Thinking (Changing bike ?)
 

I am thinking of upgrading my sv650 to a Buell XB12Ss.

Any views positive or negative?

I know it's not an SV but it is a V-twin still.

They look sooooooo sweet.

Cheers

Re: Thinking
 

I've heard they accelerate like freight trains and are amazing in the twisites. Not ridden one though.

Re: Thinking
 

Thinking is dangerous, don't do it. I hurt myself the last time I did some thinking! :D

Buell is a razor sharp steering wheely machine................with a Hardly Dangerous engine.

Not my cup of tea but they sound good. Tichy size as well, makes an SV look like an articulated lorry!! :D

Re: Thinking
 

they are very twitchy and go like the clappers. my blokes got a raptor and his mate a buell, last time we were on m-way together it looked like a game of roadrash jailbreak!!! I wasn't going to even try

Re: Thinking
 

I keep looking at those Buells myself too. V. tempted :D

Re: Thinking
 

I test rode one once.

Awesome engine and noise in my opinion. Although the one i rode had a full race kit on.

Handled amazingly. Would lift the front end in most gears without complaining or using much effort.

I still want one :D

Re: Thinking
 

I rode a 2004 XB12S once. They shake less than a Harley Sportster but more than most other bikes. I adore the low end power, crazy looks, and sound but didn't like how unstable the bike felt until I got used to it. The bike wasn't UNstable, it just felt that way and I had to spend quite a while on it before I really felt like I was turly in control. Once I did get in the groove, turns were a blast! The upright seating makes it fun even in seriously thick traffic too.

I really like it, it is everything you'd want from a hooligan/streetfighter (my favorites) but it has it's ups and downs. I like being hit by the wind, but I wouldn't take it long-distance touring or ever ride two-up for very long (granted I never actually took anyone else on the bike as it was not mine-so I could be wrong). The gauges are also hard to read during the day-time too. The clutch is also VERY stiff. I would argue that it's about as stiff as my 1979 Sportster (which actually left my muscles sore after a long ride). I liked the clutch because it encouraged only two types of riding-insanely fast or cruiser slow. You will likely be tired after riding it, but won't care since you're likely to have a blast.

I would probably buy one (or the XB9) if I had more money.

Re: Thinking
 

Yup, remember that the Ss (or Lightning Long) is slightly longer and higher, can't remember how much. Try the 12S if you're a shortie like me

Re: Thinking (Changing bike ?)
 

my mate's got a xb12r and he loves it to bits:)

Re: Thinking (Changing bike ?)
 

Took the xb12ss for a test ride :) :) :) :)

Bloody loved it :) :) :)

Have ordered one..Cant wait.

Wheelie