- This topic has 4 replies, 5 voices, and was last updated 14 years, 11 months ago by Munch.
Buell XB9SX
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May 20, 2009 at 3:28 pm #2861WeaponZeroParticipant
Considering getting one of these as an upgrade from my SV650 when I graduate with my fancy schmancy engineering degree. I know that back in the 90s the Buell brand had somewhat of a reputation for being unreliable but I’ve heard that’s changed. Any idea what newer Buells are like? Also, I have no intention of getting a Rotax-engined Buell. Sticking with the sportster-based models if I do get one.
May 20, 2009 at 5:23 pm #18748EliasParticipantI love the Lightning! Before I joined this site, it was actually the bike I was planning on buying! Why not anymore? Because I’m a beginner. But you’re not a beginner, and that makes me jealous. Ok, that said, based on my research I think it would be a great and fun bike. It’s very centered and well-balanced, and I’ve heard good things from people that ride them. Plus, they sound amazing! But in lieu of all this, there are some things that you should be expecting. First, I’ve noticed that Harley dealerships are not keen on their sporty cousins. So expect it to be a hassle to find one and buy one (if you go from a dealership). Even if you go in and ask for a Buell (and if they have one), they will steer you toward a Sportster. Second, I haven’t heard rave reviews of how HD dealerships treat Buell owners when they bring in the bikes for service, accessories or whatever. So just expect an all-around bad experience at the actual dealership. This is not universal, but it is MOST of the time. Third, the lightning is a small bike. I don’t know your build, but I am 6′ 160 and my friends told me it looked like I was riding a pocket bike. Fourth, I’ve heard that parts for it can be expensive. Why? Idk. I would expect them to be cheaper, since it’s American built (and Buell’s are the only American built sport bikes I might add). So, if you can get past the dealer, small size, and maintenance costs, go for it. If I thought I could handle a 900, I wouldn’t let any of those things stop me from getting one. You join a very unique and interesting minority of bikers when you get a Buell. I used to be a part of BuellForums.com before I decided not to get one. Go check it out, a lot of good info over there from actual people who ride them.
May 20, 2009 at 5:46 pm #18752briderdtParticipantLots of info and ranting/raving from Buell owners. Worth checking out.
Also, the Buell isn’t the ONLY American sportbike. Fischer is now distributing (though it uses a Hyosung 650 engine).
I’m partial to the 1125R myself.
May 20, 2009 at 8:10 pm #18763roborabbitParticipantMost bikes are “Made in America”. Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Suzuki make the bikes they market for the USA in the USA. The big four have been manufactering bikes in the USA since 60-70’s. Though they are probably designed in multiple locations.
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*goes off to continue splitting hairs*May 20, 2009 at 11:53 pm #18768MunchParticipant“Techniqually” !? ok for the sake of splitting more hairs… remember you started it first… spell check?
Sorry … being an ass is a habit.. I just ordered a sticker for my helmet :
“Yes I have an inner child, and he is a mean little shit”
fits me perfect.
Oh yea… and my spelling sucks a lot too.
Now days you would be very hard pressed to say anything is built exclusively anywhere specific… it may be “assembled” somewhere but various parts can and likely are to be manufactured in other parts of the world…harsh reality -
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