The Honda RC51 is a bonafide Ducati Slayer from the early 2000s up for sale

Honda has always been a key player in motorcycle racing, leading to the creation of insane road bikes for thrill seekers. While many are well aware of the CBR1000RR Fireblade and CBR600RR, not many are aware of the iconic RC51 of the early 2000s. It pretty much redefined Honda’s racing success, and enthusiasts still call it one of the most used motorcycles money can buy.

The Honda RC51 is a Ducati killer from Japan

Honda won two WSBK titles with the RC51

One of the main reasons Honda built the RC51 was the ending Ducatidominating the superbike racing championships at the time. It was possible to do it. The RC51 won several Superbike championships with the race-prepared RC51, including the 2000 and 2002 WSBK titles. It not only showed that the 51 is a bona fide Ducati killer, but also a subtle taunt from Honda that it had overtaken Ducati in Bologna, the giant doing what it does best – building twin-cylinder superbikes.

Fully adjustable forks and Nissin brakes made the RC51 a track weapon

RELATED: The 2004 Honda Rune is a Harley-Davidson killer even after 18 years

The RC51 used a 999cc V-twin engine that produced 133 horsepower and 71 lb-ft of torque. Add that to Honda’s stunning reliability and there’s no doubt why this bike has become a hit in no time. In addition, the RC51 also came with racing components such as adjustable inverted forks, monoshock and Nissin brakes. Even the all-digital dashboard was reminiscent of a Honda race bike and was definitely ahead of its time in 2001.

Here’s your chance to buy a Honda RC51

This 2001 RC51 has 34,000 miles on the odometer

If the prospect of owning this dominant Ducati appeals, the iconic Honda RC51 can be purchased. Iconic motorcycle auctions has a clean 2001 model with 34,000 miles on the odometer. It features a tinted windshield, a full Zero exhaust system, and an aftermarket tailpiece surrounded by LED lights. However, the jewel in the crown is the Power Commander 3, which sits under the seat and allows for additional power draw from the engine. Since the odometer reading is not exactly low, there are some spots on the body. None of this is major or deal-breaking, though.

RELATED: The new Honda CBR250RR will make you forget the Kawasaki Ninja 400

So, how much does it cost? IMA offers the RC51 with no reserve price. A little homework shows that anything between $5,000 and $8,000 is a good bet for this kit, and the last bid (at the time of writing) was $4,300. Go to the IMA website and bid if you can do better than that.