If you don't mind, I would like to add that the RC51 is HRC engineered, which is the first affordable Honda HRC engineered wsbk homologations bike after a costly RC30 and RC45. It was in the class of the 750's of the time, so not really equivalent to a 1000cc four cylinder. I have had my RC51 since 2003 and absolutely love it!
I already have the 954 for 7 years now. I don't think I need any other sportsbike. Last year I bought some second hand carbon rims and I installed a used Micron Serpent exhaust system with a power commander. I will never sell this bike.
I'm hoping to feel this way about it too, it seems like the perfect bike (for me at least.) I already have the prefect dirtbike so I'm ready to never again have to shop for another bike.
@@tahahaider5836 It performs great. The exhaust adds about 10hp. The only mods that I still want to do it to put in 2004 cbr1000RR pistons to prevent the piston slap from happening and to install the camshaft from that bike too, which adds another couple of horses.
@@freekjacobs6096 thats great but cud u pla give me more details about its performance figures? Like how much hp its making? How much Nm torque? What was the 0-60 time before and now? Whats the top speed now? Does it compete with a bit newer bikes?
@@tahahaider5836 it went from 134 rwhp to 144 and gained quite a lot of midrange. If you want to know exactly what a Micron Serpent exhaust does on a 954rr you can Google it. There are many people that have shared dyno sheets. 0-100 I don't care about and neither should you I guess. More power just means it's harder to keep your front wheel on the ground in first gear. I've only ever reached top speed on the Autobahn in Germany. It was 280 on the gps, but I'm a large guy and was wearing a full backpack, so again doesn't really mean anything.
My RC was stolen from my parents house. Made me sick. They are triple the price to replace it. Its nice to see you still have your girls! I haven't watched your channel in quite some time. Keep up the good work!
I've had both bikes to, and yes that's my rc51 on my emoji. The 954 I felt was faster on straights but not as planted as the rc51. For cornering I was happier on the rc51. But I loved both bikes. Now I own a 2nd gen Aprilia tuono. Love them all.
I’ve owned around 15 bikes over the years, mainly sports including the CBR 9t4 and the RC51 (sp1 and 2). I can say absolutely that the 2 rc51’s were the finest of all, the bikes I enjoyed riding the most. Not as easy at normal speeds as some others including the 954 and not the fastest but the handling and overall feel of being at one with your bike when you hit the high speeds is just incomparable. I wouldn’t dream of changing my RC51, 2001 model for anything else, it’s going to be my last but best bike ever.
Done a lot of miles on both...owned the 954 and my best friend had the SP2.... You've absolutely nailed the description of both and how their characters compare to each other. Just a great video man, those 22 minutes flew by. 😀👍
I went from a 97 fireblade to my current rc51 sp-1 from 2000. Your vids convinced me to try one when i found a good deal and Ive fallen in love completely. I'm not a super tall woman so I fit on this thing without any issue and im completely comfortable. She runs a little warm indeed, the fan doesn't even come on till like 105-107 C, but she keeps me nice and warm in the colder months. The only real issue i have is the brakes. They work but aren't super. The real big difference I noticed from fireblade to sp-1 was the cornering. Where the fireblade was super easy to just throw in a corner, I had to really keep it there, whereas the sp-1 just required me to pick a line and she did the work for me. Next year I hope to finally get her to the track and learn to really master it. This bike is by faaar my favourite bike I've ever ridden and I catch myself staring at her infatuated every time I walk up to her. So, thank you I guess ^^.
I have a 2000 sp-1 also. Currently being restored. When I bought it, it was chopped into a stunt bike. Rode it once and fell in love. First year, and last 6 of VIN is 000142 so it was 142nd bike ever made off the assembly line. They only made about 4500 or so bikes...maybe a few more. So check your VIN and you can know what number your bike is. First 100 bikes, I believe, were hand built by Certified HRC mechanics every year. Putting SP-2 throttle bodies on and hopefully a few other goodies but parts are hard to come by and electrical is not my strong suit...especially when the previous owner hacked the harness for mods
Hmmmm just watched this vid as I have been contemplating the same decision = adding a 954, or an SP-1 or 2 Current bike is a ‘97 Fireblade in yellow 🐝 = Snap !! My first new bike from a GPZ900R to the then new VTR1000F Firestorm/Superhawk - then a new 2007 CBR1000RR. Many Triumphs, then a VFR750F, but got sideswiped/hit by a car on the freeway and into hospital 🏥 😢 - 4 years later decided to look for the last of the Foxeye Blades = refreshing my ‘97 🐝, just got to put new rubber on - then looking fir next project = 🤔 954 Vs SP-1 ?? 🤷♂️ in 🇿🇦, so not too many around on the market - but only need 1 😅 Enjoy your track days 👍 - best place to play 😈
My 954 had over 50k miles on it when someone took me out at a stop sign. No second gear, no 4th gear, no speedo, burned a little oil because I never did the valve adjustment, no oil in the front forks. I loved that bike. I'm in a different financial place now and completely stay on top of all my maintenance on all my bikes.
Scott's Steering damper is a big upgrade for the 929/954. I bought my 929 brand new in 2002. I had a tough time deciding between the 2001 RC51 or the 2001 929RR. What sold me oddly enough on the CBR929RR was the one thing you did not mention. The 929 and the 954 has a usable trunk!
I have a 2000 cbr 929 with 77k on it. It STILL rips hard! I need to fix a few issues and make it look like a motorcycle should. I've been lusting over the RC51 for a while, but didn't know anything about them other than it's good looks. Thanks for this video comparison 💪
There's nothing "wrong" with the 954, but inline 4 bikes are just all rather boring. There's not an incredible difference between UJM motors. The RC51 has an incredible twin and it's far more valuable and interesting. I have an MV Agusta brutale - it's a fun and exotic bike with great styling...but the engine characteristics aren't too different from any UJM machine. My tuono V4 is the perfect blend of hp and torque, but probably not as thrilling as a ducati or even the venerable RC51 under the right conditions.
Gotta love to see it. 2 beauties in mint condition, & properly taken care of..not to mention , loved & ridden & not just setting around collecting nothing but dust!! Awesome bikes my man!!👌🏽
The SP2 is my dream bike. Got a 03 CBR600F4i and I think that’s a baby 954….all revs and top end! But still lovely to ride. The SP2 is just soooo cool. Great video! Hi from Australia 🙂
Great video! I stupidly sold a cherry 2004 Nicky Hayden SP2 with 5K miles in 2013…Doh! Watching this video made me miss mine, i tracked it, took it on multi day trips, amazing bike. I’ve been eyeballing 954’s though because of the reasons you mention, weight, fuel range, power, comfort etc.
The issues listed by you on 954 actually are common on all other sportbike outhere,the real reliability problem on the is THE PISTON SLAP and scooring on cilynder walls due to thin piston skirt BUT, even so all the bikes run despite the small compresion leak. You're welcome!
It's a testimony to Hondas quality even in those early 2k's years that even when the higher milage issues arise a (fairly) simple OEM part swap in the rebuild can give the stock block new life with again a new-like AND OEM longevity if built to spec... reincarnation and another 50k miles out of a high performance race spec engine
I have a 5th gen VFR, gear driven cams, side mount radiators V4. Low/Mid rpm torque, runs hot as hell in traffic and sounds amazing. I love that thing.
My brother sold his 03 954rr to one our friends. The guy who owned it before my brother had it raced ama this 954rr had a full hrc exhaust system. Pretty much 1 of a kind. That full system is crazy $$ been begging my friend for years to buy it back. I think I'm finally starting to crack him open for it. God I loved that bike. I'm still the orginal owner of a 04 cbr1000rr
I have an '03 RC51. You're right, the cool factor is off the charts. Its such an amazing bike because it's the last bike built by HRC. Its not perfect, but its pretty awesome!
I have an 03 model as well and agree with everything you said about it. However Honda has had the rc213 out for sometime now and built buy hrc. I find alot of people don't realize how far back the rc line goes, Back to the late 1950's with the rc115 and 116.
@@jimmycapps7263 you guys may also not be aware that the road going SP2 was not actually built by HRC. Designed by HRC yes but assembly was Hondas main factory line. The other very important thing is where your actual model was destined for. In order of power output Uk Australia Europe Usa California. Australia model also does not have exhaust gas recirculation like all the others. The RC211 Followed the RC51 In the UK it was £200000 so a massive increase even over the RC30 & RC45. For your interest when I bought my 2001 SP1 I enquired how much the factory kit was to upgrade to SPW spec. £85000 and not usable on the street. I paid £8000 brand new. I could have bought a fireblade for similar. SP1 UK value now is above the price new but the fireblade can be picked up for about £1000. As for the joey dunlop replica just name your price....
The CBR Honda 1100 blackbird fastest bike in the world before Suzuki Hayabusa 1300 came out the fuel injected blackbirds were an amazing motorcycle I bought mine brand new 170 or 180hp stock standard
Which one to buy? Depends on what you want, what you're buying it for. If you want a collector's item, a display, a museum piece that does actually go quite well around a track, if you drop fresh oil & coolant in it, fit fresh tyres, then the RC51 is right up your alley. No Fireblade ever won the world SBK championship. But if what you want is a general sports bike, daily transport, a bike that has a modern enough chassis to handle just like a 'new' bike but enough engine stroke and mid-range torque to ride like a litre bike ~ not a 600, then ... I've ridden a modern zx10R which was race prepped, and in some ways it was superb, but only when you could ride it like you stole it. Any time you dropped to legal traffic speeds and rode like there was a police-car in sight, it was awful! I bought a 954 for my son, about 10 years ago, and I have ridden it a bit since, and it remains a bloody lovely bike to ride, fast or slow or any way you want. It has the handling from 2020, with the engine and torque from 1985, and that's a beautiful combination.
Excellent video and commentary!! Those are two GORGEOUS future classics. I have an R1 & SV1000 (naked) and love the difference between a 1000cc inline four and a 90° twin. They are so different and yet so brilliant in their own way. The instant torque of a 90° twin along with the massive midrange grunt is addictive. The top end power of the R1 is just intoxicating.
I have the 954 and it's a masterpiece of engineering, love the feel and ease of riding, as you said in the video it feels like a 600 with much more power when you twist the wrist.
and on the reliability issue where you were talking about people have to realize that the 954 was just built by the regular Honda motorcycle assembly line. now on the other hand the RC51 was built by the HRC guys.. two completely different entities lol
Growing up in the 80’s and 90’s I was into all the first gen faired sport bikes and actually raced gixxers from 89-93 (then went into the Army). I’d always loved the gear-driven whine of my 86 Interceptor 750, so when I picked up my 02 RC-51, it was like being home again…..because I’d been riding a Ducati 999 for several years. With that said, I’m a total v-twin fan. It’s extremely rare that anyone ever pulls me out of a turn….and this was on the street and track with some very fast guys. People may not notice it just hopping from bike to bike, but when you’re in the heat of carving some twisties and your leaving R1’s, Ninja 1000’s and Fireblades……for me the proof was laid down there. So in my 25 bike stable, I’ll just say my RC-51 and Duck 999 go out the most. Both have that amazingly “planted” feel and when you’re deep in a corner, that’s a total selling point for me. So in-line 4 guys, don’t be afraid to step over the line and give v-twins a try. You may just become a convert. lol Ride safe and keep her sunny side up! 🤙🦾
954rr just because of how comfortable it is. For some reason i like the looks of it over every sportbike that Ive seen. Especially for those that dont need technology to ride and have fun. I need a 2nd 954rr just in case something happens to my current one. Wife will probably hate me for it tho
I have a 954, tbh I find the gears are fine once you practice with it enough, hardly ever have issues, sometimes a miss a gear if I hit a bump when I'm shifting but that could happen on any bike, there are also a few mods that help improve the gearing which are worth doing, supports bracket etc. The 954 is very easy to corner fast on even without having massive amounts of skill, its always telling you to go faster in the corners, I've never manage to understeer it yet, they corner like they are on rails. Maybe its how light they are or just how well designed they are but corners are so much fun, epically when you get it right. Usually I find they don't feel planted simply because cornering speed is way too slow for what the bike wants to do. Power wise they are great, all through the rev range and that's just stock without tuning, but you need to be careful in the wet, it will spin up quite easily. The front will go quite light when you give it full throttle in the straights and I've had a tank slapper and a few near tank slappers so you really need to be light on the controls and experienced if you want to rev it out properly on the street, adding a damper may be a good idea but I've not bothered yet, other than on bumpy roads, the front has always been quite planted, it's just if your full throttle and hit a bump it can lead to trouble, again this can happen on any bike but I think with it being so light + having a lot of power, it's possible to get into the sh1t if you aren't respectful of just how fast it can go. It takes a long time to get all that a 954 can give you, they are incredible machines and overall very forgiving to newbies.
I had a 929 with bad wiring for a couple months. Spent too much time at work and not enough at home so I ended up with a good condition RR5 instead! younger brother has an 01 Rc51, both are awesome machines. the fireblade is overall a terrifying experience to ride fast, the inline 4 powerband isn't to be messed with. however the rc51 definitely feels quicker in how it falls in and torques out of corners. it's more enjoyable, and you feel hollywood cool whether you have a knee down or youre steady cruisin. the fireblade is a more planted and forgiving bike when it comes to lean, especially with the hesd system. They are two different beasts. pick whichever motor character suits you best and I guarantee you'll be a happy sportbiker. *for all you straightline geeks, they're neck and neck until the the RC hits 110mph and the Blade slings ahead at 120 n beyoooond. leave the HRC bikes to the real racers;) everybody be safe n have fun!
That’s a whole lot of beautiful Honda motorcycle titans you got there. The 954 is a amazing bike (as they both are.) but the RC51 (especially the sp2.) Is the one I’d have in the stable if I could only have one😍🤩
I’ve owned both. My rc51 was stolen and the only bike I would consider to replace it with was - another rc51. Nothing I’ve ever owned comes anywhere near the ultimate experience I get every time I ride it. I’m totally sold on that v-twin engine😁
I got the chance to ride both of these bikes back to back when they were new. I really liked the 954 over the RC. I liked to power delivery better, being used to other 900/1000cc 4 cylinders. And I agree with the 954’s easy riding position, never realizing the marked differences between the bars mount. Both are timeless Honda’s I would love to own. But alas.......I still love my 600.
I had an SP1 for a couple years and sold it. I wish I wouldn’t have. It was one of the most enjoyable bikes I had ever ridden. I’ve had numerous other sportbikes since, but that one was my all time favorite.
I had a RC51 in 01 and missed it ever since. I just picked up a 01 my friend had sitting in the garage for years being neglected. I'm rebuilding it now. I aslo have a 2014 CBR 1000rr sp that's getting some upgrades. I love my CBR but there's nothing like riding a RC51
This is perfect timing. I’ve listed after both of these bikes since they were new. Got out of riding for a few years after selling my CBR600RR, and just got back into it a few years ago with a cruiser. I was just talking to my friend about both of these and how I’m going to get one this year. Unfortunately most of the 954s around here have been chopped up into stunt bikes.
Hey check inside that masterbreak cylinder a lot of times that old DOT fluid just eats away the little plunger inside the cylinder so you don't get any back pressure
I've had both a 929, and a 954 many years ago.. I've always loved the RC51, and would always want one, but I just can't seen to feel I fit on it. I totally agree with you about the comfort and ease to ride RR's.. They are effortless to hang it out and drag pegs everywhere. I feel I'd fall in love more with the soul stirring sound of the V twin over its power output, and that is what would make it more enjoyable for someone like me..
I own a 929rr with full exhaust system and PCIII and a 954rr with a TBR slip on. Both fantastic bikes, my 929rr seems to make more power especially 1st gear it power wheelies very easily where the 954rr doesn't. Probably due the to the mapping. Own both the bikes bc of your build series and review of the 954rr :)
@AMPED UP same here, just turned 25,500 miles. Runs good as new with no weird noises or issues. I run amsoil full synth which I think helps quite the motor down. Hoping to hit 50k miles on it
The CBR 954rr was my first bike I was 24 years old never even had a moped before :-). The bike was super balanced, confidence inspiring you point and thats where it goes, yes there was power with linear bottom line and razy top end, but you get used to it and after some time you want more power. On the other hand after the CBR I got a Cagiva Raptor 1000, v-tvin for the bottom end and that bike was just terrible like a shopping cart on two wheels :-D. I do rather prefere the straight four engine its more sharp and precise. Next will probably be an electric bike a true "ghost-rider" you wont even hear it comming.
Such a sexy RC! I absolutely love that color combo! I'm not a Honda guy for streetbikes, but the RC has always been a favorite of mine. The RC is the keeper for me.
Hi. I sold my CBR 954 in 2019, for closed my mediteranean ship travel, whith familly...was nice travel. But sincerely, my CBR miss me very much. I have this bike new in 2003 at 2019. Ive choosen CBR 954 in 2003, after my 929 2001, because i ve not enough monney for SP1, at this time. But i still love VTR 1000 SP1/2 (name of RC 51 in France). In 2018, i bought a Ducati 1098...Very sensational bike, but honnestly, i never have to do that i've done on my Ducat in 4 years compare to 17 years CBR....just oil, brake, ignition, one chain... and thats' all. In my Ducat, too says things simply....Entire engine was refresh...fortunately for me, i can do it myself, but when it's arrive, without any signs before, sincerely, it's boring you. I'm not very proud of this, but i write my experience too serve the others. i always have my Ducat...when she ride, but if i wtach this video, every one could understand what is my ytb algorithm preference. One day, Honda will be mine again. Not most impressive machine, but if you love d;i;y with simplicity and conserv yours things on long time, you will understand this words. ps: sorry for my french english ^.^
Ive owned four 2002 954s. Silver and black. Still own the 4th one. Only rocket ive ever owned. Drooled over a guys RC51 that sound before buying my first 954.
I have a Brembo radial mc on my ‘01 SP1 and it makes a huge difference. After several Aprilia’s and Ducati’s the RC is still my favorite twin jug sport bike
I’ve owned 12 bikes in my riding career and the 954 is by far my favorite with no close second. It rides like a VFR800 but you can take it to ridiculous speeds and it handles way better.
I got one of the sickest honda cbr 600f4i' you'll ever see. I have a 600rr swingarm and 954rr forks. I love Honda. You can't beat the reliability. The early 2000s produced the best bikes I've ever ridden. The 954 is still a great bike even compared to today's bikes.
Awesome video, you should just hush when riding the RC so we can just listen to that symphony! I had the same 954 model/year/color, bought it brand new too! I have now a 03 RC-51 which I bought wrecked and been slowly rebuilding it. Can't wait to finish it.
My father had the 954, uncle still has the sp2 rc51. So this video just reminded me of what my garage looked like 15 years ago. One day maybe ill get the 954 just to give the SP company it has been missing all this time 😂
Have both of those and a 99 CBR 900 RR, last carb model. All are great but the 07 Litre bike (07 CBR 1000 RR flat put spanked those three in every category!! Opinions are like A$$£●[€$, everyone has one. Had the luxury to run them side by side also in drag races and day rides. All four of us preferred the 07 1K hands down and the 99 900 RR was a draw with the 954. The RC was a toss with the 07 1000 RR on our ride at 7,500 to 10,000 elevation with long consistent twists from Frisco to Minturn and back through Vail past Copper Mountain to Dillon Frisco! Nothing like the real comparison side by side and skill was fairly even too. The 954 will always be relevant bro but that generation up to 07 Honda CBR 1000 RR was everyone's all around by far. I still won't sell my 954!
Seriously? Nevermind the RC51...... it's sibling the Superhawk/Firestorm would destroy your little TL1000R. Now get your Suzuki Biker Boyzzz chrome extended swing arm bling bling outta here!
You might need to calm down a bit. I only asked about comparing the two bikes. I’ve never ridin a RC51 and only have experience on a TL1000R. Also, my TLR (when I had it) was pretty track focused. Not one of those clapped out chrome vehicles.
You need to add the 929 to your collection. 😀 I had a 2003 954RR in the Titanium color scheme. I miss it so much. Actively looking for a low mileage mint condition used one now.
The 954 was the final true Blade designed by Tasso Baba!! After the earlier Rrw’s they got fat and almost touring bike comfy! But the 954 addressed those poor in between models! The bike that followed was always going to be a 1000 track bike made to hit the WSB and BSB race series, so that officially makes the 954 the last true Lightweight Blade made for road riders not racers. It’s a true legend, and of course the SP1 / 2 were made for one thing only! To kick Ducatis arse on the tracks! And for a very short period it done it’s job well. Both awesome bikes
The sound of a V twin sport bike is something special. I love my I4 Kawi but if I had the money would replace it with a Superduke in an instant. I've a workmate who's selling a Nicky Hayden SP2 but at over £10k UK for a 20 year old bike it's out of my budget.
Am looking to get a 929 or 954 as my first bike. Pref in blue. I absolutly love the lines of that bike. But having just a newborn i have to re-save up for it again. The older blades are cool too but i live in netherlands and i think running carbs would be too much of a hassle in a damp country like mine.
I remember my 99R1 when sitting in traffic here in Texas and the electric fans would kick on it would blow the hot air right up through the fairing and it would hit you right in the neck.. it was just soooo amazing...
@@johnnyrebel3085 not disrespecting the blade at all I'm just saying that the RC51 is homologation race bike just like the new 38k fire blade sp2. They only built it and sold it to people because they had to so that it could race in the world superbike. The RC51 is a track weapon it was meant to be a track weapon which is why he was complaining about how stiff and kind of rough the ride is and the ergos can be painful after a while.. the 954 on the other hand much more comfortable ergos much more compliance suspension for the road. I definitely was not talking down on the 954 all I was saying is on a racetrack the RC51 is much better.. now anything else besides a racetrack and the 954 probably spanks the rsc51 pretty good. Quite honestly I am still astonished that that bike only weighed 370 lb and had 154 horsepower. My 99 r1 had 150 crank horsepower and weighed 421 lb dry.. and that bike was unbelievably fast but I can't imagine knocking 50 lb off the bike what it would have been like.. so yeah definitely not talk talking down on the 954 as a matter of fact I'm convinced that a wizard help them make that motorcycle because they had to use magic or something to get that bike down to 370 pounds.. that's like moto gp bike weight lol
I was fortunate enough to buy a sub 900 original milage 03 954rr in 2020, loved the hell out of that bike other than feeling guilty for adding milage since I felt it was a less than a handful category of originality and near virgin break-in seat time, I haven't had the pleasure of riding an rc51 but I HAVE daily'd Suzuki's early 2000's competition ( 03 TL1000R) and they are certainly 2 separate categories of motorcycle while each retaining superbike status ... I honestly would have a very difficult time choosing a winner of the 2 bikes as a whole...rather have kept both in hindsight but glad to have had the experience
I am a Honda motorcycle fan since the RC30. I love the RC51. But disagree with you that they didn’t have any competition. Yamaha had brought out the R1 in 1998 I think and it was amazing. Suzuki always has good GSXR’s. Sport bike world is always competitive in my opinion. But I am bias towards Honda too.
I have had inline 4s for many years, since 1973, 900 kaw. For racing I prefer VTs, I still have my 89 NT650 pro build racer. I picked up my 01 rc51 for pure fun, track days and Mtn fun. I love my RC. A person can never use all that modern bikes have for the street, if 30 year old bike or up to date tech bike, it is still the rider. Buy what turns your crank, not just what is new and tech. Nice review..
What u know bout the Hawk GT? Or the pod filter modification and jetting for extra horsepower? Or.... or..... how you can make a replica RC30 with these? You ain't part of the cult!!
@@tonykartracer8032 honda designated the 89 honda hawk nt650 as a rc30. The jetting for more hp, reset needle height, increase jetting size by 2 on mains pilots up 1. Change mufflers two brothers. I pulled the airbox off and just put filters on the carbs, ARHMA could care less if airbox is there. My hawk is a pro build from Mototuneusa , custom cams, high comp pistons, 700cc, no fly wheel, bal crank, SS valves, zero point ignition, custom high velocity intake porting, 70+ hp, 320lbs dry. 91 gsxr 750 front end, on and on and on. Part of the cult? Could care less.
I'm 6'2, and 54 years old. I'm comfortable with the ride position on my Rc51. the seat is thin, so that gets me after about half a day. I need a jell insert. problem solved. never had any problems otherwise. back, wrist, neck pain? nope. I wish I could go back in time. I'd buy 2 of these bikes. I'd love to own an 06 Black color.
For my money, RC51 every time. Fireblades were terrific bikes (I still lust after a '92/'93 900) and yet... a big Honda V-twin with gear-driven camshafts does it all day every day for me. Whether the Fireblade is faster or slower than the RC51 is neither here nor there: it's the engagement that matters.
Totally agree. Unless you’re racing on the track which is the fastest bike becomes irrelevant. For a riding experience away from the track the sp1 is incomparable. Not very comfortable over longer distances but the overall experience leaves me in awe every time. An all time classic.
I've had some tell me no it isn't..... So just be aware of that :-) they just don't know what they're talkin about..... they are the same power plant a 90-degree V-Twin
I greatly enjoyed my 03 RC-51, especially more than my 99' CBR900RR. I attended an instructed track day with my RC and I agree with you that you have to be a good rider to enjoy the RC vs CBR. My favorite thing about my RC-51 was passing cars on a 2 lane road, in 2nd gear; All I had to do was roll onto the throttle and the front end would pick up, superbike style. My biggest complaint about the RC: the 2nd degree burns I'd get on my ankles from those side radiators. At the Ridge in WA State, 159mph on the front straight with my RC-51. Sold my RC to buy a Shelby GT500. I now have a Blackbird ;)
I've owned both had issues with the 954 due to the previous owner and me having fix things he didnt mention or having to go back and refix things he had fixed. I sold the 954 to pay off my truck so i could buy a house im debating on getting another 954 or getting the 929. But i will never get rid of my RC51.
If you don't mind, I would like to add that the RC51 is HRC engineered, which is the first affordable Honda HRC engineered wsbk homologations bike after a costly RC30 and RC45. It was in the class of the 750's of the time, so not really equivalent to a 1000cc four cylinder. I have had my RC51 since 2003 and absolutely love it!
I already have the 954 for 7 years now. I don't think I need any other sportsbike. Last year I bought some second hand carbon rims and I installed a used Micron Serpent exhaust system with a power commander. I will never sell this bike.
I'm hoping to feel this way about it too, it seems like the perfect bike (for me at least.) I already have the prefect dirtbike so I'm ready to never again have to shop for another bike.
How does it perform now compared to before?
@@tahahaider5836 It performs great. The exhaust adds about 10hp. The only mods that I still want to do it to put in 2004 cbr1000RR pistons to prevent the piston slap from happening and to install the camshaft from that bike too, which adds another couple of horses.
@@freekjacobs6096 thats great but cud u pla give me more details about its performance figures? Like how much hp its making? How much Nm torque? What was the 0-60 time before and now? Whats the top speed now? Does it compete with a bit newer bikes?
@@tahahaider5836 it went from 134 rwhp to 144 and gained quite a lot of midrange. If you want to know exactly what a Micron Serpent exhaust does on a 954rr you can Google it. There are many people that have shared dyno sheets. 0-100 I don't care about and neither should you I guess. More power just means it's harder to keep your front wheel on the ground in first gear. I've only ever reached top speed on the Autobahn in Germany. It was 280 on the gps, but I'm a large guy and was wearing a full backpack, so again doesn't really mean anything.
My RC was stolen from my parents house. Made me sick. They are triple the price to replace it. Its nice to see you still have your girls! I haven't watched your channel in quite some time. Keep up the good work!
I've had both bikes to, and yes that's my rc51 on my emoji. The 954 I felt was faster on straights but not as planted as the rc51. For cornering I was happier on the rc51. But I loved both bikes. Now I own a 2nd gen Aprilia tuono. Love them all.
You, my friend, are my hero!
Dude, I am so glad every time I see you post. Thank you for taking the time and doing such a great job.
I’ve owned around 15 bikes over the years, mainly sports including the CBR 9t4 and the RC51 (sp1 and 2). I can say absolutely that the 2 rc51’s were the finest of all, the bikes I enjoyed riding the most. Not as easy at normal speeds as some others including the 954 and not the fastest but the handling and overall feel of being at one with your bike when you hit the high speeds is just incomparable. I wouldn’t dream of changing my RC51, 2001 model for anything else, it’s going to be my last but best bike ever.
Done a lot of miles on both...owned the 954 and my best friend had the SP2.... You've absolutely nailed the description of both and how their characters compare to each other. Just a great video man, those 22 minutes flew by. 😀👍
I went from a 97 fireblade to my current rc51 sp-1 from 2000. Your vids convinced me to try one when i found a good deal and Ive fallen in love completely. I'm not a super tall woman so I fit on this thing without any issue and im completely comfortable. She runs a little warm indeed, the fan doesn't even come on till like 105-107 C, but she keeps me nice and warm in the colder months. The only real issue i have is the brakes. They work but aren't super.
The real big difference I noticed from fireblade to sp-1 was the cornering. Where the fireblade was super easy to just throw in a corner, I had to really keep it there, whereas the sp-1 just required me to pick a line and she did the work for me. Next year I hope to finally get her to the track and learn to really master it. This bike is by faaar my favourite bike I've ever ridden and I catch myself staring at her infatuated every time I walk up to her. So, thank you I guess ^^.
I have a 2000 sp-1 also. Currently being restored. When I bought it, it was chopped into a stunt bike. Rode it once and fell in love. First year, and last 6 of VIN is 000142 so it was 142nd bike ever made off the assembly line. They only made about 4500 or so bikes...maybe a few more. So check your VIN and you can know what number your bike is. First 100 bikes, I believe, were hand built by Certified HRC mechanics every year. Putting SP-2 throttle bodies on and hopefully a few other goodies but parts are hard to come by and electrical is not my strong suit...especially when the previous owner hacked the harness for mods
Hmmmm just watched this vid as I have been contemplating the same decision = adding a 954, or an SP-1 or 2
Current bike is a ‘97 Fireblade in yellow 🐝 = Snap !!
My first new bike from a GPZ900R to the then new VTR1000F Firestorm/Superhawk - then a new 2007 CBR1000RR. Many Triumphs, then a VFR750F, but got sideswiped/hit by a car on the freeway and into hospital 🏥 😢 - 4 years later decided to look for the last of the Foxeye Blades = refreshing my ‘97 🐝, just got to put new rubber on - then looking fir next project = 🤔 954 Vs SP-1 ?? 🤷♂️ in 🇿🇦, so not too many around on the market - but only need 1 😅
Enjoy your track days 👍 - best place to play 😈
My 954 had over 50k miles on it when someone took me out at a stop sign. No second gear, no 4th gear, no speedo, burned a little oil because I never did the valve adjustment, no oil in the front forks. I loved that bike.
I'm in a different financial place now and completely stay on top of all my maintenance on all my bikes.
That sucks bud, love my 954
Scott's Steering damper is a big upgrade for the 929/954.
I bought my 929 brand new in 2002. I had a tough time deciding between the 2001 RC51 or the 2001 929RR.
What sold me oddly enough on the CBR929RR was the one thing you did not mention. The 929 and the 954 has a usable trunk!
2003 RC51 owner here. I have the same Sato high exhaust. Absolutely the best bike I've owned. Gets lots of looks and thumbs up when I ride.
I absolutely love my rc51 such a blast!
I have a 2000 cbr 929 with 77k on it. It STILL rips hard! I need to fix a few issues and make it look like a motorcycle should. I've been lusting over the RC51 for a while, but didn't know anything about them other than it's good looks. Thanks for this video comparison 💪
There's nothing "wrong" with the 954, but inline 4 bikes are just all rather boring. There's not an incredible difference between UJM motors. The RC51 has an incredible twin and it's far more valuable and interesting.
I have an MV Agusta brutale - it's a fun and exotic bike with great styling...but the engine characteristics aren't too different from any UJM machine. My tuono V4 is the perfect blend of hp and torque, but probably not as thrilling as a ducati or even the venerable RC51 under the right conditions.
@@johnweir9447 someone want to exchange his 2014 tuono v4 against my 929rr (mine is like super clean, his is good). should I go for it?
@@papercut1987 no bro absolutely not!! keep that 929 you will regret loosing it.
Gotta love to see it. 2 beauties in mint condition, & properly taken care of..not to mention , loved & ridden & not just setting around collecting nothing but dust!! Awesome bikes my man!!👌🏽
Trailer queens
I've lost this channel due to RUclips algorithm. I'm glad I found you again!
The SP2 is my dream bike. Got a 03 CBR600F4i and I think that’s a baby 954….all revs and top end! But still lovely to ride. The SP2 is just soooo cool. Great video! Hi from Australia 🙂
The RC 51 is one of the best looking bikes i have ever seen. Wish i had the privilege of owning one, i would treat it like gold.
Great video! I stupidly sold a cherry 2004 Nicky Hayden SP2 with 5K miles in 2013…Doh! Watching this video made me miss mine, i tracked it, took it on multi day trips, amazing bike. I’ve been eyeballing 954’s though because of the reasons you mention, weight, fuel range, power, comfort etc.
The issues listed by you on 954 actually are common on all other sportbike outhere,the real reliability problem on the is THE PISTON SLAP and scooring on cilynder walls due to thin piston skirt BUT, even so all the bikes run despite the small compresion leak. You're welcome!
Put good oil every year and do not give it hard time when cold and the bike will be sweet
It's a testimony to Hondas quality even in those early 2k's years that even when the higher milage issues arise a (fairly) simple OEM part swap in the rebuild can give the stock block new life with again a new-like AND OEM longevity if built to spec... reincarnation and another 50k miles out of a high performance race spec engine
I have a 5th gen VFR, gear driven cams, side mount radiators V4. Low/Mid rpm torque, runs hot as hell in traffic and sounds amazing. I love that thing.
Always look forward to one of your vlogs.
Your commentary is spot on. Details of function and form, RIP Nicky, I knew when he was flat trackn Ascott
My brother sold his 03 954rr to one our friends. The guy who owned it before my brother had it raced ama this 954rr had a full hrc exhaust system. Pretty much 1 of a kind. That full system is crazy $$ been begging my friend for years to buy it back. I think I'm finally starting to crack him open for it. God I loved that bike. I'm still the orginal owner of a 04 cbr1000rr
I have an '03 RC51. You're right, the cool factor is off the charts. Its such an amazing bike because it's the last bike built by HRC. Its not perfect, but its pretty awesome!
I have an 03 model as well and agree with everything you said about it. However Honda has had the rc213 out for sometime now and built buy hrc. I find alot of people don't realize how far back the rc line goes, Back to the late 1950's with the rc115 and 116.
@@jimmycapps7263 you guys may also not be aware that the road going SP2 was not actually built by HRC. Designed by HRC yes but assembly was Hondas main factory line. The other very important thing is where your actual model was destined for.
In order of power output
Uk
Australia
Europe
Usa
California.
Australia model also does not have exhaust gas recirculation like all the others.
The RC211 Followed the RC51
In the UK it was £200000 so a massive increase even over the
RC30 & RC45. For your interest when I bought my 2001 SP1 I enquired how much the factory kit was to upgrade to SPW spec.
£85000 and not usable on the street. I paid £8000 brand new. I could have bought a fireblade for similar. SP1 UK value now is above the price new but the fireblade can be picked up for about £1000. As for the joey dunlop replica just name your price....
I have the SP2 now for 12 years. Use him on the track and on the road, both fantastic times !
The RC51 is in my opinion the best sounding bike Honda has ever made. With the exception of the CR 500 but that's a whole different thing
I think carburetor VTR Firestorm sound better a lots of pop and bangs 👌😂🔥
@@rideroll9609 people always shit on carbs but I’m like you clearly don’t ride enough to not let them sit 🙃
The Triumph triple, Yammi CP3 and CP4 and the V4’s are my list of notes!
CBX.
Ronald Tartaglia, agreed!
"Biggest CBR you could buy"
[CBR1100XX weeping in the corner]
Blackbird tears up
The CBR Honda 1100 blackbird fastest bike in the world before Suzuki Hayabusa 1300 came out the fuel injected blackbirds were an amazing motorcycle I bought mine brand new 170 or 180hp stock standard
The CBR 1000F was bigger that thing was wide and long .
Which one to buy? Depends on what you want, what you're buying it for.
If you want a collector's item, a display, a museum piece that does actually go quite well around a track, if you drop fresh oil & coolant in it, fit fresh tyres, then the RC51 is right up your alley. No Fireblade ever won the world SBK championship.
But if what you want is a general sports bike, daily transport, a bike that has a modern enough chassis to handle just like a 'new' bike but enough engine stroke and mid-range torque to ride like a litre bike ~ not a 600, then ...
I've ridden a modern zx10R which was race prepped, and in some ways it was superb, but only when you could ride it like you stole it. Any time you dropped to legal traffic speeds and rode like there was a police-car in sight, it was awful! I bought a 954 for my son, about 10 years ago, and I have ridden it a bit since, and it remains a bloody lovely bike to ride, fast or slow or any way you want. It has the handling from 2020, with the engine and torque from 1985, and that's a beautiful combination.
Excellent video and commentary!! Those are two GORGEOUS future classics.
I have an R1 & SV1000 (naked) and love the difference between a 1000cc inline four and a 90° twin. They are so different and yet so brilliant in their own way.
The instant torque of a 90° twin along with the massive midrange grunt is addictive.
The top end power of the R1 is just intoxicating.
My favorite bikes from this era were the Aprilia mille and the rc51 and 954. I owned 2 aprilia vtwins back in the 2010s.
The 954 is such a great sportbike to have. I purchased one just a few days ago. My first fireblade.. it is seriously fast!
I have the 954 and it's a masterpiece of engineering, love the feel and ease of riding, as you said in the video it feels like a 600 with much more power when you twist the wrist.
375 pounds, better be fast
and on the reliability issue where you were talking about people have to realize that the 954 was just built by the regular Honda motorcycle assembly line. now on the other hand the RC51 was built by the HRC guys.. two completely different entities lol
Growing up in the 80’s and 90’s I was into all the first gen faired sport bikes and actually raced gixxers from 89-93 (then went into the Army). I’d always loved the gear-driven whine of my 86 Interceptor 750, so when I picked up my 02 RC-51, it was like being home again…..because I’d been riding a Ducati 999 for several years. With that said, I’m a total v-twin fan. It’s extremely rare that anyone ever pulls me out of a turn….and this was on the street and track with some very fast guys. People may not notice it just hopping from bike to bike, but when you’re in the heat of carving some twisties and your leaving R1’s, Ninja 1000’s and Fireblades……for me the proof was laid down there.
So in my 25 bike stable, I’ll just say my RC-51 and Duck 999 go out the most. Both have that amazingly “planted” feel and when you’re deep in a corner, that’s a total selling point for me. So in-line 4 guys, don’t be afraid to step over the line and give v-twins a try. You may just become a convert. lol
Ride safe and keep her sunny side up! 🤙🦾
I have a RC51 which is my garage princess ...what a machine ....was looking at a 954 as a rider so this was a great review THANKYOU ...have subscribed
954rr just because of how comfortable it is. For some reason i like the looks of it over every sportbike that Ive seen. Especially for those that dont need technology to ride and have fun. I need a 2nd 954rr just in case something happens to my current one. Wife will probably hate me for it tho
I have a 954, tbh I find the gears are fine once you practice with it enough, hardly ever have issues, sometimes a miss a gear if I hit a bump when I'm shifting but that could happen on any bike, there are also a few mods that help improve the gearing which are worth doing, supports bracket etc. The 954 is very easy to corner fast on even without having massive amounts of skill, its always telling you to go faster in the corners, I've never manage to understeer it yet, they corner like they are on rails. Maybe its how light they are or just how well designed they are but corners are so much fun, epically when you get it right. Usually I find they don't feel planted simply because cornering speed is way too slow for what the bike wants to do.
Power wise they are great, all through the rev range and that's just stock without tuning, but you need to be careful in the wet, it will spin up quite easily. The front will go quite light when you give it full throttle in the straights and I've had a tank slapper and a few near tank slappers so you really need to be light on the controls and experienced if you want to rev it out properly on the street, adding a damper may be a good idea but I've not bothered yet, other than on bumpy roads, the front has always been quite planted, it's just if your full throttle and hit a bump it can lead to trouble, again this can happen on any bike but I think with it being so light + having a lot of power, it's possible to get into the sh1t if you aren't respectful of just how fast it can go. It takes a long time to get all that a 954 can give you, they are incredible machines and overall very forgiving to newbies.
I had a 929 with bad wiring for a couple months. Spent too much time at work and not enough at home so I ended up with a good condition RR5 instead! younger brother has an 01 Rc51, both are awesome machines. the fireblade is overall a terrifying experience to ride fast, the inline 4 powerband isn't to be messed with. however the rc51 definitely feels quicker in how it falls in and torques out of corners. it's more enjoyable, and you feel hollywood cool whether you have a knee down or youre steady cruisin. the fireblade is a more planted and forgiving bike when it comes to lean, especially with the hesd system. They are two different beasts. pick whichever motor character suits you best and I guarantee you'll be a happy sportbiker. *for all you straightline geeks, they're neck and neck until the the RC hits 110mph and the Blade slings ahead at 120 n beyoooond. leave the HRC bikes to the real racers;) everybody be safe n have fun!
Love the RC51, although special mention to your amazing looking Corvette in the background!
That’s a whole lot of beautiful Honda motorcycle titans you got there. The 954 is a amazing bike (as they both are.) but the RC51 (especially the sp2.) Is the one I’d have in the stable if I could only have one😍🤩
i like how light the 954RR is. I remember it being more wheely happy than my 08 CBR1000RR. the 954 is truly a monster..
I’ve owned both. My rc51 was stolen and the only bike I would consider to replace it with was - another rc51. Nothing I’ve ever owned comes anywhere near the ultimate experience I get every time I ride it. I’m totally sold on that v-twin engine😁
I got the chance to ride both of these bikes back to back when they were new. I really liked the 954 over the RC. I liked to power delivery better, being used to other 900/1000cc 4 cylinders. And I agree with the 954’s easy riding position, never realizing the marked differences between the bars mount.
Both are timeless Honda’s I would love to own. But alas.......I still love my 600.
I had an SP1 for a couple years and sold it. I wish I wouldn’t have. It was one of the most enjoyable bikes I had ever ridden. I’ve had numerous other sportbikes since, but that one was my all time favorite.
Thanks for this!
After 31 years of ownership CBR600F2 ownership I'm considering adding another Honda to my stable.
I had a RC51 in 01 and missed it ever since. I just picked up a 01 my friend had sitting in the garage for years being neglected. I'm rebuilding it now. I aslo have a 2014 CBR 1000rr sp that's getting some upgrades. I love my CBR but there's nothing like riding a RC51
Never had the privilege to get my hands on. A. RC 51. I currently have an '02 VTR 1000 super Hawk 996. Still impresses me.
Glad to see you still have the 954 after the rebuild series. Nice corvette too 👌
This is perfect timing. I’ve listed after both of these bikes since they were new. Got out of riding for a few years after selling my CBR600RR, and just got back into it a few years ago with a cruiser. I was just talking to my friend about both of these and how I’m going to get one this year. Unfortunately most of the 954s around here have been chopped up into stunt bikes.
Hey check inside that masterbreak cylinder a lot of times that old DOT fluid just eats away the little plunger inside the cylinder so you don't get any back pressure
thanks for another video, i leave 2000's honda bikes. Love my 2006 1000rr
Glad your back..I love my rc51..be safe out there brother
I've had both a 929, and a 954 many years ago.. I've always loved the RC51, and would always want one, but I just can't seen to feel I fit on it. I totally agree with you about the comfort and ease to ride RR's.. They are effortless to hang it out and drag pegs everywhere. I feel I'd fall in love more with the soul stirring sound of the V twin over its power output, and that is what would make it more enjoyable for someone like me..
I own a 929rr with full exhaust system and PCIII and a 954rr with a TBR slip on. Both fantastic bikes, my 929rr seems to make more power especially 1st gear it power wheelies very easily where the 954rr doesn't. Probably due the to the mapping. Own both the bikes bc of your build series and review of the 954rr :)
Hi YoungMulah, the 954 powerwheelie easily in 2nd gear!
@AMPED UP same here, just turned 25,500 miles. Runs good as new with no weird noises or issues. I run amsoil full synth which I think helps quite the motor down. Hoping to hit 50k miles on it
The CBR 954rr was my first bike I was 24 years old never even had a moped before :-). The bike was super balanced, confidence inspiring you point and thats where it goes, yes there was power with linear bottom line and razy top end, but you get used to it and after some time you want more power. On the other hand after the CBR I got a Cagiva Raptor 1000, v-tvin for the bottom end and that bike was just terrible like a shopping cart on two wheels :-D. I do rather prefere the straight four engine its more sharp and precise. Next will probably be an electric bike a true "ghost-rider" you wont even hear it comming.
Love the RC51.... I had a SP1 and now a SP2... great bikes.
I’m currently looking for a 954. I do love the SP though. Both stunning machines.
I'll let you know if I part with mine
Such a sexy RC! I absolutely love that color combo! I'm not a Honda guy for streetbikes, but the RC has always been a favorite of mine. The RC is the keeper for me.
Hi. I sold my CBR 954 in 2019, for closed my mediteranean ship travel, whith familly...was nice travel. But sincerely, my CBR miss me very much. I have this bike new in 2003 at 2019. Ive choosen CBR 954 in 2003, after my 929 2001, because i ve not enough monney for SP1, at this time. But i still love VTR 1000 SP1/2 (name of RC 51 in France). In 2018, i bought a Ducati 1098...Very sensational bike, but honnestly, i never have to do that i've done on my Ducat in 4 years compare to 17 years CBR....just oil, brake, ignition, one chain... and thats' all. In my Ducat, too says things simply....Entire engine was refresh...fortunately for me, i can do it myself, but when it's arrive, without any signs before, sincerely, it's boring you. I'm not very proud of this, but i write my experience too serve the others. i always have my Ducat...when she ride, but if i wtach this video, every one could understand what is my ytb algorithm preference. One day, Honda will be mine again. Not most impressive machine, but if you love d;i;y with simplicity and conserv yours things on long time, you will understand this words.
ps: sorry for my french english ^.^
Ive owned four 2002 954s. Silver and black. Still own the 4th one. Only rocket ive ever owned. Drooled over a guys RC51 that sound before buying my first 954.
I have a Brembo radial mc on my ‘01 SP1 and it makes a huge difference. After several Aprilia’s and Ducati’s the RC is still my favorite twin jug sport bike
I feel like the 954 is pretty underrated tbh
I’ve owned 12 bikes in my riding career and the 954 is by far my favorite with no close second. It rides like a VFR800 but you can take it to ridiculous speeds and it handles way better.
Another great video!
I really enjoy your content , super clean and top notch videos .
Keep it up 👍
Imlove the SP-sound. Only to hear the sound, I would choose it 👍🏻
I got one of the sickest honda cbr 600f4i' you'll ever see. I have a 600rr swingarm and 954rr forks. I love Honda. You can't beat the reliability. The early 2000s produced the best bikes I've ever ridden. The 954 is still a great bike even compared to today's bikes.
Top notch comparisons in the most easiest way 👌
Thx keeping going 👍🏻
Awesome video, you should just hush when riding the RC so we can just listen to that symphony! I had the same 954 model/year/color, bought it brand new too! I have now a 03 RC-51 which I bought wrecked and been slowly rebuilding it. Can't wait to finish it.
My father had the 954, uncle still has the sp2 rc51. So this video just reminded me of what my garage looked like 15 years ago.
One day maybe ill get the 954 just to give the SP company it has been missing all this time 😂
Also, the rc51 is one of the few bikes that sounds better than it looks. The exhaust rumbles like a bad ass.
Have both of those and a 99 CBR 900 RR, last carb model. All are great but the 07 Litre bike (07 CBR 1000 RR flat put spanked those three in every category!! Opinions are like
A$$£●[€$, everyone has one. Had the luxury to run them side by side also in drag races and day rides. All four of us preferred the 07 1K hands down and the 99 900 RR was a draw with the 954. The RC was a toss with the 07 1000 RR on our ride at 7,500 to 10,000 elevation with long consistent twists from Frisco to Minturn and back through Vail past Copper Mountain to Dillon Frisco! Nothing like the real comparison side by side and skill was fairly even too. The 954 will always be relevant bro but that generation up to 07 Honda CBR 1000 RR was everyone's all around by far. I still won't sell my 954!
Goodday you are very fortunate to have the RC51 a magic bike .stay safe
I would love to see how the RC51 would stack up against my old Suzuki TL1000R back in the day. Great review!
Seriously? Nevermind the RC51...... it's sibling the Superhawk/Firestorm would destroy your little TL1000R. Now get your Suzuki Biker Boyzzz chrome extended swing arm bling bling outta here!
You might need to calm down a bit. I only asked about comparing the two bikes. I’ve never ridin a RC51 and only have experience on a TL1000R. Also, my TLR (when I had it) was pretty track focused. Not one of those clapped out chrome vehicles.
You need to add the 929 to your collection. 😀 I had a 2003 954RR in the Titanium color scheme. I miss it so much. Actively looking for a low mileage mint condition used one now.
Great job, well done. I'm looking for a 954
The power delivery on the Rc51 is what I wish my rc46 vfr800 was. A proper vfr1000 (1200 doesn't do it for me) would be incredible.
The 954 was the final true Blade designed by Tasso Baba!! After the earlier Rrw’s they got fat and almost touring bike comfy! But the 954 addressed those poor in between models! The bike that followed was always going to be a 1000 track bike made to hit the WSB and BSB race series, so that officially makes the 954 the last true Lightweight Blade made for road riders not racers. It’s a true legend, and of course the SP1 / 2 were made for one thing only! To kick Ducatis arse on the tracks! And for a very short period it done it’s job well. Both awesome bikes
Just entered a comp to win a 954, maxed out on tickets 🤞but must admit, that RC51 is just next level gorgeous, dream bike
I had the 996. I loved it
The sound of a V twin sport bike is something special. I love my I4 Kawi but if I had the money would replace it with a Superduke in an instant. I've a workmate who's selling a Nicky Hayden SP2 but at over £10k UK for a 20 year old bike it's out of my budget.
Am looking to get a 929 or 954 as my first bike. Pref in blue. I absolutly love the lines of that bike. But having just a newborn i have to re-save up for it again.
The older blades are cool too but i live in netherlands and i think running carbs would be too much of a hassle in a damp country like mine.
I remember my 99R1 when sitting in traffic here in Texas and the electric fans would kick on it would blow the hot air right up through the fairing and it would hit you right in the neck.. it was just soooo amazing...
@@johnnyrebel3085 not disrespecting the blade at all I'm just saying that the RC51 is homologation race bike just like the new 38k fire blade sp2. They only built it and sold it to people because they had to so that it could race in the world superbike. The RC51 is a track weapon it was meant to be a track weapon which is why he was complaining about how stiff and kind of rough the ride is and the ergos can be painful after a while.. the 954 on the other hand much more comfortable ergos much more compliance suspension for the road. I definitely was not talking down on the 954 all I was saying is on a racetrack the RC51 is much better.. now anything else besides a racetrack and the 954 probably spanks the rsc51 pretty good. Quite honestly I am still astonished that that bike only weighed 370 lb and had 154 horsepower. My 99 r1 had 150 crank horsepower and weighed 421 lb dry.. and that bike was unbelievably fast but I can't imagine knocking 50 lb off the bike what it would have been like.. so yeah definitely not talk talking down on the 954 as a matter of fact I'm convinced that a wizard help them make that motorcycle because they had to use magic or something to get that bike down to 370 pounds.. that's like moto gp bike weight lol
I was fortunate enough to buy a sub 900 original milage 03 954rr in 2020, loved the hell out of that bike other than feeling guilty for adding milage since I felt it was a less than a handful category of originality and near virgin break-in seat time, I haven't had the pleasure of riding an rc51 but I HAVE daily'd Suzuki's early 2000's competition ( 03 TL1000R) and they are certainly 2 separate categories of motorcycle while each retaining superbike status ... I honestly would have a very difficult time choosing a winner of the 2 bikes as a whole...rather have kept both in hindsight but glad to have had the experience
I am a Honda motorcycle fan since the RC30. I love the RC51.
But disagree with you that they didn’t have any competition. Yamaha had brought out the R1 in 1998 I think and it was amazing. Suzuki always has good GSXR’s. Sport bike world is always competitive in my opinion. But I am bias towards Honda too.
I have had inline 4s for many years, since 1973, 900 kaw.
For racing I prefer VTs, I still have my 89 NT650 pro build racer. I picked up my 01 rc51 for pure fun, track days and Mtn fun. I love my RC.
A person can never use all that modern bikes have for the street, if 30 year old bike or up to date tech bike, it is still the rider. Buy what turns your crank, not just what is new and tech.
Nice review..
What u know bout the Hawk GT? Or the pod filter modification and jetting for extra horsepower? Or.... or..... how you can make a replica RC30 with these? You ain't part of the cult!!
@@tonykartracer8032 honda designated the 89 honda hawk nt650 as a rc30.
The jetting for more hp, reset needle height, increase jetting size by 2 on mains pilots up 1. Change mufflers two brothers.
I pulled the airbox off and just put filters on the carbs, ARHMA could care less if airbox is there. My hawk is a pro build from Mototuneusa , custom cams, high comp pistons, 700cc, no fly wheel, bal crank, SS valves, zero point ignition, custom high velocity intake porting, 70+ hp, 320lbs dry. 91 gsxr 750 front end, on and on and on.
Part of the cult? Could care less.
Today 4-21-2024, I went to look at a one-owner 2001 RC51 with only 5,600 original miles. I always wanted an RC51.
The 954 its like modern sport touring I sit on cbr 929 and felt comfortable like my ninja 650 you almost straight sit down wonderful bike
Both really nice bikes. I'd go with the RC-51 if I could only have one.
I'm 6'2, and 54 years old. I'm comfortable with the ride position on my Rc51. the seat is thin, so that gets me after about half a day. I need a jell insert. problem solved. never had any problems otherwise. back, wrist, neck pain? nope. I wish I could go back in time. I'd buy 2 of these bikes. I'd love to own an 06 Black color.
Beautiful bikes, but as soon as I noticed the NSX in the background that's all I cared about, I'd love to have one of those wow
I've always wanted an RC51 to go with my VFR800 the sound the make is orgasmic
Vfr800 f1 with remus grand prix,absolutely nothing like it!
For my money, RC51 every time. Fireblades were terrific bikes (I still lust after a '92/'93 900) and yet... a big Honda V-twin with gear-driven camshafts does it all day every day for me. Whether the Fireblade is faster or slower than the RC51 is neither here nor there: it's the engagement that matters.
Totally agree. Unless you’re racing on the track which is the fastest bike becomes irrelevant. For a riding experience away from the track the sp1 is incomparable. Not very comfortable over longer distances but the overall experience leaves me in awe every time. An all time classic.
I think Honda CBR1100XX super Blackbird was the flagship model of that era Honda motorcycles 🤔 At least on power and straight line speed.
I have a 2003 954 and 2001 VTR I love both bikes pretty sure the VTR has the same power plant as the RC51? Is that correct
I've had some tell me no it isn't..... So just be aware of that :-) they just don't know what they're talkin about..... they are the same power plant a 90-degree V-Twin
Funny I have the exact same bikes 2003 954 black with chrome..... A 2001 VTR red I'm going to order a new fairing kit do all black on the the vTR
I greatly enjoyed my 03 RC-51, especially more than my 99' CBR900RR.
I attended an instructed track day with my RC and I agree with you that you have to be a good rider to enjoy the RC vs CBR.
My favorite thing about my RC-51 was passing cars on a 2 lane road, in 2nd gear; All I had to do was roll onto the throttle and the front end would pick up, superbike style.
My biggest complaint about the RC: the 2nd degree burns I'd get on my ankles from those side radiators.
At the Ridge in WA State, 159mph on the front straight with my RC-51.
Sold my RC to buy a Shelby GT500.
I now have a Blackbird ;)
Auuugh! Gear driven cams :Homer drool: jeebus, what a sexy sound combined with those Sato cans on a sport V-Twin, pure joy.
So you can still get parts and service, repairs, and aftermarket parts on bikes like these? Spare engines? Cause I'd love an RC51.
I will keep my RC51 forever, beautiful bike.
Brilliant revue very well presented great stuff 👍
I've owned both had issues with the 954 due to the previous owner and me having fix things he didnt mention or having to go back and refix things he had fixed. I sold the 954 to pay off my truck so i could buy a house im debating on getting another 954 or getting the 929. But i will never get rid of my RC51.
Love both bikes but tht 51 just sounds so good! Great video! 🤘🙏