Honda RC 51 - 2005 Specifications and Reviews

The 2005 Honda RC 51 is a middleweight superbike designed for experienced riders seeking raw performance and aggressive styling. Its 999cc V-twin engine delivers potent power with responsive handling, making it ideal for track enthusiasts and spirited street riders. Known for its distinctive dual-headlight design and competitive price point, the RC 51 became Honda's accessible alternative to larger displacement superbikes.

2005
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General information

CategorySport
Year2005
ModelHonda RC 51
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
StarterElectric
IgnitionComputer-controlled digital with three-dimensional mapping
Fuel controlDOHC
Valves per cylinder4
Fuel systemInjection. Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) with two injectors per cylinder
Bore x stroke100.0 x 63.6 mm (3.9 x 2.5 inches)
Compression10.8:1
Stroke4
Engine typeV2
Capacity:999.00 ccm (60.96 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,420 mm (55.9 inches)
Seat height820 mm (32.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight195.0 kg (430.0 pounds)

Honda RC 51 dimensions and frame

Rear brakes diameter220 mm (8.7 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. 1-piston calipers
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc. Full-floating. 4-piston calipers.
Rear tyre dimensions190/50-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR17
Rear suspension travel119 mm (4.7 inches)
Rear suspensionPro-Link HMAS single shock with spring-preload, rebound and compression-damping adjustability
Front suspension travel130 mm (5.1 inches)
Front suspension43.0mm inverted HMAS cartridge fork with spring-preload, rebound and compression-damping adjustability
Trail95 mm (3.7 inches)
Rake (fork angle)23.5°

Speed and acceleration

Color optionsBlack/Metallic Gray
Fuel capacity18.16 litres (4.80 gallons)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

3.2s
0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track92%
City30%
Cornering90%
Daily Riding35%
Touring25%
Passenger20%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis is a homologation-special V-twin superbike best suited to experienced riders who understand strong midrange torque and aggressive geometry.
PurposeBuilt primarily for track-focused sport riding and canyon carving, with its V-twin character rewarding precise throttle control over outright top-end drama.
Rider FitThe low, forward-biased riding position, high seat height, and firm suspension demand a fit rider comfortable with committed sportbike ergonomics.
CharacterDelivers a raw, mechanical V-twin pulse with sharp steering and race-bred chassis feedback, favoring feel and control over refinement.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for new riders, commuters wanting comfort, or anyone seeking a relaxed touring or passenger-friendly machine.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2005 Honda RC 51 Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 820mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 2005 Honda RC 51, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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