
Buell Lightning XB12S
Key specifications
Overview
Introducing the 2005 Buell Lightning XB12S, a naked bike that embodies the spirit of American motorcycling with its bold design and performance-oriented engineering. Priced at approximately $10,495, this model stands out in the crowded motorcycle market by offering a unique blend of power, agility, and innovative features. With its distinctive styling and robust build, the XB12S caters to riders who crave a visceral connection to the road, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts and casual riders alike. At the heart of the Buell Lightning XB12S lies a potent 1203cc V-twin engine that delivers a thrilling 92 horsepower at 6800 RPM and an impressive torque of 113.9 Nm at 6000 RPM. This powerplant is not just about numbers; it offers a rich, engaging riding experience with an exhilarating response that propels you forward with authority. The bike's 5-speed gearbox, combined with a smooth shaft drive, allows for seamless gear transitions, making it a joy to ride in both urban settings and on winding roads. The oil and air cooling system ensures that the engine stays in optimal condition, even during spirited rides, while the lightweight frame contributes to remarkable agility and handling. The Lightning XB12S is packed with advanced features that enhance both performance and comfort. The aluminum frame incorporates Buell's innovative Uniplanar™ powertrain vibration isolation system, which minimizes engine vibrations for a smoother ride. The Showa® suspension system, featuring an inverted front fork and a rear coil-over monoshock, offers adjustable settings for compression and rebound damping, allowing riders to fine-tune their experience based on personal preferences. Safety is paramount, with the unique ZTL™ front brake system that utilizes a single disc and a 6-piston caliper to deliver exceptional stopping power. Furthermore, the bike's sleek design is available in striking color options like Midnight Black, Racing Red, and Thrust Blue, ensuring that it catches the eye as much as it thrills the rider. **
Pros
- Powerful Engine: The V-twin engine delivers robust performance, providing an exhilarating ride with impressive torque.
- Innovative Frame and Suspension: The lightweight aluminum frame and advanced suspension system allow for agile handling and a comfortable ride.
- Unique Styling: The naked bike design and striking color options make the XB12S visually appealing and distinctive on the road.
Cons
- Limited Wind Protection: The naked bike design may expose riders to wind and elements, which can be uncomfortable on longer rides.
- Niche Market Appeal: The Buell brand has a niche following, which might limit aftermarket parts availability and community support.
- Weight Considerations: At 395 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for its class, but some riders may prefer a more robust feel for long-distance touring.
Technical details
Source specification data
- Make
- Buell
- Model
- Lightning XB12S
- Price
- S
- $ 10495.
- Prices
- depend on country, taxes, accessories, etc.
- Category
- Naked bike
- Starter
- Electric
- Color Options
- Midnight Black, Racing Red, Thrust Blue
- Power
- 92.00 HP (67.2 kW)) @ 6800 RPM
- Clutch
- Wet, multi-plate, compensated
- Torque
- 113.90 Nm (11.6 kgf-m or 84.0 ft.lbs) @ 6000 RPM
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Fuel System
- Injection
- . 49 mm down draft
- I
- fuel injection
- Bore X Stroke
- 3.5 x 3.8 mm (0.1 x 0.2 inches)
- Compression
- 10.0:1
- Displacement
- 1203.00 ccm (73.41 cubic inches)
- Cooling System
- Oil & air
- Engine Details
- V2, four-stroke
- Exhaust System
- Large
- diameter headers with
- Active
- exhaust
- Lubrication System
- Dry sump
- Valves Per Cylinder
- 2
- Transmission Type Final Drive
- Shaft drive (cardan)
- Dry Weight
- 179.2 kg (395.0 pounds)
- Seat Height
- 765 mm (30.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
- Fuel Capacity
- 13.00 litres (3.43 gallons)
- Overall Width
- 754 mm (29.7 inches)
- Overall Height
- 1,074 mm (42.3 inches)
- Overall Length
- 1,935 mm (76.2 inches)
- Ground Clearance
- 110 mm (4.4 inches)
- Power Weight Ratio
- 0.5135 HP/kg
- Rake
- 21.0°
- Trail
- 84 mm (3.3 inches)
- Rear Tyre
- 180/55-ZR17
- Frame Type
- Aluminum
- frame with
- Uniplanar
- ™ powertrain vibration isolation system -
- Fuel
- in
- Front Tyre
- 120/70-ZR17
- Rear Brakes
- Single
- disc.
- Stainless
- steel, single piston, floating caliper, fixed rotor
- Front Brakes
- Single
- disc.
- L
- ™ type brake, 6-piston, fixed caliper, single-sided, inside out, stainless steel, floating rotor
- Rear Suspension
- Showa coil-over monoshock with remote, underseat reservoir and adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
- Front Suspension
- Showa® inverted fork with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
- Rear Wheel Travel
- 127 mm (5.0 inches)
- Front Wheel Travel
- 120 mm (4.7 inches)
- Rear Brakes Diameter
- 240 mm (9.4 inches)
- Front Brakes Diameter
- 336 mm (13.2 inches)