HONDA RC211V (2002-2006) Specs, Performance & Photos

The Honda RC211V race motorcycle was developed by Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) in 2001 to replace the two-strokes Honda NSR500. The bike was powered by a 990cc four-stroke engine.

When it debuted in 2002, Honda and Valentino Rossi won the constructor's championship with more than 100 points over its nearest rival. Over the season, the bike went through minor modifications and packed a handlebar-mounted power management system with three race settings.

In 2003, the RC211V underwent several performance modifications that increased power from 200 to 240 hp but also introduced the traction control system, enhancing its handling capabilities.

In 2004, the racing machine underwent other modifications, including a link inverted rear suspension and a new exhaust system introduced at the Sachsenring round.

In 2005, the Japanese manufacturer lost the constructor's championship in the premier class for the first time in four years. The RC211V chassis was constantly revised and rewelded, while after the race at Brno, Honda tested an improved bike, after that known as the Brno bike.

In 2006, the RC211V machine came in three versions: the Brno bike ridden by Hayden, a 2006 motorcycle with a unique chassis for Pedrosa, and a 2006 model for Melandri, Elias, Stoner, and Tamada.

In addition, in five seasons of MotoGP racing, the RC211V was the winner of 48 races out of 82, the winner of three World Championships, and gathered four constructors' titles.