I'm a noob here also, and wanted to welcome you to the Forum. I've already gotten excellent help here in getting my new to me 1st Buell(an 06' XB12X Uly)dialed in and running great. I haven't raced bikes, but go to track days occasionally at both Sears Point(Sonoma)and Thunderhill with my car. Regarding the low price and what appears to look like a dump, I believe it's as you say, no more making Buells as well as from those who aren't too good at wrenching on there own bikes and keeping them going. And H.D. for the most part not wanting to give the redheaded stepchild any love. I had to order a couple of parts from the Netherlands(Twin Motorcycles bv) because the P.O.had butchered the fork cap threads,and wait for them when I rebuilt the forks. But not really a big deal. You obviously do your own wrenching, and I think it's pretty cool that a guy that races, or raced bikes, is wanting to choose a Buell. I'm pretty sure there are a couple of other racers on here. I don't know the XB9R as I know my Uly, but good luck w/ finding a gem; they're out there.