Honda VTR1000 SP1 Review (2000)
What Is It?
The Honda VTR1000 SP1 and SP2 are dedicated sports bikes which replaced the RVF750R RC45. They are powered by a Euro 1 compliant liquid cooled 999 cc 90° V-Twin four stroke engine, producing 134.1 bhp at 9,500 rpm and maximum torque at 8,000 rpm.
Specs
- Seat Height: Average (813 mm / 32.0 inches)
- Weight: Heavy (223 kg / 492 lbs)
- Economy: Poor (30 mpg / 9.4 l/100km / 10.6 km/l)
- Range: Average (120 miles / 193 km)
- Power to Weight: High (0.601 bhp/kg / 0.448 kW/kg)
- Top Speed: Very high (155 mph / 249 km/h)
Pros
- Handling
- Power
- Looks
- Iconic
Cons
- Low speed fuelling
- Heavy
What Is It Like?
Honda VTR 1000 / SP1 / RC51 (2001)
Having brought what is a dream bike I’m in love with it. Yes it has a few quirks and the fuel injection at low speed is bit lumpy (despite having a power commander on), it’s heavy and awkward to manoeuvre but that's about it.
When riding normally and progressing a bit she’s a lovely machine. She handles and turns well, has loads of torque so pulls easily in any gear and inspires confidence to have fun on the twisty roads.
The whine from gear driven cams and growl of the carbon cans is enough to bring a grin to your face not to mention aesthetically she’s a beautiful bike to look at.
I brought mine blind from Jem Speed in Leeds where I fell in love with her before she arrived and once I’d fitted new tyres I was even happier with her.
I’ve read other reviews by professional testers who say it’s good but not brilliant. Yes I could be inclined to agree with them but there’s something about an SP1 / 2 that has owners addicted and in love with their machines!
- Richard S, 2019
Price Guide
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Add Your Review
Do you own this bike? We would love to hear anything good, bad, unexpected or that you have changed plus anything that a prospective new owner might find interesting or useful.