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.
With 133 horsepower, 71 ft-lb of torque, and Honda reliability, it was an absolute gem. Cycle World thinks this is one of the best used bikes you can buy, and we’d have to agree. This was Honda’s take on the V-Twin replica racer, beating Ducati at it’s own game with multiple World Superbike Championships and a AMA Championship.
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 February 2002, this example is VIN: JH2SC453X2M200459.
The odometer shows 7,219 miles.
Maintenance:
“Prior to my purchase, a full inspection was done and included new spark plugs, an oil change , and the coolant was inspected. Tires were put on the bike in 2021 by the previous owner, but it was stored in an air conditioned indoor facility on it’s kickstand with a battery tender and not ridden (collector). After I purchased this motorcycle, I sent it to my local trusted shop MRP Motorsports for a full inspection and asked them to make recommendations. They came back with no recommendations. I have ridden this motorcycle a little over 725 miles with no mechanical issues. When it was stored in the winter, it was put on front and rear jack stands, with a cover and a battery tender as well as fuel stabilizer. I have documentation of the pre-sale inspection from the dealer I purchased the bike from, and the invoice from MRP Motorsports for the local post-purchase inspection. It has been garage-kept when not being ridden.”
Mechanical Issues:
“There are no mechanical issues with this motorcycle. I am surprised with how old I believe the battery is, that it is as strong as it is, and that I have not had to replace it, but it still works really well.”
Modifications:
“This bike came with an aftermarket set of cooling fans and a manual button to turn them on, which seems to be a relatively standard “upgrade” on these motorcycles. I have not needed to use them, even on 100 degree days in stop and go traffic.”
CRG adjustable levers
LED headlight bulbs, LED Flasher Relay.
“I also added side reflectors on the rear license plate to pass Maryland inspection.”
Speed healer kit and is wired for battery tender use.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Michelin tires with date codes of 3120 and 2420.
Extras: The sale includes 2 ignition keys. The seller adds, “I will include the original front flashers (flush mount) and flasher relay. Since Honda stopped making some parts for this bike, I collected a few parts that I will include. I don’t yet have the full list, but it does include some original stickers (Honda, RC51), a new set of stock bar grips, new throttle cables, a rear shock adjustment tool, some blinker brackets, and a new set of air filters. Additionally, this bike comes with both the original racing cowl, the original rear seat, and a BILT bike cover.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Arnold, Maryland, this Honda is offered on a clean Maryland title with registration current through June 2027.
Have any RC51 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
