
Buell XB9SX Lightning CityX
Key specifications
Overview
Introducing the 2010 Buell XB9SX Lightning CityX, a naked bike that perfectly embodies the spirit of urban riding. With its striking design and powerful performance, this motorcycle is tailored for those who crave a blend of agility and attitude. Positioned as a versatile streetfighter, the XB9SX is engineered for the rider who seeks a thrilling experience without sacrificing practicality. With Buell's signature craftsmanship and a raw, muscular aesthetic, this bike stands out in a crowded market of naked bikes, appealing to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike. At the heart of the Lightning CityX lies a robust 983cc, V-twin, four-stroke engine that delivers an exhilarating 84.48 horsepower at 7500 RPM. With a torque output of 81 Nm at 6750 RPM, the bike accelerates with an impressive punch, making it perfect for quick city sprints or spirited rides on twisty backroads. The DDFI II fuel injection system ensures smooth throttle response, while the innovative oil and air cooling keeps the engine performing optimally even during extended rides. The 5-speed gearbox paired with a belt final drive provides seamless gear changes and low maintenance. This motorcycle's lightweight construction, at just 177 kg, combined with a power-to-weight ratio of 0.4773 HP/kg, results in a nimble and responsive ride that invites aggressive cornering and confident maneuverability. Buell has incorporated several key features that enhance the riding experience and overall functionality of the XB9SX. The black aluminum frame not only looks sleek but also integrates the Uniplanar™ powertrain vibration isolation system, minimizing rider fatigue on longer journeys. The advanced suspension setup, featuring 43 mm Showa inverted forks at the front and a coil-over monoshock at the rear, offers adjustable compression and rebound damping, allowing riders to tailor the handling characteristics to their preference. Additionally, the ZTL™ brake system employs a single 375 mm disc with a six-piston caliper for exceptional stopping power, ensuring safety and control in all riding conditions. The electric start, coupled with an array of digital gauges including a speedometer, tachometer, and trip meter, rounds out the modern features of this bike. **
Pros
- Powerful Engine Performance: The V-twin engine provides strong acceleration and torque, making it ideal for spirited riding.
- Lightweight and Agile: Weighing only 177 kg, the XB9SX offers excellent maneuverability, perfect for urban environments.
- Advanced Suspension and Braking: The adjustable Showa suspension and powerful ZTL brake system enhance both comfort and safety on the road.
Cons
- Limited Storage Options: As a naked bike, there’s minimal space for carrying gear, which may be a drawback for longer trips.
- Seat Height May Not Suit Everyone: With a seat height of 765 mm, shorter riders may find it challenging to flat-foot the bike.
- Fuel Capacity: The 14.45-litre tank might require more frequent stops on longer rides, which could be inconvenient for some riders.
Technical details
Source specification data
- Make
- Buell
- Model
- XB9SX Lightning CityX
- Category
- Naked bike
- Starter
- Electric
- Comments
- Electronic speedometer, tachometer, odometer; dual tripmeter; high beam, neutral, oil, low fuel (plus, odometer shows miles traveled on reserve), turn signal and engine diagnostic indicator lamps; clock.
- Color Options
- Midnight Black
- ,
- Kick Ash Translucent
- ,
- Power
- 84.48 HP (61.7 kW)) @ 7500 RPM
- Clutch
- Wet, multi-plate, compensated
- Torque
- 81.00 Nm (8.3 kgf-m or 59.7 ft.lbs) @ 6750 RPM
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Fuel System
- Injection
- . 45 mm down draft
- I
- fuel injection
- Bore X Stroke
- 88.9 x 79.4 mm (3.5 x 3.1 inches)
- Compression
- 10.0:1
- Displacement
- 983.28 ccm (60.00 cubic inches)
- Cooling System
- Oil & air
- Engine Details
- V2, four-stroke
- Exhaust System
- Tuned, tri-pass resonance chamber with mass-centralised mounting
- Valves Per Cylinder
- 2
- Transmission Type Final Drive
- Belt
- Dry Weight
- 177.0 kg (390.2 pounds)
- Seat Height
- 765 mm (30.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
- Oil Capacity
- 2.40 litres (0.16 quarts)
- Fuel Capacity
- 14.45 litres (3.82 gallons)
- Overall Width
- 754 mm (29.7 inches)
- Overall Length
- 1,935 mm (76.2 inches)
- Ground Clearance
- 110 mm (4.4 inches)
- Power Weight Ratio
- 0.4773 HP/kg
- Rake
- 21.0°
- Rear Tyre
- 180/55-ZR17
- Frame Type
- Black
- aluminium frame with
- Uniplanar
- ™ powertrain vibration isolation system, fuel in frame
- Front Tyre
- 120/70-ZR17
- Rear Brakes
- Single
- disc.
- Two
- -piston, direct mount caliper; stainless steel, fixed rotor
- Front Brakes
- Single
- disc.
- L
- ™ brake, 6-piston, fixed caliper; 375 mm, single-sided, inside-out, stainless steel, floating rotor
- Rear Suspension
- Showa coil-over monoshock with remote, under-seat reservoir and adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
- Front Suspension
- 43 mm Showa inverted forks with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
- Rear Wheel Travel
- 129 mm (5.1 inches)
- Front Wheel Travel
- 120 mm (4.7 inches)
- Rear Brakes Diameter
- 240 mm (9.4 inches)
- Front Brakes Diameter
- 375 mm (14.8 inches)