Buell XB12S 2004 Review

To an uneducated non-rider, many bikes can look the same. The "inspired" can usually spot a Harley, but can't tell it from a Japanese cruiser. Same goes for Sport bikes. The XB series from Buell makes it a lot easier for this lot, as it is about as subtle as a flaming brick through a window. Yep, the Buell XB’s certainly does it differently and have a 1200cc for 2004. The XB12S is a variation on the Previous years XB9S with larger capacity through a longer stroke. This all-Buell built engine cranks out bucket-loads of torque, with even more arm-ripping power than before, 103hp and 84ft lbs to be exact! Other unique features remain similar to last year's model such as the colossal rim mounted brakes, exhaust on the underside and the fuel/oil compartment within the frame.

We've heard a lot of propaganda about this bike and spent long hours looking at the photos, so it was time to see whether the bite was as potent as the bark. Before we get into the good stuff, we have to have to get the whinge out of the way. Not so important, but always in your face is that Tonka/marvel comics inspired dash. We love the bike but the dash is friggin terrible. Simple as that. Ok, so let’s take the subjectivity out of it - it still sucks because it’s hard to read the bloody thing - especially since the numbers are surrounded by dull silver paint which shines in your face with the sun overhead. Looking at the XB12R, it had a vast improvement in the dash area which will hopefully be carried over onto the S model.

The crap controls overall were something all three of us noticed straight up. Have a play with the indicator, very notchy, fiddly and poor quality. What had us stumped is the rest of the bike was flawless. They do the job though, and if you never look at them you might even forget over time. One thing I will say is that the night illumination gave it an extra star and the dash didn’t seem so bad.....aah yes, the flattering cover of darkness.

The rest of the bike is stunning. The RED/GOLD/SILVER/BLACK combination is great and a really head turner out on the road. The Buell has a soundly engineered platform with a great use of quality materials including magnesium everywhere you look. Despite being very compact, the Buell gives a very solid impression with chunky components and strong angles. Aiming for the hooligan / streetfighter market, Buell did a good job and we reckon you’ll be hard pressed to find a more visually striking bike than this straight out of the box. This image is taken further through the deep sound of the engine and the random shaking of the bike at idle.

Perched up on the saddle, the Buell seat is fairly high off the road and gives a good view in a very upright position. Sitting on the seat you can hardly see any of the bike at all in the regular filed of vision. If you’re used to a cruiser and seeing a tank, dash and wheel up front, this is quite a change. Being so short the Buell completely disappears once aboard. Speaking of the seat, we enquired a few times beforehand if you can actually stick someone on the back of it……we only got stupid looks as a response. Not so! – The pillion seat on the XB12S actually does a surprisingly good job. Sure, you might not have even noticed it was there, but magically makes quite a comfy seat. The slant keeps the passenger on rather than sliding off typical flat seats. Mind you, the passenger ends up being really close, so make sure you are on very good terms with your passenger!. It may not match a good touring seat, but as mentioned – surprisingly good. The mirrors are not completely useless, but pretty close to it. While they are wide enough not to be looking at your own arms, the buzz from the engine makes them difficult to read. Turn your head just to be sure.

Start her up and pull away….slowly if you don’t want your arms pulled out off the sockets. Sounds good in theory but Buell made sure all starts will be fast by whacking on a monster of a clutch lever. Not so big in size, but stiff as a bastard. This combined with the gut wrenching torque has you slingshot-ing from every green light. The power comes on instantly so there is no slouching on this ride unless you want to be chasing it down the main road.

This Buell really is a brute and pulls hard all the way to the red. Speaking of red, there is not much range in the revs as a sportsbike rider might be used to, but the torque makes up for the low revving engine. Being so flexible in power, you can really ride through regular speed roads just by winding the throttle on and off - forgetting about the gearbox altogether. Pulling out of corners and up hills, we reckon you could keep up with most on the back roads or the track. The big twin inherently has some vibes to let you know it is still there, but only shakes noticeable at idle and really high revs. No numb hands that we could remember.

The sound of the thundering Buell seemed to get better as it warmed up but still has some of the harsh engine noise of an older HD-Sportster. Not a big issue though, and if you put a racing pipe on it, you will be certain not to hear a bloody thing!

The fully adjustable 41mm Showa inverted forks gave a great ride quality and didn't seem overly stiff even thought bike has such a short wheel base. Riders with heavier steering on their bikes will feel the Buell to be a little twitchy at higher speeds and might consider a steering damper to feel at home. The massive surge of low-down grunt delivered by the Buell has you constantly lifting the front wheel by accident and doesn't’t take long to realise that “XB” is short for “Awesome wheelie machine”. Once discovered, it’s damn addictive as pretty darn easy too. If you love wheelies, this is your bike.

The Brakes are massive and without a doubt look the part. The single radially-mounted front disc brake combined with high quality braided brake lines work magnificently. The brakes had plenty of initial bite and feedback from the lever. They are probably among the best standard brakes we’ve tested. Easily comparable to the impressive ABS brakes on the BMW rockster. Not a surprise then, that it is a favored stunt bike.

Buell have pulled it together with this series with a high quality product that looks great, goes well and has a quality finish. Comparatively the older Buells look a bit prehistoric.

Being a streetfighter the Buell is expected to have some rougher edges – not flaws as such, but a bit like the character of a mad dog. If you are looking for the harmony of a humming engine and a silky ride, this is probably not your bike. If, on the other hand you are: a bit on the insane side, love adrenalin, need a workout while riding, love attention and generally causing chaos – Call Harley today and they will hook you up.

The Buell XB12S is a bike with plenty of charisma and will be sure to make an impression on the market.

Photos & Review by: George Ihring @ RoadCarver

Thanks to:

Blacktown Harley (02 9621 7776), IRPR and the staff at HD distribution for supplying this bike.

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