HONDA RVT1000R RC51 (2004-2005) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2005, Honda released the RVT1000R, a powerful racing motorcycle that debuted in 2000 as a competitor in the Superbike World Championship. The bike was known as the RVT1000R in the American market and VTR1000 SP2 in the European and Australian markets.

The RC51 motorcycle was manufactured between 2000 and 2006, while the first two models were designated SP1 and later models were designated SP2. The latest 2002 to 2006 models featured an updated fuel injection system with 12 laser-drilled holes injectors and a modified suspension system.

Honda stopped the official support for superbike racing in 2003, and when superbike rules were changed to allow 1,000cc four-cylinder motorcycles, the RVT1000R was replaced by the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade.

In 2005, the Japanese motorcycle maker launched the Honda RVT1000R, a powerful racing machine built upon previous models' strengths. The machine was powered by a 999cc four-stroke V-twin liquid-cooled engine fed by an electronically controlled fuel injection system, fueling two injectors per cylinder.

With 136 hp on tap at 9,500 rpm and 105 Nm (77 lb-ft) of torque at 8,000 rpm, the engine transferred the power to the rear wheel through a six-speed transmission, launching the bike to a top speed of 271 kph (171 mph).

The braking performance was carried from the previous models, with a four-piston caliper and a 320 mm disc mounted on the front wheel, while the rear packed a 220 mm disc with a dual-piston caliper for strong stopping power.