Lightning XB9SX
LIGHTNING® CITYX XB9SX Explore the key features. Check out the hot spots for details.
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Responsiveness

  • Buell Intuitive Response Chassis (IRC)

    With its 52-inch wheelbase, the Firebolt handles with surgical precision. The rigid chassis keeps you stable and confident through the turns, while the 21-degree rake and 3.3-inch trail improves agility.

  • Frame and swing arm

    The aluminum frame is both lightweight and incredibly rigid, improving the bike’s stability in corners. Using the frame to house nearly 4 gallons of fuel also lowers the center of gravity, making it feel light and flickable.

  • Front brake

    The Zero Torsional Load (ZTL™) Braking System consists of a 375 mm rotor mounted to the wheel’s perimeter and a 6-piston caliper. When applied, it transfers braking forces (a.k.a. torsional load) directly to the rim instead of through the spokes. Without the need for load-bearing spokes or even a second disc, the bike’s front end weighs in about 6 lbs. lighter than what you’d find on most dual disc set-ups.

  • Front suspension

    The fully adjustable 43 mm Showa® inverted fork features a high performance damping cartridge that lets you adjust the setup for any situation. Whether it’s at the track or the ride home, you can optimize the suspension for excellent feedback and razor sharp handling. When combined with the adjustable rear shock, it’s the most tunable suspension in the business.

  • Exhaust

    Exhaust cans are heavy. It doesn’t make sense to hang them up high and off the back of the bike. Our underslung exhaust – a Buell staple since 1985 – concentrates the weight underneath the chassis to provide greater Mass Centralization. The result is a clean, uncluttered look, improved flickability and superior handling.

  • Rear suspension

    A top-shelf Showa® push shock with a fully adjustable damping cartridge allows you to fine-tune the compression, rebound and preload to maximize handling and feedback for any condition.

  • Tires

    The Pirelli® Scorpion Sync tires combine the best street-sport and off-road tire technology available. The hybrid tire construction delivers all the performance and confidence you need on the street, while providing the traction you need when city streets look more like the back trails.

  • 6 spoke Cast Aluminum Wheels

    With braking forces distributed through the entire rim due to the ZTL perimeter mounted brake rotor, the Buell 6-spoke front wheel can be made extremely light. This reduces steering inertia and unsprung weight for better handling on the less-than-perfect streets you’ll ride every day.

  • Immediate Throttle Response Belt drive

    A unique constant-tension pulley eliminates slack in the driveline, resulting in smoother on/off throttle transitions no matter what position the swingarm is in. Clean, quiet and extremely strong, the Veyance Hibrex belt with Flexten Plus technology never needs replacing, maintenance or adjustments of any kind. In addition, it weighs just 1.06 pounds, compared to drive chains that weigh four to five pounds.

Power

  • 984cc Thunderstorm Engine

    The Thunderstorm® 984 cc, 45-degree V-Twin delivers the iconic look, thunderous sound, and power-pulsing feel that only a V-Twin engine can offer. Following the style of an American Muscle machine, you can tap into maximum torque in any gear, regardless of where the tach needle is pointing. In fact, you'll find that over 85% of the motor's torque is available at just 2500 RPM. Performance and dependability are enhanced with a large crank pin, a large-capacity oiling system, and an electronic timing system and ECM that control a DDFI 3 fuel injection system. Combined, these features improve drivability and performance while reducing maintenance costs.

  • Enhanced Air Cooling

    As soon as you turn off a motorcycle, the hot oil begins to break down, potentially leading to engine damage. Unless, that is, that motorcycle is a Buell®. The thermostatically controlled fan continues to cool the oil even after you pull the key. It also has you covered if you happen to get stuck in traffic. It’s one more thing we’ve done to keep the Thunderstorm engine primed for top performance.

  • Uniplanar Mounting System

    Using two rubber isolators to reduce unwanted vibration and three tie-bars to inhibit lateral movement, the Uniplanar Isolation Mounting System decreases rider fatigue while contributing to chassis torsional rigidity for improved handling.

  • A 12 Liter Airbox

    The large, 12-liter airbox is designed to optimize air intake and accommodate a large, easy-to-service air filter.

Rider Focused Design

  • Ergonomics / seating position

    Wide bars and naturally positioned footpegs provide great leverage, enabling you to ride confidently and aggressively.

  • Weight

    At just 390 lbs. dry, the XB9SX is extremely lightweight. It feels quick and nimble, effortlessly flicking, swerving and dodging around whatever the road throws your way.

  • Fairing

    A minimal, front flyscreen faring creates a clean, aggressive look.

  • Footpegs

    Located in a comfortable, neutral position, the footpeg placement keeps you upright and positioned perfectly to quickly shift your weight around the bike.

  • Instrument panel

    Clean, simple and made of featherweight magnesium, this classically designed dash features: speedometer, tachometer, odometer, two tripmeters, reserve tripmeter, clock, low fuel light, engine check light, oil pressure warning light, indicator for high beam, turn signals and neutral light.

  • Handle Bars

    A nod to flat-track racers, these wide, flat handlebars are perfect for aggressive street riding. The upright, athletic position offers great communication between rider and machine.

  • X-Guard

    The X-guard provides a great look for this streetfighter while protecting the airbox cover.

  • Adjustable levers

    With rider comfort in mind, Buell features brake and clutch levers that are adjustable for reach.

  • Durability Features

    Standard frame pucks, headlight grille, wind deflectors and X-Guard help prevent costly repairs.