Market Segment:
Sportbike / Performance Motorcycle
Key Competitors 2004:
Harley-Davidson Sportster models, Ducati Monster series, various Japanese sportbikes.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Buell's unique chassis integration, Harley-Davidson V-twin engine performance, and sports-oriented handling.
Engine System:
Detailed coverage of engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, and troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Includes fuel injection system diagnostics, component testing, and cleaning procedures.
Ignition System:
Covers ignition timing, spark plug specifications, and ignition coil testing.
Transmission System:
Detailed procedures for transmission inspection, repair, and clutch service.
Chassis And Frame:
Information on frame inspection, suspension adjustments, and steering head bearing service.
Braking System:
Covers brake fluid replacement, pad and rotor inspection, caliper service, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides for electrical components, battery maintenance, and lighting systems.
Cooling System:
Radiator service, fan operation, coolant type, and filling procedures.
Exhaust System:
Information on exhaust component inspection and replacement.
Bodywork And Fairings:
Procedures for fairing removal, installation, and minor bodywork repairs.
Wheels And Tires:
Tire pressure recommendations, wheel bearing service, and tire replacement procedures.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspection points.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Comprehensive guides for taking apart and reassembling various vehicle systems and components.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues.
Adjustments:
Calibration and adjustment procedures for engine parameters, suspension, and other systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics, including troubleshooting flowcharts and specific test procedures.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed information for complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Special Tools:
References and illustrations of required special service tools for various procedures.
Quality:
High-resolution PDF, allowing for clear viewing and printing.
Printability:
Yes, all 586 pages are printable.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Software Requirement:
Adobe Reader (or compatible PDF reader).
Operating Systems:
Windows, Mac OS, Linux OS
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, 4-stroke
Bore X Stroke:
88.9 mm x 96.8 mm
Valvetrain:
OHV, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 101 hp @ 6800 rpm
Torque Est:
Approx. 84 ft-lbs @ 6500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), 49mm throttle body
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (or higher) recommended
Display:
Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, odometer, trip meter, clock.
ABS:
Not standard on this model.
Diagnostic Ports:
OBD-II or proprietary diagnostic connector for engine management system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles or annually, consult manual for exact specification.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
Varies, typically Harley-Davidson SYN3 or equivalent motorcycle-specific V-twin oil (viscosity like 20W-50 recommended by some sources).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Common Concern 1:
Potential for vibration-related fastener loosening; importance of using threadlocker and torquing correctly.
Common Concern 2:
Fuel line durability; inspecting and replacing fuel lines as per service recommendations.
Common Concern 3:
Buell-specific clutch cable routing and adjustment can be particular.
Common Concern 4:
Some owners report sensitivity to intake air leaks affecting idle and performance.
Brand Focus:
American-made sportbikes with a focus on handling and performance using Harley-Davidson powertrains.
Xb Series Introduction:
The XB series, including the Firebolt, marked a significant shift for Buell, focusing on mass centralization and a more conventional sportbike design.
Manufacturing Location:
East Troy, Wisconsin, USA
Motorcycle Press Reviews:
Generally praised for its unique design, handling, and torquey V-twin engine, though sometimes criticized for ergonomics and vibration.
Build Quality:
Buell's build quality is typically considered robust, especially for its American-made niche.
