Honda RC 51 / RTV 1000 R - 2004 Specifications and Reviews

The 2004 Honda RC 51 is a middleweight V-twin sport bike designed for riders seeking agile handling and accessible performance. Known for its responsive 999cc engine and nimble chassis, it excels in aggressive cornering and technical riding. Best suited for sport-oriented enthusiasts who value maneuverability over outright power.

2004
4 stars Average rating: 4 from 1 votes
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General information

CategorySport
Year2004
ModelHonda RC 51 / RTV 1000 R
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Fuel controlDOHC
Valves per cylinder4
Fuel systemInjection
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.

Honda RC 51 / RTV 1000 R dimensions and frame

Rear brakes diameter220 mm (8.7 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc
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 optionsRed/Metallic Silver
Reserve fuel capacity4.54 litres (1.20 gallons)
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

Track90%
City35%
Cornering92%
Daily Riding35%
Touring30%
Passenger20%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis is a homologation-special V-twin superbike best suited to experienced riders who are comfortable with aggressive, track-focused ergonomics and a powerful, torquey engine.
PurposeBuilt primarily for competitive sport riding and trackday use, with its V2 engine, high-spec adjustable suspension, and race-derived geometry emphasizing cornering precision over practicality.
Rider FitThe low, forward-leaning riding position, high footpegs, and firm suspension demand good fitness, wrist and shoulder strength, and tolerance for a committed, sporty stance.
CharacterA raw, characterful V-twin sportbike that rewards precise inputs with sharp handling and strong midrange torque, favoring feel and control over outright top-end drama.
Not Ideal ForThis bike is not a good fit for riders seeking a comfortable commuter, a relaxed tourer, or any kind of off-road capability.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2004 Honda RC 51 / RTV 1000 R 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 2004 Honda RC 51 / RTV 1000 R, 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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