The Buell S1 Lightning – a rebuke to those who thought the independent spirit of Erik Buell’s company had been extinguished by its partnership with Harley-Davidson. This potent 45 V-Twin, with its 10:1 compression ratio and 91 horsepower at 5,800 rpm, is the antithesis of compromise.
The engine character is raw and immediate, with a snarl that belies its relatively modest weight of 440 pounds (200kg). The Lightning’s unique windscreen, tank, seat, and rear fender all contribute to its aerodynamic efficiency and 25-pound weight advantage over the Thunderbolt.
As a result, the S1 delivers blistering acceleration and speed – quarter-mile times under 12 seconds at 114 mph (183km/h), with a top speed of 130 (209km/h). In short, the Buell S1 Lightning is an uncompromising American sport bike that proudly wears its heritage on its sleeve.
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
73.6 kw / 101 hp
Max Torque
128.6 Nm / 13.1 kgf-m / 94.8 lb.ft @ 5500 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity
15.1 L / 4 US gal
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
All Specifications
Make & Model
Model
Buell S1 Lightning
Year
1996
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
73.6 kw / 101 hp
Max Torque
128.6 Nm / 13.1 kgf-m / 94.8 lb.ft @ 5500 rpm
Engine Management System
2 x 40 mm Keihin carburetors
Cooling System
Air cooled
Performance
Top Speed
207.5 km/h / 128.9 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 Fork, adjustable for compression and rebound damping
Front Suspension Travel
120 mm / 4.7″
Rear Suspension
Single shock, spring preload, compression and preload damping
Quarter-mile times under 12 seconds at 114 mph (183km/h)
Top speed of 130 mph (209km/h)
*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
