While it's not as dazzling as the upcoming RC51 that will replace it in the 2000 SBK season, Honda's RC45 is a veteran bike that can still carve up corners like a champ. The fat rear Michelin tire plants a whopping 180 horses onto the tarmac, easily making the RC45 the most powerful Superbike available in the game. Its engine is also the highest revving of the bunch, and even though the RC45's peak power is achieved at a staggering 15,000RPM, it's surprisingly temperamental in the low to mid range. However, with a top speed of more than 195MPH, the RC45's strength clearly lies in high-end racing, and the bike really shines on tracks like Hockenheim.

　　Tossing the bike into corners leaves something to be desired, and a light touch is required when accelerating out of turns. The RC45 has a tendency to high-side even under moderate throttle, and an overzealous rider will almost certainly find himself taking a trip over the top of the bike if he's not careful.

　　But despite its age, the RC45 can be a mean opponent in the hands of a seasoned veteran, and the Castrol Hondas will almost certainly dominate all the courses with long straights in Superbike 2000 when it releases next week. Be sure to tune in on Monday, when we take the Kawasaki ZX-7RR for a spin.