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Thread: New Member: Getting back on two wheels

  1. #1
    What's up fellow Buell fans!

    I've been lurking for a bit earlier today and decided to take a more proactive role in the community.

    A bit about me: I used to ride back in college (7 years ago) but had to sell my rice-burner due to the typical financial struggles of a college student. While in school I had two riding buddies, one with a XB9S and one with a XB9R. I had a chance to ride both of them and admired how torquey and well rounded they were. The Harley rumble diddn't hurt either ;-). Since I now have a full time job and a craving for two wheeled fun, I have decided to start my search for a clean Lightning. The Firebolts are a lot of fun, but I love the street fighter look and more relaxed riding position of the Lightning.

    I have read the buyers guide for XB motorcycles and was relieved to see only a few common issues for these bikes. Ideally, I would want one that is clean, stock or stock-ish and has around 10k miles. I have a couple questions.

    Is there a large power difference from the XB9 to the XB12? I found the 9 to be a very manageable bike. Also, how much should i expect to pay for a unmolested example with the requirements listed above?

    I can't wait to join the ranks of Buell riders!

  2. #2
    I got my 04 XB12S, bone stock, immaculate, with 12K on it this past summer for $2800. I thought it was a steal and most have agreed it was a very good buy.

  3. #3
    That sounds like a hell of a deal to me! Sounds like you were in the right place at the right time!

    I forgot to add: Since I am located in NC, if anybody knows of a Lightning that needs a responsible, garaged home in the south east please shoot me a PM!

  4. #4
    It was only 2 miles from my house too! Got really lucky.

  5. #5
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Aug 2012
    Posts
    417
    No difference than looks/ suspension (barring what model S you get)/ riding position. Same motor, same frame, brakes, and so on.

    When I was in the market, I wanted an 09+. I found a 2009 XB12R, was exactly what I was looking for. However, given my driving record (was a little naughty on my R6, whoops), insurance for the R was just out of the question for me.

    I picked up my 2009 XB12Scg with just over 1,200 miles for $7200. Hero Blue, bone stock. Exactly what I was looking for: low mileage, black engine casings, unmolested. Some might say I paid too much, whatever. I got the exact bike I set out to buy. Be patient, don't settle for one you don't want. Just keep your eyes peeled and you'll find one you're looking for.

  6. #6
    I agree with Justin...don't settle!

  7. #7
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Jul 2010
    Posts
    1,613
    05 xb12scg bought it in 09 for 4700. had 2800 miles on it. I have loved it every day since and it has never let me down, 17k miles later, 1 wreck, and still no issues.

  8. #8
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Nov 2010
    Posts
    5,416
    I bought my 2005 xb9r that was 100% stock for $2,400. The guy also bought a new battery for me and gave me a helmet. I drove about 3 hrs to get it though. It wasn't perfect but in good shape, had some cosmetic issues from sitting outside near the ocean(corrosion).

    I've ridden 9's and 12's and can't hardly tell any difference. The 9's are geared lower so basically accelerate the same just have a lower top speed and lower cruising rpm on the highway. 80mph on the 9 does make for some high rpms.. I've also ridden with 12's and my 9 keeps up right next to them.

  9. #9
    My yearly bonus arrives on Friday and I am all over Craigslist at the moment. Other than the FS boards what other sites would you recommend in my quest for a two-wheeled companion?

    Also, any good resources to further my Buell knowledge would be greatly appreciated!

  10. #10
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Nov 2010
    Posts
    5,416
    where do you live?

    If you know what you're looking at craigslist is your best deal. Find a bike that looks decent at a good price and give it a good look over. Start it cold, ride through all gears up to highway speeds until hot, then start it hot. Make sure everything is normal. I've known people who go find a bike a it's already hot and it starts up they ride through the neighborhood through 1st and 2nd, buy it, then get home it doesn't start when cold and won't shift in to 5th.



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