The Buell S2 Thunderbolt, a radical departure from the cruiser-dominated landscape. At its heart beats a 45-degree V-Twin engine, bred from Harley-Davidson’s 1200 Sportster platform but tweaked to unleash 76 horsepower at 5,200 rpm.
The chassis, unchanged in wheelbase and steering geometry, now proudly displays more of both the engine and frame, creating a striking visual presence. The riding position has been expertly balanced between aggressive crouch and relaxed cruiser stance.
Bristling with cutting-edge components, including inverted fork, massive disc brake, and subverted shock absorber, this motorcycle is an exercise in innovation. Its 481-pound curb weight belies its potent performance capabilities. With a production run of just 300 units for its inaugural year, the Buell S2 Thunderbolt sets a new benchmark for sport bikes, one that would soon be echoed by its touring counterpart. It’s clear: this bike is not just a Harley-Davidson engine under a Buell badge, but a genuine game-changer in the world of motorcycling.
Key Specifications
Engine Type
45 V-Twin, four stroke, pushrod actuated overhead valve,hydraulic self-adjusting lifters,2 valve per cylinder.
Engine Capacity
1203 cc / 73.4 cu in
Max Power
56.7 kw / 76 hp
Max Torque
90 Nm / 9.2 kgf-m / 66.4 lb.ft @ 5500 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity
20.4 L / 5.4 US gal
Weight (Wet/Kerb)
481 lbs / 218 kg
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
All Specifications
Make & Model
Model
Buell S2 Thunderbolt
Year
1994
Engine
Engine Type
45 V-Twin, four stroke, pushrod actuated overhead valve,hydraulic self-adjusting lifters,2 valve per cylinder.
Displacement
1203 cc / 73.4 cu in
Bore x Stroke
88.8 x 96.8 mm
Compression Ratio
10.0:1
Max Horsepower
56.7 kw / 76 hp
Max Torque
90 Nm / 9.2 kgf-m / 66.4 lb.ft @ 5500 rpm
Engine Management System
2 x 40 mm Keihin carburetors
Cooling System
Air cooled
Performance
Top Speed
233.4 km/h / 145 mph
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
Transmission
Gearbox
5 Speed
Final Drive
Kevlar belt
Electrical & Electronics System
Starter
Electric
Chassis & Suspension
Front Suspension
40 mm Showa fork, adjustable for compression and rebound damping
Front Suspension Travel
120 mm / 4.7″
Rear Suspension
Single Showa shock, spring preload, compression and preload damping
Rear Suspension Travel
116 mm / 4.6″
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tire Size
120/70 ZR17
Rear Tire Size
170/60 ZR17
Front Brakes
Single 340 mm disc, 6 piston caliper
Rear Brakes
Single 230 mm disc, 2 piston caliper
Dimension & Weights
Fuel Tank Capacity
20.4 L / 5.4 US gal
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight
481 lbs / 218 kg
Dry Weight
200 kg / 441 lbs
Features
45 V-Twin engine
Four stroke engine design
Pushrod actuated overhead valve
Hydraulic self-adjusting lifters
2 valves per cylinder
Huge disc brake with 6-piston caliper
Inverted fork suspension
Subverted shock absorber
Carbon-fiber air cleaner cover
Oversize muffler for performance tuning
76 horsepower at 5,200 rpm
76 lb-ft torque at 5,200 rpm
Curb weight of 481 pounds (218kg)
Production schedule of 300 units in debut year
Available in S2T touring model with color-coordinated accessories
*We strive to provide the most comprehensive and accurate specifications possible. However, certain details may not be available if the manufacturer did not disclose them or if the information is no longer publicly accessible. If you find any discrepancy with any data on this site, please feel free to let us know at contact@throttlecraze.com
