1988 Honda RC30
One of the greatest '80s superbikes

Registration No: E988 NOW
Frame No: RC302001376
MOT: Exempt

• A highly desirable homologation special
• A supremely well-preserved, original, low-mileage example
• Fully serviced by the current owner with stamped service book on file

The Honda the VFR750R, better known as the RC30, is undoubtedly one of the greatest motorcycles produced. Built to homologate a new racer for the World Superbike Championship, this 'racer on the road' achieved numerous competition successes besides being an excellent road machine. It was developed from the Honda RVF750, which dominated the TT Formula One championship, winning it in 1985 and 1986, and the 1985 and 1986 Endurance Championships. The compactly-designed 748cc engine employed four cylinders (70 by 48.6mm) mounted in pairs at 90 degrees. Double overhead cams and 35mm carburettors were used and a one-way clutch helped minimise rear-wheel hop during down-changes.

Much attention was paid to weight-saving and compactness. Twin aluminium radiators were employed and the frame, constructed from extruded aluminium alloy, was complemented by a single-sided swinging arm with 'Pro Link' suspension. Conventional 43mm forks with multiple adjustment graced the front end and carried twin four-piston callipers acting upon twin 310mm discs
An 'out of the box' machine was claimed to generate 112bhp with full road equipment, but this could be increased to 135bhp with the aid of the HRC race kit. The RC30’s expensive development was vindicated in its first season when Fred Merkel secured the Superbike World Championship in 1988, repeating the success in 1989. The new model instantly became sought-after, receiving praise from all those who tested it, although its high price and limited availability meant few were lucky enough to obtain one. The RC30 remains as desirable as it was thirty-five years ago.

This 1988 VFR750 RC30 is in very good, original condition. Displaying 31,250 miles, it has been part of a small Honda collection since 2017. It was imported into Britain in 2016, and enjoyed for a while, but it has recently been recommissioned after a period out of use. The carburettors have been ultrasonically cleaned, and consumables such as the spark plugs, oil filter and brake fluid have been replaced. There are lots of photos, including some with the bodywork off, many service receipts, a fully-stamped main dealer service history and an original owner's handbook and two keys. It is lovely to see it still with original brake hoses, an uncut rear mudguard, and so on. The RC30 was a limited-edition, hand-built race bike that was road legal. This one has been cherished by its owner, as its excellent condition testifies. It is offered with the current V5C and is described by the vendor as 'ready to go'.

For more information, please contact:
Mike Davis
mike.davis@handh.co.uk
07718 584217