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Honda RCV1000R MotoGP Production Racer Revealed

Thu, 07 Nov 2013

Honda Racing Corporation officially introduced its new RCV1000R production racer which will be sold to racing teams hoping to compete in MotoGP‘s new “Open” prototype class.

The RCV1000R is based on Honda’s RC213V factory prototype, with the same chassis and a similar 90° V-4 engine claiming more than 234 hp at 16000 rpm. The key difference is the engine uses traditional spring valves whereas the valves on the RC213V are activated pneumatically. Another key difference is the lack of the seamless gearbox used on the factory machines. Öhlins supplies the suspension while brake components are from Nissin, though teams will have the option of swapping out those parts.

The new production racer will provide teams with a more affordable option than the previous set-up of satellite teams leasing full-factory machines while being more competitive than the so-called “Claiming Rule” teams equipping production-based engines in a prototype chassis.

Under the “Open” class regulations, teams using the RCV1000R will use the standard Magneti Marelli ECU hardware and software but will be allowed 12 engines per rider per season and 24 liters of fuel. Factory machines will be allowed to use their own ECU but are limited to just 20 liters of fuel and just five engines to last the whole year.

Honda already has four orders for the RCV1000R. Team Aspar has purchased two machines for Nicky Hayden and a second rider to be announced. The Cardion AB team has purchased another for Karel Abraham to ride while longtime Honda satellite team Gresini has acquired another for Scott Redding.

[Source: Honda]


By Dennis Chung


See also: EICMA 2013: Honda NC700 Family Gets Upgraded to 750 – But Not in US, EICMA 2013: 2014 Honda CBR1000RR First Impressions – Video, EICMA 2013: 2014 Honda CTX1300 First Impressions – Video.