Buell reviews

I have owned 5 bikes, mostly Suzuki's. Right now I own a '04 DL 650 V-Strom, a '04 GSXR 1000, and an '05 City X. The Buell is the most fun bike to ride of them all. I love how it corners, the way the bike just disappears in front of you (like highway surfing!), the usable torque and sound (with the aftermarket pipe). It is so different, it's hard to explain, but you feel more bonded to the machine than the others, especially after riding a bunch of twisty roads. It has personality. For once, the stock tires (Pirelli Scorpion Sync) are excellent and I will replace them with the same. Downside? There is some heat that you will notice on the right side on hot days (the GSXR puts out a fair amount of heat also), the suspension needs to be adjusted to your weight to really enjoy the abilities of this bike, I wished both headlights could be on like my V-Strom (best lights around!), not much wind protection for cold days and rain. Get the select seat, it is better. I Love this bike!!!! Show less

I never owned a bike before I rode a couple of bikes - a Suzuki, a Yamaha... I seen a Buell Lightning and couldn't believe it. I bought it without a test ride, AWESOME!!! I recommend this bike to a new rider, they are so easy to ride and when you want to challenge the road, it will work with you. Show less

Returning rider at age 40+. This has been a great ride. From around town to the back two lanes, through the passes and along the coast to the highways this bike is taking care of me and is more than a "blast" to ride. The short fall for this one cylinder is on the highway here, especially on our gusty Santa Anna days. I can keep 60-65 no problem but general traffic is flying by me. I'm like a 16 year old with a new license with this bike. I want to run all the errands or think of excuses to go on them. It's a natural around town. At 65 miles to the gallon, it's an easy one to rationalize too. This bike is all about fun but it does draw curious looks too. Show less

After the MSF class in 2003, I purchased a used 2001 Buell Blast with 1600 miles. Within the last two seasons, I put an additional 18500 miles onto the odometer. The bike performed perfect for its class, and its intended use, which consisted of an 83-mile daily commute. The gas mileage is exceptional, I got 75+ mpg. The oil changes were simple, and the bike was relatively maintenance free (no chain to oil, no valves to adjust) The only complaint would be the rear tire consumption... The bike always got me wherever I wanted to go, never leaving me stranded, except when I ran out of gas a half mile from home :) (Female miscalculation of risk...) Some people may complain about the seat, but I was able to do a 500-mile day with minimal issues (not the bike, but my bottom). The power was more than sufficient for city riding as well as keeping up with the traffic on the highway. Overall, this is a great beginner bike, if you accept this bike as what it is. Not a race bike, not a powerhouse, just a reliable fun bike. Buell did a great job with the bike, and there was a tear in my eye as I traded up to a Buell XB12R a month ago. Can't wait for next season... Show less

Would find it very difficult to know what more someone could want from a multi-purpose bike than the Ulysses is willing to deliver. Great on the highway (comfort, agility, speed, etc.) and secure off road (not an enduro). After 1650 miles it has been spectacular on the winding mountain roads of Vermont as well as New York's Long Island Expressway, not to mention Broadway or 2nd Ave. traffic. I highly recommend the bike and salute the folks at Buell for a truly TERRIFIC product.
Note: Most curious comments on the road come from owners of Harleys. Two Thumbs Up!! Show less

Plenty of power, splendid handling and iconic good looks. The horsepower and torque from the 984 are sufficient for any application short of actual competition on the track. Corners are cake. Even a relatively inexperienced rider can flick the bike back and forth with easy confidence. Finally, there are bikes that look better on paper, but none that look better on the street. This bike turns heads right off the showroom floor. Show less

The Buell XB12X is a fun ride. It has quick handling on asphalt and dirt roads. The rider comfort is great. It is also great on fuel economy at 52 MPG average so far. It could use a little more get up and boogie. It surges a little at low speed. There's a hot spot near the inside of the right thigh. It needs a taller windshield for touring and a lower seat height for most riders. Show less

I purchased a 2000 fuel injected Thunderbolt earlier this summer. At the time, I also had a 99 Sportster sport. Since the Buell purchase, I have sold the Sportster. The Buell runs better, faster, is lighter, and is a winner. The performance is spectacular and it is amazing what the Buell folks can do to a harley 1200cc engine. I used to think my sporty was pretty quick until I began riding the Buell. All I will ever do now is replace someday with a newer Buell model. Show less

This is the quickest turning bike I have ever ridden, it handles like a motocross machine. You've got to ride it to truly understand just how agile this thing really is. Show less

I purchased my bike purely on looks and the rareness of seeing them in my area. Since then I have gained a whole new respect for it. I had the race kit put on it when i bought the bike so I never got to experience it without it. But as far as the power goes, the front wheel will come up with ease in 1st through 3rd gear. Was recently in Colorado and got to experience the handling aspect of my bike, and can't say I've ridden anything better. Far as I go....I'm a buell customer for life! Show less