Neil Fletcher, Head of Motorcycles at Honda Racing, expressed his excitement about the event, saying, “We always hoped that the bikes would go to people that would genuinely cherish them, or had a connection to the TT, or just had a passion for the Fireblade and actually it seems to me that’s exactly what we’ve got.”
The John McGuinness 100th Start replica CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SPs were revealed on 16 November 2022. Only 30 of these limited-edition bikes were built, each priced at £30,000. Available exclusively through the Honda dealer network, these bikes pay tribute to John McGuinness’ 100th TT start in the 2022 Superbike race, where he finished fifth. The design of the Fireblades includes special images from each Honda bike he has ridden throughout his career, as well as his iconic voodoo doll design on the rear cowling. Each bike also features a unique numbered plaque, a special Fireblade garage mat, a 3D laser-engraved crystal with a design of the bike, and more.
John McGuinness himself expressed his excitement about the replica Fireblades, stating, “For me, it’s brilliant. If I was in the position to buy a Joey Dunlop replica, I would’ve been jumping through hoops to buy a Rothmans RVF replica. It’s a bit strange, but not in a bad way. You sometimes wonder why, but I suppose when you sit back and have a look at it, it’s been a great journey. It’s not been a job, it’s just been a proper good laugh.”
John plans to add the original race bike to his personal collection and intends to display it at events, as well as occasionally ride it for demonstrations.
One of the riders who attended the handover day at Honda Racing was Hank Watson, who already has 43 other bikes in his collection. Watson said, “I’m a big TT fan and first went in 1967 with my mum and dad. I’ve only missed about five TTs… and I’ve had many Hondas, and this just screamed ‘buy me.’ I didn’t expect to get one because it was just a lottery, but I was just one of those lucky people. I will ride it because I need to know what it’s like. It’s coming to the Isle of Man with me next year – it might even be the only one there!”
The handover day at Honda Racing left an emotional impact on the owners, with Watson describing it as “totally emotional” and “phenomenal.” The event provided a unique opportunity for customers to connect with the legendary John McGuinness and celebrate their shared passion for the Fireblade.
