Buell Motorcycle Short History

by: Michael O'Brien

Making nothing but great street bikes is what separates Buell Motorcycles from the competition. Erik Buell, with a little help from motorcycle giant Harley-Davidson, has transformed his passion for riding and design innovations into a truly unique line of sport motorcycles. Steeped in racing tradition, the Buell Motorcycle Company has developed a line of sport street bikes that incorporate design features not seen on any other production motorcycles.

During the 1980’s Erik Buell designed and raced bikes that were designed exclusively for the Formula 1 racing circuit. Beginning in 1994, Buell teamed up with Harley Davidson Incorporated, with Harley Davidson supplying Buell with its 1000 cc V-twin cylinder engines. Buell introduced a high-performance, low-emission engine in 2003 that does not require the anti-pollution controls like catalytic converters needed on other bikes. The result is an overall reduction in weight and maintaining center-mass weight distribution.

To add more rigidity to the frame and improve handling characteristics, Buell uses an innovative “fuel in frame” design that incorporates the fuel tank directly into center of the frame. The exhaust system takes advantage of computer-controlled optimization and the oil reserves are stored in the swing arm. Buell designs emphasize reducing suspension loads by reducing the weight of wheel, hub and drive train components, reducing suspension “bounce” and dramatically improving both handling and rider comfort.

Buell models currently in production include the Firebolt, Ulysses, Blast and several configurations of the Lightning Series. The Ulysses XB12X is the newest model in the Buell line and is designed for riding on a wide variety of road conditions including rough surfaces. The ergonomic control and seating designs combined with other unique Buell engineering features could make the Ulysses the ultimate touring motorcycle.

The Firebolts and Lightnings feature an extremely fuel-efficient 103 horsepower, 1203 cubic centimeter powerhouse of an engine. The Blast engine series features a single cylinder, 432 cubic centimeter design. Buell still maintains a solid presence in the racing world by supplying race teams with its 50 XBRR race bikes.

Buell motorcycles have a reputation for quality and reliability reflecting the passion of Erik Buell and his partner company Harley Davidson Incorporated to manufacture motorcycles that require less maintenance, look great and are fun to ride.

About the Author

Michael O'Brien is Staff Writer for Motorcycle Sales & Service