The 2009 Buell XB Series represents a distinctive line of motorcycles, encompassing models such as the Ulysses XB12X, Ulysses XB12XT, Ulysses Police XB12XP, Lightning XB12Ss, Lightning XB12Scg, Lightning CityX XB9SX, and Firebolt XB12R. Known for its innovative engineering, including an aluminum frame that doubles as an oil reservoir and a perimeter front brake system, Buell motorcycles are celebrated for their sharp handling, robust performance, and unique design ethos. This series, powered by air-cooled V-twin engines with displacements of either 1203 cc or 984 cc, offered a blend of sportbike agility and street-ready versatility, embodying the brand's philosophy of performance and innovation.
This comprehensive English-language repair and service manual provides detailed guidance for maintaining and repairing the 2009 Buell XB Series. It covers a wide array of systems, including general information, routine maintenance, engine removal and installation, fuel and lubrication systems, transmission, steering, suspension, bodywork, and the electrical system. The manual includes diagnostic and repair procedures, maintenance schedules, and technical specifications, making it an essential resource for owners, mechanics, and technicians. Its depth of coverage is suitable for professional use, offering insights into component rebuilds and electrical diagnostics to ensure optimal vehicle performance and longevity.
Covered Models:
Ulysses XB12X, Ulysses XB12XT, Ulysses Police XB12XP, Lightning XB12Ss, Lightning XB12Scg, Lightning CityX XB9SX, Firebolt XB12R
Provider Positioning:
GearHead Manuals positions itself as a primary source for repair, service, and shop manual downloads across various vehicle types.
Digital Vs Print:
Highlights advantages of digital PDFs over traditional paper manuals for convenience, portability, and protection from dirt/grease.
Instant Access:
Emphasizes instant download after payment for immediate use.
Lifetime Protection:
Offers a lifetime protection policy for lost or damaged downloads.
Ease Of Use:
Promotes plain, simple, easy-to-use PDFs without requiring additional software or complex loading.
Product Variety:
Indicates a broad range of manual types (Repair, Service, Workshop, Owner's, Parts Catalogs) and vehicle categories.
Manual Type:
Repair Manual / Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Page Count:
Not Specified (typically comprehensive for a full service manual)
General Information:
Included
Routine Maintenance:
Included
Engine Removal Installation:
Included
Lubrication Cooling:
Included
Engine Specifications:
Included
Transmission Drive Chain:
Included
Steering System:
Included
Shocks Suspension:
Included
Electrical System:
Included
Advanced Troubleshooting:
Included
Diagnostic Procedures:
Yes, including advanced troubleshooting
Repair Procedures:
Yes, comprehensive for covered systems
Maintenance Schedules:
Yes, routine maintenance covered
Component Rebuilds:
Likely included for major components (engine, transmission, suspension)
Electrical Diagnostics:
Yes, includes electrical system and troubleshooting
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
Diagnostic Tools Required:
Implied to cover procedures that may require specialized tools, diagnostic equipment, and torque wrenches.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text content due to being a PDF from a reputable provider.
Download Method:
Instant download after payment, no zip files.
Printable:
Yes, designed for printing specific pages.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Family:
Buell V-Twin (likely Thunderstorm 1200cc or 984cc variants)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, 4-stroke
Displacement Xb12:
1203 cc (73.4 cu in)
Displacement Xb9:
984 cc (60 cu in)
Bore Stroke Xb12:
88.8 mm x 96.8 mm (3.50 in x 3.81 in)
Bore Stroke Xb9:
84.1 mm x 89.1 mm (3.31 in x 3.51 in)
Horsepower Xb12:
Approx. 101 hp @ 6800 rpm (factory specs)
Torque Xb12:
Approx. 84 ft-lbs @ 6000 rpm (factory specs)
Horsepower Xb9:
Approx. 84 hp @ 7400 rpm (factory specs)
Torque Xb9:
Approx. 70 ft-lbs @ 5000 rpm (factory specs)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (likely electronic fuel injection - EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane recommended.
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition (likely distributorless)
Air Cleaner:
Typically located within the frame backbone for models like the XB series.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.4 US quarts (3.2 L) with filter change (verify specific model in manual).
Oil Type:
Motorcycle-specific synthetic or semi-synthetic oil, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 depending on climate (verify in manual).
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Primary Drive:
Automatic belt tensioner, heavy-duty V-belt drive.
Final Drive:
Enclosed, oil-bathed belt drive system with a 2:1 ratio.
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate clutch.
Gearbox Lubricant:
Motorcycle-specific transmission oil or engine oil (verify in manual for specific lubricant requirements).
Frame Type:
Aluminum frame, acting as oil reservoir.
Dry Weight Xb12:
Approx. 430 lbs (195 kg) for Lightning models, higher for Ulysses.
Wet Weight Xb12:
Approx. 455 lbs (206 kg) for Lightning models, higher for Ulysses (with fluids).
Safety Certification:
Designed to meet applicable motorcycle safety standards for the year of manufacture.
Braking System:
Buell Zero-G disc brakes (Perimeter front brake system), 6-piston caliper front, 2-piston caliper rear.
Suspension:
Fully adjustable front forks (e.g., Showa), rear shock absorber with adjustable preload and rebound damping.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail/brake lights, turn signals.
Dashboard:
Analog tachometer and digital speedometer, odometer, trip meter, and other indicator lights.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on some 2009 XB models, particularly the Ulysses.
Diagnostic Port:
Likely includes a diagnostic port for engine management system communication (ECM).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles or 6 months (verify in manual).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 10,000 miles or annually (verify in manual).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000-15,000 miles (verify in manual, often uses Iridium plugs).
Drive Belt Inspection:
Regular inspection for tension, wear, and damage, typically with every oil change.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid (verify in manual).
Transmission Fluid:
Refer to engine oil specifications or specific transmission lubricant for Harley-Davidson V-twins (verify in manual).
Belt Tensioner:
Some older models had issues with automatic belt tensioners requiring replacement or adjustment.
Clutch Discs:
Wear on clutch plates can occur with aggressive riding or high mileage.
Electrical Connections:
Vibration can sometimes lead to loose electrical connections or corrosion if not properly maintained.
Brand Philosophy:
Known for innovative engineering, sportbike performance in streetfighter and sport-touring configurations, and unique 'Buell Drivetrain Vibration
Xb Platform Introduction:
The XB platform, featuring the aluminum frame/swingarm concept and perimeter braking, was introduced in the early 2000s, with the XB9 and XB12 variations evolving significantly over the years.
2009 Updates:
For 2009, models likely received minor updates in styling, color schemes, and potentially ECU remapping for emissions or performance.
Manufacturer:
Buell Motorcycle Company (acquired by Harley-Davidson, then later re-established independently)
Production Period Xb Series:
2003-2011 (though major production ceased earlier)
Historical Recognition:
Buell motorcycles, particularly the XB series, were often praised for their sharp handling, unique design, and strong performance for their class, earning recognition in motorcycle enthusiast media.
Handling Reputation:
Consistently rated highly for its chassis dynamics and sporty feel.
