***Vendor supplied images***
Highlights
- Road-going version of the World Championship-winning Honda superbike
- Rare and desirable SP1 which was closest in specification to the race bike
- Superb condition with low mileage
The Appeal
Honda has always had a reputation for doing things a little differently, but when Ducati began running rings around it in the Superbike World Championships in the late 90s, it decided to listen and learn.
Adopting V-Twin power just like the Ducatis, Honda created the VTR1000 and cleaned up, winning the Championship in 2000. The initial road-going versions were little changed from the racing bikes and the first models, like this one, were called SP1s. They were only available for a couple of years before being replaced by the SP2, which moved away from the race specification. Devastatingly quick with lightning throttle response, SP1s are among the most revered superbikes of the era.
This low mileage, immaculately presented SP1 is a rare opportunity to buy one of these scintillating bikes.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered on 9th May 2001 according to Certificate of Conformity supplied with the bike, but this is the 136bhp
- DVLA records show it was first registered in the UK on 1st February 2017
- Paperwork indicates it was last serviced on 15th May 2020 at 38,997kms
- Last MOT expired on 14th May 2021 at 38,997kms
- Some history including old invoices and MOTs with bike as shown in photographs
- Factory owners manual supplied with bike
- Comes with French quitus fiscal of import
The Condition
- Immaculate Winning Red paintwork (Honda paint code R258)
- This is a very well presented bike that appears to be virtually showroom-fresh
- The road-going bike closely matched the livery of the racing bikes
- The paintwork and decals are in exceptional condition reflecting the low mileage
- Very well presented bike with carefully detailed components
- Twin Spar aluminium chassis nicely designed into the style of the bike
- Pedal rubbers and handle rubbers in virtually ‘as new' condition
- There's a rub mark to the right side of the engine casing
- Stainless steel exhaust appears to be factory original with factory stamping
- Both seats are in good condition, only with a slight crack to the seat unit around the fastener
- Switches and dials in very good order with no visible wear
- Garage marks to the wing mirrors
The Mechanics
- 999 cc 90degree V-Twin with twin fuel injectors and 4V/cyl
- 134bhp and mind-warping acceleration
- Close ratio 6spd gearbox
- Very close to racing specification, but with gearbox sprockets altered for road use
- Expensive high quality gear-driven camshaft design
- The ride experience is close to the racing bikes with sharp throttle response
- Later SP2 bikes toned down the racing feel so these early SP1s are arguably purer
- Clearly well maintained bike last serviced in 2020 less than 300kms ago
Summary
Honda’s reputation rested on the racing version of the VTR1000 SP1. With Ducati running rings around it on the track, the firm needed a winner. The SP1 was. Lucky buyers also got the chance to sample this championship-winning bike, particularly with early SP1 versions that closely followed the specification of the track bike.
This low mileage SP1 has clearly been well cared for. It looks virtually showroom-fresh, providing a rare opportunity to sample one of these astonishing bikes in superb condition.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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