Hello everyone,

New member here and first time post. I have done some reading and learned some valuable information.
I would just like to ask these questions. If its a repeat, I apologize in advance.

I am going to look at a 2001 rc51 today. This will be my first one to look at to purchase.

1) what are some of the key things I should look for?
2) Are there any areas on this bike that would show if it has been abused or neglected? (besides the obvious?)
3) any sounds, or smells I should look out for?
4) are there any year rc51's that I sould stay away from?

If there are any other things I should be looking for, please advise.

Also, the bike has 7500 miles, aftermarket exhaust and a power commander. The seller says it is in perfect condition. Assuming this is true, what would be a good ballpark price to buy it at?

Thanks in advance for the help.
Larry

1) based on that mileage, nothing that comes to mind specifically beyond common wear-n-tear items.
2) fork seals for wheelies, squared off rear tire from smokin' it, but just obvious stuff.
3) the engines are characteristically noisy, with a gear whine, but if it sounds like it runs well, idles and revvs well, chances are it's okay. These engines are pretty hard to blow up, but possible.
4) all years are good, just depends on personal preference and some of the minor changes.

$3K would be a great price, but most ppl seem to want $4500 to $6500. There are plenty out there.

1) based on that mileage, nothing that comes to mind specifically beyond common wear-n-tear items.
2) fork seals for wheelies, squared off rear tire from smokin' it, but just obvious stuff.
3) the engines are characteristically noisy, with a gear whine, but if it sounds like it runs well, idles and revvs well, chances are it's okay. These engines are pretty hard to blow up, but possible.
4) all years are good, just depends on personal preference and some of the minor changes.

$3K would be a great price, but most ppl seem to want $4500 to $6500. There are plenty out there.

Thanks, I was thinking around the price range you said also. It does appear alot of people who are selling are very proud of their bikes and do ask a awful lot for them.

I'm not looking to kick someone to hard. Just want to pay a "fair" price

Welcome and let us know what you decide either way!

Yep, wouldn't sell mine for $20.000.00. They are a bike to be proud of. Find one you like and in good condition and buy it. Good luck.

Welcome and let us know what you decide either way!

Thanks!
Well, I think I am going to get it. I just looked at it earlier today and it is almost perfect. I have until Monday to get it or find another,

I havent had a bike since my 93 900rr. I am pretty stoked about it.

Here is a pic of her!

http://www.rc51forums.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=1&pictureid=1

Awesome! Looks like a great bike! Enjoy and be safe!

I have those Erions on my bike, and they are extremely loud.

Good luck with buying. Here in England they hold the money well and we get a lot of examples with 30,000 miles plus on them. I got my Rc51 about 4 months ago it is a 2000 model (sp1) with 5500 miles on the clock with M.O.Ts to prove milage paid £4100 I am a bit disapionted with the finish in places but putting that aside its just spot on in every way looks, sound (even with standard exhausts on), power and handling.
Have fun!!

I have those Erions on my bike, and they are extremely loud.

They did seem to be loud. I hope I can get used to it :rolleyes:

The seller is out of town until Monday. The waiting game is killing me.

Honestly, I wear ear plugs when I ride! Not for the exhaust noise, but the wind noise in my helmet! Cant stand that noise! I don't even roll down my drivers window in my car! LOL

Hello,
Well, I did end up getting the RC51 as I talked about earlier in this post.
She sure is a "thumper"
I am really impressed with how it rides.

Here she is parked safely in the garage!

http://www.rc51forums.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=1&pictureid=8

Hello,
Well, I did end up getting the RC51 as I talked about earlier in this post.
She sure is a "thumper"
I am really impressed with how it rides.

Here she is parked safely in the garage!

http://www.rc51forums.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=1&pictureid=8

Congratulations! She looks good :D

Once you've tasted it, you'll never go back.
It looks like a good example.
Good luck with it, and keep us posted.