Buell Blast 2003 - Specifications & Review

Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 141002 |
|---|---|
| Category | Naked bike |
| Make | Buell |
| Model | Blast |
| Year | 2003 |
Chassis, Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
| Frametype | Wide beam HSLA steel backbone frame with built-in oil reservoir; Uniplanar powertrain vibration isolation system; Titanium color finish |
|---|---|
| Frontbrakes | Single disc |
| Frontbrakesdiameter | 320 mm (12.6 inches) |
| Frontsuspension | Showa® conventional 37 mm forks |
| Fronttyre | 100/80-16 50S |
| Frontwheeltravel | 102 mm (4.0 inches) |
| Rearbrakes | Single disc |
| Rearbrakesdiameter | 220 mm (8.7 inches) |
| Rearsuspension | Showa® non-adjustable gas charge compression shocks |
| Reartyre | 120/80-16 60S |
| Rearwheeltravel | 102 mm (4.0 inches) |
Engine & Transmission
| Borexstroke | 88.9 x 79.4 mm (3.5 x 3.1 inches) |
|---|---|
| Compression | 9.2:1 |
| Coolingsystem | Air |
| Displacement | 492.00 ccm (30.02 cubic inches) |
| Enginedetails | Single cylinder, four-stroke |
| Fuelsystem | Carburettor |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Power | 34.00 HP (24.8 kW)) @ 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 40.68 Nm (4.1 kgf-m or 30.0 ft.lbs) @ 5500 RPM |
| Transmissiontypefinaldrive | Belt |
| Valvespercylinder | 2 |
Other Specifications
| Coloroptions | Midnight Black, Sunfire Yellow, Sunset Orange |
|---|
Physical Measures & Capacities
| Alternateseatheight | 648 mm (25.5 inches) If adjustable, highest setting. |
|---|---|
| Dryweight | 163.3 kg (360.0 pounds) |
| Fuelcapacity | 10.60 litres (2.80 gallons) |
| Groundclearance | 135 mm (5.3 inches) |
| Powerweightratio | 0.2082 HP/kg |
| Seatheight | 699 mm (27.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
About Buell Blast 2003
Introducing the 2003 Buell Blast, a motorcycle that embodies the spirit of simplicity and raw performance in the naked bike category. Designed with both new riders and those seeking an agile urban commuter in mind, the Blast stands out with its approachable seat height and lightweight frame, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced riders. With a unique blend of American engineering and a focus on ease of handling, the Buell Blast captures the essence of what it means to enjoy the open road without the complexity often associated with larger machines.
At the heart of the Buell Blast is its robust 492cc single-cylinder, four-stroke engine, delivering a spirited 34 horsepower at 6,500 RPM. This power is complemented by a torque rating of 40.68 Nm at 5,500 RPM, ensuring a responsive ride that is both engaging and fun. The air-cooled engine, with its 9.2:1 compression ratio, is not only efficient but also easy to maintain, thanks to its simple carburettor fuel system. Riders will appreciate the smooth 5-speed gearbox and belt final drive, which offer a seamless transition through the gears and contribute to the bike's light, nimble feel on the road.
The 2003 Buell Blast boasts a distinctive wide beam HSLA steel backbone frame that is not only visually striking but also functional, featuring a built-in oil reservoir and a Uniplanar powertrain vibration isolation system. This design philosophy enhances rider comfort while minimizing vibrations, allowing for longer rides without fatigue. The front and rear Showa suspension with 4 inches of travel provides a well-balanced ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. With a weight of just 360 pounds and a seat height of 27.5 inches, the Blast is exceptionally manageable, offering riders confidence in various riding conditions. Available in vibrant colors like Midnight Black, Sunfire Yellow, and Sunset Orange, the Blast is not just a motorcycle; it's a statement.
PROS:
- User-Friendly Design: Lightweight and low seat height make it accessible for riders of all experience levels.
- Simple Maintenance: The air-cooled engine and carburettor fuel system contribute to easy upkeep, ideal for new riders.
- Responsive Performance: The single-cylinder engine offers engaging torque and power delivery for city commuting and weekend rides.
CONS:
- Limited Power for Highway Riding: While great for city use, the 34 HP may feel underwhelming for long highway trips or aggressive rides.
- Basic Features: Lacks some advanced technological features found in modern motorcycles, which may not appeal to tech-savvy riders.
- Suspension Adjustability: The non-adjustable rear suspension may not cater to all rider preferences, limiting customization options for comfort.
In summary, the 2003 Buell Blast is a motorcycle that delivers a compelling mix of performance, comfort, and simplicity, making it an ideal choice for those looking to dive into the world of motorcycling or for seasoned riders seeking an agile, easy-to-handle machine for everyday use.
