pilot sport 3 (2CT) matching less than 5k mi $350

Yoshimura 2 into 1 single side exit lightweight race exhaust pipes $425

Rear end triple adjustable Penske shock $350

Rear end Custom Yamaha R1 Superbike brake setup $300

Led high output low draw headlights

The built engine is absolutely the most interesting part of this build. You don’t often see folks messing with the motors on these. A dyno sheet or shop receipt would be very interesting (or almost necessary) to see prior to purchase. Outside of the motor, most of the mods seem like they would work cohesively and positively impact the dynamics of the motorcycle. I would actually be very interested to take this build for a spin on the right road and see how capable it is with the upgrades. The OZ racing wheels are calling my name but that’s offset by the color choice on the calipers. It reminds me of my middle school basketball shoes.

By no means is this bike a show piece. The listing claims it has been used quite extensively for canyon and light track use. At 16 years of age it’s showing some signs of wear. A great rider’s bike for sure.

The seller states there is over $18K in the bike and that’s a significantly higher amount than the list price of $8.5K. Value is always tough to assess on builds especially when the seller has an emotional connection. $8K for an SV is just a bit hard to stomach but I think the seller will end up settling for a much more modest offer. A link the listing can be found here.

Thanks for reading!

Norm

2 Responses.

Track Day Thursday – 2000 Honda SuperHawk

Published December 2, 2022 by Norman

2000 Honda SuperHawk Track Bike Conversion

I’ll admit that writing about a small niche can sometimes become a bit difficult in the sense that there are only so many angles to approach some of thee bikes we come across. Every once in a while you will get something super unique and eye-catching which is not only great for us but also our audience. I think it’s fair to say this find checks those boxes. This 2000 SuperHawk that started as a stock bike has undergone quite the cosmetic and mechanical conversion in order to make into a track weapon. It’s hard for us to determine how sharp this knife is from where we sit but I think everyone at the track would be at the pitwall as you roll down the straight. Regardless of what other people think, we live in a world where one can identify as whoever they want so if a SuperHawk identifies as MotoGP bike, who are you to say no?

Hard to say this things looks bad. The color scheme, stickers, and windscreen are all pretty damn cool. Some people who take this route try a bit too hard and completely over do it while trying to be different but I don’t think that’s the case here.

Does the tasteful approach to the cosmetic surgery cross over to the mechanical side? Let’s see what we can gather from seller’s mechanical mods

Chassis: Custom subframe & subframe brace, Penske rear shock, 04′ CBR1KRR front end, MotoGP brake and clutch master cylinder from 2000 MotoGP bike

Electrical – Coil on plug upgrade, battery relo

Powertrain – Custom 2-1 exhaust

That wasn’t an exhaustive list of the modifications but there are some other pretty cool things the seller has done. Definitely check out the listing for an exhaustive list. A positive here is that nothing seems to have been done to the motor and nothing is terminal outside of the custom subframe since the seller has retained the original parts. That being said, any time you buy a custom bike the quality of work is a concern but it looks like the seller hasn’t gone full Allen Millyard on us and has kept the technical complexity relatively low. I’ve successfully pasted on a front end before and if you watch me turn a wrench you might be tempted to grab the wrench and hit me with it.

From the seller:

“…The bodywork fits so nicely, the upper and lower carefully matched right up to stock mounting points. The bike is 99% complete, just needs a minor bit of buttoning up and then taken to the track.

Also comes with a huge pile of stock parts, complete front end, alternate dual exhausts, lights, etc etc.

Title is clean, Florida title not yet reassigned to me. If you want it registerable in your state, please add $350 for paperwork fees. This 996cc v twin engine is perfect for the occasional track day warrior, and bike now qualifies for vintage series. Way cheaper for parts than a Ducati, RC51, or Aprilia, but same amazing torque band and rideability. “

The Japanese have blessed us with a few two cylinder track bikes in the past; Think RC, TL, and SV. Furthermore the Italians have been doing it forever. The formula works. I think the question here is if the whole is really greater than the sum of it’s parts? Does adding a MotoGP master cylinder really mean anything? It’s certainly a conversation piece. As much as I would like to answer that for our audience, I’m broke. If only one of the readers would be so kind.

The listing has been up for two days with zero action and a starting bid of $3k. At the least check out the listing and let us know what you think in the comments about your experience with SuperHawks. Good luck!

Thanks for reading!

Norm

6 Responses.

More Isn’t Always Better – 2000 Honda RC51 RVT1000R

Published November 15, 2022 by Norman

2000 Honda RC51 RVT1000R

For a long time, Ducati was the only one gracing the WSBK and AMA calendars and showrooms with two cylinder sport bikes. Aside from good sales numbers, the twins offered a much different appeal than their 4 cylinder counterparts. The torque and narrower frame that result from a v-twin configuration delivered a much different experience for riders. In 2000, Honda saw an opportunity to cash in and delivered today’s find, a Honda RC51 RVT1000R. Not only did they have success in the commercial market, but also on their first season running the bike in WSBK with Colin Edwards piloting. It is truly quite rare that a manufacturer can enter a new design and win their first season. Just look at Formula 1….

In any automotive experience, the motor should be one of the most dominating parts of the experience. Usually that isn’t much of a problem with sport bikes as high revving 4 cylinders are rarely boring. However, the 2 cylinder is arguably the most intriguing sport bike experience. A hammer instead of a sewing needle if you will.

One of the aspects that make this hammer particularly interesting is the valve train. Unlike the Ducs of the era, the Honda employed a gear-driven valve train as opposed to belts. The whine from the cams combined with the thunderous two cylinder delivered a soundtrack that has built a cult following for the bike.

The later SP2 model came with a host of upgrades that seemed like something you would get in a new generation as opposed to a model year update. New geometry, upgraded swing arm, fueling changes, etc were all tweaks that made it into production from the HRC program. That being said, the SP1 model was not a bad bike. It definitely had opportunities for refinement but one can say that about many modern bikes. At the end of the day, you had a WSBK/AMA-winning platform that is more unique than almost anything else that has been entered into a major championship.

From the seller:

“Up for bid is a very collectible well kept and maybe the most original 2000 Honda RC51 RVT1000R. Tires and brakes recently replaced by the previous owner. Serviced regularly and the best possible care, never dropped or laid down (lady ridden). Always garaged and started every other week. Mostly mountain rides on good weather. Not riding anymore (too fast for me). Fresh Motul oil and filter included as well as the original exhaust pipes and cowl/seat cover. SOLD AS IS/WHERE IS (NO WARRANTY). All funds have to clear my bank before the bike/title can be released to the new owner.”

Our example today seems to be rather clean for the age. Low mile and well taken care of examples still come up for sale today but are getting harder and harder to find. These never made it stateside in typical production numbers so spare parts may be tough to find and the aftermarket is thin. Fortunately the seller has already taken the first step and tacked on the Yosh pipe.

The listing seems to be getting decent traction with 5 days left. 21 bids up to $3,850 so there is some action. 2 RC51s sold in Q2/Q3 of this year on BAT for $7,500 so I’d guesstimate a landing in that area. Good luck!

Thanks for reading!

Norm

It’s Been a Minute – 2004 Honda RC51 Nicky Hayden Edition

Published July 19, 2022 by Donn

For a while RC51’s were coming 2F2F, most of them must be out riding for the summer. Today’s #69 commemorative might have been used as intended, but looks good with some updates courtesy of a previous owner.

2004 Honda RC51 for sale on eBay

The 2004 model is an SP2, with revised frame and swingarm sharing lessons learned from racing the SP1. Honda’s take on the 90-degree V-twin uses 62mm throttle bodies and PGM fuel injection, with the 136 hp peak at 9,500 rpm. Side-mounted radiators make for a slim package with a ram-air intake in the nose. USD cartridge forks and a Pro-Link monoshock soak up any irregularities. The Nicky Hayden edition was primarily graphic, though the SP2 was at a very high level right out of the crate.

This RC51’s 12K-and-change miles might not have been cruising, but it shows more easy fixes than battle damage. A more organized tail tidy should be easy to find, and likewise some hardware to secure the lowers. The neighbors aren’t going to like the 1/4-size muffler, but that titanium looks sharp in the startup – video –. Owner’s comments from the eBay auction –

It starts immediately, runs great, and has a fabulous bark to its Jardine race pipe. A previous owner made the following mods:

– Full titanium Jardine single side exhaust

– K&N filter

– Power commander 3

– Soft rev limiter to allow for max top end power

– Ram air flapper defeat to add midrange (Fed noise limits dampened torque)

– Corbin seat

– Tail elimination kit

Since I’ve had it, I upgraded the brake pads and added a braided brake line in the rear. I have the lines for the front but didn’t install as the bite from front is already immediate. Parts included are the front brake lines, original seats, OEM tail section (new in the box), original left side fairing (was lightly scratched so I replaced it). The bike is always garaged.

It probably is due for a front forks rebuild and a rear tire not too long down the road.

Honda celebrated Hayden’s 2002 AMA Superbike championship with this model, and had more to celebrate in 2006 when he took the MotoGP crown. His storied AMA Hall of Fame career was cut short by a bicycle accident in Italy, working to stay fit on a Wednesday during the WSBK season. RC51’s pop up in all kinds of condition, and this one looks to be a rider that could be nicer with a couple of details attended to. Hoping the reserve isn’t too optimistic !

-donn

4 Responses.

Featured Listing – 2000 Honda RVT1000R / RC51

Published April 29, 2022 by Donn

Update 8.10.2022: SOLD! -dc

Dissatisfied with the 1990’s WSBK rulebook, Honda channeled their inner Borgo Panigale and surprised Ducati on their own V-twin turf. RSBFS reader Joe started with an excellent RC51 in storage, and went over it with an eye on the long haul.

2000 Honda RVT1000R / RC51 asking $13,500

More oriented toward the track than the previous Firestorm, the RC51 was built to homologate the design for racing, with the quite oversquare 996cc tuned for 136 hp and 77 ft.-lbs. of torque. The alloy twin-beam chassis used the engine as a load-carrying stiffener, and the side-venting rads kept frontal area low. A scoop between the headlights delivered fresh air to the engine, and individual exhausts sent used air aft. Components on the homologation special included the 320mm Nissin brakes and wide six spoke alloy wheels.

Beside returning his RC51 from the back of the garage, Joe improved every significant corner of this very clean example. Just a few highlights are the race tuned Öhlins front and rear, full Moriwaki exhaust with Power Commander, and Sato rearsets. Here’s how Joe described the build –

Previous owner let it collect dust for 12-ish years. Bike was in stock form with Erion slip-ons (that come with sale). Parts list included in pics. I spent three months refurbishing and building to what it is now with an open check book. About $8,500 in receipts. All paperwork from new, roughly 500 miles on completed bike. It’s too nice and too rare to abuse or damage. Ready for the track or a museum, no excuses. I hope somebody will appreciate the history and opportunity as much as I did to preserve this machine. I got lucky sourcing the full Moriwaki system that never came in country. 4K in Öhlins setup, I typo-ed the gearing in the pics, it’s 15/41 geared and a calibrated speedo healer so the dash is accurate. ALL stock parts plus additional ’04 Hayden bodywork come with the sale along with front and rear stands, original hang tag from the showroom floor, etc. The history and story of the bike are better told in person or over the phone – cannot be duplicated.

Joe asks $13,500 for his RC51.

Racers and Honda fans liked the narrow light feel of the new RC, and the gear-driven cams on a liter twin had a sound completely different than anything at the time. It had instant success on the race track as well, taking the Superbike crown in 2000 and then again in 2002. By then FIM was thinking to increase displacements, and Honda returned to the inline four that had built so much of their showroom success. Joe’s SP1 marks an interesting chapter in Honda history, with a lot of well-chosen upgrades.

-donn

9 Responses.

In Round Numbers – 2001 Honda RVT1000R / RC51

Published March 27, 2022 by Donn

For the year 2000 Honda dialed in WSBK and AMA success and showroom clients were a clear beneficiary. Today’s RC51 was wheeled to the back of a the warehouse with a hair over 2,000 miles and shows just a few marks for all the years on vaca.

2001 Honda RVT1000R / RC51 for sale on eBay

Honda started with a fairly clean sheet of paper but a couple of Superbike rulebooks handy, and chose an L-twin in part for its inherent primary balance. The big 100mm bore allowed four good-sized valves, and 40mm intakes with 34mm exhausts are controlled by gear-driven cams. The resulting sound was rather unusual for a Honda, as were the side-rads and skinny missile shape. HRC had plenty of input on the alloy chassis, with fresh air piped in around the headstock and Showa adjustable suspension. A new gearbox reviewed as very smooth shifting, and 320mm Nissin brakes as some of the best ever fitted.

Just scrape here and a ding there differentiate this RC51 from a museum piece, and of course the missing front signals and mirrors. The streamlined under-tail might suit – or if not, there are mountains of the factory parts someplace. Can’t go wrong with CA title or informative notes from the eBay auction –

Only 2,007 original miles! Clean CA title – you will be the fourth person on the title. Bike has had some modifications and very little use – here are a few things you should know: 1. The bike starts up and runs great. Recent fluid service. 2. Tires are original – therefore are not safe to ride on any longer. 3. Missing side mirrors 4. Missing turn signals – I have brand new OEM Honda orange turns signals if you want them. 5. There are marks on some areas of the bike. I have included pictures where there are marks but I could not get everything. 6. This bike is VERY clean. 7. I have video of the bike starting up that I can send to you if you are interested. 8. There are no other OEM parts available with the bike. 9. The underseat area and license plate are aftermarket – I do not have the original.

The RC51 was an instant success on the racetrack, and actually won the World and AMA Superbikes in 2002. But as Honda often does, they proved their point and shortly HRC saw a four-cylinder light at the end of the WSBK tunnel. The RC51 was supported but there wasn’t a factory team in 2003, and the model left the showroom after 2006. However the legacy and fan base are well established, and there’s certainly always room at the pumps for a really nice example. 20-large might be beyond the top of the SP1 range – but even without the Make Offer button, a conversation is waiting to be started.

-donn

14 Responses.

Pictures don’t do it justice: 2005 Honda RC51

Published February 5, 2022 by Mike

In a long line of homologation race machines, the Honda RC51 stands out as a unique accomplishment. Ever the engineering powerhouse, Honda played with the rule book and utilized a Me Too philosophy to break the Ducati juggernaut in WSBK by developing a Japanese take on the Italian machine. Since twin-cylinder machines had a distinct displacement advantage over four cylinder bikes in World Superbike competition, Honda dropped two cylinders off of the 750cc V-4 RC45 and reimagined the 999cc RC51 as a twin. The result? Instant win in the same year it arrived thanks to Colin Edwards, and a second championship two years later. The buying public won too – the RC51 made for a fantastic street bike, and graced showrooms from 2000 – 2006.

2005 Honda RC51 for sale on eBay

As with most of Honda’s attempts at homologation, the RC51 is a beast of a bike: The 90 degree vee twin is liquid cooled and breathes through a combination of four valve heads with dual overhead camshafts, and fed with two fuel injectors per cylinder to aid top end performance while maintaining better low rev throttle response. The big twin’s power runs though a silky-smooth six-speed box that is geared more for track days than stop and go traffic. The chassis tightly wraps the narrow motor in an allow twin-beam arrangement, carefully tuned for feel through testing and competition (WSBK and AMA Superbike, to name but two). Big 43 mm forks up front are multi-adjustable, as is the Pro-Link suspension out back; just what you might expect from a racer. All that adds up to a 136 HP, 430 pound, 170 mph rocket ship. The fact that trophies followed the RC51’s introduction is certainly no surprise.

From the seller:
This is at the time the cleanest, lowest mileage, newest RC51 available for sale in the country. Adult owned its entire life, I am the second owner. It has been maintained professionally and runs perfectly, brakes are at approximately 40%, The exterior is in excellent shape I would give it a solid 9/10 as it is a 2005 machine, has HID headlamp, and flush mount turn signals front and rear. It has 11806 miles , motor is stock other than the amazing sounding Delkelvik exhaust system and a 240mm racing chain. I also have a rear wheel bike stand I will include as well as a smoked windscreen I have not installed as well as a power commander brand new in the box I will include with the bike. I also have the stock exhaust system I will include.

Known as the VTR1000R and VRT1000 SP1 in various markets, the RC51 has a strong following. Besides winning WSBK title with Colin Edwards in 2000 and 2002, the RC51 also won the 2002 AMA Superbike championship with Nicky Hayden (for which Honda released a commemorative edition Hayden model). There were incremental changes throughout the years for the street bike, with the latter years being more desirable as a rider due to more power, lighter weight, and better throttle response and overall rideability. This bike has 11,800 miles on the clock, and few quality pictures to truly assess the condition. But it looks good from afar and could be a winner if you are in the RC51 market. Check out all of the details here, and Good Luck!!

7 Responses.