Buell Lightning XB12S vs Buell Lightning XB12Ss (2008)
Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Buell Lightning XB12Sstacks up against the Buell Lightning XB12Ss. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.
Spec comparison
| Spec | Buell Lightning XB12S | Buell Lightning XB12Ss |
|---|---|---|
| Model year | 2008 | 2008 |
| Price | $10,495 | $10,495 |
| Engine | 1203 cc | 1203 cc |
| Horsepower | 103 hp | 103 hp |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Weight | 179 kg | 181 kg |
| Fuel capacity | 3.8 L | 4.4 L |
| Fuel type | petrol | petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Front brakes | Single disc. 8-piston calipers | Single disc |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. 2-piston calipers | Single disc |
| Tires | 120/70-ZR17 / 180/55-ZR17 | 120/70-ZR17 / 180/55-ZR17 |
Buell Lightning XB12S vs Buell Lightning XB12Ss — which should you buy?
Picking between the Buell Lightning XB12S and the Buell Lightning XB12Ss usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Buell Lightning XB12S brings 103 hp in a 179 kg package, while the Buell Lightning XB12Ss counters with 103 hp at 181 kg. On price, the Buell Lightning XB12Ss has the lower MSRP.
Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike:

