Honda's VTR1000 SP-1 V-twin supersports bike was launched in 2000 as a direct attack on the big twins from Ducati and Aprilia. And Texan Colin Edwards proved how just how right the Honda was by taking that year's World Superbike championship. But the SP-1 was no match for the 998 Ducati in the showroom - even though it was £350 less than the £10,700 Duke.
So when Honda started to look at the successor to the SP-1, its development team consulted the racing engineers at HRC. They singled out all the major points where improvements could be made, and then searched for ways to apply these changes to the new production machine. And they wanted to do this in a way that would improve upon its sporting potential, without draining the bank accounts of those wanting to race it.
But Honda stopped short of going for the sort of all-out performance that might leave the majority of riders behind with a feeling of the SP-2 being even harder to ride well. The 988cc DOHC eight-valve motor received only minor upgrades over the SP-1 unit. Improvements to the SP-2's long-term riding comfort and ease of use were top priorities. A tall order, to be sure, but if anybody could do it, Honda could?
While the SP's external looks haven't changed that much, its feeling of rigidity and responsive control has been radically upgraded. Its most noticeable changes can be seen in the new swingarm and the frame's stronger engine hanger forgings, which are all virtually the same as that featured on the Works machines. Not so easily seen, though the results can certainly be felt, is the work that was concentrated on the SP's fuel injection settings in order to realise smoother, stronger and more responsive power output.
The SP-2 doesn't require top level riding skill to take advantage of its excellent balance of performance and handling. The ride is exciting and aggressive, but not too narrowly focused, so it provides greater rider satisfaction over the long run. And with the new white and black colour scheme taking its cue from the distinctive look of the 2001 world championship Castrol Honda World Superbike Works machines, Honda hope to pinch more sales from the Foggy brigade.
