2003 Honda VTR1000 SP2

Description

Additional photos are available here for your perusal.

Introduced in the latter-half of 1999 as a 2000 model, the Honda VTR1000SP1 (also known as the RC51 here in the states) was a big-bore V-Twin superbike created to put an end to Ducati’s reign of supremacy in production-based racing. The package 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 the year that Honda made some updates to the original model. The second generation — known as the VTR1000 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. Expectedly, the Honda 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 VTR1000 SP2 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.

This example is VIN: JH2SC45A72M201907. The seller acquired the bike 11 months ago from JEM SPEED SHOP in England.

During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 100 miles. The odometer shows 7,611 miles.

Maintenance:
The seller states that the bike comes with “all documentation of service history, from when the bike was new until recently when I bought it.” In May 2024, he had the oil and oil filter changed and a set of brake pads replaced. He adds that the chain and sprockets are new.

Modifications:
Per the seller, this SP2 is stock.

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on Michelin Pilot Power 2CT tires with date codes of 1521 and 2521.

The sale includes two keys, the passenger seat, and the original tool kit.

Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:

Currently located in Carnoustie, Scotland, this Honda is offered on a clean U.K. title. Have any VTR1000 SP2 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!