When the Buell Firebolt XB9R hit the market in 2003 it was the talk of the industry. It was one part revolutionary, one part history, but all together different. Leading the technological front was the unique frame that also doubled as a gas tank. That's right, you fueled your frame not the tank. Continuing the tech trend, the swingarm carried the engine oil and a traditional hub-mounted rotor gave way to a perimeter-mounted unit. The giant Zero Torsional Load (ZTL) front rotor was mounted to the lip of the rim. Another defining feature (a trend Buell started) was the "mass centralized muffler" that exited under the bike.
While the all-new motor was a first for Buell, in no way was it as hi-tech as the rest of the package. In typical Buell fashion the new XB9R used a belt-drive system and a modified version of the Harley Davidson Sportster motor. That's right, a 984cc pushrod, air cooled 45-degree V-twin powered the new XB9R. Torque rich but hardly a high-RPM ripper, some loved it, some hated it, but power numbers were still impressive with 92 HP at 7,200 RPM and 68 LB-FT at 5,500 RPM. Though high 11-second quarter mile times were stout, performance lagged behind 600cc sportbikes.
Recognizing the need for more speed, Buell introduced the XB12R in 2004. A punched-up 1200cc version of the 9R, the bigger brother pounded out 103 HP at 6,800 RPM and 84 LB-FT at 6,000 RPM. The new big bruiser was good for mid 11's in the quarter and had enough torque to move a house.
As hotly debated as the Firebolt's propulsion was its handling. Some swore by it, some swore at it, but ridden correctly it was wicked fast. Packing the industry's shortest wheelbase of just 52-inches with an ultra steep 21-degree fork angle led to some interesting handling characteristics. It was an eager companion on a twisty road if you had the strong-arm to hold the bars, as the Firebolt had a tendency to stand-up while kicked over--an idiosyncrasy that was only magnified while on the brakes.
Though niche-like in its following, Buell fans love their Firebolts. Save for some heat creeping off the back cylinder and a belt problem that was fixed with a pulley upgrade on later models, owners having nothing but praise. Many examples have proven reliable over 30,000 miles and owners use them as track tools, commuter rigs and weekend warriors. Most owners mark the abundance of torque and deep exhaust note as their favorite characteristics. As such, popular additions include exhaust and fueling upgrades as well as aesthetical bits to bring out the inner beast.
If you're looking for a sportbike that's different from the rest and prefer stump-pulling torque over high-RPM power, a Buell Firebolt just might be your rig. Have we mentioned used prices are extremely affordable as well?
2003-2007 XB9R
When the Firebolt hit showrooms in 2003 it was the talk of the town. Technoweenies loved the ZTL front brake, the short 52-inch wheelbase, mass centralized muffler, oil in the swingarm and fuel in the frame. American Muscle fans loved the Sportster-derived, 984cc, air-cooled, 45-degree pushrod V-twin that was good for 92 HP, 68 LB-FT of torque and high 11's in the quarter.
2004-Present XB12R
Recognizing game, Buell punched the Sporty motor to a full 1200cc. The result was 103 HP, a ground pounding 84 LB-FT of torque and mid 11's at the strip. Though looks were similar, the 12R always got the dope bits like the famous translucent gold wheels and matching windscreen.