Buell S3T Thunderbolt (1997)

Buell S3T Thunderbolt (1997)

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 Type45 V-Twin, four stroke, pushrod actuated overhead valve,hydraulic self-adjusting lifters,2 valve per cylinder.
Engine Capacity1203 cc / 73.4 cu in
Max Power73.6 kw / 101 hp
Max Torque90 Nm / 9.2 kgf-m / 66.4 lb.ft @ 5500 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity20.4 L / 5.4 US gal
Weight (Wet/Kerb)513 lbs / 233 kg
Seat Height800 mm / 31.5″
Buell S3T Thunderbolt (1997)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelBuell S3T Thunderbolt
Year1997

Engine

Engine Type45 V-Twin, four stroke, pushrod actuated overhead valve,hydraulic self-adjusting lifters,2 valve per cylinder.
Displacement1203 cc / 73.4 cu in
Bore x Stroke88.8 x 96.8 mm
Compression Ratio10.0:1
Max Horsepower73.6 kw / 101 hp
Max Torque90 Nm / 9.2 kgf-m / 66.4 lb.ft @ 5500 rpm
Engine Management SystemFuel injection, 43 mm throttle bodies
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speedn/a

Transmission

Gearbox5 Speed
Final DriveKevlar belt

Electrical & Electronics System

StarterElectric

Chassis & Suspension

Front Suspension40 mm Showa fork, adjustable for compression and rebound damping
Front Suspension Travel120 mm / 4.7″
Rear SuspensionSingle Showa shock, spring preload, compression and preload damping
Rear Suspension Travel116 mm / 4.6″
Rake24.5
Trail96.5 mm / 3.8″

Wheels & Brakes

WheelsHollow 3-spoke cast wheels
Front Tire Size120/70 ZR17
Rear Tire Size170/60 ZR17
Front BrakesSingle 340 mm disc, 6 piston caliper
Rear BrakesSingle 230 mm disc, 2 piston caliper

Dimension & Weights

Seat Height800 mm / 31.5″
Wheelbase1397 mm / 55″
Fuel Tank Capacity20.4 L / 5.4 US gal
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight513 lbs / 233 kg
Dry Weight219 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
Buell S3T Thunderbolt (1997)
Buell S3T Thunderbolt (1997)
Buell S3T Thunderbolt (1997)

more Specifications