Buell XR9S Lightning (2003)

Buell XR9S Lightning (2003)

The Buell XR9S Lightning: a naked bike that embodies the perfect blend of power and agility. At its heart lies a 45° V-Twin engine, delivering a potent punch with its hydraulic self-adjusting lifters and 2 valves per cylinder.

Its hollow aluminium twin-spar frame not only doubles as the fuel tank but also provides exceptional rigidity and strength. Up front, Showa upside-down forks offer adjustable damping for a tailored ride, while at the rear, a Showa shock absorber allows for similarly precise control.

But it’s on the road where the XR9S truly shines. With its torquey engine and capable chassis, this bike devours twisties with ease, its 6-piston fixed caliper brake system providing reassuring stopping power.

In a class dominated by Ducati’s Monster, the Buell XR9S Lightning is a worthy challenger, offering an unparalleled riding experience that’s equal parts thrilling and precise. The result? A naked bike that’s as raw as it is refined, and one that will leave even the most seasoned riders grinning from ear to ear.

Key Specifications

Engine Type45 V-Twin, four stroke, pushrod actuated overhead valve.hydraulic self-adjusting lifters,2 valve per cylinder
Engine Capacity984 cc / 60 cu in
Max Power67.1 kw / 92 hp
Max Torque97 Nm / 9.9 kgf-m / 71.5 ft.lbs @ 5500 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity3.7 US gallons / 14.0 L
Seat Height30.5 inches / 775 mm
Buell XR9S Lightning (2003)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelBuell XR9S Lightning
Year2003

Engine

Engine Type45 V-Twin, four stroke, pushrod actuated overhead valve.hydraulic self-adjusting lifters,2 valve per cylinder
Displacement984 cc / 60 cu in
Bore x Stroke88.9 x 79.4 mm
Compression Ratio10.0:1
Max Horsepower67.1 kw / 92 hp
Max Torque97 Nm / 9.9 kgf-m / 71.5 ft.lbs @ 5500 rpm
Engine Management System45 mm Downdraft DDFI fuel injection
Lubrication SystemDry sump
Cooling SystemAir cooled
ExhaustTwo-into-one, free breathing

Performance

Top Speed210.2 km/h / 130.6 mph

Transmission

ClutchWet, multi-plate
Gearbox5 Speed, constant mesh
Gear Ratios1st2.69 / 2nd1.85 / 3rd1.43 / 4th1.18 / 5th1.00
Final DriveKevlar belt

Electrical & Electronics System

Battery12V, 12Ah
StarterElectric

Chassis & Suspension

Frame TypeHollow aluminium twin-spar frame doubles as the fuel tank
Front SuspensionShowa upside-down forks, adjustable for preload, compression & rebound damping
Front Suspension Travel4.7 inches / 119 mm
Rear SuspensionShowa shock absorber, adjustable for preload, compression & rebound damping
Rear Suspension Travel5.0 inches / 127 mm
Rake21
Trail84 mm / 3.3 in

Wheels & Brakes

Wheels6-Spoke cast
Front Wheel/Rim Size3.50 x 17 in
Front Tire Size120/70ZR17, Dunlop D207 FY
Rear Wheel/Rim Size5.50 x 17 in
Rear Tire Size180/55ZR17, Dunlop D207 U
Front BrakesZTL-typebrake,6-pistonfixedcaliper,375mmsinglesided,insideout,stainlesssteel,floatingrotor
Rear BrakesSingle 230 mm disc, 1 piston caliper

Dimension & Weights

Overall Length1924 mm / 75.7 in
Overall Width831 mm / 32.7 in
Overall Height1232 mm / 48.5 in
Seat Height30.5 inches / 775 mm
Wheelbase52 inches / 1320 mm
Ground Clearance127 mm / 5.0 in
Fuel Tank Capacity3.7 US gallons / 14.0 L
Dry Weight175 kg / 386 lbs

Features

  • 45 V-Twin engine
  • Four-stroke design
  • Pushrod actuated overhead valves
  • Hydraulic self-adjusting lifters
  • 2 valves per cylinder
  • Gear ratios: 1st=2.69, 2nd=1.85, 3rd=1.43, 4th=1.18, 5th=1.00
  • Hollow aluminum twin-spar frame doubles as fuel tank
  • Showa upside-down forks with adjustable preload, compression, and rebound damping
  • Showa shock absorber with adjustable preload, compression, and rebound damping
  • ZTL-type brake with 6-piston fixed caliper and 375mm single-sided rotor
  • Stainless steel, floating rotor
  • Length: 1924 mm / 75.7 in
  • Width: 831 mm / 32.7 in
  • Height: 1232 mm / 48.5 in
Buell XR9S Lightning (2003)

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