Buell XB9R Firebolt vs Ducati Desmosedici RR (2008)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Buell XB9R Fireboltstacks up against the Ducati Desmosedici RR. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecBuell XB9R FireboltDucati Desmosedici RR
Model year20022008
Price
Engine984 cc989 cc
Horsepower92 hp197 hp
Torque92 Nm116 Nm
Weight175 kg171 kg
Seat height31 mm33 mm
Fuel capacity3.7 L4.0 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed6-speed
Front brakesSingle discDouble disc
Rear brakesSingle discSingle disc
Tires120/70-ZR17 / 180/55-ZR17 120/70-17 / 200/55-16

Buell XB9R Firebolt vs Ducati Desmosedici RR — which should you buy?

Picking between the Buell XB9R Firebolt and the Ducati Desmosedici RR usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Buell XB9R Firebolt brings 92 hp in a 175 kg package, while the Ducati Desmosedici RR counters with 197 hp at 171 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: