Honda
RC45
The
Honda RC45 was brought in to replace the legendary Honda RC30, a bike which had
won many superbike races in the late 80s and early 90s. Like the RC30 the RC45
was made in limited numbers as a homologation bike, to allow its use in production
bike racing.
Loosely
based on the RVF750 endurance racebike the Honda RC45 was sold as a limited
edition model and its exclusivity came at a price. A high price.
Because
it was a homologation special, the Honda RC45 was treated to all the finest
parts and components. The single-seat frame was virtually identical to the
racing version and it had expensive fully adjustable suspension courtesy of
Showa.
Powering
the Honda RC45 was a high-tech, for the time, 749 cc V-4 engine which featured
expensive internals like titanium conrods and other components formed from
lightweight magnesium. The engine was also fitted with Honda's then brand-new
PGM-FI fuel-injection system.
Despite
all the technology, the Honda RC45 wasn't amazingly fast. It was quick, no
doubt, and the chassis was extremely well setup. But a Honda CBR900RR could
beat it for performance, and it only cost half as much.
Despite
its failings, the Honda RC45 was, and still is a highly sought after superbike.
