Category:
Sportbike / Performance Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Performance-oriented riders, owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Competitors:
Harley-Davidson Sportster, Ducati Monster, Aprilia Shiver, Triumph Speed Triple (segment focus).
Unique Selling Points:
Buell's distinct chassis design with integrated oil tank in frame, high-performance V-twin engine, agile handling.
Manual Benefit:
Inexpensive way to keep the vehicle working properly, empowers DIY repairs and diagnostics.
Completeness Claim:
100% complete and intact, detailed step-by-step instructions.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of engine components (pistons, cylinders, valves, crankshaft, connecting rods, timing systems).
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, sensors (MAP, IAT, TPS, O2), electronic control module (ECM) diagnostics and calibration.
Transmission:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gear shifting mechanism, gearbox internal components, lubrication.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection and repair, swingarm, steering head, suspension mounting points.
Suspension:
Front fork (showa or similar) disassembly, inspection, service, and adjustment; rear shock absorber service and adjustment.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system components (calipers, master cylinders, rotors, lines), bleeding procedures, fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, voltage regulator), starter system, lighting, horn, instrumentation.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, throttle body.
Exhaust System:
Muffler, header pipes, exhaust seals, emissions control components.
Bodywork And Fairings:
Removal, installation, and repair of all body panels, fairings, and trim.
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, coolant specifications, hose routing.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire fitment, wheel balance.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, brake pad inspection, tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common electrical and mechanical issues, error code interpretation.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system overhauls.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing specific parts like clutch, ignition coils, fuel injectors, wheel bearings, etc.
Adjustments:
Throttle cable, clutch cable, chain, suspension settings.
Torque Specifications:
All critical fasteners and components with recommended torque values.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for complete disassembly and reassembly.
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including interpretation of sensor data and error codes.
Illustration Quality:
Hundreds of detailed illustrations and photos to guide procedures.
Engine Type:
V-Twin, Four-Stroke, Air-Cooled (Buell Thunderstorm V-Twin)
Engine Displacement Xb9:
984 cc (60.0 cubic inches)
Engine Displacement Xb12:
1203 cc (73.4 cubic inches)
Bore Xb9:
3.49 in (88.8 mm)
Bore Xb12:
3.50 in (88.9 mm)
Stroke Xb9:
2.56 in (65.0 mm)
Stroke Xb12:
2.75 in (69.85 mm)
Compression Ratio Xb9:
9.6:1
Compression Ratio Xb12:
9.2:1
Horsepower Xb9:
Approx. 86 hp @ 6600 rpm
Horsepower Xb12:
Approx. 103 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Xb9:
Approx. 70 ft-lbs @ 4900 rpm
Torque Xb12:
Approx. 84 ft-lbs @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Throttle Body Size:
45mm (XB9), 51mm (XB12)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (R+M)/2 minimum.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
3.7 gallons (14.0 Liters) (includes a 1-gallon reserve)
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not subject to standardized car crash testing (e.g., NHTSA, IIHS).
Braking System:
Disc Brakes (Dual front, Single rear), often with Zero Torsion Frame (ZTF) caliper mounting for improved braking feel and performance.
Suspension Stability:
Buell's advanced suspension design contributes to handling stability and rider control.
Frame Design:
Robust frame design and integral oil tank contribute to chassis rigidity and safety.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals for visibility.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Primary Drive Belt Tension:
Check and adjust every 2,500 miles (4,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific intervals, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles.
Air Filter Inspection:
Inspect every 5,000 miles (8,000 km), clean or replace as needed.
Engine Oil Type:
Buell recommends Harley-Davidson SYN3 (20W-50) or equivalent API CI-4/SL rated synthetic oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3 quarts (2.8 Liters) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Fluid.
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent.
Coolant Type:
Buell recommends a specific Buell/Harley-Davidson coolant or a suitable ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Electrical Gremlins:
Occasional issues with wiring harness integrity and sensor connections, especially after prolonged use or exposure.
Belt Tension Management:
Proper belt tension is crucial for longevity; incorrect tension can lead to premature wear or failure.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Early models may experience fuel pump issues, though generally reliable.
Suspension Leaks:
Fork seals and rear shock seals can degrade over time, leading to fluid leaks.
Maintenance Schedule Documentation
Schedule Availability:
The manual provides detailed maintenance schedules and procedures.
Brand Focus:
Sportbike technology, innovative engineering, performance riding.
Ownership:
Originally independent, later acquired by Harley-Davidson (1993-2009).
Predecessors:
Buell S1 Lightning, M2 Cyclone, X1 Lightning.
Introduction Of Xb Platform:
Launched in 2002, featuring the new 'Superbike' (XB) platform.
Firebolt Design:
The Firebolt was characterized by its aggressive styling, underslung exhaust, and unique frame design.
Manufacturing Location:
East Troy, Wisconsin, USA
Production Period:
2002-2010 (for the XB platform).
