A STUNNING “track-focussed” superbike previously owned by Top Gear legend James May has gone up for auction with just 490 miles on the clock.
The 1,000cc Honda CBR Fireblade is only three years old and has been “nicely run in” according to the TV star.
5
5
That run in was likely quite a sprint as the incredible machine lays down 214 horsepower, resulting in a top speed of 186mph.
A review by MCN described the model as “loud, face-meltingly fast and a demon in the corners”, so it’s certainly only one for an experienced speed freak.
The bike’s current owner added that it is in “showroom-quality condition” and is only being sold due to a “change of circumstance”.
Deck out in a “Grand Prix” red, white and blue paintjob, it cuts a striking figure and is sure to stand out.
Its listing on Collecting Cars states: “A superb, sparingly used example of the sensational track-focused superbike, previously in the collection of TV presenter James May, who was the first owner.
“The bike was first registered in September 2020, and the odometer shows just 490 miles from new.
“Constructed around a lightweight twin-spar aluminium chassis, the Fireblade SP was developed as a circuit machine but is fully road legal with lights, indicators and Honda Smart Key.
“During the previous ownership with James May, the battery was kept trickle charged when garaged, and the paintwork was kept polished and looking very smart.”
It even includes “winglets” inspired by the fins on MotoGP bikes to increase downforce when cornering.
However, there are a couple of issues that prospective buyers should look out for.
First, the Honda is currently overdue its first MOT, required three years after registration, which should have been carried out in September.
Failure to have this done before riding it could lead to a £1,000 fine.
Perhaps even more concerningly, a DVSA check reveals that the specific model is currently subject to a recall over a potential safety issue.
Last February, Honda recalled all CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SPs produced between April 2020 and October 2021 over reports of the oil cooler pipe overheating and melting.
This could cause oil to leak into the exhaust pipe and onto the rear tyre, presenting a risk of a crash or fire.
The issue can be repaired for free at a local Honda dealer and shouldn’t affect the running of the bike thereafter but it is not known whether this specific bike has been examined in light of the recall.
There is no mention of the recall in the listing, but this may go some way to explain why the bike is still up for grabs even after the scheduled close of the auction as it went unsold on December 28.
It comes after May gave his verdict on filming new shows with longtime costars Richard Hammond and Jeremy Clarkson following the news that the trio would quit The Grand Tour next year.
5
5
5
