Should You Buy A Buell? | Behind The Enthusiast
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- čas přidán 1. 04. 2022
- We've all thought about it at one point in time. Should I buy that Buell on Kijiji? Then of course, the second question that comes to mind. Does Harley-Davidson still make parts for Buells? In this video I discuss those two questions and more based on my four years working at a Harley-Davidson dealership.
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I agree with your comments partially. The bikes are unusual and I enjoy the Harley motor with the sport bike frame.
I have an XB12R and I have been fixing it up since a wreck a few years back. ST Paul Harley has NOS parts as well as new production parts for buells. Also there are a handful of companies that still produce parts. I have bought parts from Custom Buell Service in Italy and twin motorcycles in the Netherlands. The parts are getting more expensive but they can be found. I even found a guy in Thailand over Facebook that does the super hard to find translucent plastic parts for the bikes for a fair price.
Overall, know what you’re getting yourself into with a buell but they are so unique I wouldn’t go with something else.
XB model have no longer HD engine
Yo bro, I also have an XB12, and yes parts are hard to find. I've bought from V-Twin in the Netherlands and also from St Paul
Do you have any other sources for Buell parts, besides the ones you've mentioned?
Who the guy for the translucent parts? I need a blue air box cover
Thank u i have a 98 s3t thunderbolt and that's my biggest fear about owning the bike. I love riding it daily. I don't know it i want another bike. Maybe a xb12r . The Torque , the handling the sound of the big v-twin is intoxicating.
I've owned multiple Buells over the last 15 years. Own a 1125R and a XB9s Currently. I live in AFRICA. Finding parts is definitely not a problem if you have more than 1 braincell and know how to use Google. We race (and win) regional races with the 1125's here(Against modern liter bikes). We surely wouldn't be doing this if the brakes were obsolete?! HD never really supported Buell in my country, so we've always needed to import our own parts/find aftermarket alternatives. Every time a part is marked obsolete on the HD database, the aftermarket has a replacement within weeks. Not that it matters. HD in South Africa will literally refuse to sell you HD compatible parts, if you tell them it's for your Buell. Oh, and my 1125 is the most reliable bike I've owned in 25 years of riding. Take what this video says with a grain of salt and do proper research. Buells are awesome. Ride on and you'll understand.
Firstly, I appreciate you sharing your experience. Secondly, different country, different experience. Don't bully people about their intelligence of how to use the internet when riders come in all age categories and walks of life. Some of us have no computer, or even a cell phone and still ride. It's insulting to all of us to make such an assumption. As for brakes, they are obsolete from an HD dealership. Did you not watch the entire video or even read the comments where I've stated this numerous times? In regards to aftermarket companies having replacements in a matter of weeks, no. That doesn't always happen. Then you know exactly where I'm coming from then after your experience with a local dealership. If it's served you well for 25 years, that's great, but I don't see every Buell owner stating that. Everything in life should be taken with a grain of salt. Buells might be nice, but after my experience on an 1125CR that tried to kill me, I would never touch one again.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast Your video is full of misinformation, which is why my Google comment was made with some added edge. To encourage anyone reading it actually look it up, and realise what you're saying is categorically incorrect. You absolutely CAN daily ride these things. I personally know of hundreds of people that do just that. They use it as their only mode of transport. I know of several with well over 100K miles on them. You CAN find the electronics for them, IDS, the company that makes it still exists.(you said the opposite) There absolutely is an aftermarket option for EVERY SINGLE obsolete part available, and the 2nd hand market is strong too. Brake Rotors ARE available. From several vendors. You can buy the upgraded finned version from the new Buell company if you really wanted to. So what if HD doesn't sell them?! So basically EVERYTHING you said was categorically incorrect. (Except for the blast being shit. that's true) The global Buell community is excellent and unlike any other community I've been part of. Stop spreading misinformation because you had an isolated bad experience and you're unable to see a world outside of your sacred HD ecosystem. Pretty much any workshop that works on KTM's, Aprilia's or Can Am's will be super comfortable working on the Rotax based motors. The XB models sold in huge numbers, has great parts support from the aftermarket are easy to work on, and are super reliable if preventative maintenance is upheld. Sure you'll wait a week or two for certain parts, but the same can be said about HD or any other bike manufacturer. Sure, there's no dealership support, but there hardly was any when HD owned it anyway.
As for different country, different experience, speak to @betweentwobikes here on youtube. He's a Canadian Bueller. Maybe he can help you take that HD branded blindfold off so you can see the real world of Buell outside of the dealership mentality.
I managed to maintain my xb9 in Uganda.
I have an 1125r and an xb9r firebolt. Do you have a cheaper source for 1125r sprag clutches? I have heard that Suzuki uses one on the Blvd maybe I can't remember but it is backwards and you have to take the spring off and flip it.
Here in Europe, V Twin in Holland,are remanufacturing and have a good selection of parts. More that Harley Davidson.
It is possible to find any track 800 in Holland?
Do you have a link for V-Twin of Holland ?
This might come as a shock to everyone but if you own any brand of motorcycle that's 12 years or older the parts are hard to come by.
I own 10 sport bikes from 1980s and the 90s and also a 2003 Buell xb9 and I have to either make my own parts or modify new parts to fit and make it work.
Exactly! Went into a HD dealership for a part and instead of going through the "we don't do Buell" asked for the cross referenced 1998 Sportster part. Got the response "we don't carry that as it's too old."
Jesus Christ, u don't know squat about the subject. There is ABSOLUTELY no shortage of parts. the XB series was produced all the way to 2010. I have a 09 Buell XB12 SCG, and parts are everywhere for these bikes. I also have a EBR 1190RX and even during the company down time I got absolutely ALL parts I needed. There are tons of companies who supply parts for these bikes. The Buell rare now in full production, and if the company went down tomorrow this just mean there will be tons of parts available never used in the production, such was the case last time. HD guys don't know squat about Buell / EBR. I never ever set a foot at a HD dealership. F HD.
Considering this is coming from a dealership standpoint, you are wrong. Obsolete parts are most definitely a real problem. If people aren't able to walk into a dealership and easily get parts for their motorcycle, they need to be aware of this. I get lots of guys asking why parts for their Harleys are obsolete after 8-10 years, resulting in them relying on aftermarket replacements. Not only that, but purists don't like aftermarket components. It would be naive of you to assume everyone else knows where to get access to parts for their (HD branded) Buell, current or future. This was a heads-up from a dealership perspective, especially from someone who deals a lot with Buell owners who are trying to keep these amazing machines running after the company closed shop. You can debate until you are blue in the face, but it will not change the fact that an old motorcycle (Buell or otherwise) is not a good idea for someone who wants to go out and ride with peace of mind that they will have convenient dealership support when they need it most.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast Well I have owned Buell's since 2008 and EBR since 2014. Have never ever run into a problem getting parts. HD don't deal Buell parts, so yes you are right, walk into a HD dealer and believe you find Buell parts you be walking out with a 'WTF'' face, they shut down all supports as soon as they legally could do so. Hell, they did not even want to swap tires the day after they shut down the Buell brand, ''we don't work on Buell, they told me'' so you as a HD dealer know nothing and never knew anything about the Buell brand, even when you where making them. It was like the ugly child HD did not want to know about. HD suck, and have sucked always. I have met Mr. Buell, ''he signed the frame on one of my bikes'' I do all the work on my bikes myself, know every dame cable, nut, bearing and what not. I have a garage full of spares for both bikes, even spare engines. You will never ever catch me on a HD, regardless how old I am. (you need to be seriously old to ride a HD, they suck at everything, you can argue yourselves blue in the face convincing me other vice) 🙂🙂
@@norseman5041 Nice. I don't know much about the EBR bikes. Depending on where you live, this will effect part availability I'm sure. I had a Buell customer buy all my oil filters because they were unavailable. They owned one from the 90s which they daily rode, which was really impressive. Had I been around the scene when that happened I'm sure I would have felt gutted as well. Like I said in the video, I still secretly want an XB9, but prices are crazy on the market for them and very few are clean examples. I also really like the Buell XB Gcode 1.2. As for knowing about them, I can't speak for others, however I did watch the documentary on how Buells were manufactured and saw the process of building the engines. They were based on Harley engines, but everything else was Buell. That's pretty cool you got to meet him and have him sign your frame. Would you agree that spares in the garage are necessary then? I don't need to convince you of anything. You like what you like and your opinion is your own. I'm not here to change that.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast LOL, we Buell owners ''hate'' a bit on HD and we get our panties in a twisty about this. Especially when HD guys start to talk BUELL, Nothing personal. HD made a huge mistake shutting down the Buell Brand, they would have been able to grab younger people, in Europe the Buell is almost a cult thing. We here in the us and the Buell/EBR enthusiasts gather every year in the North Carolinas, Tile of the Dragon riding the smokey mountains, it is actually taking place this week, I could not go this year. Regarding parts, I panicked when the they shut down the line and bought up all parts I was thinking i would need to build up my spare part stock, but I was a bit wrong. Parts over her are still redly available for the ''old'' XB, but I believe I will not need to run to the store anytime soon. The XB12 is a fun bike to ride, but it has 0 to bring to the table against the EBR 1190RX. The XB is easy to maintain and keep on the road. The RX on the other hands, as of now, with the shortage of dealers and service providers it is not a bike I would get if I did not know how to use a wrench. But maybe they upped quality control ?, I for one sent them a whole list of items they MUST improve. Still, I never sell my 2014 1190RX unless I have a brand new one the way, then again, I fixed everything that was not good on the one I have, and if they did not improve on stuff (as advice) then I would have to do all of it one more time.
@@norseman5041 Well that makes sense, lol. No offense taken. I totally agree. So many people have said that to me and that's why I'm torn by the advice given to me about Buells being a "bad bike" to buy due to obsolete parts. Had I bought one 3-4 years ago I'd have been fine, but since I was convinced not to buy one, it's even worse now for Canadian owners. That was partially the reason why I made this video. I wanted people to know the struggle, yet not talk them out of the idea of Buell ownership altogether. Tale of the Dragon sounds like fun. Pretty tricky road too from what I've heard. I imagine you weren't the only one. I heard there was a frenzy at dealerships when the announcement was made, people buying up all they could, parts, merchandise, the whole lot. No doubt there. The Rotax is a beast. I had the pleasure and horror of riding an '08 1125CR. The dealership said it had been out the weekend prior and was good to ride. It malfunctioned on my test ride, causing the clutch to not register shifts properly, nor acknowledge the clutch lever being engaged. It shot me into an intersection (thankfully it was clear) and then I fought to shift gears as I realized the issue was worse than I thought. Thankfully I managed to limp it to a safe place and called to get picked up. Although the test ride lasted 10 minutes, it has made me very hesitant to go near one of those Buells again.
Yes, some Buells are harder to source parts for than others, I agree. However, the 90s "tubeframe" bikes essentially have HD motors and electronics. A little finicky, yes, so much fun to ride, nothing compares. I do have one criticism of your view about Buell. Eric Buell had built an incredible machine, but was not savy when he signed the deal with HD that gave them controlling interest in his company. They promptly, and without remorse, dismantled Buell and trashed everything. They could have kept it running, they could have sold it, and they could have let Buell live on. But they didn't. They stuck it up Eric's arse, and anyone who owns or loves Buells, just out of spite. It is for that reason alone that I lost all respect for The Motor Company. I actually own a Harley, granted it's an 84 FLHS Shovelhead, but I would have a hard time plunking down my money on anything HD built post-Buell. Perhaps it's a discussion for another time, because glossing over this fact and admiring HD without also considering what they did to Buell is letting them off easy for something that was nearly criminal, in my opinion.
I don't see how someone could criticize my "view" when the video's purpose was advising on the state of parts availability and my advice on purchasing bikes. It's not like I was putting the company down either. I very much love the older Buells, especially with their unique rotor design and frame on the XB models. Yes, that story is well-known to me due to a youtuber who covered it on their channel, along with something else HDMC did to another company rather recently when developing a new product. I'll admit it rubbed me the wrong way when I first heard about it, however I can't be impulsive on things where I don't truly know the full story. It would be like finding out your great grandfather did horrific things in the war and you quit the army because of it. You still have to make your own choices and do your best to prevent history from repeating itself, so I figured the least I could do was advise people on the situation of Buell parts before they rush into a purchase. And just so I'm being clear, I definitely agree with you on how horrible that situation was. They most definitely could have sold it off, or revised the models much like they are doing to the Sportster lineup right now. There were a lot of options, but someone clearly lacked vision. I don't blame you for feeling the way you do. Things could have been handled a lot better for sure. What are your thoughts on the new Buells?
I myself have an 02 M2 Cyclone and I love the bastard. It’s about to get the stage 2 treatment and be even more fun.
Nothing New Here. HD has always been a Bully CO in Modern times. Lawers and Stock Holders make the Decisions. Many are made based on Greed and it would seem that HD keeps shooting themselves in the Foot.
HD partnered with an Electric Motorcycle CO got the technology they needed then renegged on the Contract and left them in Bankrupcy.
Eric Buell was in serious Financial Trouble . He had to have know the Reputation of the Big Wigs of HD. His friends wanrned him that he was siging a Deal with the Devil.
HD bought 48% of Buells CO with an option to purchase 48% More in 10 years.
You can purchase a Hond Cub for $4,500.00 the Mark up on an HD Road King for the Dealer is like $3,500.00
It cost HD $115 million to shut down the Buell Factory and Eliminate 200 Americna Jobs.
HD also spent millions to shut down the Kanasas City Factory.
HD pressured AMA to handi cap all the other brands of motorycles so that the Crude outdated HD's could compete.
US Harley barely supported Buells while they were still being offered for sale. I still have a 97 S3 - easier to buy parts from the Netherlands.
Reason I bought a M 2 Cyclone is because it is an carbureted Evo Sportster and can get it worked on
My 1125r was my first bike, I bought it in 2014. I’ve never had any issues getting the few parts it’s needed in the 10k miles I’ve put on it over the years
Don’t let this guy dissuade you from owning one of the best bikes ever made
I’ve rode Dirtbikes and I’m going to get a xb12 as a first road bike is that to much
@@JamesCameron-db2yj I think you'll be fine. Remember the low-end torque, it's an entirely different powerband than dirtbikes. The 12s also vibrate a LOT compared to dirtbikes, so adjusting will take a little while. I was cocky when I first started riding because I had a dirtbike growing up. Stay humble, it really is very different. Take a good rider course and practice.
I ride and own a buell 1125r and a EBR1190RX the first 1125r I bought in 2008 and put 173,000 miles on it and it was still running when I replaced motor and gave it to my son in law, never been happier riding buells
I don't have any vehicle with that many miles. Even my 30 year old pickup truck only has 160K. That's quite an achievement!
@@HunterSmokes thanks been a good reliable bike and plenty enjoyable miles
Buell XB9SX owner of 7 years here. One of the sweetest bikes of all time. BUY ONE
Awesome!
I got my '04 xb12 new. I've maintained it and never had an issue. Preforms excellent, lots of fun, little down time. My issue is with Harley dealerships, thank the gods for the internet. Get one if you want a bike that spends more time running than down. Yes some parts can be hard to find but not impossible.
Try saint Paul's H-D for buell parts
Don't spray it Scott Cr owner might be xB 12 after a broken forearm 😂
I currently own a XB12SS from 2008 living in Austria right next to Italy, Switzerland and Germany. Regarding parts we don't really have a problem, there are specialists set up in Germany that manufacture their own parts and even completely redo entire engines. About 20 min from my house is a small HD mechanic that owns Buells himself and still enjoys working on them. We have a very small local community with S1 white lightning, X1, XB9, XB12S and XB12SS. Amazing handling bikes, truly something special.
That's awesome man! Glad to hear you have support over there. Thanks for sharing!
Need ur info bro
@@bellaarellano3377 you mean the contact to the specialists?
Can you ask the guy who manufactures his own parts how hard it would be to add modern ABS to a buell xb12? :) thx
@twinmotorcycles in The Netherlands only does Buell. Parts Available otherwise he will make it
I am Japanese and own 06XB12SS.
It is 70,000 km now. Fortunately, there are no major failures.
The same is true here, where HD dealers cannot order parts or repair them.
I was really disappointed that HD abandoned buell
HD is the most popular imported motorcycle in Japan, so buell sold to some extent. But now there are very few repair shops. I also repair it myself, but the number of original parts is decreasing. Many parts have become external parts. Tires cannot be replaced at general stores. And I'm more afraid of electrical troubles than mechanical troubles. The suspension is made in Japan, and you can use Honda's brake seals. But DDFI is not clear to me. I'm worried about how long I can ride this bike. There is no alternative bike, but I would give up if I had a major breakdown. You can get on by changing the engine, but I have decided not to do that. Because I don't think there is a drill. Any machine can be maintained for a fee, but I can't afford it. The price of parts is already high. It never goes down. Unc bolts alone are expensive in Japan.
Many parts of this bike are special so I hope someone will make it for me.
Thanks for sharing your experience! It's good that the bike has been operating well for you. I am still hesitant to buy an XB9, but I really do want one. There seems to be a lot of support on the forums, so perhaps you can look online for parts if you ever need any. Yes, electrical troubles are far worse than mechanical I would agree. There is always a cost. Gotta pay to play. All the best!
I'm so glad they did. I love my 1190 and so glad it doesn't have that weak mess of a Harley engine.
Ive owned Buells since 2005.
Currently have an 1125r, bought cheap. Here in England with the help of the owners club and V Twin in Holland theres not been real problem with parts. When looking for another resently i was advised look at tube frame models
But the XB models ive had have been excellent.
But im not a high miler and dont ride everyday or through the winter.
Hi from England 🏴
Awesome! I've heard of the guys in Holland. They're a lot closer to you than Canada, lol. I've heard of the tube frame recommendations as well. I think it had to do with the simplicity of the design for swaps and not having to worry about the fuel frames when dropped. Right on. Thanks for sharing from England!
I rode my 05 xb12r as a daily driver for 3ys. I put 25,000 on that bike.
I had no car! I couldn’t afford one with the interest paid to the HD bank. $250/m. ?! Before insurance btw, which about $70/m at the time for full coverage.
Anyways …only one problem ever…Stator went bad and replaced it in an afternoon … in the driveway. It was a major pain in the ass, mostly because you have to remove the primary chain to get to it…. And those nuts on are torqued on really good (160/ft-lb if memory serves).
Point being, I had the most fun ever on that bike! So nimble, flickable and reliable. Tore up the back roads of sonoma county whenever I got the chance! If I were still 32 I’d do it all again. 50 is the next bday and I’m thinking seriously about a low mileage xb12x for some long rides… am I crazy?!
The answer: yes you should. It is NOT difficult to find Buell parts. These bikes are amazing and it is so nice to have a bike that everyone stops to have a second look at.
2004 Firebolt 12r owner. Amazing.
I have my 08 1125r. Still ride it though not long distances these days.
Some parts I can still find here and there. Usually ebay. My dealer goes through a vintage parts supplier and did so when I needed exhaust bushings a while back.
Only issues I've had with it was the ignition wiring. Had to repair it 2x before I just took it all apart and resoldered/rewired the harness. To be on the safe side, I added a sort of harness/dongle with the right wires tied together to bypass the ignition switch entirely. I can just plug it into the harness at the bottom of the upper fairing and start the bike without a key.
I was riding it this weekend. Spent some time sunday, replaced all the brake/clutch and radiator fluids.
It's in great shape, runs great (Dean Adams Exhaust and EBR ECU). Only about 12K miles on it.
I'm not a fan of the available brake pads. The EBC ones start screaming once they heat up. Not really a tight twisty road type of bike.
Still love it though. It's my ridiculously loud angry beast of a muscle bike.
Sounds like a decent amount of struggles. Good job on being resourceful. Thanks for sharing!
My '06 Ulysses has been super reliable at 35k miles so far. I've only had to replace the clutch cable and a drive belt, and easily found those online for a reasonable price. Aside from that it's only been routine oil changes and worn out tires.
As far as bad experiences go, it would have to be walking into my local HD shop. They refused to order the cable, refused to sell a drive belt (same belt that's used on the sportster btw) and absolutely would not order a set of tires I wanted. 🙄 I felt like was treated like a red headed bastard step child. To top it off, they tried to talk me in to trading my Buell in for a new HD... if my money was not good enough for a set of tires then it definitely isn't good enough for a new bike.
Thanks for sharing your story Todd. That's pretty reliable if you ask me!
As for the bad experience... that's pretty messed up. I mean, I know from where I sit in a dealership it can be tricky to order parts, but if I can, I most definitely will. Keeping the bike going is a great passion and that's why I try to exhaust every avenue when helping someone out. I have multiple aftermarket vendors, but even then, sometimes I run out of options.
Definitely …. fu€k those guys!
This has been my experience at HD too, even trying to buy HD/Buell interchangeable parts.
Me: "Hi, I need a drive belt for an '08 Sportster."
HD mouthbreather: "What's it goin' on?"
Me: XB12S
HD mouthbreather: :WE DON'T HAVE IT. WE DON'T SELL ANY BUELL PARTS."
Fuck HD and fuck all their dealerships.
That company is dangling by a thread for three main reasons:
1. They make EXTREMELY BAD business decisions as a rule, and have done so for many decades.
2. They make brand new antiques, and their "target audience" are all on their 3rd heart attack and 2nd hip replacement. HD's "target audience" is literally dying of old age.
3. HD has gone out of it's way to completely ignore anyone under the age of 50, and especially those under age 30. You know, those with disposable income? Then, just to infuriate and alienate the only remaining segment of that age bracket they might have been able to earn, they proceeded to fuck Erik Buell in the ass, and pull the plug on the only bikes they make that are worth buying.
HD is full of awful human beings from the top of the corporation to the parts counter. Fuck them all. I can't wait until that shitty company draws its last breath.
@@GunsNBudder I get cha. They’ve been terrible for soooo long. Triumph and maybe Indian is gonna take their market share and good on ‘em. Harleys not smart enough to make the bike people need.
I'm in the UK and there's an 06 Ulysses at a really good price that I'm thinking about.
I've been riding my 08 Ulysses as my daily driver for the last five years riding as far into the shoulder seasons as I can in Milwaukee. A Harley dealership damaged my exhaust while working on it and said they couldn't do anything more as they couldn't find the parts. I ended up buying a Drummer exhaust and really like it. The Harley dealerships just don't seem to look beyond their own supply chain when looking for parts. The tires are a problem not because of availablility but because I have twice let the tread on my Pirellis run down too low and been turned away at Harley dealerships because they refuse to change tires on Buells. I ended up going to a local shop run by ex-Harley guys who happily changed the tires (and even gave me a discount on the tire cost!). There is a Harley dealership four miles from me and I have thought about buying a Pan-Am but get nervous about the level of dealer support going forward (although I hear Zeitz owns a Pan-Am so maybe they'll stick with it). If you're OK with doing some of the simple repairs and have a shop comfortable working with Buells near you, they are fantastic bikes.
Thanks for sharing! It's unfortunate that the dealer couldn't help you out in that scenario. It's tough to speak on dealerships individually as they can vary a bit in what they might be willing to do in other cities and countries. Wheels really shouldn't be a problem. The tire machines I'm sure are still the same ones they used on Buells back in the day. As for the ex-Harley guys, they might not be common, but definitely are out there still serving customers. Just do your due diligence before going to a random bike shop, I've heard some bad stories. Support from Harley, or support for the Pan-Am? We've sold quite a few and aside from recalls they are great bikes. Glad you're still enjoying your Buell!
I would hope there are aftermarket Rotors.. It looks like the New Buell CO is still useing the same front brake rotors..
Yes. I would think if they are then there's no issue for owners of older bikes now.
I’m still have two pieces of buell.
I actually had three, an XB12R, X1, 1125cr.
My experience with it within five years, lot of failure, lot of money spent on repairs. The most frustrating thing you can buy the best parts for maintenance or repairs they still fail.
Not to mention the stress to find parts and the price that it cost.
Meanwhile my Kawasaki Z1000 just require an oil change.
Regarding the 1125 yes it’s a Rotax engine but only HD can repair it??
KTM, Aprilia use Rotax too. You didn’t know it??
Just do it, buy a Buell...
When I find the right one! Lol.
my dad has an Ulysses and I just bought a xb9, we have some spare parts from some wrecked bikes we bought earlier
I like Harleys, but I also want a second bike. Buell XB12R seems the obvious answer.
The older Buells are technically Harleys. So yeah, definitely grab a cheap one if you can and enjoy it.
im done thinking about .....txs for the input!
i think i lied perhaps a little more study on the topic ...and perhaps a sweet deal will make my paper weight worth it!!! hummm
your presentation was very good....
AND you gave me an idea!
i probably would not have though of it with out your video! txs!
I know this is an old video, but does anyone know of a good reputable seller for the Buell blast belt? I see a lot of them on eBay. I don’t want to spend the money and then find out the belt brakes after 40 miles or 2 1/2 miles from some peoples comments.any leads would be welcomed
j and p cycles
Bought xb12xt last summer. It's amazing.
except for the relay's, i loved my 04 xb12r and 03 xb9r. the 12r would get 60 mpg @ 70 mph all day long! miss it!
Nice! How did you like the XB9?
It's difficult to find parts for a 2003 Buell Blast?
It definitely can be through a dealer.
Have a 09 Ulysses and love it. Unfortunately my ECM has a cracked board. In looking for one and thinking of converting to an aftermarket control system if I can’t get one. Where’s there’s a will there’s a way.
That's unfortunate. And that is why I made this video. Also one reason I am hesitant to buy an older Buell. I don't want to get stuck on the side of the road
Wow the amount of things you dont know is phenomenal...yes parts could be hard to find but older buells are sportster motors so build it mild to wild...eric buell was a genius if yall don't know the older tube frame buells use the same motor mounts and isolators as an fxr wich he designed with the foresight these bike are pretty much eternal...fight me
If no one is willing to talk about it, no one will ever know.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast the American buell scene doesn't really use dealership support , its kinda like old school HD ownership you turn your own wrench and buy stuff from local shops or fabricate stuff . I took a newer HD sportster Magneto and just modded it to fit into a Buell XB , all the running gear is just Showa and Nissin .. there's nothing special in a Buell. You can rebuild cranks , mod Chevy V8 pistons to fit etc... you can patch and fix frame/tanks There's just nothing really there, real simple .. I went to my local biker bar The Oasis in Eustis Florida and a guy was on a 1930s HD , looked brand new, modern electrics and everything , riding the piss out of it. A real man can keep any bike running , you just have to KNOW.
@@Gloomshadow100 Thanks for sharing. Just keep in mind I am in Canada, so every market is going to be different. Americans will naturally have more options with American products compared to people outside of the USA.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast .. well you got parts up there you just don't KNOW ..ahah the Fuel pump and the injectors are Ford Mustang for example... Buell used off the shelf American components as much as possible and a lot of it was car parts... Buells ARE a great used choice but they gotta be in the right hands , it's a very different costumer than say a Honda costumer that just hands the bike over to dealership support.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast another thing about Buells is that alot of stuff them like inner air boxes and crap like that were totally unnecessary, it was just to pass noise emissions standards, intake noise is kinda high on a sportster motor, you can chuck a lot of a Buell , if you look at badass customs ,it looks badass because a lot of it is gone. The older Pre XB models are super simple but they caused the most headaches and it was all centered around vibration and the damage vibration does over time.. you see guys bitching about all these problems with S1 and X1 models but if you investigate deeper you'll find shit like broken isolators and rubber mounts , Buell didn't make enough of those bikes for a long time, they were prototypes bascially, later on guys came up with shop.made aftermarket solutions for the vibrations. The S1 and X1s were experiential prototypes. they were great but you had to know where to do upgrades and that knowledge was all in the USA
I own a xb9r, ride it like crazy, if it ever completely bites the dust you could easily part out the bike and make nearly double what you bought it for
That's one way of looking at it!
I was thinking of getting this xb9s lightning 2003 model, no keys, no title😮 it has been sitting in storage for 3 years, i know its going to be a project, is it worth it?
If you can get the title somehow and the dealership can still get keys for it. Then yeah, why not? So long as the price is right.
Good info. I've been lusting after the Buells for awhile, but daunted by the short wheelbase on many of them (I'm tall) and potential obsolescence of parts. Kinda zeroed in on the Lightning9SS or 12SS or possibly the 1125.
Thanks for the comment. I definitely want one as well. The short wheelbase is great for wheelies though, lol
I’m 6’3” and the only Buell I don’t fit on is the lightning. I have to sit on the passenger seat lol
That wouldn’t stop me from buying one 🤷🏻♂️
I fit great on my 1125r and the firebolts I’ve been one. Also, the Buell community is very supportive and parts aren’t really that hard to get
I have a thought to get one and to start working on replacing everything that will be impossible to find in the future. Replace the front end and both wheels. Get normal brakes. Rebuild the engine with all available sportster parts. A restomod to keep it up to date.
Not a bad idea depending on which one you go with. 90s compared to 00s. I've seen some surprises in the Parts Canada catalogues so definitely check there first. Depending on the support you find you can base your bike purchase on that. If there's enough interest I might do the research and make a video for it.
“I think, I was told, I’m not sure” all within 4 minutes. Any bike beat or not maintained is gonna give you problems. I’ve owned 2 XBs and Blast, only the Blast had real problems. My current XB had low miles but leaked like crazy, because it wasn’t ridden. These bikes are a marvel of engineering and some of the funnest bikes I’ve ever ridden. They are quirky but once you get the bug for Buells, it’s just part of the culture.
Rotax engines: don’t let him scare you. KTM uses Rotax and they are great engines. Compared to my XB my besties CR is silky smooth in the power band and throttle.
Thanks for pointing that out. I will admit this video is one of my first to really blow up on the channel and perhaps my inexperience or doubt shows.
In regards to the bikes I agree with you. They are very cool and quirky. Everyone should ride one st some point in their life. As for rotax engines, HD dealerships won't work on them. I believe that's partly why HD got rid of Buell when they changed the motors. And in regards to maintenance and custom tools required, I've been told multiple times by techs to stay away from KTM. Performance is great, but very pricey.
The CR sure is an incredible machine, precise and brutal. Rotax is well known for its reliability in Europe, notably used in Aprilia's and BMW's bikes.Early mishaps for the 1125's are well known today and easily fixable(clutch weep,rotor and stator)once done, and ofc properly maintained these bikes are extremely reliable
@@philippeallemant8524 Thanks for sharing that information!
What do you think about Buell super Turing?
The front end looks like an afterthought in all honesty. Could have put some more effort into making it look cohesive. Other than that it's the same as the other new bikes, which I have yet to try out. HP numbers do seem impressive though.
“The electronics on the bike are something you’ll never find again”
…what? The sensors all crossover to Ford Mustang parts
Coming from an OEM dealership, 100% correct. There is a comment I pinned for some alternatives to finding those difficult parts. If there's a will there's a way, but some future buyers may not be as internet savvy in tracking things like that down.
Also... I meant wiring harness, etc... if something major craps out beyond sensors and relays the bike is most likely a paperweight.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast
Fair, there’s no dealership support anymore but the community has such a huge collection of part numbers. Other than some truly unique parts like the swing arm or frame you can get anything.
If the harness is bad you can replace the wires and buy the proper pins. If the ECU fails, you can still buy a race ECU for $500. The stator and R/R are still available using a Harley pn.
Before I bought a Buell I was shopping for an Aprilia. Even though Aprilia is still in business it was still easier to get Buell parts due to most of the bike being a parts bin bike.
I have a 2001 Cyclone / x1 special and also owned an xb12 scg and an x1. True some parts are difficult,but there are ways and means to get round that,ie small engineering cos,or used bits ,you have to use your inginuity,but that adds to the mistique.When set up right they are good to ride. As a daily ride no, no,as an occasional ride on a sunny day,great,so another good bike is required.
Thanks for sharing!
What about a 2000 X1?
A good buy or hard pass?
I've been told they're good, however they do have some weird brake setups on them which are obsolete. If you can find one cheap enough grab it and change the brake setup immediately. Someone who owns one might be able to confirm that as well, or add to the decision making.
LOL... nice wiskers Bub. Been rideing sport since 94' at 16 yrs old, first bike 92' GSXR750 one of the last air and oil cooled GS based gixxers. Back in dayz of ZX7's, Fizzers, and F model Hondas, when we used 4 plastic bottles to sync carbs, cause vacuum guages were pricy and we needed tires. Since then I swear I had them all, from Aprillia, to every Ninja and gixxer made. Yet the Buell sticks around, go figure... nothin' like it.
Thanks for sharing! Always love hearing about ownership stories, especially the old days!
If you know where to look for the parts your good, just had to buy a clutch cable, spark plug, the spark plug wire, belt, and lights for my 2004 Buell Blast.. Had to call Harley Davidson in my area that was able to transfer me to another Harley Store that had some of my parts.. The other parts I found on Ebay and Amazon!! I honestly can't wait to start riding!!!
That's awesome they were able to help you out. Buell Blasts can be fun little bikes. We've had a few come through the dealership and I've sold multiple parts to owners as well. Pretty straight forward to maintain as well!
Does anybody know of a Harley dealership who actually does still support the Buells? Or any other shop for that matter. I want to buy one, but I wanna buy it from a shop, who has already gone thru it and made it perfect again.
Depends where you live. And honestly, we've had XBs and Blasts in the shop but we rarely do much when parts are obsolete. If parts aren't available we don't work on the bike. The one Blast we had sat there for what seemed like a month at least because fork seals weren't available.
I have an 09 Buell Ulysses but now you've scared me out of riding it
Just making owners aware of the Harley dealership situation. I really wanted an XB9 but a mechanic talked me out of it unless I get it dirt cheap and don't want to ride it much.
Read my comments above. Almost everything he said in this video about parts availablity is incorrect. Just because you can't get it from HD doesn't mean it's not available elsewhere. Enjoy your bike!
Oil in frame is pretty cool i want s1 lightning and Ulysses
I own a 1998 ST3T I love this thing. “BUT” I will say you do have to be a bit tech savvy. Lot’s of wiring problems. I’m going to retire the entire bike soon. She is a beast of a bike God Bless Eric Buell for asking it. She is a keeper.
I have 05 xb9 city I love it the one thing I can't find is the plastics other then that it's the funnest bike I've had very reliable it's my daily driver I had a car pull out in front of me about 2 months ago totaled the bike I restored it and had no problem finding none of the parts just got to look they're out there I've owned many bikes and it's probably one of the funnest ones I've had
That's awesome! I wanted to buy an XB9 city but was told I'd have more aftermarket options with an 883 for what I wanted to do to it. Glad you're all right and so is the bike. Thanks for sharing!
2005 XB9SX owner - 1st owner, bought it w/ odometer reading 0.0. Sound advice when thinking about buying a Buell. Mine has been running great from the beginning.. fingers crossed that it’ll keep going for a very long time. Its super interesting that some of the best parts stores are in Europe.
That's awesome! Thanks for sharing and I appreciate the comment. When the basics are taken care of everything should be fine from that standpoint. I wish you lots of success with the bike and many years of problem-free riding.
Would you recommend an XB9SX for a first bike, or is it to much for a beginner?
@@CAM1308MI Would I recommend for a beginner - yes. Would I recommend for someone who wants to get on it and have some fun going fast? Yes.. this is a great bike. The V-twin is forgiving but at the same time has torque and HP to satisfy the more experienced rider.
@@CAM1308MI Not sure if you want only a reply from an owner, but the rule of thumb is don't bite off more than you can chew as a new rider. I personally started with 400, race a 450, now own a 950 and race a 650 as well. If you respect the power and learn the characteristics of the bike I think you should be all right starting on an XB9.
Great video and as a Buell XB12R owner (this were a bucket list bike I couldn't afford when they were introduced) I think you are pretty spot on with your analysis. I also agree with the comments left by @fjon589... My 04 XB12R isn't my only bike and if I could afford to only have one bike, I would dream of a Buell XB, but would not purchase one. Once again, Great Video!👊🤘
Thanks! Much appreciated.
If you are comfortable wrenching on your own motorcycle/car, a lot of reliability issues can be mitigated relatively cheap comparatively, and then YOU KNOW the said work has been done, and done right. I love wrenching on my own car, so I stay ahead of any potential reliability issues, at least as best I can.👍
Absolutely. I totally agree. Lots of preventative maintenance can be done. Also no waiting on a dealership appointment.
Lots of Aftermarket exausts are avaialable .. I like the stock exhaust ..
I recently just got a 1125r an all the parts I've had to replace are just a google search away / and I forgot how old the comment was, but I was reading that you can email Buell and they can still help you out because a lot of the parts they use today are pretty much the same parts they used in 2008 and 2009
That's pretty cool! I wonder if it still works.
I own a 1996 ZX6-R Kawasaki Ninja and to get spare parts is also very hard. This is pretty much true for all old bikes.
Can't always get parts for the bikes we love eh?
I own the Buell Ulysses XB12X 2007, the part are an issue, but i have never needed parts, the bike rides and handles great really great. i have multiple bikes this is my favorite of them all. it's super aggressive and powerful. Have the own that horse to understand it, a great horse, really
Sounds like a good experience. Thanks for sharing!
The dude speaks the truth about parts availability. Honestly, I love my XB12S Lightning. The engineering: outer rim brake rotor, oil in the swingarm, fuel in the frame, drilled front and rear brake discs, drilled rear fender...everything was made to be light weight and as low as possible for superior handling. Once parts are no longer available and I can no longer ride it, I will probably hoist my Lightning up on the wall of my living room so I can admire it every day! 🙂
Why hang it on the wall ??? Don't give up on it brother! If it was made out of metal... It can be made again!! Was that the only metal that exists... NO. Your an American WE CAN DO ANYTHING,WE CAN BUILD ANYTHING THAT WE PUT OUR MIND TOO..
Just got now where to look plenty of parts out there
HD Sportster 74 HP Buell 1203 Thunderstorm .. 103 HP .. Lot's of used parts and some new parts still available ..
Please make a video talking about motus American motorcycle brand
Thanks for the suggestion. I just might!
The happiest day of my life is when I sold my X1. For the time I drove it, 1999 to 2005, didn't sell it for a couple more years and it just sat as I thoroughly enjoyed my 2005 Speed Triple. I actually compiled 2 typewritten pages of things that either completely broke, electrically failed or just wore out. With each repair I did my best to upgrade anything to prevent future problems. A screw fell out of the throttle shaft (which broke in half through the threaded hole), the screw went through the motor. I had to purchase the updated throttle body. The shift drum was made of inferior material and the stud (hardened roller bearing), raised metal wherever the groove changed direction and that raised metal acted as a lathe cutting bit, shaving metal from the forks and those shavings collected in the groove and caused the transmission to lock up on 2 occasions. I fixed that with a replacement shift drum, improved shifter, all but new gears for 5th, bearings, grade 8 bolts for the transmission (it came with grade 5) and helicoils in every hole so nothing would ever strip out again. The original exhaust had no engineering. Why mount the muffler dam near solidly to the frame while the motor moves in the rubber mounts. It caused much breakage until I purchased the complete race header and muffler. A well nut worked loose in the Helmholtz air box, the screw went through the engine and left impressions on the piston, bent both valves and pushrods. One of the first failures was the valve guide seals not properly seated on the valve guide, actually moved with the valve. I would see wifts of blue smoke in the headlight sitting at a stoplight. It caused the valves and seats to pit. That shiny PM rear wheel (option) lost press fit on the axle bearings and the drive side used 2 bearings. The dealership said they fixed it. It got worse because all the dealer did was to peen the interior wall of the wheel and put the same bearings back in the hole. The wheel had to be machined, aluminum bushing made and pressed in then machined to fit the bearing - both sides. I wound up replace the voltage regulator, the ignition switch, valves, seals, one piston and cylinder head, two pushrods, clutch, shift drum, exhaust system, air intake (went with the Sportster carbon fiber ham can and fabricated the base plate out of 0.200" aluminum plate, removed the PCV system that coated the throttle shaft with oil constantly (which assisted in pitting the valves) and made up a vented catch can with drain - no more oil problems getting oil where it did not belong. The Showa shock wore out and leaked the fluid when all the flap about the shock happened and replacement was a scab job fix months later. I purchases a Penske shock ($900.00) and it rode better than ever. I them improved the front end (under sprung for a 205# rider from the factory) and installed a Race Tech spring kit. That beast vibrated very badly and it was not unpleasant to drive but the vibrations wreaked havoc on everything. I used never seize on bolts that the factory did not use anywhere (even the front mount bolts rusted firmly into the aluminum mount where it attached to the frame), blue Loctite on most all fasteners, red Loctite on the crankshaft nut, inch pound and foot pound wrenches were used to tighten every bolt. Yes, the day I sold it, it was the best X1 available at the time and I actually smiled seeing it on the new owners trailer. If you do purchase one, be sure to improve whats wrong before you ever attempt a 50 mile or longer trip. Harley has no business making sport bikes and they learned a lesson, maybe. I did and it was expensive and frustrating.
Long read! Thank you for sharing and taking the time to write all of that.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast You are welcome. I am still disgusted with Harley cheapening what Erik had intended and the lack of R&D time put into it for productions and customer satisfaction. There is more but I think I covered the major issues. Only significant part I did not replace was the oil pump and the motor mounts which got a very bad rap for what reason?
@@4speed3pedals I've heard great things about Erik and his Buells. It is definitely a shame how Harley mishandled the brand.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast COMPLETELY
Face. Here in Brazil there are many Buell's. I already had 2. Excellent motorcycles!!!!
Is it easy to get parts for them in Brazil?
Just going to say owned many bikes, bought a new xb9 and was the first to have one in Sacramento, the bike was amazing, and I had a new cyclone which had a 1200 “sportster” motor and that was junk from day one was in the shop all the time for the lame rocker box gasket failing lol. I know you’re talking about buying one current times as a purchase, but there is such thing as mods and upgrades to the parts that are available! Just so you know HD is still an unreliable bike that leaks oil! But you already know that.
Buell is back in Business. I will assume that they will have parts for the Halcon engine..
It's tough to say from my perspective, but it would be nice for current owners of older machines to have more support since HD doesn't offer a whole lot. I had two Buell Blast owners come in recently as well as someone with an XB12 I think, or Lightning maybe, but I think I was able to order everything they needed.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast I see the place in the Netherlands even sells ECU's but all their parts are very expensive..
@@mikeskidmore6754 Absolutely. Everyone mentions the Netherlands and the prices are so crazy it's hard to justify buying anything.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast Current owners couldn't support the HD made models even if they wanted to. Because HD will sue the pants off them if they do. HD owns the rights to those bikes. That said, the 1190 is an evolution of the 1125 engine, so there's quite a bit from the new bike that fits the 1125, so they still support that to some extent.
@@mikeskidmore6754 IDS in the US still makes the OEM ECU's for all the Buell models. Or send your ECU to to them for a retune for around $100.
So your dealership services bikes 15 years old and older? Which stealership is that? Also, my XB12, 1125R and 1190SX run just fine with parts with a little internet research are readily available. BTW, who are you again commentator talking about your personal preferences?
Did you even watch the video mate?
@@BehindTheEnthusiast I did, and other then working at the Harley dealership your credentials are? Just wondering in that I've not experienced undue anything sourcing parts yet
@@gvs5318 Then by watching the video you should gather this is from a dealership perspective mainly. Customers located in my area in Canada experience things differently than in the USA and other countries with different part suppliers. I have access to Harley parts at work, so when a rider is considering whether or not dealership support is present this video is vital to explaining what issues may arise when owning these original bikes that used Harley components.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast well, as an enthusiast I see your perspective but am wondering why, (are things different in Canada? Here dealerships wont touch bikes over a certain vintage and propose one attend to an independent shop), you are encouraging young rider, (I'm guessing they're younger in that Buells can be purchased for a song and a dance and as I was younger finances did play a big part in my decision making), to not try to fix the problem at hand themselves given the resources they have. Yes, from a dealership perspective I can understand you wanting to generate revenue but at a cost of squelching ingenuity and sense of pride when accomplishing said task under less than favorable conditions? Is that the ilk Harley riders are made of? Highly doubtful.
@@gvs5318 Because we are a different country we don't get the same support. Even when it comes to shipping cross-border things are "sloppy" and delayed sometimes. It can be very frustrating as a loyal customer, or even a new one to find a "lack of competence" with the support given by your dealership, even though it is out of their hands. Yes, after a certain year we don't work on specific older Harley models. Same thing goes for extremely modified bikes as well with custom frames, etc... sometimes it's not worth the associated risk. As far as me giving advice to riders, it doesn't need to be a matter of age. It has more to do with people being aware of their options. Whether it be a Buell, or a Harley, some models are a nightmare, for example: cross-over years. People should be aware of what they are getting into and information is there to help in the decision-making process as a guide only.
My favorite model was Ulises xb12x but now I like pan América HD motorcycle
That you worked at a HD dealership and didnt initially know HD owned Buell says it all about HD's support of Buell.
They had already discontinued the brand well before I started working there. The only thing we really carry for them is gaskets and oil filters. Not much else unfortunately. The other week I had to order in front brake pads for an XB12.
I bought a 2003 Buell XB9s yesterday and I’m very pleased
They are very enjoyable... I daily 75000 miles on it.. there are fan of it in the after market... Brake king still makes nice rotors for it...
Wow that's a lot of miles!
@@BehindTheEnthusiast I will never sell it so the plan is ride it break it improve it ride more.. it had 7000 when I got it. One clutch three stators two belts..miles are smiles.
@@virum1That's awesome!
I'm 35, bought a 06 Xb12Ss a year ago (time of video). I deal with this every time I go into HD. They also own MV Agusta. Pretty cool bikes (Italian). I love my XB12... love it. It's the loudest thing I've ever heard. Also, the new Buell has the lead designer from EBR (Eric's 2nd reboot) Eric Buell Racing. That's where the 2023 Hammerhead 1190 comes from (EBR 1190). Another thing; if you want bikes to be made in America in the future, we should support them (New Buell).
Awesome dude. Glad you're enjoying the xb12! Sweet. I didn't know that. Absolutely. Support the brand or it will cease to exist. Then we can't complain when chinese brands take over the market.
@Behind The Enthusiast for sure! You should do a video covering the rise and fall(s) and rise (again) of Buell. I actually put in an order for 2023 Buell Hammerhead today. I could drive it over for B-Roll 😄 for the video. I'm only 3 hours from the new factory; so I may go look at it on the line if aloud.
@@Zach2Wheels I've considered doing a documentary style video. It's a lot of work to research and make sure information is accurate. Wow! Sweet! Haha. For sure! Dude that would be sweet if they let you.
I have a 2003 xb9s I converted to a low and a 2 inch curl handlebar mustache :-)
EBC do brake rotors
For the XB?
@@BehindTheEnthusiast Yes , I bought and fitted one to my Uly.
I own a 09 Harley Davidson XR1200 and can barely get parts for that bike (aside from some engine parts). Bodywork, suspension, brakes etc. no longer available. BUT who actually buys parts at dealerships? You can get many parts from other manufacturers, especially rotors for Buells are not hard to come by by other manufacturers.
I definitely know that's a fact. We recently had one traded in and I was looking up parts for it. One of the air vent hoses or something is obsolete on it. Basically once a bike is 8 years old sell it. Or if you want to stay current, every 2-5 years buy a new one. Basically once warranty is up get a new bike. Keep in mind that's a bit ridiculous since aftermarket companies have your back, but it's true from an OEM standpoint. I believe the brakes supercede to a newer number, so double check that one. I buy everything I can from a dealership. There's no parts person on the web stores so it makes no sense to primarily spend money there. At a dealership employees have training, what does a website have? Customer service who thinks they know what they're doing and returns, etc... take forever.
The more you say, the worse you sound. It's baffling you've made it this far in life. The worst part about it is you sound like you actually believe this shit, like your conviction is deep! Deeply flawed...
Be careful of the electrical harness and make all efforts to tape or grommet the frame passages for the harness. HD clearly cheaped-out on that and it's a real problem area on those bikes.
Thanks for sharing!
My XB 9 has 80k miles on it and runs as good as new with no issues whatsoever any repairs
Just look up cross reference parts, crap loads available at regular auto parts store cheep.
Awesome man! Thanks for sharing.
Owning a buell is worth any and all compromises IMO. I love owning something that shouldn’t exist. The xb9/xb12’s are the last word in bonkers and I love them for it.
I’m not a Harley fan I think they are outdated bikes for old men and wannabe biker dads. I’d have a Honda shadow over any Harley… apart from the V-rod😋. To me buell was the best thing that Harley ever had a hand in and they killed it.😔
Thanks for sharing! They are crazy bikes for sure. I still think about owning one from time to time. Suzuki is my first brand and yet I own a Honda, Yamaha... the list goes on. Can never have too many bikes, lol. Harley is reaching into new territory, and had they not killed off Buell I believe they would have had an easier time with the transition.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast I replaced my xb9 with a 2014 Suzuki sfv 650 with the round light conversion. While I love my Suzuki and won’t part with it, I had to have another buell for those days that nothing else will do. If you’ve never at-least ridden one I’d highly recommend it.
@@Bethany_mo Sweet. I have ridden a Buell. It was an '09 1125CR I believe. It malfunctioned on my test ride where the clutch lever being in wasn't registered and gear changes had a delayed response as well. Scary as hell to limp it to a nearby coffee shop where I waited for the dealership to pick me up. I would never ride one again unless it's the actual Harley engine models, not the rotax. So I'd still consider picking up an XB9 at some point if the opportunity presented itself.
My question to you is, have you ever ridden one? Because I have, it was an early thunderbolt, and lemme tell ya, it lived up to its name! Much lighter than a sportster, 1000 times better handling, braking, stability, and way way quicker! In my eyes Eric Buell knocked it outta the park with that one. I took it on a 300 mile ride, and it was flawless in every way for a sport bike but one that's made in USA and to patriots like myself that means something. The HP #s are quite deceptive because the power to weight ratio is magnified by the lost total weight and rolling resistance, so the bike is much quicker than you might expect. Also top end was expanded through the tuning, cam selection, exaust and induction to the point that its just a joy to ride and hear that familiar rumble as the scenery becomes a blur. As an engineer and fabricator I see no reason to not own any Buell as long as you know of a good cnc shop that can scan and cut you new rotors or anything else you might need. Or if you are not an engineer / machinist, it's nice to know someone that is if you own any exotic vehicle. Of course machinists are not cheap, and we are a dying breed, but the next generation is going to have to figure that one out😂😂😂
Short answer, yes I have. I will be making a video about my experience. I've definitely heard a lot of what you mentioned. I also watched the Buell factory video and it's really cool. Definitely sweet bikes, however the hard to find parts and machining aspect just isn't appealing to the masses. I know some guys who are welders and what not, but I'm the only machinist I know of and I haven't done that stuff in probably 2 decades.
Really enjoy mine but parts and info on parts is a pain
Join badweatherbikers plenty of support.
I want my 10 minutes back to ride my Buell....
@@ElGuapoDeSantoPoco Thanks for watching for 10 minutes! Now get out there and ride and never watch a negative Buell video again.😂
Awwwww man really I thought my 09 1125cr I could service in the HD shop cause that is the last year of it being under HD till you just told me this. 4:13
@@costasgeorgiou5015 Some dealerships might, but you'd have to ask to be 100% certain. Basically you'd have to see what parts they have access to in order to complete the job.
Thanks for the info but I still enjoy the heck out of this bike!
@@costasgeorgiou5015 Absolutely! They are lots of fun!
Harley's are not my thing really ,don't get why they have such a following but love Buell's from the tube frame early one's with sportster motor to the early alloy framed with 1203 motor . Like the idea of big V twin torque monster ,but don't like the bike Harley wrap round it
Thanks for the comment! To each their own, right? I really think the uniqueness of the Buells play a huge part in their appeal and the v-twin engine sound is pure excitement.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast Harley are suppose to we launching the Bronx 975 , it has the look of the Buell not sure if it will make it here to the UK , does look good though ,shame its not got the big air cooled motor though . I like the radical features of the Buell ,that rim mounted disc ,oil in swingarm ,fuel in frame and the exhaust looks amazing ,it has the look of massive engine they just fitted wheels to ,but it handles like sports bike
@@tiggy2756 I keep hoping they will make it! When I was looking for a new bike years ago I wanted one. So we'll see what happens!
I think it's telling that this guy didn't even know that Harley was affiliated with Buell. H-D hated Buell. H-D hated anything without forward controls. One reason to love the tube frame Buells is starting in 2002 the trapdoor was eliminated.
I was just being honest about my experience in the beginning. Obviously you can still get some Buell parts from the dealership, however eventually I think there will come a day when we will no longer offer oil filters.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast I wasn't being critical even though it sounded that way. I worked for a H-D dealership at the time I was riding a 2001 M2 Cyclone. The thing had a Sportster engine and they treated me like a leper. There were a number of employees and customers that had no idea what it was. The seven store dealer organization had a festive day. We closed the store and did a 300 mile ride to a central location. We got there and it was a sea of Harleys with one orange and silver Buell sticking out like a sore thumb. I over heard to guy as they walked past "hey a Buell! I'll bet Harley wishes they had never let that go."
@@BehindTheEnthusiast One of the reasons I sold my M2 Cyclone was due to the plastic oil bag. I knew that some day the vibrations and the heat would render that useless and probably leave me sitting.
@@JR-bj3uf I know a lot more about Buell parts now than when I first started at the dealership, however I probably know more obsolete parts than available ones. Guys come in asking for the basics and I either have it or can order it, usually to their surprise. Provided nothing major goes on them you're fine. It's just too much of a gamble to ride as a daily and expect it to be as reliable as other major brands on the roads today.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast I ride a Norton Commando. The funny thing is, you can get anything you need for a 70s vintage Commando and you can get re-manufactured parts that are better then the originals. I guess there were just no enough Buells sold for this kind of loyalty. Moto Guzzi is kind of the same way. The dealers do not have anything but independent people do.
You can buy 4-5 used Buells for one new HD Road Glide costs.
I bought a 2008 Buell Ulysses. So far I have put a new Air Filter on it .. New spark Plugs and next new tires. It has 15,400 miles on it now it has 17,200 miles on it . also plan to change the engine and Primary oil.
Will inspect the front brake pads when I put on a new front tire. I just took it to the Harley drags last weekend . Best time 12.77 @ 110 MPH ..
I also installed a Madstad windscreen as the stock windscreen blows loudly into my helmet..
Don't tell people that, you'll start an addiction! lol.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast The Rear wheel bearings failed .. I learned on a Buell Blog that Buell upgraded the rear wheel . The newer wheel used three larger wheel bearings.. It eats Harleys for Lunch ..
Rotax built an Engine to Buell specs.. The New Buell CO is going to furnish parts for the Halcion engines.. so they say ..
Most of the good Buell tech for vtwins has already been leaked into HD via the screaming eagle catalogue. The cases are different, but the pistons, cams, and heads all will fit the evo engine.
Here's the deal, if you want a sports bike, get a Japanese one. It's a better product. If you want a cruiser, .....get a Japanese one it's also a better product. 😂
But let's be honest if you're buying a HD, you're not buying a motorcycle. You're buying a HD.
As for Buells, there's plenty out there cheap. Buy 3 if you're planning on keeping one.
They will "fit" but I've been told they are very different on an XB9 that you can't just throw that stuff in and go. I watched the video of them manufacturing the Buell components and everything seemed pretty custom to me.
Well that's not nice to say, lol. I own mostly Japanese bikes as it is, so I can't really argue your point.
You're buying a premium motorcycle with a lot of history behind it. I know they cost a lot, but when you look at electric motorcycles they don't seem all that expensive anymore. And there in lies the problem with Buells, lol. Gotta own multiples and they aren't that cheap where I am.
Maybe BRP will have parts for that rotax engine
I would imagine they would have access but never asked when I was at the local BRP dealer years ago test riding their used Buell.
Thanks for the disinformation. Very helpful.
Disinformation?...
Agreed….this video is bullshit
Dude my 96’ Buell s2t is badass!! She rips better then a sporty. I think they are way better than a Harley
Some say the ones from the 90s are the best ones!
@@BehindTheEnthusiast hell yes!! I’m in the process of getting the x1 millennium edition! I’m pretty happy. This one I’ll leave stock. The bike I’m sitting on in my profile picture is my custom Buell
Knuckle heads ,Pan , shovel ,and earlier are also obsolete.
True in a way. However there are lots more aftermarket companies out there for those bikes than Buells from what I've seen through my vendors.
True,I guess a buell is for a patient owner . Has 2 bikes will wait for parts.
Biggest issue with earlier Buell's is that they had actual HD v-twin's, from the sportsters at the time of the 90s. They are notoriously the worst Harley engines, and Harley are generally mid reliable anyway. But if you own a Harley already Im sure you're use to it lol.
Notoriously the worst? Since when? EVOs are one of the best, hence why they've been around the longest. The only known issues I've seen are leaking rocker box gaskets.
@@BehindTheEnthusiast Well maybe I cant say "notoriously bad" I'm sorta leading the wrong context. I guess the worst "reception" of the V-twins, but one could argue that was because of gatekeeping Bikers.
@@BRedFilms Yeah, you could word it that way for sure. A lot of people not liking the smaller model, yet the custom scene is huge. And with the first Buell motors being yanked from base model Sportsters they are actually easier to get parts at a dealership.
Got rotor other day ...st.paul has all kind of part s....an eBay has tons of parts an hole motors
I got a brand new rotor for the front 05 xb12cg new sprockets new motor mounts everything. Pricey never had a major breakdown drive it to Sturgis 1000 miles one way every year I owned it for 13 years I beat the shit out of it everytime I ride it. Kickstand broke in parking lot fucked it up a little but 200 bucks got all new parts good to go. Easy to work on. I have found complete brand new wiring harnesses ecms pretty much I found anypart for it just gotta look and I never put a used part on it ever. Expensive they are but I just got 1000 buck in parts today. It's a born again virgin ready to roll. I seen a Ulysses with 265000 miles on it last year. So I'm keeping mine it's paid for if it pukes it pukes get another one there cheap right now
Nice. That's awesome it's been reliable for you. Ouch. Kickstand braking is a bummer. Sweet. Glad you're able to get new parts for it with relative ease. Haha. Born again eh! That's crazy! Most I've seen was 120 or something kms on a vrod. Right on man. I'm still half looking for an XB9.
If the new Buell's had an option for no electronics and analog gauges, I would pay more for the bike
Why is that?
@@BehindTheEnthusiast bulletproof...
NOW CAREFUL WITH YOUR SPEW HERE! Now ill give you a harley dealership that will work on any BUELL ... ST PAUL HARLEY DAVIDSON!!! My 22 yr old buell will kill any new sportster in a drag race. And most other harleys! As far as the 1125 rmotor and 1190 motors the top pro stock bikes are BUELLS .!!
That's cool you've found a dealership to work on all sorts of Buells. I would hope a Buell would beat any EVO Sportster, lol. What do you have done to yours?
Not a damn thing ! Didn't need too. I bought it from a pawn shop with 9,000 miles on it. In January!! I had to wait till spring to ride it. I have never regretted buying it. Most of my riding buddy's are petrified of it they say the will die on it! I say what a way too go. I'm 65 in September and I have had multiple myeloma since 2015 . That's Bone Cancer... And no cure for it ( so far) . So it has taught me to live life to the fullest and not too fear anything. Buells are another motorcycle made in America. And I support this country! Why not ...I've supported Harley Davidson for over 50 yrs and paid thru the nose for that privilege. I currently own 4 HARLEYS.90 FXRS SP, 01 BUELL M2 CYCLONE,82 XLH,77 XLH. My parts list is a long one. I wrench my own bikes.as for my Buell who knows a big bore kit maybe possibilities are endless.
@@randylanhart1387 Thanks for being so open about your situation. Bikes are an amazing form of therapy and help us forget life's troubling times. I hope you are able to continue riding and go many more miles on all of your bikes. Riding is a simple pleasure, one that not enough people indulge in. It's great to hear you are still riding at 65 and own multiple bikes as well. Enjoy them to the fullest!
People love these bikes
They certainly do!
Ttue story on obsolete parts and its hard af to get reliable info there is good forums and groups but they are limited
tube frame rotors are plentiful form companies line ebc, nothing special about them. the xb front rotors are a bit more exotic. that being said, with the new iteration of the company coming out, those parts might be more attainable. the tube frame model have much more in common with a sportster of the same era. there are definitely internal differences that provide much more power. nothing a performance shop could not replicate.
Very true. The XB models are definitely more "exotic". I would like to think that parts would be more attainable for sure. With the likes of the Buell Super Cruiser coming out, I'm sure lots of OG owners will consider some newer models as well. Exactly. Without a doubt. Just gotta pay to play.
Buell will still repair them as will Harley if built under their time of ownership. Eric Buell built them off Harley Sportster Engine.
Typical harley guy giving typical nosense about buell.
Typical guy named Dennis being a menace.
You know as much about me as you do about Buells.
Ive owned and own many bikes. Currently a 2009 1125r and 2007 gsxr 600. Getting parts and working on either is no different than any other vehicle.
How many Buells have you owned? You speak your opinions as truth. Yet your perspective flows harley inferiority. Buells dont compare to harleys. Should we all own nothing, as one day it will break and be useless.
If you are passionate about something then you would own it at whatever the cost to keep it going. Buell owners are the most passionate motorcycle riders I have come across and have the privilege of being.
Harley doesnt work on Buells period, not just the rotax powered ones. Took harley 5hrs to administer a headlight recall on my firebolt incorrectly at that.
Engine size has a very minor influence on insurance rates. It has more to do with the number of losses per vehicle. My gsxr600 cost 3x as much to insure than my 1125r at the same coverage and nearly double the cc. More losses and claims on a gsxr600 than a 1125r.
Maybe your next video will tell me why I shouldn’t own a knucklehead because parts are not easy to find. Or how about a Ducati from the 90s-00s? Would be no different than a Buell.
You are clearly not passionate about Buells. I am not pasionate about Harleys, should I tell you why you shouldnt own a harley based on my baised opinion with no actual truth or experience owning one. You might take that as an insult. I take it as your full of it, just the same as every other harley parts service or sales man I have experienced.
@@dennis1562 Did you even watch the entire video?
I fail to see how owning a GSXR is relevant in this context. As someone who is a Suzuki guy first, I don't see any correlation between my Suzuki parts and Harley parts. Each supply chain has its own issues.
Had you watched the entire video and actually listened to what I said you would know without a doubt I am speaking from a dealership's perspective, not just some fly-by-night opinion. I even state at the end that I am passing along information and it is at the potential owner's discretion to actually buy an older Buell that is no longer supported by HD dealerships in Canada.
Actually, you're wrong. Harley does service Buells. We've done work on numerous Buell Blasts and had some XB models in the building as well. Rare for us to do the work, however I also order a decent amount of parts for owners in the area and I'm actually considered "the Buell guy" because of the work I put in with these owners who are very much appreciative of my efforts.
Engine size very much so has an impact on insurance. Just because your experience is different due to location, age, etc... doesn't invalidate what I experience where I live.
I don't know much about Knuckleheads, but thanks for the video idea! Maybe I'll give you a shoutout at the beginning of the video too. ;) As for Ducati, I have a friend to ask about those as he rebuilds the old ones and seems to have pretty good luck with them.
Not passionate about my job you mean? Where I've dedicated nearly 5 years to learning as much as possible to serve my customers to the best of ability and learn something new everyday? People do that all the time, but there is validity and truth in what they say or else they wouldn't get 16k views on them now would they? I don't take anything as an insult. How you treat me is a reflection of you, not me. I appreciate you conversing with me. Conversation is great, even if we don't see eye to eye. The views and the comments keep pouring in and have this video as the most popular on my channel for motorcycle content. Thanks again for the engagement!
Lol at least your worth a good laugh.
Did You read my entire post. Yikes man you are full of yourself. The more you talk the less credible you are. 16k views validates only that 16k people clicked your video. That doesnt mean you are credible at all, fact.
I have been riding Buells longer than you have been alive. I have mentioned before owning several buells including my current 1125r. Yet you seem to miss that, because I also own a gsxr600, which is what my wife uses. So you have deamed me a suzuki guy. Lol, I roflol when you called yourself a buell guy. Omfg that is still making me lol.
Seeing as both bikes are in my name and insured exactly the same, my insurance rates could change in dollar amount if I lived where you do, but their proportion to each other would remain the same, fact. Your opinion doesnt discredit that.
You are only open to experiences and facts that align with your opinion. Your entire video is your opinion, why you wouldnt buy a buell. All the while negating facts from actual buell owners and actual experiences. A quick breeze through the comments shows Buell owners delighted with their bikes and not having the troubles you state in your video. Your perspective is skewed as you have stated and confirmed. You dont own one nor do you care to own one. So your opinion invalid. I have had many bad experiences at multiple harley dealers, fact. Yet you want to discredit that because You was not my “Buell Guy.” Lol, I still cant believe that, haha. You didnt even know buell existed 5yrs ago. You are just like every other guy at harley, dis-servicing Buell every rare occasion you get.
Its no any harder to get parts for my 1125r than my gsxr600. Fairings for a gsxr600 change every 2yrs in enough ways that they dont fit other years. I can always find a airbox cover or tail fairing for my 1125, because they are the same from 2001-2009. All bikes 10+ years old will have the same difficulty getting parts.
Good luck at harley kiddo. Im glad you got the training wheels off. Maybe next year they will get you some tassels.
you probably ought not to buy a P-51 Mustang.. cus it is obsolete.
That's not even a motorcycle, lol.
Thank you so much for the detailed info, I was looking at an 07 Buell. I love the sound and the design but my riding style and manner of using my bike means this is not the bike for me. Thank you once again.
You're welcome. Glad I could help.😊
Yes you should.
So, you just don't know.
Does anyone really ever know? What is the meaning of life?
I've got a 2000 x1 racing stripe #75 . I've had it since 2004 with 1500 miles on it , now 30000 hard miles on it and a problem
No problem s
I ride the shit out of my 99 S3. 60,000 miles and running strong!!!
Awesome! What has the maintenance been like?