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
| Spec | Buell Lightning XB12S | Buell M2 Cyclone |
|---|---|---|
| Model year | 2008 | 2002 |
| Price | $10,495 | — |
| Engine | 1203 cc | 1203 cc |
| Horsepower | 103 hp | 91 hp |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Weight | 179 kg | 197 kg |
| Seat height | — | 31 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 3.8 L | 5.0 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 / 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:

