Buell Lightning XB12S 2008 - Specifications & Review
Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 802173 |
|---|---|
| Category | Naked bike |
| Make | Buell |
| Model | Lightning XB12S |
| Price | US$ 10495. Prices depend on country, taxes, accessories, etc. |
| Year | 2008 |
Chassis, Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
| Frametype | Aluminum frame with Uniplanar™ powertrain vibration isolation system, fuel in frame |
|---|---|
| Frontbrakes | Single disc. 8-piston calipers |
| Frontsuspension | 43 mm Showa inverted forks with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload |
| Fronttyre | 120/70-ZR17 |
| Frontwheeltravel | 120 mm (4.7 inches) |
| Rake | 21.0° |
| Rearbrakes | Single disc. 2-piston calipers |
| Rearbrakesdiameter | 240 mm (9.4 inches) |
| Rearsuspension | Showa coil-over monoshock with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload |
| Reartyre | 180/55-ZR17 |
| Rearwheeltravel | 127 mm (5.0 inches) |
Engine & Transmission
| Clutch | Wet, multi-plate, compensated, reduced lever effort |
|---|---|
| Compression | 10.0:1 |
| Coolingsystem | Oil & air |
| Displacement | 1202.88 ccm (73.40 cubic inches) |
| Enginedetails | V2, four-stroke |
| Exhaustsystem | Tuned, tri-pass resonance chamber with InterActive valve and mass-centralized mounting |
| Fuelsystem | Injection. 49 mm down draft DDFI III fuel injection |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Lubricationsystem | Dry-sump |
| Power | 103.00 HP (75.2 kW)) @ 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 113.90 Nm (11.6 kgf-m or 84.0 ft.lbs) @ 6000 RPM |
| Transmissiontypefinaldrive | Belt |
| Valvespercylinder | 2 |
Other Specifications
| Coloroptions | Midnight Black, Valencia Orange Translucid, Cherry Bomb Translucid |
|---|---|
| Starter | Electric |
Physical Measures & Capacities
| Dryweight | 179.2 kg (395.0 pounds) |
|---|---|
| Fuelcapacity | 14.45 litres (3.82 gallons) |
| Groundclearance | 110 mm (4.4 inches) |
| Overalllength | 1,935 mm (76.2 inches) |
| Overallwidth | 754 mm (29.7 inches) |
| Powerweightratio | 0.5749 HP/kg |
About Buell Lightning XB12S 2008
Introducing the 2008 Buell Lightning XB12S, a striking naked bike designed for those who crave the thrill of the open road without the clutter of unnecessary fairings. With a price tag of $10,495, this motorcycle stands out in a competitive market, appealing to riders looking for performance, unique styling, and a true American motorcycle experience. The XB12S embodies Buell’s innovative spirit, combining advanced engineering with a visceral riding experience that has garnered a loyal following among enthusiasts.
At the heart of the Lightning XB12S lies a robust 1202.88 ccm V-twin engine, delivering an impressive 103 horsepower at 6800 RPM and 113.90 Nm of torque at 6000 RPM. The four-stroke powerhouse is designed for responsiveness and agility, providing riders with an exhilarating ride whether navigating city streets or carving through country roads. The innovative oil and air cooling system, combined with a five-speed gearbox and a belt final drive, ensures a smooth transition through gears while minimizing maintenance. With a power-to-weight ratio of 0.5749 HP/kg, the XB12S feels nimble and alive, making it a joy to ride for both new and seasoned motorcyclists.
The design of the XB12S showcases Buell’s commitment to cutting-edge technology and engineering excellence. The aluminum frame features their Uniplanar™ powertrain vibration isolation system, which significantly enhances comfort while allowing the rider to feel connected to the motorcycle. The Showa suspension system, with adjustable components for both front and rear, ensures that riders can tailor their experience to suit their riding style and terrain. Additionally, the aggressive braking system, boasting an 8-piston caliper up front, delivers exceptional stopping power, making it a reliable partner for spirited riding.
PROs:
- Exceptional Power Delivery: The V-twin engine provides a thrilling combination of horsepower and torque, making for an exhilarating ride.
- Innovative Frame Design: The aluminum frame and vibration isolation system enhance handling and comfort, allowing riders to enjoy longer journeys without fatigue.
- Versatile Suspension: The adjustable Showa suspension allows for customization, enabling riders to fine-tune their setup for various riding conditions.
CONs:
- Limited Wind Protection: As a naked bike, the XB12S offers minimal wind protection, which can be challenging on long highway rides.
- Weight Considerations: At 395 pounds, it’s slightly heavier than some competitors in the naked bike category, potentially affecting agility for some riders.
- Fuel Capacity: With a 3.82-gallon tank, range between fill-ups may be limited compared to sport-touring motorcycles, requiring more frequent stops during long trips.
In summary, the 2008 Buell Lightning XB12S is an enticing option for those who prioritize performance and unique design in a naked bike. Its combination of a powerful engine, innovative technology, and engaging riding dynamics makes it a standout choice for the discerning motorcyclist.