Category:
Sportbike / Performance Motorcycle
Positioning:
High-performance, American-made sportbike with a distinct American V-twin character.
Competitors:
Harley-Davidson Sportster variants, European sportbikes (e.g., Ducati), Japanese sportbikes of similar displacement.
Frame:
Buell's signature 'Truss Cantilever' frame with integrated oil tank.
Engine Philosophy:
Sportbike performance adapted to an American V-twin platform.
Handling Characteristics:
Emphasis on mass centralization, stiff chassis, and sporty suspension.
Engine:
V-Twin, Air-Cooled, 1200cc Evolution Engine (XL Evolution based)
Transmission:
5-Speed Constant Mesh
Fuel System:
Carburetion (Keihin CV40), Fuel Injection (Sportster-based systems on some variants, though S3T typically carbureted)
Electrical System:
Ignition, Lighting, Charging System, Starter, Wiring Diagrams
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, Forks (Show 43mm USD), Rear Shocks (Dyna-style adjustable), Swingarm, Bearings
Brakes:
Front: Dual Disc with 4-piston calipers, Rear: Single Disc with 2-piston caliper
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire fitting and maintenance
Bodywork And Fairings:
Fairing removal/installation, seat, fuel tank, fenders
Maintenance:
Routine checks, lubrication, filter replacement, fluid changes, spark plug service
Repair:
Engine disassembly/assembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, electrical component repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults and performance issues
Diagnostics:
System checks, fault code interpretation (if applicable), mechanical testing
Assembly Disassembly:
Step-by-step guides for major component removal and installation
Depth:
Detailed, covering both routine maintenance and in-depth mechanical and electrical repairs.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes troubleshooting charts and specific diagnostic procedures.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Extensive use of diagrams, schematics, and exploded views.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder
Displacement:
1203 cc (73.4 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
3.496 in x 4.25 in (88.8 mm x 108 mm)
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 91 hp @ 5500 rpm (Manufacturer estimates vary, typically cited in this range)
Torque Est:
Approx. 87 ft-lbs @ 4000 rpm (Manufacturer estimates vary)
Fuel Capacity:
3.7 gallons (14.0 liters)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than automotive crash tests)
Braking System:
Powerful dual-disc front and single-disc rear brakes with good feel.
Frame Design:
Stiff chassis contributes to predictable handling.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, taillight, turn signals.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles or annually, refer to manual for exact mileage and time-based recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 10,000-15,000 miles or as needed based on operating conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific API classification and viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 20W-50 is common for air-cooled V-twins).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 quarts (2.8 liters) with filter change, refer to manual for precise capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for confirmation and specific recommendations)
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Lubricant or equivalent, capacity typically around 1 quart.
Carburetor Tuning:
CV40 carburetors can require periodic adjustment for optimal performance and emissions.
Belt Tension:
Proper belt tension is crucial for longevity and performance; manual will detail adjustment procedure.
Suspension Wear:
Like any motorcycle of this age, suspension components may require refurbishment or replacement.
Philosophy:
Engineering-driven, performance-focused motorcycles utilizing sportbike chassis dynamics with American V-twin power.
Predecessors:
Buell S2 Thunderbolt, S3 Lightning
Distinctive Features:
The S3 Thunderbolt was known for its sportbike handling and performance capabilities, a departure for Harley-Davidson affiliated brands at the time.
Manufacturer:
Buell Motorcycle Company (a division of Harley-Davidson)
Manufacturing Location:
East Troy, Wisconsin, USA