The Buell XB9 is a series of sport bikes that was made by Buell Motorcycle Company in the United States.

Buell XB9
ManufacturerBuell
Production2000–2009
ClassSport bike

Specifications edit

The XB9 is powered by a Harley-Davidson 45° V-twin four-stroke engine, with a total displacement of 984 cm³, air and oil cooled and a 10:1 compression ratio. Lubrication is dry sump, the exhaust passes under the engine with a 2 into 1 layout. Distribution takes place via two valves controlled by pushrods and rocker arms with hydraulic valve lifter and hydraulic valve clearance compensation. Powering it is an electronic fuel injection system, with a 45mm throttle body. The engine is assisted by a 5-speed gearbox which transfers power through a toothed belt final drive.[1]

 
XB9SX

Unlike the Buell XB12 series models introduced in 2004 which have a larger powerplant cubic capacity of 219 cc, the engine has a slightly shorter stroke.[2] This gives the XB9 a higher engine speed, approximately 1000 rpm higher.

Versions edit

In 2002, the first evolution of the bike was introduced, the Firebolt XB9R, a version with a semi-fairing.[3][4] Then came the 'Lightning XB9S, a naked version with a small fairing and a shorter rear frame,[5] inspired by the previous S1 Lightning and X1 Lightning models.[6]

At the end of 2004, the Lightning CityX XB9SX arrived, a version with motocross-style elements (handlebar, handguards, protective grille placed on the headlight)[7] and a 92 HP engine at 7500 rpm.[8]

References edit

  1. ^ Cycle World Magazine. January 2002. Retrieved January 7, 2023.
  2. ^ American Motorcyclist. American Motorcyclist Assoc. October 2003. Retrieved 2023-01-07.
  3. ^ "Test Buell XB9R Firebolt". www.motociclismo.it. Retrieved 2023-01-07.
  4. ^ "Buell XB9R Firebolt". MotorBox (in Italian). Retrieved 2023-01-07.
  5. ^ Spartaco Belloni. "In sella alla Buell XB9S Lightning". MotorBox (in Italian). Retrieved 2023-01-07.
  6. ^ American Motorcyclist. American Motorcyclist Assoc. December 2002. Retrieved 2023-01-07.
  7. ^ Alfredo Verdicchio. "Buell XB9 SX City Cross". MotorBox (in Italian). Retrieved 2023-01-07.
  8. ^ Popular Mechanics. Hearst Magazines. December 2004. Retrieved 2023-01-07.