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 later the same year, an AMA Championship.
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. It’s not uncommon to come across RC51 specimens with more than 100,000 miles on the clock that are still going strong.
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.
Manufactured in March 2000, this example is VIN: JH2SC4543YM00069. The seller states “For all you Nicky Hayden fans, this motorcycle comes with a VIN ending in #00069. I think this is party why I bought it.”
During their ownership, the seller has covered approximately 100 miles. The odometer shows 29,989 miles.
Maintenance:
The seller states: “Since I purchased this motorcycle I have performed the following repairs/services;
Engine oil and filter change.
I replaced the gearshift shaft seal.
SPAL left radiator fan upgrade with Wibbly fan bracket.
Installed all new SAMCO silicone hoses (I saved the original hoses and are available upon request) , new Honda thermostat, new Honda o-rings on cylinder inlets, new Honda fan switch and new GPI racing radiator to replace left radiator.
Clutch master rebuild and a new Honda slave cylinder installed and flushed/bled.
Installed new Shorai lithium iron light weight battery.
Repaired poor wiring installation (scotch locks and butt connectors not making contact) by soldering and heat shrinking connections properly.
Various adjustments and cleanup.
New Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300F tires.
New rear brake pads.”
Mechanical Issues:
The seller states that there are no known mechanical issues. “This motorcycle is ready to be enjoyed either as a track weapon or a daily rider.”
Modifications:
CFMotorsports rear sets
Moriwaki Zero Titanium exhaust.
Ohlins steering damper.
Shorai lithium battery.
12Oclocklabs speedometer module.
Power Commander 2.
SAMCO silicone hoses.
Rear turn signal delete module.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 tires with date codes of 4022 and 4623.
The sale includes 1 ignition key, a brand new GPI racing radiator as well as a used left radiator come with the sale, the original fan (working), and the original tool kit.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Redding, California, this Honda is offered on a clean California title with registration fee’s of $166 to bring it current through April 2027.
Have any RC51 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
