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Honda has an unmatched track record of putting the results of its engineers' 'Blue Sky' brainstorming into production - think CB750, Gold Wing, NR750 and RC30 - but surely nobody this side Honda Racing Corporation's closely guarded workshops ever dreamt that they would introduce a pukka Grand Prix bike for road use. But that is exactly what Honda did in 2015 when they introduced the RC213V-S, a 'sanitised' version of the multiple Grand Prix-winning RC213V.

First seen at the Milan Show in 2014 and launched at Valencia the following year, the RC213V-S ('S' for Street) was based on the earlier MotoGP racer, suitably modified for road use. To that end the MotoGP bike's pneumatic valves were replaced with coil springs and the seamless gearbox changed for a conventional one. The frame used was derived from that of the earlier 800cc RC212V. Dry weight was around 170kg (374lb). According to Honda: "The RC213V-S has inherited the specifications of RC213V to thoroughly ensure mass concentration, reduced friction, use light weight materials as well as precise machining of the components and expert skills required in manufacturing. The RC213V-S is also equipped with control technologies used on RC213V."

To meet road laws, the RC213V-S was equipped with head and taillights, mirrors, speedometer, catalytic exhaust, numberplate holder, horn and road-specification tyres, brake discs and pads. Other notable features included Öhlins TTX forks, Brembo brake calipers, Marchesini wheels, adjustable footrests, and the same engine cases as the racing RC213V. Engine modes, engine braking and traction control were selectable by a button on the handlebar switch gear. According to Bennetts' Marc Potter: "The fit and finish of the parts is unlike any production motorcycle, even Kawasaki's exclusive Ninja H2R. The infamous NR750 may be the only bike that truly feels special in this company."

Extra equipment included Honda's Smart Key, a starter motor and a paddock stand, while a Sports Kit option (£15,000) was available for racing on closed circuits, boosting maximum power from around 159bhp to 214bhp-plus (Honda declined to be specific). Honda announced that only 250 RC213V-S models would be hand-built in a specially dedicated HRC facility at the rate of one per day. The asking price was €188,000 (around £150,000), making the £42,000 Ducati Desmosedici RR (1,500 built) seem relatively commonplace and cheap. Once deliveries got underway, bikes were changing hands for a lot more...

Writing in Vizor Down, Simon Hancocks summed up his encounter with the RC213V-S: "It's Honda showing the world that it is still the top dog, and with the shackles off it can create a motorcycle the likes we have never ever seen. It could also be the last of its kind and with the world looking to electrification and decarbonisation - will a motorcycle maker ever have the audacity to create a machine that is this single-minded in its quest for performance?"

Currently displaying a total of 2,843 kilometres on the odometer, the example offered here has an unnumbered top yoke (stamped ***), suggesting it may - although this has not been confirmed - be one of the pre-production models used for the press launch at Valencia in September 2015 and not one of the intended 250 production bikes (published sources vary with regard to the number actually completed). However, it is known to have been used for catalogue illustration and promotional video shots, although this history is only recorded informally. In all probability, this motorcycle has not been run since 2015; its completeness (or otherwise) and mechanical condition remains unknown and thus it is offered for sale for display purposes only and sold strictly as viewed. A possibly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Offered unregistered and without documents. Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent, if it can indeed be returned to road use rather than being suitable only for display, and is therefore sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
Offered with key