I was planning to purchase a grey cbr 1000 Friday. While at the dealer they had a black rc 51. I know its a little heavier, but I weigh 225 so that dont bother me, but other than weight- any major differences that should persuade me one way or another. I also know the motor, v-twin..so it should sound a little meaner! The one at the dealer has a full exhaust and power commander for $12,500-marked down from 14k. CBR stock $10,300

 

this one has been asked before; but in a nutshell, you are asking if you should buy an apple or an orange. These two bikes are very different, and weight is the least of it. The RC is Honda's answer to Ducati and Aprilia and meant to compete head on in the twisties with these bikes. I actually considered buying the RC a couple of months ago myself, but really for me, the 1krr is a better fit. There are many things you want to consider, 1) how and where are you going to be riding this bike; 2) which bikes ergos are you more comfortable on; 3) do you want an inline 4 or a v twin; 4)and probably most importantly, look at the audience you are asking...this is the cbr forum, I would be surprised if anyone told you to buy the RC. Both bikes are fast, although the 1krr is noticably faster; both bikes handle phenomenally, but the rc51 may be a bit sharper; it really boils down to which bike you feel the most comfortable on, and which one you like best. All HONDA sportbikes are more than adequate for the majority of riders, as very few will every reach the full potential of bike, you simply run out of ability and roads you can do that one even if you have the skills. Climate may also be a consideration for you, note that the RC has two side mount radiators as opposed to the single front mount on the 1krr; while two may sound better than one, the RC simply doesn't get the air flow and tends to 'feel' much hotter to the rider. I live in AZ, so that was a factor I considered heavily. Also the simple fact that this is the last year of production for the RC; its older engineering and somewhat date (but still a very capable bike) I have ridden both and once you are moving the rc only feels a bit heavier, but that's becuase you are riding in the bike as to opposed to on it like the 1krr....and that's a serious personal preference concern. Good Luck with your decision and post a pic of whatever you get

 

If you need to ask, don't buy the RC-51. It will be too much bike for you. CBR1000 is PLENTY.

 

RC51 is more bike than the 1krr...please do explain how 120 hp 480+ bike is more bike than the 1krr????

 

HE means the RC is a heavy turd! I've had both bikes.........................CBR blows it away in every catagory. CBR has WAY more power, torque. It is lighter and plain and simple is much smoother and easier to ride. I tried to warn my friend who had the same question.................................he went with the RC. Now all he does is bitch when all us guys on I4 1000's leave him for dead.

 

thanks everyone for the advice. I knew by asking on this forum I would be getting advice on the cbr...thats what I was looking for. If anyone else has any ideas, please post. Otherwise..I'll let you know tomorrow!

 

Unless you REALLY want the RC, I say forget it. I've got one of each, so I should know. I love the RC51, but I spend most of my time on the CBR. The RC51 was the state-of-the-art V-twin sportbike in 2002. It hasn't been updated mechanically since then. The CBR feels lighter (even though both bikes are close in weight), the CBR has a better suspension, more power, etc. Besides, I think the RC51 you're looking at is overpriced.