Post Sale Update: This RC51 sold for $8,399 after 18 bids.
Sold between in 2000 and 2006 in two different versions, the RC51 has gone down as one of the most legendary motorcycles to ever come out of Honda, well-deserving of the “RC” designation that’s graced other famous Hondas like the RC30, RC40, and RC45. It 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.
With 133 horsepower, 71 ft-lb of torque, and when equipped with aftermarket pipes, one of the greatest exhaust sounds I’ve ever heard, it was an absolute gem. Cycle World thinks this is one of the best used bikes you can buy, and I’d have to agree.
This example is claimed to be 100% stock with just over 14,200 miles. The tires have been replaced (with Metzeler Sportec) but the exhaust, peg feelers, and brake pads are original. The seller states that there are “no rock chips, pecks, or defects on front leading edges.”
You may want to save the seller’s info (TECH46) as he’s a “retired motorcycle industry insider of over 40 years and ex-Corona Extra Suzuki / Corona Extra Honda team owner” who’s about to sell a ton of impressive bikes: “1990 RC30 Superbike, 1985 RZ500, 1986 RG500, Aprilia RS250, 1979 CBX, 1980 GS1000S (Wes Cooley), 1983 CB1100F, H2 triples, Honda Rune, all original 1973 Z1 Kawasaki (Brown/Orange), also coming soon will be two genuine Suzuka 8 hour podium finishing Corona Extra sponsored GSXR1000’s and a ton of 8 Hours memorabilia and provenance. And lastly, 1995’s AMA Superteams Championship winning GSXR1000 will be auctioned. (this is the bike that holds the fastest AMA top speed roadracing motorcycle of the year – and the same bike that launched Aaron Yates career with Yoshimura. The same bike ridden by Doug Polen and other legendary racing super stars. This is the bike that was campaigned by a rookie, first year racing team out of Alabama that slammed the door on American Honda’s factory supported CBR900RR team).”
Find this RC51 for sale in Birmingham, Alabama with bidding up to $6,000 and the reserve already met here on eBay.