Buell Lightning X1 reviews

I just got this bike last weekend, so I'm still in the break in period. So far I love it. Even while keeping the rpm's low it has plenty of get up and go. I can't wait for the break in to be over so I can open it up. After reading a lot of Buell reviews I bought one without a test ride. I was expecting a ton of vibration and was pleasantly surprised when I found that there was not much. The suspension is very good, I might play with the stock settings to see what happens. I probably will get a new exhaust and air filter, once I get some more miles on it. I almost got a BMW r1150r, but I've had beemers before and wanted something different. It's cool to have a bike designed and built is the good old USA!! Show less

Great bike with no problems. I got mine in August, number 62 off the line. I wasn't impressed off the show room floor but just put in a race kit and wow this bike should come with it stock. No problems with this bike. There's a lot less vibration than the '04 9s that I test rode. Show less

I absolutely love this bike! It's got tons of power, carves turns, stops on a dime, and hums a beautiful "Made in America" tune while riding. If there is a downside to this bike it would have to be two things, 1. I literally have to dig information or articles up about it (where are all the reviewers of quality motorcycles?) I mean I also love the look and quickness of import sport bikes, but give this bike some respect!! and 2. just a little more padding on the seat so a good long ride could be a little more comfortable. Other than that... gotta love it! Show less

I grew up on Buell motorcycles and I love the 04 lightning. Comfortable and responsive, it seems to have an easier time in the corners than rice rockets. It's low center of gravity makes it extremely stable in tight turns. A couple things though...get the race kit, it needs it. Also mine seems to have a small backfiring problem after idiling. Show less

I have had my Lightning for almost a year now and I love it. I traded my 03 883 Sportster for my Buell and I could not be happier with the decision. The Buell performs great and loves corners. It is not as fast as the Japanese made street bikes but they cannot touch the Buell in the appearance and quality department. I also get looks everywhere I ride the bike. I have an aftermarket pipe (D&D) and K&N air filter installed and the bike is louder then most Harley's. Show less

I bought a used and modified X-1 with just over 7k miles on it recently. I've been riding almost 30 years and have had cruisers, crotch-rockets and everything in between. Much as I like the silky-smoothness of Japanese sport bikes, I find the personality of such rides lacking (for the record, I have a 600 Ninja in the stable as well). The X-1 though, it redefines image! It is the hairy-chested brawler of performance bikes; don't get one if you're shy and timid. Be prepared to be the center of attention every time you fuel up and plan your schedule to allow chat sessions every time you park it somewhere! The real reward is this bike performs every bit as well as it looks, the chassis is a thing of wonder. It slices and dices the curves and rips down straight stretches with a growl. I also have a 1200 Sportster and the difference in handling and performance is astonishing, the Buell reigns supreme. If you've ever ridden a Sportster, you'll also be amazed at the smoothness of the Buells. On the freeway they cruise along buzz-free at 60+ mph. Nice! In summary, get an X-1 and get in touch with your inner hooligan, you'll be glad you did!!! Show less

I was looking for a light bike with good handling characteristics and one I could do most of the maintenance on my own. I was admiring the Buell XBs for its stylish looks and innovative features for a few months. Happen to test ride a bike with a buddy of mine and we both ended up riding out the dealership with two new XBs. This was in October and wanted to wait for three months to write a review to see if my opinion will change. I must say I have no regrets for that spontaneous decision. The only regret is why I did not get this bike sooner. This bike fulfilled all my expectations and more. Show less

I am 5'4" I wanted a sport bike. Every bike I checked out was to high. I went into the Harley dealer & sat on the XB9S. The guy asked me if I wanted to test drive it. That was it! I loved it! We went on the freeway and on some corners and I coulden't get enough. I ride it everyday. Show less

I haven't even been able to open it up yet. Still in " Break In " and I like it already. Easy handling, carves turns. Good power band. May be a little uncomfortable for taller riders. Great all around bike. Show less

So, I just got off the new Buell XB12S...and it really is the perfect streetfighter. No, its not competition for the GSXR's and the R's, BUT ITS NOT SUPPOSED TO BE. What is does so well is what it was designed to do well. Accelerate with gut wrenching force, and turn like nothing else. The fact that its comfy too is awesome. This bike will be ultra reliable too. If you look at the bore and stroke of the engine, you will notice that its very close to that of the Sporty 1200, which over the years has proven to be bulletproof. But this bike, if your looking for the ultimate streetfighter. Do not buy it if your looking for an un-usable ultra fast highway sewing machine. This XB is the ultimate streetfighter. Show less