Positioning:
High-performance sport motorcycle aimed at enthusiasts seeking unique engineering and a thrilling riding experience.
Competitors:
Competed with other V-twin sportbikes from Harley-Davidson (Buell's parent company), Japanese manufacturers (e.g., Ducati, Yamaha), and European brands known for their sportbike offerings.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized mass centralization with an underslung exhaust, frame-mounted fuel cell, and Zero Torsional Load (ZTL) front braking system.
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, and tuning for both XB9 and XB12 variants.
Transmission:
Gearbox inspection, maintenance, repair, clutch operation, and drive belt system.
Chassis:
Frame inspection, structural integrity, subframe mounting, and overall chassis geometry.
Steering:
Steering head bearing service, fork disassembly, internal components, and alignment procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component service, including fork seals, damping adjustments, and shock absorber maintenance.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system overhaul, caliper service, rotor replacement, fluid bleeding, and ABS system (if applicable).
Electrical:
Full electrical system schematics, wiring diagrams, component testing, ignition system, lighting, battery management, and sensor diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system diagnostics, injector service, fuel pump, and fuel tank maintenance.
Lubrication:
Engine oil change procedures, filter replacement, and lubrication points throughout the motorcycle.
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, seat system, plastics, and cosmetic component service.
Wheels Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire mounting and balancing, and rim specifications.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid level checks, filter changes, and routine inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common issues, error code interpretation, and symptom-based problem solving.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair, replacement, and overhaul.
Diagnostics:
Detailed procedures for using diagnostic tools and interpreting sensor data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic information.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, Thunderstorm engine
Displacement Xb12:
1203 cc
Horsepower Xb9:
Approx. 92 hp @ 7500 rpm
Torque Xb9:
Approx. 70 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm
Horsepower Xb12:
Approx. 103 hp @ 6800 rpm
Torque Xb12:
Approx. 84 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Ignition System:
Digital electronic ignition
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Instrumentation:
Digital instrument cluster providing speed, RPM, gear position, fuel level, and diagnostic information.
ABS:
Optional ABS was available on some models, detailed in the manual.
Diagnostics:
ECU diagnostic port allowing connection to specialized tools for data retrieval and analysis.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Drive Belt Tension:
Regular checks and adjustment recommended as per manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific mileage intervals based on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
Buell recommends specific V-twin motorcycle oils, typically 20W-50 (refer to manual for exact specification and Harley-Davidson oil equivalents).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific transmission lubricant requirements.
Common Concerns:
Stator failures, fuel pump issues, and electrical connector corrosion can be potential concerns on these models. The manual provides troubleshooting for these.
Fuel System Maintenance:
Periodic cleaning of fuel injectors and checking fuel pressure are important for optimal performance.
Heritage:
Founded by former Harley-Davidson engineer Erik Buell, focusing on sportbike technology derived from racing.
Xb Platform:
The XB platform, introduced in 2003, represented a significant departure from Buell's earlier models, emphasizing radical engineering and handling.
Production Period:
Buell motorcycles were produced from 1983 until 2011.