Market Segment:
Sportbike, performance motorcycle
Key Selling Points:
Unique Buell engineering, powerful V-twin engine, sharp handling, distinctive styling, high-performance components.
Competitors:
Dominant Japanese sportbikes of the era (e.g., Yamaha R6, Suzuki GSX-R600, Honda CBR600RR, Kawasaki ZX-6R), European sportbikes (e.g., Ducati 749, Triumph Daytona 600/650).
Design Philosophy:
Buell's 'Zero Torsional Load' frame, Uniplanar powertrain mounting system, mass centralization, perimeter front brake rotor.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, assembly, tuning, troubleshooting for V-twin air-cooled engines.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI) diagnosis, components, pressure testing, injector servicing, throttle body.
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, coil diagnosis, spark plug selection, ECU control.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly, inspection, assembly, lubrication.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, instrumentation, ECU diagnostics.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system inspection, component replacement (calipers, rotors, lines), bleeding procedures, troubleshooting.
Suspension:
Front forks (Show/White Power Upside-Down) and rear shock absorber service, adjustments, fork seal replacement, spring rates.
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis inspection, component replacement (swingarm, subframe), fairing removal and installation, ergonomics adjustments.
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine (note: Buell's unique design may have specific oil cooling aspects covered).
Exhaust System:
Exhaust system inspection, gasket replacement, heat shield maintenance.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug inspection/replacement, chain adjustment, brake pad checks, general lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all major systems, fault code interpretation (if applicable).
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, rebuilding, and system overhauls.
Calibration And Adjustment:
TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) adjustment, idle speed control, suspension sag adjustment, clutch cable free play.
Torque Specifications:
Critical torque values for all fasteners throughout the motorcycle for safe and proper assembly.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
90-degree V-twin, air-cooled, 4-stroke
Engine Displacement Xb12R:
1203 cc (73.4 cu in)
Engine Displacement Xb9R:
984 cc (60.0 cu in)
Bore Xb12R:
3.50 in (88.9 mm)
Bore Xb9R:
3.48 in (88.4 mm)
Stroke Xb12R:
3.91 in (99.3 mm)
Stroke Xb9R:
3.25 in (82.6 mm)
Compression Ratio Xb12R:
9.6:1
Compression Ratio Xb9R:
9.0:1
Horsepower Xb12R:
Approx. 103 hp @ 6800 rpm (stock)
Torque Xb12R:
Approx. 83 ft-lbs @ 5200 rpm (stock)
Horsepower Xb9R:
Approx. 92 hp @ 7500 rpm (stock)
Torque Xb9R:
Approx. 70 ft-lbs @ 5500 rpm (stock)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI),throttle body design by Mikuni
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended
Length:
Approx. 75.2 inches (1910 mm)
Width:
Approx. 28.5 inches (724 mm) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 42.7 inches (1085 mm) to top of windscreen
Wheelbase:
Approx. 52.5 inches (1333 mm)
Dry Weight Xb12R:
Approx. 385 lbs (175 kg)
Dry Weight Xb9R:
Approx. 380 lbs (172 kg)
Fuel Capacity:
3.7 US gallons (14 L), including 1 gallon reserve
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.0 US quarts (2.8 L) with filter change
Instrumentation:
Digital tachometer, analog speedometer, odometer, trip meters, fuel gauge, warning lights (oil pressure, neutral, turn signals, high beam).
ABS:
Not typically available on 2005 Firebolt models.
Diagnostic Port:
Proprietary diagnostic port for ECM reading and tuning.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 2,500 - 5,000 miles or annually (refer to manual for exact recommendation based on usage).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles
Belt Drive Inspection:
Check tension and condition at every service, adjust as needed.
Engine Oil Type:
Buell recommends specific motorcycle-specific engine oil meeting API SG, SH, SJ, or higher classification with JASO MA rating. SAE 20W-50 is common, but check manual.
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid
Fork Oil Type:
Specific fork oil weight and viscosity, typically 5W or 7.5W (refer to manual for exact specification and level).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, fork seals, belt drive components, rear shock absorber.
Potential Electrical:
Wiring harness integrity, regulator/rectifier issues in some early models (less common in 2005).
Performance Tuning:
ECM tuning and exhaust modifications are common for enthusiasts seeking more power, requiring specific knowledge covered in the manual.
Founding Philosophy:
Innovation in motorcycle design, focus on performance, handling, and mass centralization. Association with Harley-Davidson for engine supply.
Xb Series Introduction:
Introduced in 2002, replacing the older S3 Thunderbolt and M2 Cyclone models.
Firebolt Introduction:
The XB9R Firebolt was the first in the XB series, followed by the XB12R with the larger 1203cc engine.
2005 Updates:
Typically involved minor chassis refinements, graphics updates, and potential ECU remapping for performance improvements. Specifics detailed in the manual.
Manufacturing Location:
East Troy, Wisconsin, USA
