Buell Lightning XB12S vs Buell M2 Cyclone (2008)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Buell Lightning XB12Sstacks up against the Buell M2 Cyclone. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecBuell Lightning XB12SBuell M2 Cyclone
Model year20082002
Price$10,495
Engine1203 cc1203 cc
Horsepower103 hp91 hp
Torque114 Nm115 Nm
Weight179 kg197 kg
Seat height31 mm
Fuel capacity3.8 L5.0 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed5-speed
Front brakesSingle disc. 8-piston calipersSingle disc
Rear brakesSingle disc. 2-piston calipersSingle disc
Tires120/70-ZR17 / 180/55-ZR17 120/70-ZR17 / 170/60-ZR17

Buell Lightning XB12S vs Buell M2 Cyclone — which should you buy?

Picking between the Buell Lightning XB12S and the Buell M2 Cyclone 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 M2 Cyclone counters with 91 hp at 197 kg.

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: