Harley-Davidson Sportster Roadster vs Buell XB12R Firebolt (2019)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Harley-Davidson Sportster Roadsterstacks up against the Buell XB12R Firebolt. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHarley-Davidson Sportster RoadsterBuell XB12R Firebolt
Model year20192010
Price$11,299$10,299
Engine1202 cc1203 cc
Horsepower67 hp103 hp
Torque103 Nm114 Nm
Weight250 kg
Seat height31 mm31 mm
Fuel capacity3.3 L3.8 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission6-speed5-speed
Front brakesSingle disc. Dual-piston. Optional ABS.Single disc. ZTL2-type brake, 8-piston, 4 pads, fixed caliper, single-sided, inside out, stainless steel, floating rotor
Rear brakesSingle disc. Dual-piston. Optional ABS.Single disc. Two-piston, direct mount caliper; stainless steel, fixed rotor
Tires120/70-R19 / 150/70-R18 120/70-ZR17 / 180/55-ZR17

Harley-Davidson Sportster Roadster vs Buell XB12R Firebolt — which should you buy?

Picking between the Harley-Davidson Sportster Roadster and the Buell XB12R Firebolt usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Harley-Davidson Sportster Roadster brings 67 hp in a 250 kg package, while the Buell XB12R Firebolt counters with 103 hp. On price, the Buell XB12R Firebolt 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: