Yeah I am with you on this, not this exact bike but the fact all modern bikes are slowly losing their aesthetics. Kinda started with the Ducati 916 for me and got progressively worse and as I like curves, then the Ducati 851 or 888 were infinitely better looking in my opinion. Honda wise older gen Fireblade's look amazing and I had a ride on an RC45 probably the best looking bike ever IMO.
I've had one of these for the last 15 years (an 00 SP1). It's never let me down, still an amazing ride and still gets the people coming up to have a look and a chat at the local meets. My only complaint is that after 25 years of playing rugby and being six foot two, I need to take Ibuprofen BEFORE I get on her! Still won't be selling her though. Great review and I thought the boys in blue really did themselves proud there. Great to see.
@@RetroSuperbikes Hi. I've just realised my comment hasn't aged well! Would you believe I sold her about 8 months ago. Just got too painful in the end. Do I regret it? 100%!!!!
True professionals -- respectful and polite, explaining what they're doing, why they stopped by and checking you out in a friendly way. A credit to the UK police! This should be shown to all officers as an example of how to conduct spot checks in highly sensitive areas like Chequers. Police there have had some tough incidents to deal with in the past, the kind of things the public never hear about, and you can be sure you had a couple of scopes on you too! Still, they showed you can be diligent and not intimidating. Enjoyed the video!
Their roadside manner was pleasant, but I fail to see why they both slung their AR15s as they exited their car. They had pistols on their belts, and were riding double. Looked like serious overkill...............but maybe that's how the "unarmed" English police roll nowadays.
What a bike, every time I see one I only think of 1 thing, the late great Joey Dunlop. I seen him at the Cookstown 100 and the Northwest 200 in 2000 on the sp1 and the noise of it at full rip is something I won’t forget especially when your boy hood idol is racing it. Hell of a bike and for a 48 year old man at the time he could still show the younger racers how to ride it. Little did I know that would be the last I’d ever see him racing again 😥
Hondas never die. I own a 27 year old Honda Transalp 600V which is a V twin liquid cooled too. But it’s an adventure bike. One day, when I’m rich, I’d like a dirt bike, a race bike and an adventure bike. Things missing from older bikes (including mine) which I’d like: ABS, traction control and a fuel gauge. Judging by the number of accidents where riders grabbed too much front brake, ABS is a worthwhile addition. Maybe traction control too. Oh, and British cops are cool.
@@FrankFurther Your views are at best based on narrow minded personal prejudice and at worst thoroughly offensive to a group of public servants who have continued to work and serve the public throughout this current crisis. My wife and I have 60 years of police service between us and I can assure you 99% of police officer are not " power hungry" or "dickheads"... And frankly are far too busy to waste time stopping motorcyclist for no reason. The vast majority also have a far more extensive knowledge of the law than you! In that note I might add that...a) you don't get three points on your licence for just having a noisy bike. b) If you were given a fixed penalty notice, you had the option of challenging it in court if you feltl it was so unjust... And finally c) if you have only got three points on your licence, why would you have it taken away if you get stopped again? Perhaps if you wish to express your views you could try to do it in a less offensive way.
@@garethtemple6242 Wow you must not have worked with the police in my area, incompitent and ignorant of the law and protected my abuser. A serving police officer and a retired one said they are like trumpton , i would not be that complimentary, dishonest, incompitent oh victim support told me they run around like headless chickens. sadly i will never again trust them and i wish i did not feel like that but some are the low of the low
Never had a sportsbike but the SP1 is one of my all time favourites, Colin Edwards and Troy Bayliss going hammer and tong was one of the best races ever! Definitely entering that comp!
Rumour has it, Joey threatened Honda with bringing the RC45, mounted on his pub wall, out of retirement unless a competitive engine was sent. Slight’s engine was shipped asap👌
@@zook600 He refused to race the Fireblade saying the bike couldnt do it, and that the kit sp1 didnt have the power to compete with the R1. Honda wanted him to use the blade.
Another great video--this one brought back memories of watching WSB in the 90's and cursing Ducati's "unfair" advantage. (I was and remain a Honda fanboy.) I also got to ride a borrowed VTR 1000 from Los Angeles, across the Angeles Crest Highway, through Big Bear and back to LA. I still to this day remember the gobs of torque and how light the front end became if I wasn't judicious with the throttle. Thanks again...
Apart from another professional review, 10 /10 for persevering through the preparation of your introduction and for adding the outtakes that show you are human after all ! Keep up the good work.
Great review. I used to have one of those - mine was an RC51 Nicky Hayden replica. Loved the bike but the vibrations would make my hands and feed numb on the highway. Still a good looking bike after all these years!
I remember test riding the SP 1 in 2001 whilst trying to do a deal and trade in my Suzuki TL1000r. Night and day difference in braking and handling although the power difference wasn’t that noticeable (my TL was well sorted in the fuel and exhaust dept though). I was oversteering it everywhere for the first 3-4 miles as it was so light and required no effort to turn in compared to the TL. The first time I braked hard from speed my backside lifted right out of the seat! Unfortunately I couldn’t do a deal, they were in such short supply the dealer could almost name his price! Added to the fact at the time it was more expensive than my wife’s new car, ouch!
If my memory serves me right , Kiwi Aaron Slight used to race one of these against the likes of Carl Fogarty .I used to support Troy Bayliss on the Ducati back in the day. Must have been something to do with the sound of the Ducati in the World Superbikes Championships.
Funny how the proper cops without beards, are pleasant and polite. Older sports bikes are fast enough for most peoples abilities and hones riding skills without all the trickery. Had Blades my best bike ever was 748sps. Great vid as usual.
The frame isn`t from the Firestorm. It was totally new. You would be lucky to find anything on the SP1 that is shared with that bike. Not in a hurry to sell mine. Awesome bike.
Be great to see if you could get a go on the Honda Blackbird , at one time the fastest sports tourer on the market. My second bike after passing my bike test . It’s a beast , loved it .
I have a 2000 RC51 and get 179 miles on a full tank of gas, and that is riding in more of a touring fashion but it varies only a little from that target. I know this because I've run it out of gas on account of a fuel sensor that went on me. I've put 54,400 miles on so far and bought it new in 2000. Still runs strong, looks fabulous, and turns heads wherever I go and I've been coast to coast in the US on numerous occasions. I'll never sell it. Cheers!
That was my dream bike back in the day. Always used to pull up at the local Honda dealer on my ZXR400 and just gaze through the window to the beauty on the pedestal.. what a machine.. 👍🏽
Man, I remember these coming out after I got the “new R1”. I immediately fell in love with them and wanted one so damn. I never ended up getting one. Always seemed to get a different bike. Still have that yearning. Maybe a nice Nicky Haden edition would be a fun pick up. Then again, Colin Edwards was my favorite in those days.
In 2000 I went to my local dealership to buy a new literbike and they had an R1 and an RC51 (VTR1000) side by side on the floor. I bought the R1, and sold it about 2 years later. I honestly believe that if I'd bought the Honda instead, I'd still have it.
Well done missenden flyer, you've done my dream bike proud. Imo this bike is Honda at their very best. I believe the great Joey Dunlop also won his last isle of man tt on one of these at the age of 48.
I was a big fan of the late 90s Japanese V-Twins. Went with the TL1000S myself (which I've still got), but the VTR1000F (as well as the SP1 and SP2) and the Yamaha TRX850 both got a good look.
Value of the SP-1 & SP-2 in Australia at the moment is between $10-15,000 & $12-18,000 respectively. 1 year ago there was around a dozen of both variants for sale, today there is 2.
What a beautiful bike that SP is, always loved 'em but never had the chance to ride one. Got to take my hat off to the pair of police officers too. No aggression or arrogance, just polite, professional and friendly. Top work by all three of you !
Love the outtakes at the end. I now appreciate how much time you must spend getting things right.....and without swearing!! Very good self control. Keep up the good work Andy.
@@TheMissendenFlyer I certainly wouldn't be overly assertive with anyone carrying an automatic assault rifle on a quickdraw sling - especially not in front of his equally well armed backup. One has to choose one's battles to ride another day... To be honest I thought you were being pretty brave on holding back the entire contribution of the Honda company to motorcycle racing history. Did you have formal training with interrogation?
Sold my 2004 SP2 when I left Italy to return to the UK and miss it dearly.. to find an SP2 for a decent price now that hasn't been thrashed is pretty rare.. I went from a 2001 Ducati Monster 750 to the SP2 and it was grins from the day I bought it to the day I sold it.. very fond memories of this bike.
My friend had one , when following him was so scary when he was entering the corner , I ride that bike a couple of times and was amazing ,never forget that noise !!
I also have a TL1000s, owned it for 10 years now and love it. With a few upgrades they can be made to ride nice. You can't beat a v twin for power delivery and torque IMO. I would love to own an SP1 though! 😎
So many reasons it's great to see you on a 20year old bike. But mainly all my bikes are around 20 years old. Never needed anything newer or more expensive. Top show brother peace and love 👍🏻☮❤
Of course TMF. I totally respect your decision. I was just a little confused when it disappeared so abruptly. Hopefully, maybe a different edited version maybe able to be posted at a later date. Just food for thought. Cheers.
@@TheMissendenFlyer That's a pity ... I was hoping to watch it for a second time with a mate and a few beers. Now the beers won't taste so good. Bummer.
Good review of such an iconic machine. I’ve owned quite a few of them. With most people opting for R1s and GSXRs at the time sadly these bikes were overlooked so Honda eventually heavily discounted them as well as throwing in a few treats like a day trip to the factory in Louth and a day at WSB in Silverstone to meet Colin Edwards, get fed and come home with a goodie bag. I bought a comfort seat and did two European trips on my SP2, they’ll do over 100 miles on a full tank as long as you’re not acting the edjeet. Anyways, I enjoyed your review 👍🏻
I remember my VTR FIRESTORM bloody awesome machine, I always wanted a ducati 748 just thought the style of the bike was top notch. 👍 Keep the chanel going.
My friend has 2002 SP-2 version. Fully original, factory improved. Stunning bike. I guess that a better looking and maintaned we could only find at Honda museum. 136bhp I guess, which might sound today not really impressive, but somehow those "horses" are like more powerful than today's 180.
james fox lol the next year Ducati won Edwards crashed out a few times. Definitely was in the championship. 🇺🇸💯 I see what you were saying. Your wrong :)
Good to see the boys in blue being genial but missing nothing. No fools those lads! Beautiful bike and the engine note is really something. I’ve always wanted a VTR and they seem to be increasing in value. Great video.
Lovely bike. I owned an Aprilia RSV1000R Factory (The Gen 2, not the "Mille"). You can see the designers at Aprilia were "Heavily influenced" by the SP1 and the SP2. Mine had the full Akra Titanium system and sounded glorious. I still miss it now. Full Ohlins and Brembo radial brakes, so handled as well as it looked.
Have to note that the frame wasn’t from the Firestorm as stated at the start of the video - it’s completely different, as is the engine and the majority of the rest of the bike.
I gather that the first prototypes used the firestorm style frame (where the swingarm doesn’t connect to the frame) but needed to be seriously beefed up for racing, so HRC ended up going with a very similar style frame to the twin cylinder version of the NSR500 that was around at the time.
I do believe that a version of this bike was marketed in the states as the RC51. I ran across a chap riding one last fall while traversing 'The Tail of the Dragon'. He had pulled it by trailer from Florida to Tennessee just to spend time riding the area roads ...and from the riding position and general ergonomics of the bike, I could see why he trailers it instead of riding long distances on it. The sound of those gear driven camshafts was music to my ears, but for touring comfort and long distance travel I'll have to stay with my 2012 Moto Guzzi Norge 1200. That's a beautiful bike, the VTR1000 SP1. I had to turn the volume up to enjoy that beautiful V-Twin music.
Another terrific watch, especially the candid and spirited interview, almost made up for the one we lost earlier!! My RF900 RW still available for you to test if it floats your "older bikes" boat! Look forward hopefully to a rerun of the AM interview as and when possible!
I enjoyed this review when you launched it back in the days we could ride bikes for fun. I am sure it will come back soon! .The video inspired me to have a go at doing one on my SP1, without the riding as we are still in lockdown. Its a bit harder than you make it look! Well done.
The outtakes at the end 🤣. The struggle is real! Just shows that even with all your experience from hundreds of videos and popularity, you're still as normal as the rest of us! Encouraging indeed! 😁👌.
In addition to the 2 WSB championships, It won Suzuki 8hrs 2000-2003, IoM TT, and the 24 Heures du Mans in 2000, AMA 2002. How many endurance events have Ducati won? A good review. They had a repuation for poor fueling and fuel economy, but a properly mapped power commander sorts both of these issues then a 115 miles is easily available from a tank. The second hand spares market has just about dried up, but fortunately it is a very reliable bike. My personal experience in 60K miles has been 2 LHS radiators failing (each at 15K miles, I then had a stronger one made and its been good for 30K so far). The only other failure has been a regulator and stator, not uncommon for a bike of the era. Avoid if you intend to ride in the city or traffic where it is hot and uncomfortable.
I bought one of these new when they came out. It was almost the perfect bike for me, quite radical but that’s what I wanted at the time. The few things I noticed were; it’d sometime cut out when dawdling trough traffic in hot weather and then didn’t start immediately, the clutch was very grabby when trying to get a quick getaway, and the rear end seemed a little isolated and vague to me - I stoped a few times thinking that I’d got a puncture in the rear tyre. Apart from that, I loved it.
I sold a showroom clean SP2 Nicky Hayden Replica with 5500 miles a year before he died and have regretted it ever since...had I known...lovely bike and sounds amazing.
If i ever have the chance or capacity to be a collector of older bikes, this one is right at the top. Saw the WorldSBK a few times, when it was still being raced at Kyalami, here in South Africa. Can remember that distinct sound of the Honda. Great video as always. Cheers
In 2000 , Honda VTR1000 SP1 also won the 24 Hueres Le Mans Moto , Ducati was usually in the Pits , doors down after a couple of Hours . NOT knocking Ducati , not putting Honda on a Pedestal , just stating a fact . One Year at Le Mans , perhaps '02 / '03 ' with just several laps to go , there were 3 Ducatis still running . I was watching from the Dunlop Bridge , just past the New Chicanes up from the Start / Finish straight . Before you heard the Ducatis coming around the Chicane , you heard the Roar from the crowd , from the Thousands of Fans , perhaps 60,000 strong , all cheering , watching from the Stands , and covering every available space , with the Roar following the Ducatis around the Circuit . Just before the Dunlop Bridge there is a slight bump in the Track , and the Ducatis , following each other , in line astern , all popped a Wheelie as they traversed it .
Thank you for this review TMF. Your observations about it, spot on! I had the pleasure of ownership when it first came out. Great to see it again, thanks.
The 2000 SP1 actual designation is SP-Y, some small changes were made in 2001 when it’s official designation changed to SP-1, then in 2002 more significant changes were made and it was called the SP-2.
Further to this point, the bike was launched in 2000 as the SP1, but the model year for all Honda’s produced for 2000 carried the ‘Y’ designation, so as noted, the specific model code (shown on the sticker under the seat unit that carries the paint code) is SP-Y. For the 2001 model year, the codes changed to a numeric format, so (co-incidentally) it was then SP-1. The same thing happens for the SP2 during its production run. All of the bikes produced between 2002 to 2006 are named and marketed as the SP2, but the model codes change for each year (SP-2, SP-3 etc).
I had one 3 years ago, Loved everything about it. Felt really quick for only 130hp, Little bit lumpy low down but the pick up above 3k revs to the redline was awesome. Riding position made me fell ill though after an hour or so so sold it
@@TheMissendenFlyer I had 14 other bikes at the time so just went back to a 96' CBR1000F if i needed a speedy ride or 2010 HD Wideglide for cruising. Gradually sold them one by one and now only have 2. A new 1250Rs Beemer and a 2000 VFR800Fi which are both superb bikes. Should have kept the SP1, sold it for 3500 notes, 12k miles and like new it was and within a year the prices zoomed up to 5k and now 7k.
Great bike, thanks for sharing and reminding me of this stunning championship winning beast. Point for accuracy, the SP1 won the 2000 championship and it was the SP2 that won the 2002 championship
In my eye this bike is better looking than most modern sport bikes. gorgeous! Most modern sport bikes try to hard with all them fiddly bits.
Yeah I am with you on this, not this exact bike but the fact all modern bikes are slowly losing their aesthetics. Kinda started with the Ducati 916 for me and got progressively worse and as I like curves, then the Ducati 851 or 888 were infinitely better looking in my opinion. Honda wise older gen Fireblade's look amazing and I had a ride on an RC45 probably the best looking bike ever IMO.
Absolute beauty, a dream bike for me
I bought one in march. It got delivered in May cause of lockdown bollocks.
Tell you what I love it.
Have a tl 1000s and a 77 z650 cafe Kwak.
You are right. Hondas main focus with this bike was stability and aerodynamics. I believe this bike is still one of the most aerodynamic bikes around.
100% exactlycorrectlyperfetly!😁👍
I've had one of these for the last 15 years (an 00 SP1). It's never let me down, still an amazing ride and still gets the people coming up to have a look and a chat at the local meets. My only complaint is that after 25 years of playing rugby and being six foot two, I need to take Ibuprofen BEFORE I get on her! Still won't be selling her though. Great review and I thought the boys in blue really did themselves proud there. Great to see.
Wow, do you still have it Shaun? I'm UK based and looking to review one for my channel.
@@RetroSuperbikes Hi. I've just realised my comment hasn't aged well! Would you believe I sold her about 8 months ago. Just got too painful in the end. Do I regret it? 100%!!!!
I'm 6'2" and reading your comment gave me hope. There's one for sell nearby I'm gonna have to check out
True professionals -- respectful and polite, explaining what they're doing, why they stopped by and checking you out in a friendly way. A credit to the UK police! This should be shown to all officers as an example of how to conduct spot checks in highly sensitive areas like Chequers.
Police there have had some tough incidents to deal with in the past, the kind of things the public never hear about, and you can be sure you had a couple of scopes on you too! Still, they showed you can be diligent and not intimidating.
Enjoyed the video!
Yes top quality policing - our boys in blue are the best!
What kind of incidents?
Major Incidents? Like what?
I was surprised as well, very pleasant to see, not so sure about auto rifles in their hands haha
Their roadside manner was pleasant, but I fail to see why they both slung their AR15s as they exited their car. They had pistols on their belts, and were riding double. Looked like serious overkill...............but maybe that's how the "unarmed" English police roll nowadays.
Rebuilding 90's sportsbike are my true love. Just got my hands on a Colin Edwards Sp1 laguna seca, in a few boxes.
What a bike, every time I see one I only think of 1 thing, the late great Joey Dunlop. I seen him at the Cookstown 100 and the Northwest 200 in 2000 on the sp1 and the noise of it at full rip is something I won’t forget especially when your boy hood idol is racing it. Hell of a bike and for a 48 year old man at the time he could still show the younger racers how to ride it. Little did I know that would be the last I’d ever see him racing again 😥
Was such a shame to lose such a legend
Hondas never die. I own a 27 year old Honda Transalp 600V which is a V twin liquid cooled too. But it’s an adventure bike. One day, when I’m rich, I’d like a dirt bike, a race bike and an adventure bike.
Things missing from older bikes (including mine) which I’d like: ABS, traction control and a fuel gauge.
Judging by the number of accidents where riders grabbed too much front brake, ABS is a worthwhile addition. Maybe traction control too.
Oh, and British cops are cool.
@@FrankFurther Your views are at best based on narrow minded personal prejudice and at worst thoroughly offensive to a group of public servants who have continued to work and serve the public throughout this current crisis. My wife and I have 60 years of police service between us and I can assure you 99% of police officer are not " power hungry" or "dickheads"... And frankly are far too busy to waste time stopping motorcyclist for no reason. The vast majority also have a far more extensive knowledge of the law than you! In that note I might add that...a) you don't get three points on your licence for just having a noisy bike. b) If you were given a fixed penalty notice, you had the option of challenging it in court if you feltl it was so unjust... And finally c) if you have only got three points on your licence, why would you have it taken away if you get stopped again? Perhaps if you wish to express your views you could try to do it in a less offensive way.
@@garethtemple6242 Wow you must not have worked with the police in my area, incompitent and ignorant of the law and protected my abuser. A serving police officer and a retired one said they are like trumpton , i would not be that complimentary, dishonest, incompitent oh victim support told me they run around like headless chickens. sadly i will never again trust them and i wish i did not feel like that but some are the low of the low
Never had a sportsbike but the SP1 is one of my all time favourites, Colin Edwards and Troy Bayliss going hammer and tong was one of the best races ever! Definitely entering that comp!
Amazing time!
"I've got a Focus ST". I love it when the plod have a sense of humour. Nice to see some doing a decent job instead of hiding in a bush with a camera.
Joey Dunlop's fastest ever, and last TT lap was on one of these, fitted with an Aaron Slight WSB engine.
Rumour has it, Joey threatened Honda with bringing the RC45, mounted on his pub wall, out of retirement unless a competitive engine was sent. Slight’s engine was shipped asap👌
@@zook600 Wouldn't be the first time he took it down from the pub ceiling for a race so they knew he wasn't joking.
I hope you don't mind this link Andy. www.bbc.co.uk/sport/northern-ireland/52721410
So nothing like the VTR SP-1 then.
@@zook600 He refused to race the Fireblade saying the bike couldnt do it, and that the kit sp1 didnt have the power to compete with the R1.
Honda wanted him to use the blade.
Quite a bike. Nice to see classic sportsbikes that are kept in good shape.
Another great video--this one brought back memories of watching WSB in the 90's and cursing Ducati's "unfair" advantage. (I was and remain a Honda fanboy.) I also got to ride a borrowed VTR 1000 from Los Angeles, across the Angeles Crest Highway, through Big Bear and back to LA. I still to this day remember the gobs of torque and how light the front end became if I wasn't judicious with the throttle. Thanks again...
Love the whine of the gear driven cams. Honda quality at it's best.
Like it.
Agreed...
I so love the sound of the gear driven cams on Honda bikes!
Me too!
To say I’m at bit jealous would be an understatement.
Literally one of my dream bikes.
Definitely one of the best bikes Honda has ever built.
As a 1993 Fireblade (SC28) & 1998 Ducati 916 owner, this SP1 in this livery is still on my list. What a beautiful bike! Greetings from the Netherlands
My mum has had hers since new, an ‘98 VTR in the black and red, I intend on having that bike when I’m older
They came out in 2000 😉
Apart from another professional review, 10 /10 for persevering through the preparation of your introduction and for adding the outtakes that show you are human after all ! Keep up the good work.
Cheers John!
Great review. I used to have one of those - mine was an RC51 Nicky Hayden replica. Loved the bike but the vibrations would make my hands and feed numb on the highway. Still a good looking bike after all these years!
I had a SP1 and SP2 few years back. Still one of my favo and most beautiful sportsbikes ever!
I remember test riding the SP 1 in 2001 whilst trying to do a deal and trade in my Suzuki TL1000r. Night and day difference in braking and handling although the power difference wasn’t that noticeable (my TL was well sorted in the fuel and exhaust dept though). I was oversteering it everywhere for the first 3-4 miles as it was so light and required no effort to turn in compared to the TL. The first time I braked hard from speed my backside lifted right out of the seat! Unfortunately I couldn’t do a deal, they were in such short supply the dealer could almost name his price! Added to the fact at the time it was more expensive than my wife’s new car, ouch!
I love Honda’s mine is 43 years old now and looks and runs like the day it left the show room.👍
Wow....
If my memory serves me right , Kiwi Aaron Slight used to race one of these against the likes of Carl Fogarty .I used to support Troy Bayliss on the Ducati back in the day. Must have been something to do with the sound of the Ducati in the World Superbikes Championships.
First saw the Honda VTR 1000 at Ally Pally in Feb 2000....gorgeous then and STILL gorgeous now! Thanks TMF
Funny how the proper cops without beards, are pleasant and polite. Older sports bikes are fast enough for most peoples abilities and hones riding skills without all the trickery. Had Blades my best bike ever was 748sps. Great vid as usual.
The frame isn`t from the Firestorm. It was totally new. You would be lucky to find anything on the SP1 that is shared with that bike. Not in a hurry to sell mine. Awesome bike.
I think I said the Honda engineers spent a lot of time developing the frame, clearly it’s not the same as the Firestorm. Whatever, lovely bike!
Nicky Hayden won his AMA Superbike championship on one. RIP Nicky
Priceless. Brilliant work TMF, especially the outtakes, shows just how much effort you put in to your videos. I salute you.
Thank you!
Be great to see if you could get a go on the Honda Blackbird , at one time the fastest sports tourer on the market. My second bike after passing my bike test . It’s a beast , loved it .
Bought mine back in 2000 with 1 mile on it my titanium bird still with me 20yrs later with 22,000 miles on it and I still love the BB
I have a 2000 RC51 and get 179 miles on a full tank of gas, and that is riding in more of a touring fashion but it varies only a little from that target. I know this because I've run it out of gas on account of a fuel sensor that went on me. I've put 54,400 miles on so far and bought it new in 2000. Still runs strong, looks fabulous, and turns heads wherever I go and I've been coast to coast in the US on numerous occasions. I'll never sell it. Cheers!
Gorgeous bikes SP1 and SP2 and rocketing in value now.
That was my dream bike back in the day. Always used to pull up at the local Honda dealer on my ZXR400 and just gaze through the window to the beauty on the pedestal.. what a machine.. 👍🏽
Man, I remember these coming out after I got the “new R1”. I immediately fell in love with them and wanted one so damn. I never ended up getting one. Always seemed to get a different bike. Still have that yearning. Maybe a nice Nicky Haden edition would be a fun pick up. Then again, Colin Edwards was my favorite in those days.
Absolutely adore the SP1, still regret not buying one when I could. Absolutely beautiful
Nice to see old classics being reviewed, and compared to the new stuff. More please👍
It's amazing how they stand up to modern day bikes. I've just reviewed a 92 FireBlade and was shocked how it would still hold its own 30 years later.
In 2000 I went to my local dealership to buy a new literbike and they had an R1 and an RC51 (VTR1000) side by side on the floor. I bought the R1, and sold it about 2 years later. I honestly believe that if I'd bought the Honda instead, I'd still have it.
Starting to think you are actually a Russian spy and this whole bike review thing is just a very clever cover!
Uh, rumbled...!
Have you seen Bald and Bankrupt on YT he's brill
@@Greggspies ya I can see him as a spy
Well done missenden flyer, you've done my dream bike proud. Imo this bike is Honda at their very best. I believe the great Joey Dunlop also won his last isle of man tt on one of these at the age of 48.
I was a big fan of the late 90s Japanese V-Twins. Went with the TL1000S myself (which I've still got), but the VTR1000F (as well as the SP1 and SP2) and the Yamaha TRX850 both got a good look.
I used to own one of these and I must say the best bike I've ever owned, that v-twin smooth sleek and lovely sounding. I regret the day I sold it!
Always craved for one of these, along with the RD 500 LC.
Actually rode past there today, some nice roads came up from Banbury via Thame past Chequers and onwards to Henley and back home
Nice video
Nice one!
Love these bikes. The sound is incredible, shame the mic hasn't really picked it up.
Value of the SP-1 & SP-2 in Australia at the moment is between $10-15,000 & $12-18,000 respectively. 1 year ago there was around a dozen of both variants for sale, today there is 2.
27 degrees,
Here in Oz that would be considered a great day for a ride.
P.S In Oz the boys in blue are rarely that friendly.
What a beautiful bike that SP is, always loved 'em but never had the chance to ride one. Got to take my hat off to the pair of police officers too. No aggression or arrogance, just polite, professional and friendly. Top work by all three of you !
Thank you Michael...
What a cool motorcycle and interesting history, great video!
Love the outtakes at the end. I now appreciate how much time you must spend getting things right.....and without swearing!! Very good self control. Keep up the good work Andy.
Cheers Matt!
Those coppers are absolute legends, top blokes both of them :)
Agreed, although a little deluded about the Ford Focus outrunning the Honda....but I didn't feel in a position to argue the toss at the time!
...but I didn’t feel in a position to argue... lol
@@TheMissendenFlyer I certainly wouldn't be overly assertive with anyone carrying an automatic assault rifle on a quickdraw sling - especially not in front of his equally well armed backup. One has to choose one's battles to ride another day... To be honest I thought you were being pretty brave on holding back the entire contribution of the Honda company to motorcycle racing history. Did you have formal training with interrogation?
Sold my 2004 SP2 when I left Italy to return to the UK and miss it dearly.. to find an SP2 for a decent price now that hasn't been thrashed is pretty rare.. I went from a 2001 Ducati Monster 750 to the SP2 and it was grins from the day I bought it to the day I sold it.. very fond memories of this bike.
YOU NEED BUSINESS CARDS....
11:38 Police was asking for channel information.
Dius yes he know, hense why he replied with the channel information....🤦🏻♂️🤔
Brave to show your out-takes - It makes you human - A brilliant channel
Thank you John....
Nice but, I’ll keep my ‘Widow Maker’ Suzuki TL1000s
My friend had one , when following him was so scary when he was entering the corner , I ride that bike a couple of times and was amazing ,never forget that noise !!
I also have a TL1000s, owned it for 10 years now and love it. With a few upgrades they can be made to ride nice. You can't beat a v twin for power delivery and torque IMO. I would love to own an SP1 though! 😎
So many reasons it's great to see you on a 20year old bike. But mainly all my bikes are around 20 years old. Never needed anything newer or more expensive. Top show brother peace and love 👍🏻☮❤
What happened to that long video earlier? You took it down
Paul Jones, yes I was watching that too🤔. So l’m wondering the same thing.
Apologies folks - I was asked to take it down so I did - don't really want to go into details if that's OK.
TheMissendenFlyer fair play 👍
Literally just finished a 1 month review on an SP1 for my channel. I loved it so much I just bought a Castrol liveried SP1 for myself ♥️
Hi TMF, Off topic but what was the issue with your Allen Millyard interview? 🤔
Sorry about that - was asked to take it down....let's leave it there. ;0)
Of course TMF. I totally respect your decision. I was just a little confused when it disappeared so abruptly.
Hopefully, maybe a different edited version maybe able to be posted at a later date. Just food for thought.
Cheers.
@@TheMissendenFlyer That's a real shame, was genuinely really looking forward to watching. Gone for good or gone to edit for future? All the best
@@Banditmanuk Gone for good I'm afraid :0(
@@TheMissendenFlyer That's a pity ... I was hoping to watch it for a second time with a mate and a few beers. Now the beers won't taste so good. Bummer.
Well done to the Bobbies, first class and a credit to your service.
Good review of such an iconic machine. I’ve owned quite a few of them. With most people opting for R1s and GSXRs at the time sadly these bikes were overlooked so Honda eventually heavily discounted them as well as throwing in a few treats like a day trip to the factory in Louth and a day at WSB in Silverstone to meet Colin Edwards, get fed and come home with a goodie bag. I bought a comfort seat and did two European trips on my SP2, they’ll do over 100 miles on a full tank as long as you’re not acting the edjeet. Anyways, I enjoyed your review 👍🏻
Thanks for watching Des!
Out of all my 24 bikes in my lifetime, I'm 57, my 2001 RC-51 is the bike I regret selling, I hate thinking about it...such an iconic Bike
Sorry fr the reminder!
Same here. Regret selling my RC51.
The cops must have your mugshot up in there guard house by now .
How good are our police👍👍
I like to think so - although every time I turn up on on a different bike and in different kit!
@@TheMissendenFlyer LOL keep them guessing master of disguise
Oh don’t worry...they know who you are 😛
I remember my VTR FIRESTORM bloody awesome machine, I always wanted a ducati 748 just thought the style of the bike was top notch. 👍 Keep the chanel going.
“I’ve got a focus st”....like it’s something to be proud of!! are you 12 yrs old?!?, and they gave him a gun 🤷♂️😂
Yes I gave a little internal guffaw when he mentioned that - thought it best to keep it to myself though!
My friend has 2002 SP-2 version. Fully original, factory improved. Stunning bike. I guess that a better looking and maintaned we could only find at Honda museum. 136bhp I guess, which might sound today not really impressive, but somehow those "horses" are like more powerful than today's 180.
Now you have done the sp1 how about trying the Rsv Mille 👌😉
Or a tl1000s widow maker 😄
As always the nicest man on YT churns out another perfect video.
You're very kind!
Nicest? Maybe, but with a naughty streak ey TMF? 😂🤣😂
that copper knows his world superbikes Colin Edwards...
james fox lol the next year Ducati won Edwards crashed out a few times. Definitely was in the championship. 🇺🇸💯 I see what you were saying. Your wrong :)
Good to see the boys in blue being genial but missing nothing. No fools those lads! Beautiful bike and the engine note is really something. I’ve always wanted a VTR and they seem to be increasing in value. Great video.
Focus st?dream on copper 🤣👍
...you read my mind at the time!!!! Still he had an automatic weapon, I thought I should agree with him on all points...
@@TheMissendenFlyer 🤣🤣👍
Lovely bike. I owned an Aprilia RSV1000R Factory (The Gen 2, not the "Mille"). You can see the designers at Aprilia were "Heavily influenced" by the SP1 and the SP2. Mine had the full Akra Titanium system and sounded glorious. I still miss it now. Full Ohlins and Brembo radial brakes, so handled as well as it looked.
Yes now you mention it the Aprilia's do have a passing resemblance don't they....
Hello hello hello......
Ay those coppers seem a tad battle ready.
Just me orrrr what ??
Can't be too careful in leafy Buckinghamshire!
@@TheMissendenFlyer
They must've thought you were a shady customer. Two auto guns for one unassuming vlogger in the countryside. 😁
Seems like one of the higher ups may be resident in the vicinity..
@@82phalanX He was beside the gate house to Checkers, Boris's pad.
hahaha right? guy was wielding a damn battle rifle!
Absolutely love this bike. One used to go down my road every day for years. I miss that sound of thunder
Didn't look to be much "Social Distancing" going on there, they were way too close to you :/
They had guns so what you gonna do....
You must be a corporate enforcement officer!!!
There's always at least 1
Lovely sounding engine that. Sounds somewhat similar to my 1998 Honda VFR800 with the whine. Geat video TMF, lovely to see such bikes on your channel.
Glad you liked it!
Have to note that the frame wasn’t from the Firestorm as stated at the start of the video - it’s completely different, as is the engine and the majority of the rest of the bike.
I stand corrected...perhaps I should have said that Honda started with the Firestorm frame (as I noted it was heavily modified)....
I gather that the first prototypes used the firestorm style frame (where the swingarm doesn’t connect to the frame) but needed to be seriously beefed up for racing, so HRC ended up going with a very similar style frame to the twin cylinder version of the NSR500 that was around at the time.
I do believe that a version of this bike was marketed in the states as the RC51. I ran across a chap riding one last fall while traversing 'The Tail of the Dragon'. He had pulled it by trailer from Florida to Tennessee just to spend time riding the area roads ...and from the riding position and general ergonomics of the bike, I could see why he trailers it instead of riding long distances on it. The sound of those gear driven camshafts was music to my ears, but for touring comfort and long distance travel I'll have to stay with my 2012 Moto Guzzi Norge 1200. That's a beautiful bike, the VTR1000 SP1. I had to turn the volume up to enjoy that beautiful V-Twin music.
Yes those cam shaft gears sound great don't they....love that.
What a beautiful bike. So nice to see everyone back out on their bikes. Thanks for sharing.
Stunning looking bike, i loved the outakes at the end, an insight into how much effort and time that actually goes into these videos.
Much appreciated!
SP 2 in black is the only honda ive ever been tempted by.
Another terrific watch, especially the candid and spirited interview, almost made up for the one we lost earlier!! My RF900 RW still available for you to test if it floats your "older bikes" boat! Look forward hopefully to a rerun of the AM interview as and when possible!
Thank you Mick - appreciate the offer - hopefully there will be more older bikes, and more Allen Millyard in future! Stay tuned....
love all the info in this review, as well as the blooper reel! keep it up
Will try my best!
I enjoyed this review when you launched it back in the days we could ride bikes for fun. I am sure it will come back soon! .The video inspired me to have a go at doing one on my SP1, without the riding as we are still in lockdown. Its a bit harder than you make it look! Well done.
The outtakes at the end 🤣. The struggle is real! Just shows that even with all your experience from hundreds of videos and popularity, you're still as normal as the rest of us! Encouraging indeed! 😁👌.
I think it's hilarious when people say things like that, thank you for thinking somehow I wasn't normal!!
In addition to the 2 WSB championships, It won Suzuki 8hrs 2000-2003, IoM TT, and the 24 Heures du Mans in 2000, AMA 2002. How many endurance events have Ducati won?
A good review. They had a repuation for poor fueling and fuel economy, but a properly mapped power commander sorts both of these issues then a 115 miles is easily available from a tank.
The second hand spares market has just about dried up, but fortunately it is a very reliable bike. My personal experience in 60K miles has been 2 LHS radiators failing (each at 15K miles, I then had a stronger one made and its been good for 30K so far). The only other failure has been a regulator and stator, not uncommon for a bike of the era.
Avoid if you intend to ride in the city or traffic where it is hot and uncomfortable.
I bought one of these new when they came out. It was almost the perfect bike for me, quite radical but that’s what I wanted at the time. The few things I noticed were; it’d sometime cut out when dawdling trough traffic in hot weather and then didn’t start immediately, the clutch was very grabby when trying to get a quick getaway, and the rear end seemed a little isolated and vague to me - I stoped a few times thinking that I’d got a puncture in the rear tyre. Apart from that, I loved it.
You put a lot of work into your videos. I appreciate it! Great content.
Thank you...
I sold a showroom clean SP2 Nicky Hayden Replica with 5500 miles a year before he died and have regretted it ever since...had I known...lovely bike and sounds amazing.
Whoops!
If i ever have the chance or capacity to be a collector of older bikes, this one is right at the top. Saw the WorldSBK a few times, when it was still being raced at Kyalami, here in South Africa. Can remember that distinct sound of the Honda. Great video as always. Cheers
Cheers!
I remember this bike like it was yesterday. There was one around the corner from where I lived and it was a treat to see & hear it out & about.
In 2000 , Honda VTR1000 SP1 also won the 24 Hueres Le Mans Moto , Ducati was usually in the Pits , doors down after a couple of Hours . NOT knocking Ducati , not putting Honda on a Pedestal , just stating a fact . One Year at Le Mans , perhaps '02 / '03 ' with just several laps to go , there were 3 Ducatis still running . I was watching from the Dunlop Bridge , just past the New Chicanes up from the Start / Finish straight . Before you heard the Ducatis coming around the Chicane , you heard the Roar from the crowd , from the Thousands of Fans , perhaps 60,000 strong , all cheering , watching from the Stands , and covering every available space , with the Roar following the Ducatis around the Circuit . Just before the Dunlop Bridge there is a slight bump in the Track , and the Ducatis , following each other , in line astern , all popped a Wheelie as they traversed it .
Love the bloopers section mate 👍🏼. Just shows the effort you put in to your channel to convey the correct info 😅.
Thank you for this review TMF. Your observations about it, spot on! I had the pleasure of ownership when it first came out. Great to see it again, thanks.
Thank you for watching...
The 2000 SP1 actual designation is SP-Y, some small changes were made in 2001 when it’s official designation changed to SP-1, then in 2002 more significant changes were made and it was called the SP-2.
Further to this point, the bike was launched in 2000 as the SP1, but the model year for all Honda’s produced for 2000 carried the ‘Y’ designation, so as noted, the specific model code (shown on the sticker under the seat unit that carries the paint code) is SP-Y. For the 2001 model year, the codes changed to a numeric format, so (co-incidentally) it was then SP-1. The same thing happens for the SP2 during its production run. All of the bikes produced between 2002 to 2006 are named and marketed as the SP2, but the model codes change for each year (SP-2, SP-3 etc).
Loved the blooper reel at the end. Not as easy as you make it look in the final edits.
Thank you!
Lovely bike. For 7K it’s a BARGAIN! A true classic! Great video!
Wow - that was quite a review! Killer bike, stellar weather, black vans with armed police, outtakes. Living your best life TMF! Andy rules!
Thank you Scott - glad you liked it!
Love the outtakes at the end. You are a tough boss on yourself 😂😂😂
As always a great watch. 👍
I have just done my first bike video , on the SP1. It is a lot harder than it looks . I had more outtakes than intakes :-)
I had one 3 years ago, Loved everything about it. Felt really quick for only 130hp, Little bit lumpy low down but the pick up above 3k revs to the redline was awesome. Riding position made me fell ill though after an hour or so so sold it
Fair enough - what did you replace it with?
@@TheMissendenFlyer I had 14 other bikes at the time so just went back to a 96' CBR1000F if i needed a speedy ride or 2010 HD Wideglide for cruising. Gradually sold them one by one and now only have 2. A new 1250Rs Beemer and a 2000 VFR800Fi which are both superb bikes. Should have kept the SP1, sold it for 3500 notes, 12k miles and like new it was and within a year the prices zoomed up to 5k and now 7k.
I have a 748 (with 853 conversion) and my dad has a Colin Edwards rep sp1. Feels great taking them out together for a blat.
Great bike, thanks for sharing and reminding me of this stunning championship winning beast. Point for accuracy, the SP1 won the 2000 championship and it was the SP2 that won the 2002 championship
Indeed a few have noted that - my bad!