"Wow, this eel is delicious!" Freddie Spencer on a gourmet spree, interviewed in depth. "I beat Kenny on the Honda NR!"

Legendary racing rider Freddie Spencer visited Japan under the guidance of journalist Hiroshi Maruyama, who leads "WITH ME," to participate in the "CB Fan Meeting" hosted by the company. Webike Plus conducted an interview with the cooperation of "Motor Station TV," where Maruyama serves as the navigator! We delved deep into various topics, asking about this and that. A pufferfish... isn't that an ultra-luxury fish that even Japanese people rarely get to eat?!

⚫︎ Special Thanks: WITH ME ⚫︎ Photos: Toru Hasegawa / Honda / Yamaha / Ducati / Aprilia / Editorial Department

Still a Rider. Riding a Motorcycle is Always Fun!

This interview was conducted simultaneously with the recording of Maruyama's YouTube channel, "Motor Station TV."

↓ Freddie's Interview on MOTOR STATION TV is here ↓

Maruyama: This is Hiroshi Maruyama, navigator for Motor Station TV.

Freddie: Hello. It's an honor to meet you all.

Maruyama: Today, we're here for an interview with Webike Plus, the motorcycle information website of Webike, Japan's largest online motorcycle parts and accessories retailer. Webike Plus featured an article about your ride on the CB1000F at HSR Kyushu in 2025, and it received a very high number of accesses.

Freddie: I see (laughs).

Spencer also visited Japan in October 2025 and test rode the then-unreleased CB1000F, praising it, "It has the 'forgiving' quality I asked Honda for!" (See article for details).

Maruyama: Webike is also involved in racing, currently serving as the title sponsor for EWC (FIM Endurance World Championship). Furthermore, they participate in EWC as "Kawasaki Webike Trickstar," and the president always travels to support them on-site.

Freddie: That's wonderful. It's extremely important for companies other than manufacturers to energize and support motorsports.

Maruyama: Additionally, the president of Webike is a fan of yours.

Freddie: Oh, thank you (laughs).

Maruyama: We have some questions from Webike Plus. First, you visited Japan in October last year, but why did you come back again this time?

Freddie: My friend Hiroshi invited me (laughs).

Maruyama: Did you eat anything delicious while you were here?

Freddie: Hiroshi and I ate a white fish called KUE at a local restaurant, and it was incredibly delicious.

Maruyama treated him to the luxury fish KUE. An episode that well conveys his hospitality towards Freddie!

Maruyama: Thank you (laughs). Now, let's get to the main topic. Do you ride motorcycles privately these days?

Freddie: I don't race, but I participate in classic bike races and events. Sometimes I ride with women's teams. Motorcycles are good for the body, mind, and soul, so I try to ride as much as possible.

Maruyama: Do you ride on public roads too?

Freddie: I have several street bikes, and my main one is a 2008 Honda VFR800. It's a 25th-anniversary model in the same color scheme as the one I used in racing (Editor's note: the VFR750F Interceptor Freddie rode at the Daytona 200).

Maruyama: Are there any motorcycles you'd like to own in the future?

Freddie: I like… (Maruyama points to the CB1000F) Yes, I want that one (laughs). I have a photo of the bike I won Daytona with in 1980 (CB750F modified) displayed in my garage, and Honda gave me a Monkey in the same color. I'd like to complete the collection by adding the CB1000F.

Freddie's iconic machine... the Honda CB750F modified, with which he won the Daytona 100 miles in 1982. This is the machine that inspired the "Spencer Color."

Freddie's Owned Bike ①
A 2008 Honda VFR (RC46). He owns the North American 25th-anniversary model (photo shows the Japanese specification 2007 model).

Freddie's Owned Bike ②
A 2005 Monkey Special. This model, nicknamed "Spencer Color," was a gift from Honda.

Maruyama: What kind of riding feel do you prefer in a motorcycle?

Freddie: Riding a motorcycle isn't just about going fast; it's fun to ride at any speed.

Maruyama: Could you elaborate on that?

Freddie: First, the VFR is as easy to ride as a well-worn pair of shoes. And I'm really looking forward to riding a 1985 NSR500 soon. The 1000 Fireblade is also incredibly fun, and the Royal Enfield Shotgun I own personally is great for everyday riding. Each has its own strengths, so I like them all.

The 1985 Honda NSR500. This is the machine Freddie rode when he won both the WGP250 and 500 titles.

Freddie showcased brilliant riding on the CBR1000RR-R, which debuted in 2020.

A shot taken by editor Matsuda at the Royal Enfield Shotgun international test ride event in 2023. Who would have thought he owned one later...

Maruyama: A slightly tricky question, but are there any motorcycles you dislike riding?

Freddie: I like all the bikes (laughs). However, the production bikes from when I started racing were unstable and quite challenging. There were still some unfinished bikes back then. But it's hard to say I dislike them. Of course, some bikes were difficult, but there's always something to learn, and each has its good points. Critically assessing and solving problems is called critical thinking, and I learned that through racing, so I don't particularly dislike any motorcycle.

Maruyama: I feel the same way. Even with a "bad" motorcycle, there's always something enjoyable about it.

Freddie: Yes! Every motorcycle has its good points. Enjoy those, and control the bad parts yourself. That leads to an objective evaluation of the bike.

I Beat Kenny Once on the Honda NR!

Maruyama: For your World GP career, you rode three highly distinctive GP machines: the four-stroke Honda NR500, the two-stroke three-cylinder NS500, and the first-generation two-stroke four-cylinder NSR500. Could you tell us your impressions of each?

Freddie: The NR was intended to beat two-strokes with a four-stroke engine, but its performance wasn't enough due to the rapid advancements in two-stroke technology during its development. However, it was technically very interesting and a fascinating bike.

By the way, although it wasn't in GP, I won one race on the NR. It was a 5-lap heat race, and I even beat Kenny Roberts (Editor's note: This was the qualifying race for the 1981 AMA Road Race at Laguna Seca. Kenny was riding a Yamaha YZR500). Honda was so delighted that they said, "We can race in GP with this!" and I participated in the British GP two weeks later. But starting by push-starting was difficult back then in WGP. I had climbed to 4th place, but the engine broke down mid-race.

The Honda NR500 was equipped with an oval-piston V4 engine. The photo shows the earliest model from 1979; Freddie rode the 1981 model.

Freddie: The subsequent NS500 was a two-stroke three-cylinder, and I was able to win with it quickly. I remember its lightness was its weapon because it was a three-cylinder.

Maruyama: Did the three-cylinder NS have any disadvantages compared to the rival four-cylinder bikes?

Freddie: Yamaha's V4 had good acceleration in the mid-range gears (3rd to 5th), so I would get left behind there, which was a bit of a disadvantage. However, the three-cylinder also had its strengths, and Kenny and I had different advantages, which made for good races. But as a result, Honda also switched to a V4.

Maruyama: Honda is sometimes said to prioritize power over cornering.

Freddie: It's actually a combination. The exit speed from a corner determines the subsequent straight-line speed. Even with high power, if you can't transfer it effectively to the track and spin out due to overpowering, it's not good. Balance is important.

Maruyama: Was the first-generation NSR500, which became a V4, a good motorcycle for you?

Freddie: The NSR also had some issues. It had a new layout with the chamber at the top and the fuel tank at the bottom, making it difficult to stabilize the fuel. Especially as the fuel level decreased, the fuel would move forward during deceleration and backward during acceleration, disrupting the bike's handling. So, in 1985, we moved the tank to the top, which solved all the problems, and that's when Honda's success began.

Maruyama: You rode many machines during their development phases.

Freddie: But someone has to be the tester, and I really enjoyed being involved in the development. I was able to participate in a part of HRC's history and be at the forefront of success. That was a very good experience for me.

The 1983 NS500, a 2-stroke V3, was the machine with which Freddie won his first world championship.

The V4-engined NSR500 debuted in 1984, featuring a unique chassis configuration with the fuel tank located beneath the engine.

My Riding Looks Special Because I Don't Imitate Others

Maruyama: It's often said that your riding style in WGP was different from other riders, unique to you. Did you consciously feel you were riding in a special way?

Freddie: I always learned on my own and never imitated anyone. I focused on building my own style. So, if my riding looks different from others, it's probably because I've always thought about how to improve without copying. I was always calmly thinking about how to efficiently achieve maximum exit speed with stability.

Maruyama: People said the genius Freddie rode purely on instinct?

Freddie: That's also a combination. I put in consistent effort, calmly thought about my riding style, and prepared. Then, in actual races, I also relied on instinct, trusted myself, and kept pushing the limits.

Maruyama: I'm glad I could hear this. In my mind, Freddie was a genius who always rode purely on instinct.

Freddie: Thank you (laughs). I've been told I have talent since I was young, so I acknowledge that. However, it's crucial not to neglect daily effort to maximize that talent. It's the same in life; by not sparing effort towards your goals, you can fully realize your potential.

Maruyama: I'm also a company president, and I usually work steadily. But when it's time to compete, I think, "Let's call Freddie!" and manage my business with that kind of mindset. So, I feel like you've validated that approach (laughs).

Maruyama of WITH ME (right) is not only a business owner but also a skilled rider with over 30 years of accident-free riding on public roads. However, when necessary, he's willing to take risks and call upon Freddie!

Maruyama: Continuing with the questions. Unlike the GP machines of the 1980s when you were active, today's MotoGP machines are packed with electronic controls and winglets. What are your thoughts on this?

Freddie: I think electronic controls have reduced the difference between riders in some areas. Being able to ride a bike that I controlled entirely myself was a huge plus for me. However, I have test-ridden MotoGP machines and am familiar with their performance, and I believe I could ride them fast. Conversely, Marc Marquez would probably be fast even on an 80s bike. There's a difference between old and new motorcycles, but no inherent good or bad. It's just a test of your ability to adjust.

Maruyama: I see. Thank you for that excellent answer. So, the rider who works hardest at the time becomes the champion, is that right?

Freddie: Of course, talent is necessary, and you need a good team and motorcycle. But even with those opportunities, you can't capitalize on them without putting in the effort during the off-season. It's just like life; you can't cut corners.

Freddie, a guest at the "CB Fan Meeting 2026" hosted by WITH ME in April, rode the CB1000F. He was often described as having a "special riding style" during his racing days, which stemmed from his philosophy of "not imitating others."

M. Marquez, arguably the "strongest rider" currently. Is his unique riding style a commonality with Freddie?

My Idol Was My Toughest Rival

Maruyama: Who is the rider you are most interested in in current MotoGP?

Freddie: I respect all riders who take risks to win, but of course, it's Marc Marquez, who broke my record as the youngest world champion. He surpassed me after I held the record for 16 years. I became champion in 1983 at 20 years and 6 months old, breaking Mike Hailwood's record that had stood since 1967.

Maruyama: Does that still sting a little?

Freddie: No! No! It's enjoyable to see others succeed. My competitive principle is self-improvement, so I don't pay much attention to others. Even during my racing career, my rival was always myself.

Maruyama: I see, that's wonderful. Who do you think will be the champion this year?

Freddie: I thought it would be Marc, but he got injured. However, I think he'll start climbing back up. Bezzechi is also riding well.

Marquez is currently 3rd in the points standings (as of the German GP). He is only 18 points behind leader J. Martin and 4 points behind 2nd place Ai Ogura!

M. Bezzechi, currently 4th in the standings, 4 points behind Marquez. The fracture sustained at the German GP is painful...

Maruyama: So, it's still uncertain. Now for the last question, which I'm also very interested in. Who is your idol rider, Freddie?

Freddie: I've never chased after anyone because my rival has always been myself. However, I've observed the strengths of many riders and incorporated them into my own approach.

I particularly admired the riders in the American national championships of the 1960s and 70s. And I don't want you to forget Steve Baker, who became the Formula 750 World Champion in 1977. He was the first American world champion. In terms of admiration, Kenny Roberts was also one such figure, and he was also the toughest rival I ever faced.

Maruyama: So, you do respect Kenny Roberts?

Freddie: As a child, I watched Kenny race through the fences at the circuit. His style and technique were completely different from other riders, and even then, he was a special rider. To be able to race against Kenny, my idol, and win in the very end, made the victory even more joyful.

Steve Baker, the first American world champion. He won the then-existing Formula 750 class championship in 1977 aboard a Yamaha YZR750. Photo: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Kenny Roberts, whom Freddie admired and considered his toughest rival. The fierce battles between the two in the 1983 WGP are still legendary.

Maruyama: That's wonderful, thank you very much. That concludes our questions. Freddie, you became a world champion inspired by Kenny, and I raced hard watching you, thinking, "Maybe someday I can surpass him..."

Freddie: I'm incredibly honored. It's a great joy to know that my efforts have influenced other riders and inspired them to race or ride motorcycles.

Maruyama: This interview was full of things I hadn't heard before, and hearing about your respect for Kenny Roberts made me very happy. I hope you'll continue to share messages with the Japanese people in various ways whenever you visit. Thank you very much for your time today.

Freddie: Thank you. Goodbye!(End)

Freddie Was a Big Hit at the "CB Fan Meeting"!

Freddie, a guest at the "CB Fan Meeting 2026" held at Sodegaura Forest Raceway in Chiba Prefecture on April 26th. He was surrounded by many enthusiastic fans and also participated in the endurance race format "Maru-Taiken" alongside Hiroshi Maruyama and others, riding the CB1000F and showcasing his brilliant riding. The closing parade lap was a massive procession as seen in the photo!

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