The Buell 1125CR stands significantly meaner than when it arrived from the factory, but there were a few straggling issues that needed tightening up before calling it a done deal.
To cure the last hints of red we ditched the OEM badges in favor of some dark grey replacements from a Buell Firebolt. Next on the list of tidying up was a fender eliminator from Jardine. It replaces the ugly stock mud flap with a small, lightweight piece to hang your blinkers and license plate from. It installed in minutes and opened up the flank nicely.
Continuing down the road to a better Buell we decided to paint the OEM caliper black to match the rest of the bike. But before reinstalling the 8-piston ZTL binder it was fortified with Galfer pads. The stock bricks weren't very good on initial bite and left much to be desired at the lever, but these new pads are tons better. Warm-up is quick, and repeated stops come easy and without fade. Initial bite is improved and lever feel is also more precise. It's a seemingly small mod, but it goes a long way.
Finishing off the Buell's upgrades was a set of Pazzo adjustable levers. We ordered these with the standard-length polished levers and the black base/adjusters for a cool custom look. The levers accentuate the lip of the rims and the added adjustability comes in handy (literally) on a daily basis.
The Buell 1125 CR has come a long way since we took delivery, and it didn't kill our bank account either. All said we spent roughly $2500, and in the process boosted performance and poise to the next level. From every angle the Buell is now a better bike thanks to superior looks, more power and improved all-around performance.
No matter your preference, whether it be a sleeper or a show-stopper, this Buell proves that small money can mean big rewards. Now it's time to hang a few wheelies and enjoy the fruits of our labor.
The giant stock fender looks...
The giant stock fender looks like a spaceship compared to the Jardine fender eliminator kit.
Simply remove the mirrors...
Simply remove the mirrors followed by the OEM levers and install the Pazzo units. Reinstall the mirrors and you've been levered.
The red wasn't working, so...
The red wasn't working, so we stole stickers from another Buell and swapped them. A little went a long way in cleaning it up.