I recently bought a Buell Lightning XB12Ss, and when I point out the “Ss” part it seems that most motorcyclists don’t know what I’m referring to. So let’s have a quick history lesson:
Buell’s XB frame first arrived on the scene in 2002 with the launch of the Firebolt XB9R. The series introduced many of the brand’s innovative technologies, including an industry-first Zero Torsional Load (ZTL) perimeter floating front brake disc, a forged aluminum “fuel in frame” chassis, as well as a swingarm that doubled as an oil reservoir. In order to keep the bike’s mass even closer to the ground, Buell mounted the muffler beneath the engine.
Come 2003, Buell expanded the XB lineup via the Lightning XB12. In keeping with the series’ naming conventions, the model bumped the Harley V-twin’s displacement from 984cc up to 1,203cc. On the road, this meant that it made 103hp and and 84lb-ft of torque. Along with the faired sportbike ‘R’ (Firebolt), Buell also offered the bike in adventure ‘X’ spec (Ulysses) and naked streetfighter ‘S’ (Lightning) guise. Over the course of the Lightning’s production life, Buell offered the model in a number of different variants, including the XB12Scg (a lowered version), the XB12STT Super TT, and the XB12Ss (Lightning Long) that I ended up with.
The XB12SS was specifically built for taller riders, providing more legroom for the rider and a thicker/longer/wider seat to help out the passenger as well. The swingarm was lengthened by 2″ (total wheelbase of 54″), while the steering-head angle and trail were increased. The air intake was relocated and extra width was added between the main frame spars so the fuel tank size increased from 3.7 gallons to 4.4. Despite the size of the motor and the bike, the XB12Ss weighed 466 pounds wet (about the same as a Ducati Monster S4).
I have to admit, when I bought this bike I had no idea it was the Long version. Seeing as I already feel a little cramped on it (especially where my knees meet the frame), I can’t imagine how cramped I would be on the regular model. But I guess it all worked out for the best!
In their review of the XB12, MCN said: “Superb handling. Buell were talking about (and using) mass centralisation years before the Japanese motorcycle manufacturers cottoned on. The Buell XB12S Lightning’s rim mounted disc brake works well plus lets the wheel be lighter for lower unsprung mass. Fuel in frame and oil in the swing arm aren’t rocket science but help keep the motorcycle’s weight where it’s best carried and the Buell XB12S Lightning corners with aplomb.”
My next post about this bike will be my ownership thoughts after the first 1,000 miles but I have to say that I think the handling is just “fine,” not “superb.” I’m sure the regular Lightning (as opposed to my Lightning Long) is snappier in the corners and I have been impressed with what Buell was able to do using the Harley motor as a start but when I compare it with other bikes I’ve owned from the mid 2000s I haven’t been wowed…yet.