I'm looking to buy a 2000 RC51, what should I be looking out for?

What problems do they commonly have?

 

Check sportbikes.net I don't think we have many RC'ers on here.

 

I rode one around for a couple days while a friend of mine was out of town (let me borrow it), they are very uncomfortable for just cruising or daily driving purposes. But they are a fun bike regardless. Lots of torque, and they are nimble, would make a great track bike. I'd never own one to drive on the streets though. My $.02

I've never heard of any mechanical/electrical problems with the RC51.

Good luck.

 

My good friend's ex-bf down in Miami races an RC51. They are just that. Pretty uncomfortable ergos but very quick and nimble.

 

Its definately not a great comuter bike. Its not very comfortable and with its side mounted radiators it can overheat in traffic.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Etylorcen &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Its definately not a great comuter bike. Its not very comfortable and with its side mounted radiators it can overheat in traffic. </TD></TR></TABLE>

was just gonna say...if you live where lane-splitting is illegal, its gonna overheat on ya

 

a friend who has an insane rc compared the power range to that of a inline; not as torqey as you would expect with a broad range for a v...

 

if you can find a nickey hayden edition (the last year he rode for honda AMA)

 

I want one..sooooo bad! For sure my next bike I knwo id be down gradeing in years(2004 to a 2001) but the RC-51 is the bike that got me wanting a bike in the first place.

 

Depending on your weight, have the front forks revalved and sprung properly, ditch the rear shock and get a double clicker from ohlins.

Exhaust - Sato or Arrow duals

PC3R is a must

You can get a corbin seat for more comfort, but the seat makes the bike sit taller.

Do the radiator mod to keep the cooling up to par.

Otherwise, great bike to own!

 

What everyone hasn't mentioned so far is that the heat buildup roasting your thighs is quite welcome on cold nights.

I had a chance to ride one of these, and it is much different from my SuperHawk. If you find a good deal on one, snap it up. If you find another good deal, let me know.

 

I would not get 2000, look for at least 02+ or sp2. I hope this helps you out, I looooooooove my RC.

Here is some info:

Plastics/Paint Scheme differences:
- 00, 01, and 02 are the same
- 03 has black tail, less black on front cowl, and the entire "honda wing" fits on
the side cowls. Tanks has slight differences. Pictures below for 00-02 vs. 03 differences.
- 04 generally same as 00-02 except it has white "number plates" instead of black (and an unpainted frame - as noted below by RC-Rick)

Mechanical/component differences 02 & up as compared w/ 00-01:
- longer, re-designed swingarm
- improved FI & larger throttle bodies
- lighter 5 spoke wheels (6 spoke on 00-01)
- Slip on exhaust for 00-01 only fits 00-01 and 02 & up slip-ons only fit 02 & up.
- There are other minor changes not really that important to your choice (relocated oil cooler, taller stock windscreen, etc.)

Here's the detail pics of 00-02 vs. 03 paint schemes...





The above info is courtesy of dhdrider from another board.
The below info is courtesy of geremy from another board.

Part
Difference
Reason for Change

Forks
Lighter Staunchion Tubing, Softer Damping
Stiffer, more compliant

Front Axle
Heavier
Change front/rear weight bias

Front Brake Discs
Thickness increased from 3.5mm to 4.0mm
Prevent warping

Front Caliper Hangers
Different Design
??

Front Calipers (???)
Piston Coating (???)
Smoother action, better feel, less drag

Front Brake Master Cylinder
19 to 17 mm
Better feel

Front Wheel
5 Spoke
Lighter

Steering Stem
Larger
Stronger

Steering Stem top nut
Increased to 41 mm (previously 32 mm)
Stronger

Frame
Different engine hangers, swingarm pivot
Lighter, Stronger

Throttle Bodies
Increased from 54mm to 62mm
Better throttle response, more top end power

Velocity Stacks
Size Increase
Better throttle response, more top end power

Air Filters
Beneficial restrictor in left filter
Better throttle response, more top end power

Injectors
New 12 hole design (previously 4 hole)
Better fuel atomization

ECU
32-bit CPU (previously 16-bit)
Better throttle response

Cooling System
Fan for each radiator, relocated oil cooler
More efficient cooling system

Seat Undertray
Redesign, ECU location change
Better underseat arrangement

Swingarm
Complete redesign, longer, lighter
Better rear grip and feel

Swingarm Pivot Inserts
different (?)
??

Rear Brake Hanger
different (?)
??

Chain
Longer
Length increased to accommodate longer swingarm

Rear Wheel
5 spoke
Lighter

Rear Shock
Relocated resevoir, softer damping
Easier to route exhaust, more compliant

Windscreen
Higher
Better wind protection

Windscreen bolts
Cheaper black plastic
Cost

Exhaust port shape
Now heart shaped (previousy round)
more efficient

Exhaust Header
re-shaped
More efficient/Lighter/More top-end

Exhaust Cans
Redesign/Lighter
Lighter

Rear Mudflap
Redesign
??

Spark Plugs
Different Part #s
Emissions? Longevity?

Clutch
First Friction Disk has larger Diameter, addition of Judder Spring
Better Clutch Action

 

Good info

f#$k it i am looking for a RC i want a '02 now!

What is the radiator mod?

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by ArmyGreenITR &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Good info

f#$k it i am looking for a RC i want a '02 now!

What is the radiator mod?</TD></TR></TABLE>

I don't see what the big deal is with these bikes.

Aside from the heavenly sound, of course. They're heavy as all hell, but from what a friend of mine told me, the front end is really skittish and you need to lean over the tank to get some weight over it.

For similar money, you could have an R1 or REPSOL. Duh...RC-what? I'd rather have a Super Chicken

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by backlash &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">I would not get 2000, look for at least 02+ or sp2. I hope this helps you out, I looooooooove my RC.

Here is some info:

Plastics/Paint Scheme differences:
- 00, 01, and 02 are the same
- 03 has black tail, less black on front cowl, and the entire "honda wing" fits on
the side cowls. Tanks has slight differences. Pictures below for 00-02 vs. 03 differences.
- 04 generally same as 00-02 except it has white "number plates" instead of black (and an unpainted frame - as noted below by RC-Rick)

Mechanical/component differences 02 & up as compared w/ 00-01:
- longer, re-designed swingarm
- improved FI & larger throttle bodies
- lighter 5 spoke wheels (6 spoke on 00-01)
- Slip on exhaust for 00-01 only fits 00-01 and 02 & up slip-ons only fit 02 & up.
- There are other minor changes not really that important to your choice (relocated oil cooler, taller stock windscreen, etc.)

Here's the detail pics of 00-02 vs. 03 paint schemes...





The above info is courtesy of dhdrider from another board.
The below info is courtesy of geremy from another board.

Part
Difference
Reason for Change

Forks
Lighter Staunchion Tubing, Softer Damping
Stiffer, more compliant

Front Axle
Heavier
Change front/rear weight bias

Front Brake Discs
Thickness increased from 3.5mm to 4.0mm
Prevent warping

Front Caliper Hangers
Different Design
??

Front Calipers (???)
Piston Coating (???)
Smoother action, better feel, less drag

Front Brake Master Cylinder
19 to 17 mm
Better feel

Front Wheel
5 Spoke
Lighter

Steering Stem
Larger
Stronger

Steering Stem top nut
Increased to 41 mm (previously 32 mm)
Stronger

Frame
Different engine hangers, swingarm pivot
Lighter, Stronger

Throttle Bodies
Increased from 54mm to 62mm
Better throttle response, more top end power

Velocity Stacks
Size Increase
Better throttle response, more top end power

Air Filters
Beneficial restrictor in left filter
Better throttle response, more top end power

Injectors
New 12 hole design (previously 4 hole)
Better fuel atomization

ECU
32-bit CPU (previously 16-bit)
Better throttle response

Cooling System
Fan for each radiator, relocated oil cooler
More efficient cooling system

Seat Undertray
Redesign, ECU location change
Better underseat arrangement

Swingarm
Complete redesign, longer, lighter
Better rear grip and feel

Swingarm Pivot Inserts
different (?)
??

Rear Brake Hanger
different (?)
??

Chain
Longer
Length increased to accommodate longer swingarm

Rear Wheel
5 spoke
Lighter

Rear Shock
Relocated resevoir, softer damping
Easier to route exhaust, more compliant

Windscreen
Higher
Better wind protection

Windscreen bolts
Cheaper black plastic
Cost

Exhaust port shape
Now heart shaped (previousy round)
more efficient

Exhaust Header
re-shaped
More efficient/Lighter/More top-end

Exhaust Cans
Redesign/Lighter
Lighter

Rear Mudflap
Redesign
??

Spark Plugs
Different Part #s
Emissions? Longevity?

Clutch
First Friction Disk has larger Diameter, addition of Judder Spring
Better Clutch Action</TD></TR></TABLE>

best response ever

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Ross R &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">

I don't see what the big deal is with these bikes.

Aside from the heavenly sound, of course. They're heavy as all hell, but from what a friend of mine told me, the front end is really skittish and you need to lean over the tank to get some weight over it.

For similar money, you could have an R1 or REPSOL. Duh...RC-what? I'd rather have a Super Chicken </TD></TR></TABLE>


Not sure what it is ive ridden an RC once an ive spent some time on an R1 also,the RC just seemed to lean into corners very easly,an i just enjoyed the over all "feel" of the bike(then again ever bike leans with less effort compared to my 600rr) an yes the sound is heavenly for sure.I also like them cause its diffrent you dont see 100 of them on the road.Plus im taling about getting a used one not brand new,so it would be cheaper then REPSOL 1000rr.Idealy I would like to try to keep my 600rr for track an have an RC for the street but i dunno i have to see about my new job,an selling my ITR.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by ArmyGreenITR &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">


Not sure what it is ive ridden an RC once an ive spent some time on an R1 also,the RC just seemed to lean into corners very easly,an i just enjoyed the over all "feel" of the bike(then again ever bike leans with less effort compared to my 600rr) an yes the sound is heavenly for sure.I also like them cause its diffrent you dont see 100 of them on the road.Plus im taling about getting a used one not brand new,so it would be cheaper then REPSOL 1000rr.Idealy I would like to try to keep my 600rr for track an have an RC for the street but i dunno i have to see about my new job,an selling my ITR.</TD></TR></TABLE>

its interesting that you find an rc leans easier than your 600rr because i noticed the same thing about the 929 after riding it some more....odd.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Ross R &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">I don't see what the big deal is with these bikes.

Aside from the heavenly sound, of course. They're heavy as all hell, but from what a friend of mine told me, the front end is really skittish and you need to lean over the tank to get some weight over it.

For similar money, you could have an R1 or REPSOL. Duh...RC-what? I'd rather have a Super Chicken </TD></TR></TABLE>

You sorta have to be a weirdo to own/want one of these bikes. Most owners will tell you the same. I wanted another twin......and I didn't want another SV (650 or 1000). I've wanted an RC for the longest time anyway

Yes the bike is heavy, when your going slow, but when your at speed you don't even notice the weight of the pig. The front can get a little light when accelerating, especially if you have changed the gearing to 15/41, helps getting out of corners faster, but just like anything else it takes getting used to.

For similiar money you prob could buy an R1 or REPSOL.................but you would be "just another sportbike".... (not bagging on other bikes or I4's)

And the sound of this beast!!!! It's almost orgasmic LOL

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by ProjectF4 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">best response ever </TD></TR></TABLE>

Thanks y0!

 

WOW, great response guys

To bad I didn't get an RC

I'm 6'4" and I found it too be real small for me, otherwise I loved the bike...so much so, that I brought another type of 1000cc twin...a 2000 TL1000R.

This thing you guys are a saying about the twins seeming to fall into corners easier then inline's that are even much lighter is true. The twin motor is so compact, the weight is moved real low and forward. Also there is less of a gyro effect from the motor from the lighter crank and slower revs.

Thanx for the advise anyway. I would have loved to get an RC, but I ride alot. Last year I put on 13000km in 6 months

 

Did you post over on speedzilla also? I remember a guy looking for an RC, but ended up getting a TLR instead.

 

for the TLR, the bike handles way better with a upgraded rear shock

 

the only problem i have had with mine is a small coolant leak. fairly common i believe. they replaced a couple of clamps and bypass hose. other then that its ok. i love the bike. just wish i had more time to ride

 

Yah, that was me. The bike is awesome, but man does the seat ever get hot in traffic

It's a pig too, but it really doesn't feel like it when on the move.

 

I would kill for an '05. The all black is pure sex. Then again I'd have to literally kill for it to afford the $12,000 asking price.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Ross R &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">

I don't see what the big deal is with these bikes.

Aside from the heavenly sound, of course. They're heavy as all hell, but from what a friend of mine told me, the front end is really skittish and you need to lean over the tank to get some weight over it.

For similar money, you could have an R1 or REPSOL. Duh...RC-what? I'd rather have a Super Chicken </TD></TR></TABLE>

Twins just aren't your thing... its all good, they aren't really my thing either, but i can see why people would want them