Honda is attempting to take bring its racing pedigree to the road with the launch of the new RC213V-S.

The bike is based on the RC213V, which has won Honda the MotoGP championship two years in a row. Powered by a liquid-cooled 999cc 4-stroke 4-valve DOHC V-4 engine, Honda claims the new bike will be easy to manoeuvre despite its previous life as a track machine.

Among the changes made to make the bike roadworthy are coil springs in place of pneumatic valves and a regular road-going gearbox instead of the seamless variety.

These parts, which were borrowed from the RCV1000R open category racing bike, are more durable for long term use.

RC213V’s aluminium frame boasts high torsional rigidity, ensuring engine power gets to the ground properly. Increasing torsional rigidity usually means a jump in weight, but Honda has managed to maintain the balance by selectively increasing it in certain areas.

Thin reinforcing plates improve rigidity in other areas where it’s lacking, resulting in a lightweight frame. In order to comply with road laws Honda also added a lot of kit that the track version didn’t need such as head and taillights, side mirrors, license plate holder, muffler with catalytic converter, starter motor and parking stand.

The RC213V-S also features new tires, brake discs and pads, while the bike’s steering ratio is now wider. The bike also comes with Honda’s Smart Key and a bigger battery. Despite all these additions, Honda insists that a consistent focus on mass centralization and heavy reduction of friction losses ensures maximum performance.The RC213V-S also comes with the option of a Sports Kit that is aimed at recreating the MotoGP experience on closed circuits.

Honda will start accepting orders for the RC214V-S on July 13.

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