Honda VTR1000 SP-1

I have owned my SP1 (rc51) for 6 months now and am still overawed by the power and torque of this V twin monster. I previously owned a VFR750 and although this was a very quick bike which was extremely comfortable the SP1 is more fun. I have had no problems with paintwork or decals and everything is of the usual Honda build quality. The bike is not too comfortable for touring, 2 hours being enough in the saddle at one time. It will manage 120 miles to a tankful but has a very short reserve of 5 litres. It handles like a dream through the corners though and plenty of ground clearance, tremendous torque delivery and it will pick up the front wheel easily. I have fitted a ...

The Honda VTR1000 SP1 is a very nice looking bike, but not the machine for riding in built up areas. It's not like any other bikes when it comes to tuning, boy you have to be a wealthy person to buy all the HRC parts if you want to compete in competitions and do well. You can get aftermarket exhaust systems and a power commander which will help with the fuel mapping, and maybe gain a few extra horses. Another problem with this bike is the exhaust system layout, there have been reports of the rear shock reaching almost 275 Degrees when used on the race track, which would eventually give rear end handling problems. ...

Well after an excellent weekend with a VFR800I the other week I can only say how dismayed I was with this week’s trial machine. Its hard to believe that the same manufacturer builds both bikes the finished quality of the SP1 is appalling cheap plastic poor paint finish and peeling decals make me wonder if this is the new quality? We can expect from a bike built in Italy. From a riders point of view the V twin engine is a joy to use with a throaty growl as you pull away and breath taking acceleration as you give her some serious throttle action. Yet as a practical road bike it is a poor purchase too thirsty for the daily commute, and really uncomfortable to ...