Honda VTR1000 SP-2

The background is they're substantially cheaper than the equivalent Ducatis (and more robust in our opinion), while still having some exclusivity. The SP series also happens to be physically bigger and more rangy in its riding stance - which suits larger folk like yours etcetera just fine, thanks. However there are folk out there who much prefer the comparitively compact Dukes and their razor-sharp manners.

Now the debate goes beyond brands. Honda flew Wayne Gardner in for the launch, and WG says he's really a Fireblade kinda guy - it feels more compact and delivers the power in a very different kind of rush.

Sharper device
Frankly I didn't think there was anything wrong withthe SP-1. It was a sharp and suitably angry device which got the hormones on the rev-limiter. The SP-2 does it easier. On the track it feels a lot easier to predict, or meld with, than its predecessor. And yes I hate saying things like that because it implies the 'old' one has suddenly become a dog. It hasn't, but I have to admit the new one is sharper.

Wheels, frame, brakes, injection and even the rider protection have all come in for review on this one. As a package it works - even if I did come close to binning one of the demos in turn 11. That was down to an over-enthusiastic throttle hand and I can attest to the machine's ability to forgive a sudden rush of hormones to the right wrist.

On the upside, it delivered my considerable bulk into turn one at 260-ish kmh indicated a number of times, and quite happily hauled down to manageable levels to get around the rest of the circuit at a respectable clip. And was predictable and enjoyable.

The SP-2 has come in for a bit of a hammering in some reviews for not necessarily being the quickest track toy out there. Even if it's true, so what. It is a very satisfying sports bike that has a spectacular spread of power and exceptional manners when the handling chips are down. It remains on the top of my personal list of serious sports bikes.

Story: Guy Allen