Introduced in the latter-half of 1999 as a 2000 model, the Honda RC51 was a big-bore V-Twin superbike created to put an end to Ducati’s reign of supremacy in production-based racing. The RC51 featured a powerful liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, 999cc, 90-degree, DOHC V-Twin paired with a six-speed transmission and an aluminum alloy twin-spar frame. 2002 was also when Honda made some updates to the original model (known as the SP1). The second generation RC51 (or SP2) benefited from a host of changes requested by Honda’s factory racers, including a taller windscreen, longer swingarm, reduced steering head angle, stronger yet lighter frame, and a power plant that got a few extra ponies.
With around 130 hp on tap and a dry weight of 440 lbs, the 999cc V-Twin was good for a top-speed of over 165 mph. The RC51 was also markedly more reliable than its Italian twin counterpart, making it much more attractive to riders on the street. A true racebike with headlights, the RC51 was brimming with competition-grade hardware and componentry. Even the instrumentation is configured with a race-style rev-counter, and the rest of the running gear is equally track-focused. Honda achieved some impressive results with its “Ducati killer” in the form of World Superbike Championship titles in 2000 and then again in 2002 — the same year the RC51 was ridden to an AMA Championship.
The WSBK titles were sweet, but many Honda fans have a soft spot for the 2002 AMA Championship as it was won by none other than Nicky Hayden. Honda celebrated the feat in 2004 by building a run of RC51s with some cosmetic updates to commemorate Nicky’s feat. Said changes included the Hayden red white and silver livery, white number plate areas, a brushed aluminum frame and swing arm, and of course, the Kentucky Kid’s signature on the top of the tank.
Manufactured in October of 2003, this example is VIN: JH2SC45484M400106. The seller acquired this bike roughly ten years ago from a private party in Florida.
During his ownership he has covered approximately 6,000 miles. The odometer shows 15,444 miles.
“I purchased the motorcycle in May 2015 with 9,153 miles after selling my Norton Commando. I lived in Upstate New York and rode the motorcycle to work in the summer months. I stopped routinely riding the motorcycle in October 2017 after Nicky Hayden passed. In January 2018, at 15,236 miles, I checked all valve clearances and needed to change the shim for one valve. All service records and receipts will be provided via zip drive. I used Honda OEM spares for all repairs (e.g., fasteners). Since retiring and moving to Las Cruces, NM in 2020, I have ridden the motorcycle twice, doing parade laps at Arroyo Seco Raceway. Everything works properly. In April 2024, I detailed the motorcycle and we moved it into our living room as an art piece. During the detailing I took photos so the behind-the-fairing hardware could be shown. Extras include passenger seat, owner’s manual, service manual, tool kit, and other minor hardware. There is a small dent in the fuel tank and the rear tail decals have some rubbing (I was told by a women’s boot). I trust you will find the motorcycle in excellent condition. I am 69 years old and never abused the motorcycle. In fact, I seldom got it in sixth gear.”
Maintenance:
“Brake pads, master cylinder rebuilds, service work (e.g. oil and filter changes, etc), Valve adjustment. I have a spreadsheet of all work since I’ve owned it. I have receipts for most all parts used. All records are digital (e.g. .PDF scans).”
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: Ok
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: Low
Coolant Quality: Ok, <150 mV
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Ok, <1.5% Moisture
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Ok, <1.5% Moisture
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Ok, <1.5% Moisture
Final Drive Condition: Ok
Headlight High Beam: Ok
Headlight Low Beam: Ok
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: N/A
Turn Signals: Ok
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light (Front Switch): Ok
Brake Light (Rear Switch): Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Horn: Ok
Kill Switch: Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 90%
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 85%
Forks: RH leaking
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: 13/16
Tire Date Code Rear: 42/15
Tire % Remaining Front: 70%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 60%
Tire Press. Front: 31 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 31 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: 12.4V
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 14.8V
Running Condition: Ok, runs on bench
Test Ride Completed: None taken
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Tires Installed:
Front: 120/70-17
Rear: 190/50-17
Notes:
-Clutch lever missing bushing
RECOMMENDED REPAIRS:
-Clutch lever bushing
-Top-off coolant
-Tires
-Fork seals
Modifications:
Jardine RT-One slipon exhaust.
Swingarm spools.
Not pictured is a Power Commander.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop Sportmax Q3 tires with date codes of 4215 and 1316.
The sale includes two keys.
The sale also includes the tool kit, owner’s manual, service manual, OEM brake master cylinder reservoir, passenger seat, and some spare parts.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Honda is offered on a clean New York title. Have any RC51 Nicky Hayden stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
