Category:
Performance Sportbike
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, owners, and independent service technicians seeking detailed technical information for maintenance and repair.
Comparison Points:
Competed against other sportbikes of its era, often praised for its unique V-twin engine character, agile handling, and distinct styling. Key competitors included Ducati Monster series, Harley-Davidson Sportster variants, and Japanese inline-four sportbikes.
Design Philosophy:
Buell's philosophy emphasized integrated design, with the frame acting as a fuel reservoir and the swingarm acting as an oil reservoir, leading to a low center of gravity and excellent mass centralization.
Engine Layout:
V-twin engine, typically a development of Harley-Davidson's Evolution engine, tuned for Buell's performance requirements.
Engine Mechanics:
Detailed information on engine disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, and repair for both XB9 and XB12 variants. Includes cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, valve train, and lubrication system.
Fuel System:
Coverage of fuel injection system components, fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, fuel pressure regulator, and troubleshooting for fuel delivery issues.
Ignition System:
Details on ignition coils, spark plugs, ignition control module (ECM/ECU), timing, and troubleshooting ignition system faults.
Transmission:
Maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting for the gearbox, clutch, and drive belt system.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component identification, troubleshooting for lighting, starting system, charging system, instrumentation, and electronic control units.
Suspension:
Information on front forks (Showa USD), rear shock absorber (WP Suspension), adjustments, maintenance, and repair procedures.
Brakes:
Details on front and rear braking systems, including caliper maintenance, brake fluid replacement, disc inspection, and troubleshooting.
Chassis And Frame:
Information on the Uniplanar frame design, swingarm, steering head, and related components.
Bodywork And Fairings:
Procedures for removal, installation, and repair of body panels, fairings, and associated hardware.
Wheels And Tires:
Information on wheel bearing maintenance, tire inspection, and replacement procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, including oil changes, filter replacements, chain/belt adjustment, lubrication, and general inspections.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common mechanical and electrical issues, including error codes where applicable.
Engine Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for complete engine disassembly, inspection of internal components, rebuilding, and reassembly.
Transmission Repair:
Detailed procedures for clutch replacement, gearbox disassembly and assembly, and drive belt service.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Guidance on using multimeters and diagnostic tools to troubleshoot electrical circuits and identify faulty components.
Suspension Adjustment And Service:
Procedures for adjusting suspension settings, fork seal replacement, and rear shock servicing.
Brake System Service:
Instructions for bleeding brake systems, replacing brake pads and rotors, and servicing calipers.
Bodywork Repair And Refinishing:
Guidance on panel removal/installation, minor bodywork repairs, and painting procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and chassis component repair.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, 4-stroke
Displacement Xb9:
984 cc (60 cubic inches)
Displacement Xb12:
1203 cc (73.4 cubic inches)
Bore Xb9:
3.50 in (88.9 mm)
Bore Xb12:
3.44 in (87.4 mm)
Stroke Xb9:
3.13 in (79.5 mm)
Stroke Xb12:
4.25 in (108.0 mm)
Compression Ratio Xb9:
10.0:1
Compression Ratio Xb12:
9.2:1
Horsepower Xb9:
Approx. 83 hp @ 6600 rpm (est.)
Horsepower Xb12:
Approx. 103 hp @ 6600 rpm (est.)
Torque Xb9:
Approx. 70 ft-lbs @ 5000 rpm (est.)
Torque Xb12:
Approx. 85 ft-lbs @ 3600 rpm (est.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific interval.
Drive Belt Check Interval:
Regular inspection for wear and proper tension at each service interval. Specific replacement interval will be in the manual.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Recommended replacement typically around 10,000-15,000 miles, depending on plug type. Manual will specify.
Engine Oil Type:
Varies by model year and engine specifications. Typically SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 motorcycle-specific oil meeting API SG, SH, SJ, SL, or higher classifications. Consult manual for exact specification, often mentioning Harley-Davidson equivalents.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3 US quarts (2.8 L) for XB9, and 3.4 US quarts (3.2 L) for XB12. Exact capacity to be confirmed in manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Typically a dedicated transmission fluid or SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Consult manual for specific recommendation.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or loose connections in the electrical system can lead to intermittent issues. Regular inspection and dielectric grease are recommended.
Fuel Line Cracking:
Older fuel lines can become brittle and crack, leading to fuel leaks. Replacement with ethanol-resistant lines is advisable.
Belt Tensioner Wear:
The belt tensioner mechanism can wear over time, potentially leading to noise or premature belt wear. Regular checks are important.
Brand Philosophy:
Focus on performance, handling, and innovative engineering, often derived from racing and sportbike technology. Buell was known for its avant-garde designs and V-twin sportbike concept.
Xb Series Introduction:
The XB series, including the Firebolt, was introduced in 2002, representing a significant departure from Buell's earlier models and establishing the brand's modern identity.
2007 Updates:
The 2007 model year saw refinements in suspension, braking, and potentially minor engine tuning updates over previous iterations. The XB9R and XB12R represented different engine displacement options within the Firebolt line.
Manufacturer:
Buell Motorcycle Company (an Erik Buell Racing company at the time of manufacture, originally a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson)
Production Period:
Buell ceased motorcycle production in 2011, though Erik Buell Racing (EBR) continues to produce high-performance motorcycles and parts.
