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. 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.
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. Sold from 2000 through 2006, the RC51 was produced during an era in which American riders were at the top of the game and will forever be associated with legendary US-born racers like Nicky Hayden and Colin Edwards.
This example is VIN: JH2SC45473M300030, Engine #: SC45E-2300933. The seller acquired it a year ago from the original owner.
During his ownership, the seller covered less than 10 miles. The odometer shows 1,997 miles.
It is US and California emissions compliant.
Maintenance:
The seller has provided detailed pictures of service work completed which can be viewed in the photo gallery.
“Serviced the fuel injectors (photos and receipt of service from Motorwest)
Replaced the fuel pump and fuel pressure regulator (receipt, photos and packaging)
Replaced thermostat and seal (photos and packaging)
Replaced fork seals (photos and packaging)
Replaced the instrument panel cover (receipt, photos, packaging)
Replaced battery last year (receipt)
Flushed the cooling system (I have video)
Flushed and changed oil (photos)
Flushed hydraulic fluid (photos)
Cleaned chain (photos)
Detailed paint, ceramic coat wheels, frame, swing arm, and body panels”
The seller states that there are no known mechanical issues.
Modifications:
Yoshimura exhaust, Power Commander.
Paddock stand bobbins.
Aftermarket windscreen.
Tank protector.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on the original Metzeler tires with date codes of 4701 and 2902.
The sale includes 1 ignition key, some spare parts, the original exhaust, owners manual, passenger seat, and tool kit.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Small chip to the tank, touched some spots on the swing arm and seat cowl, anodized finish to the right fork seal cap small scuff, hairline crack on the upper fairing where it meets the right side fairing, the factory serial sticker was removed, I have purchased a replacement that I have not fitted.”
Currently located in Oxnard, California, this Honda is offered on a clean California title on Planned Non-Operational registration. Have any RC51 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
