Market Segment:
Performance Naked Sportbike
Key Competitors:
Ducati Monster series, Triumph Speed Triple, Aprilia Tuono
Unique Selling Points:
Buell's unique chassis design (fuel-in-frame), perimeter front brake, high torque V-twin engine, aggressive styling.
Engine:
Yes (Thunderstorm 1200)
Suspension:
Yes (front fork, rear shock absorber)
Brakes:
Yes (front and rear systems, including caliper and master cylinder service)
Electrical System:
Yes (wiring diagrams, ignition, lighting, charging system)
Fuel System:
Yes (carburetor, fuel pump, lines)
Cooling System:
No (Air-cooled engine)
Wheels And Tires:
Yes (wheel bearing service, tire pressure)
Bodywork And Trim:
Yes (fairings, seat, fuel tank removal/installation)
Maintenance:
Yes (scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements)
Troubleshooting:
Yes (diagnostic procedures, common problems)
Disassembly And Assembly:
Yes (detailed step-by-step for all major components)
Adjustment:
Yes (clutch, throttle, suspension, carburation)
Repair:
Yes (comprehensive repair instructions for all systems)
Installation:
Yes (component installation and reinstallation)
Special Tool Usage:
Yes (references specific tool numbers and shows their application)
Depth:
Extensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete overhaul and diagnostics.
Detail Level:
Step-by-step procedures with detailed illustrations and diagrams.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, four-stroke
Displacement:
1203 cc (73.4 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in x 3.81 in (88.9 mm x 96.8 mm)
Horsepower Est:
~103 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Est:
~84 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Fuel Capacity:
3.7 US gallons (approx. 14 liters) - integrated into the frame
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition
Length:
Approx. 77.6 inches (1970 mm)
Width:
Approx. 30.5 inches (775 mm)
Height:
Approx. 45.1 inches (1145 mm) (seat height varies)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 390 lbs (177 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
N/A (Motorcycle specific)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle specific)
Braking System:
Buell ZTL (Zero Taper Lock) front brake system with 375mm disc and 6-piston caliper; 250mm rear disc with 2-piston caliper.
Suspension Adjustment:
Adjustable front fork (compression/rebound) and rear shock absorber (preload/rebound).
Frame Design:
Aluminum frame with integrated fuel-in-frame technology.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight.
Infotainment System:
N/A (Basic motorcycle instrumentation)
Gauge Cluster:
Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, odometer, trip meters, fuel level warning light, oil pressure warning light, turn signal indicators.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual (typically 3,000-5,000 miles or annually)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual (typically 7,500-10,000 miles)
Belt Tension Check:
Regularly (refer to manual for specific intervals)
Engine Oil Type:
Viscosity and specification (e.g., SAE 20W-50, Harley-Davidson SYN3 or equivalent) as per manual
Engine Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual (typically around 3.0 US quarts)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 recommended (check manual for specific type)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual (often a specific gear oil or heavy-duty lubricant)
Common Wear Items:
Belt drive wear, clutch actuation issues, potential stator or regulator issues, vibration damping components.
Electrical Gremlins:
Buells of this era can sometimes exhibit electrical gremlins; thorough wiring inspection and troubleshooting are key.
Suspension Maintenance:
Regular fork seal and rear shock maintenance is crucial for optimal handling.
Brand Origin:
Founded by Erik Buell, known for innovative motorcycle design and performance.
Xb Series Introduction:
The XB series was introduced in 2002, representing a significant redesign and departure from Buell's earlier models. The XB12S Lightning was introduced later in this line.
Manufacturing Location:
East Troy, Wisconsin, USA
Production Period:
Buell ceased operations in 2009, though some models were produced shortly after. This manual covers the 2006 and 2007 model years.
Motorcycle Journal Reviews:
Praised for its unique engineering, handling characteristics, and powerful V-twin torque. Often noted for its 'raw' riding experience.
Emission Standards:
Compliant with prevailing emission standards for its model year.
