The Buell S3T Thunderbolt: a motorcycle that defies categorization with its unique blend of style, performance, and character. Its 45-degree V-Twin engine pulses with energy, delivering a raw, unbridled power that’s impossible to ignore.
Underneath the sleek, sport-touring bodywork lies a Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 motor, modified to deliver maximum punch and minimum fuss. Hydraulic self-adjusting lifters and pushrod-actuated overhead valves ensure a smooth, consistent power delivery that belies its rugged roots.
But what truly sets the S3T apart is its riding experience – an unadulterated rush of adrenaline that’s as much about feeling as it is about speed. Every twist of the wrist, every shift of weight, and every throttle input is amplified by the bike’s incredible responsiveness and agility.
And then there’s the engine itself: left open to view in a beautiful display of mechanical artistry, its exposed innards a testament to Buell’s commitment to transparency and authenticity. It’s a machine that rewards attention to detail and demands involvement from its rider – a true partner in crime for anyone brave enough to take it on.
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
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)
513 lbs / 233 kg
Seat Height
800 mm / 31.5″
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
All Specifications
Make & Model
Model
Buell S3T Thunderbolt
Year
1997
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
90 Nm / 9.2 kgf-m / 66.4 lb.ft @ 5500 rpm
Engine Management System
Fuel injection, 43 mm throttle bodies
Cooling System
Air cooled
Performance
Top Speed
n/a
*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″
Rake
24.5
Trail
96.5 mm / 3.8″
Wheels & Brakes
Wheels
Hollow 3-spoke cast wheels
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
Seat Height
800 mm / 31.5″
Wheelbase
1397 mm / 55″
Fuel Tank Capacity
20.4 L / 5.4 US gal
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight
513 lbs / 233 kg
Dry Weight
219 kg / 483 lbs
Features
45 V-Twin engine
Four stroke design
Pushrod actuated overhead valve
Hydraulic self-adjusting lifters
2 valves per cylinder
Sport fairing designed to protect rider and gas tank
Frame mounted sport fairing
Variety of color combinations available
Molten Orange fairing, tank, and tail section color option
Nuclear Blue frame and wheels color option
S3T touring package with touring handlebars
Fairing lowers included in S3T package
Two fitted soft storage bags for fairing
Underseat tote bag for toolkit and small items
Detachable hard saddlebags with removable liners
*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