Thunderstorm Heads – 1997 Buell S3T Thunderbolt

In America, Less than 5k, Touring by AbhiLeave a Comment

Post Listing Update: This Buell did not get any interest at the BIN of $2,500.


Buell introduced the S3 Thunderbolt sport-tourer in 1997, and from day 1 they also had a S3T package which was more touring friendly thanks to color-matched hard bags with removable fitted liners, and taller bars. Both bikes got a motor upgrade in 1999 with what Buell called Thunderstorm heads, and that is one of many upgrades that this well-loved example is featuring.

The Thunderstorm heads were good for an additional 10 horsepower (from 91 to 101), though the ’99 bikes also got fuel injection. Other components on the pre-’99 bikes included WP suspension front and rear, Keihin 40mm CV carb, and a six-piston front brake caliper made by Performance Machine. For more on the S3, check out these Riding Impressions from Cycle World.

This example (VIN: 4MZRS11J5V3000365) has an impressive 77,354 miles on the odometer, though the motor was rebuilt at 35k with a long list of upgrades: Thunderstorm heads and pistons, Crane lifters, Andrews N4 cams, adjustable pushrods, and DP clutch. Beyond all that, there’s also a Vance & Hines muffler, Zero Gravity touring screen, Traxxion Dynamics front forks, a Penske shock, heated grips, and more. The seller simply sums it up as “there have been many, many upgrades over the year as I strove to make a really good motorcycle even better.”

Find this upgraded S3T for sale in Horsham, Pennsylvania with a BIN of $2,500