1990 HONDA RC30
ACRYLIC AND METAL PAINTING BY LANCE GROOTBOOM
1990 Honda RC30
The 1990 Honda RC30 (VFR750R) wasn’t just a motorcycle—it was a tool built for victory. Created by Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), the RC30 was a homologation special, made so Honda could enter and win in the World Superbike Championship.
Unlike many race replicas, the RC30 shared real DNA with its track counterpart. Honda didn’t cut corners—they built a street-legal racer with uncompromising detail.
Engine and Technology
At its heart was a 749cc, 90° V4 engine producing around 112 horsepower. Key race-bred features included:
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Gear-driven camshafts for precision timing and reliability
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Titanium connecting rods to reduce weight and handle high revs
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Slipper clutch to prevent wheel hop during aggressive downshifting
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A close-ratio 6-speed gearbox with a tall first gear optimized for racing
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Redline over 12,000 rpm, delivering linear, controllable power
The engine’s distinctive mechanical whine became an instant hallmark of the RC30.
Chassis and Handling
Handling was equally advanced, thanks to:
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A lightweight aluminum twin-spar frame
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Fully adjustable Showa suspension (front and rear)
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The iconic Pro-Arm single-sided swingarm, allowing fast wheel swaps
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Lightweight 17-inch wheels
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Race-tuned geometry for stability and razor-sharp feedback
Whether on a tight backroad or full-throttle on the track, the RC30 delivered a precise, confidence-inspiring ride.
Iconic Design
The RC30 looked as good as it performed. Its tricolor livery became legendary:
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Pearl white base
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Candy red and royal blue accents
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Gold Honda wing logos
With a minimalist tail section, single-seat setup, and compact fairings, it was unmistakably a purpose-built superbike.
Racing Legacy
The RC30 didn’t just look the part—it backed it up on the track. It won:
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World Superbike Championships in 1988 and 1989 with Fred Merkel
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Isle of Man TT, Suzuka 8 Hours, and other global races
Its dominance proved that Honda’s race-to-road approach truly worked.
Rare and Coveted
Production was extremely limited—just a few thousand globally, and only 300–500 units were sold in the U.S. Its high price in 1990 ($15,000 USD) made it exclusive then—and now it's a collector’s dream, often valued at $100,000+in pristine condition.
Conclusion: Timeless Engineering
Over 30 years later, the 1990 Honda RC30 remains one of the most respected motorcycles ever made. It's a rare fusion of factory race tech, design purity, and real-world success.
Still fast. Still beautiful. Still legendary.
RC30: Built by racers, for racers. Remembered by everyone.
1990 Honda RC30 – Acrylic and Metal Painting by Lance Grootboom
This captivating mixed-media piece pays homage to the iconic 1990 Honda RC30. At the heart of the work lies a precision laser-cut metal silhouette, made from the highest quality steel and expertly laser cut, hand polished, and powder coated, mounted above a heavily textured, hand-painted canvas. Thick, expressive layers of paint add depth and tactile energy, with each brushstroke bringing the background to life beneath the metal.
A deliberate space between the metal and the canvas creates a compelling floating effect, casting subtle shadows that enhance the artwork’s dimensionality. Finished with a protective varnish for added durability and a soft sheen, the piece is elegantly framed in a premium oak veneer—striking a perfect balance between raw craftsmanship and refined design.
Size:
● Artwork: 28.74" x 17.71"
● With frame: 30.35" x 19.33"
Ideal for Honda motorcycle collectors, motorcycle enthusiasts, or anyone looking for
a unique statement piece in their office, showroom, living room, or man cave.
What’s Included
● Certificate of Authenticity confirming the artwork’s originality
● Bill of Sale providing formal proof of ownership
● Ready to Hang with a sawtooth hanger, so it’s display-ready right out of the
crate
Secure Your Piece
● Safe and secure payment via PayPal
Bill of Sale