Buell Thunderbolt S2 Motorcycles for sale

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Buell : Thunderbolt Buell S2 Thunderbolt

Buell : Thunderbolt Buell S2 Thunderbolt

$4,300

Springbrook, Wisconsin

Year 1996

Make Buell

Model Thunderbolt

Category Sport Touring Motorcycles

Engine 1200

Posted Over 1 Month

What we have here is a really special Buell. The year 1996 was the last of the handmade Buell's. The engine and transmission were totally taken apart and put back together to tight tolerances. They had a hand laid up and welded frame, made by a guy who made Formula One frames. Hand laid up fiberglass and carbon fiber bodywork. In addition it has a big flat slide Mikuni carburetor with a ram air intake, hotter cams, and a Supertrapp exhaust. It also has the optional machined aluminum P/M wheels and larger bolts in the rear drive to handle the additional torque this engine puts out. Along with the bike are factory repair and parts manuals, a set of quick detachable Buell S3 touring luggage, Corbin Comfort seat, the higher touring handlebars and a custom made aluminum stand. This bike runs and drives unbelievably; this one is truly a one of a kind motorcycle. There is one nick by the headlight otherwise the bike is in excellent condition with good tires. It's never been down and has been ridden by an older adult. Please ask questions before you bid. Buyer is responsible for any and all shipping cost and arrangements. To protect everyone I request that the full payment be made with PayPal or cash in person. Seeing as how this bike is listed locally, I reserve the right to end this listing early.

Trim S2

Buell : Thunderbolt 1995 buell s 2 street registered bonneville built

Buell : Thunderbolt 1995 buell s 2 street registered bonneville built

$5,300

Chico, California

Year 1995

Make Buell

Model Thunderbolt

Category Sport Bikes

Engine 90"

Posted Over 1 Month

95 Buell S2....I originally built this bike to take to Bonneville,but still be able to ride on the street,but do to being a part time dad and work,I find that I will not ever have the time.......Alll the best of everything is in this motor and no exspense was spared..800 break-in miles only...never raced..and always run on full synthetic Redline..Rev limiter was set to 4000RPM during the break-in period.....Millenium 90" cylinders with there matching forged10.8 to 1 compression ratio pistons.....Red Shift 680 cam set and springs..1 year only(2000) light flywheel assembly....Pro-Flow high volume oil pump with stainless lines ..Manley,Stainless valves with head work..Taper Light adjustable push rods....Baisley roller rockers..S+S G carb with 2 adjustable thunder jets....Crane Hi-4 adjustable rev limit/programable ignition..Full race,one piece tube megaphone header,and remote thermostactically controlled oil cooler....Every thing balanced and motor was built by Z-Man machine,Chico Ca,multiple Bonneville record holder....Motor was dyno'd at 99.8 ft pounds of torque and 100.5HP@ 4000RPM at the rear wheel...and I have the dyno sheet to prove it.. ..Raised foot pegs featuring billet shift and brake hardware....all stainless brake hardware through-out...Brand new Dunlop Sportmax'...This bike is an absolute rush to ride...definetly the fastest V-Twin I have ever owned hands down and I've had quite a few over the years...Clean,clear title in my name and registered as well...I don't believe you'll find a quicker street registered Buell,unless its and all out track bike..You could not buy the components,and build this motor for the asking price PLEASE READ...PAYMENT IN FULL IS DO 3 DAYS AFTER AUCTION'S CLOSE..NO EXCEPTIONS....CAN ARRANGE REASONABLE SHIPPING ANYWHERE WITHIN THE CONTINENTAL US,CRATE AND ARRANGE SHIPMENT ANYWHERE OVERSEAS,OR YOU ARE MORE THAN WELCOME(AND ENCOURAGED) TO ARRANGE YOUR OWN...THIS IS AN AS,IS,WHERE IS SALE AND THERE ARE NO WARRANTY'S EXSPRESSED OR IMPLIED..ONCE YOU BOUGHT IT,YOU OWN IT..SO IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS,ASK THEM NOW...NOT AFTER THE FACT...I TRY MY BEST TO DESCRIBE EVERYTHING AS BEST I CAN BUT PLEASE UNDERSTAND I AM HUMAN AND AS SUCH,I MAY OVERLOOK THINGS ...WITH THAT SAID IF YOU FEEL YOU HAVE ANY PROBLEMS AFTER THE POINT YOU RECEIVE THE BUELL,YOU MUST CONTACT ME FIRST BEFORE POSTING ANY FEEDBACK...NO EXCEPTIONS....WHATEVER YOU FEEL YOU HAVE AN ISSUE WITH WITH,I WILL DO MY UTMOST TO WORK WITH YOU...BUT ALSO UNDERSTAND YOUR BUYING A USED,20 YEAR OLD MOTORCYCLE WITH A FRESH,BUILT MOTOR ,NOT SOMETHING THAT IS BRAND NEW AND IF THAT IS WHAT YOUR EXSPECTING...BUY SOMETHING NEW... IF YOUR WANTING ONE OF THE FASTEST,BEST BUELL'S EVER BUILT ,THEN LOOK NO FURTHER...

Buell : Thunderbolt Buell 1996 S2 Thunderbolt Motorcycle cycle LOW MILES

Buell : Thunderbolt Buell 1996 S2 Thunderbolt Motorcycle cycle LOW MILES

$3,950

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Year 1996

Make Buell

Model Thunderbolt

Category -

Engine -

Posted Over 1 Month

1996 Buell Thunderbolt S2. Nice clean bike. 5,431 miles. Tires have less than 100 miles on them. For sale by owner. 312.451.9761

1996 Buell THUNDERBOLT S2

1996 Buell THUNDERBOLT S2

$3,500

Bow, New Hampshire

Year 1996

Make Buell

Model THUNDERBOLT S2

Category -

Engine -

Posted Over 1 Month

1996 Buell S2. Mid 95' production date. Vin ends in 000006. All original in excellent condition. True survivor from the hand built Buell days. Harley Davidson 1203cc free breathing engine, hand laid fiberglass bodywork, hand tig welded frame, rare color changing black/blue/purple paint, carbon fiber air cleaner cover etc. It didn't really need anything, but for the sake of reliabilty bike was completely gone through at the end of last season. With all brand new nos Buell and Harley Davidson parts including: Clutch cable, throttle cables, brake lines, caliper seals, brake pads, battery, Scream'n eagle plug wires, bulbs, clutch, clutch spring, seals, gaskets, K&N air filter, Buell rider foot pegs & more I'm forgetting. New billit aluminum racing air cleaner/ head breather installed. New Michelin Pilot Pro 3 front tire installed last week. Rear is Michelin Pilot Pro in great condition. Nice White Brothers Racing exhaust. Has hidden underbody purple led lights & switch. Passes inspection 100%. I have all the original parts: grips, foot control pegs etc. Only exception is the stock muffler. Includes some extra new and used Buell parts, extra plugs, oil & air filters, front and rear bike lift stands, service manual, title, the original Buell S2 key chain & 2 new security keys. Bike is very fast, strong and smooth. Turnkey ready for this riding season. I'm just getting too old for it, and my grandson has no interest in bikes. I'm going to stick to riding my old man bikes.

1995 Buell Thunderbolt S2

1995 Buell Thunderbolt S2

$3,300

Wake Forest, North Carolina

Year 1995

Make Buell

Model Thunderbolt S2

Category Sport Bikes

Engine 1,203 cc

Posted Over 1 Month

1995 Buell Thunderbolt S2, Great bike. Worth looking at in person. Reliable, simple, and American made. I also have the original air cleaner, a bike stand, and the manual that will go with it. $3,300.00 9198304150

1996 Buell Thunderbolt S2

1996 Buell Thunderbolt S2

$4,200

Deforest, Wisconsin

Year 1996

Make Buell

Model Thunderbolt S2

Category Sport Bikes

Engine 1,200 cc

Posted Over 1 Month

1996 Buell Thunderbolt S2, 1996 Buell Thunderbolt S2 Low 5,400 original miles. Adult Ridden. Tires have less than 100 miles on them. Motorcycle is located in Greenfield, WI. ph. 312.451.9761. $4,200.00 3124519761

1996 Buell Thunderbolt S2

1996 Buell Thunderbolt S2

$4,500

Mission Viejo, California

Year 1996

Make Buell

Model Thunderbolt S2

Category Sport Bikes

Engine 1,200 cc

Posted Over 1 Month

1996 Buell Thunderbolt S2, 1996 Buell S2 Thunderbolt -- Red This is a very rare Harley Davidson-powered sport motorcycle. Tubular frame with a 1200cc Sportster engine. Amazing sound and very fast. This bike gets attention. Excellent shape. New tires and battery. Registration paid till March 2016. Only13,949 miles. Call Dave (949) 293-3695 $4,500.00 9492933695

Buell : Thunderbolt Runs and ride as good as it looks

Buell : Thunderbolt Runs and ride as good as it looks

$3,900

West Des Moines, Iowa

Year 1996

Make Buell

Model Thunderbolt

Category Sport Touring Motorcycles

Engine 1200

Posted Over 1 Month

One of just over 400 hand built S2T's. This was the first year for the "T" (touring) model. The T model has lower driver pegs, taller handle bars, hard bags and additional side body work. This machine has been adult owned and garage kept since new. It runs and rides as good as it looks. Tires are near new. Ready to ride. Please call Darren with any questions @ 515.202.7162.

Buell : Thunderbolt Rare limited production 1997 Erik Buell S3T Thunderbolt Sport Touring Edition

Buell : Thunderbolt Rare limited production 1997 Erik Buell S3T Thunderbolt Sport Touring Edition

$3,500

Oakdale, Pennsylvania

Year 1997

Make Buell

Model Thunderbolt

Category Sport Touring Motorcycles

Engine 1200

Posted Over 1 Month

OWN A PIECE OF MOTORCYCLE HISTORY !This is a limited production "Tuber", one of the last hand assembled by a few of Erik Buell's expert team in East Troy Wisconsin, back in the early days, only 384 were made this first year of the S3T in 1997. American Muscle, made in USA. Very light but strong hand laid fiberglass fender, fairing, gas tank, and rear tail section. Once Harley took over Buell in 1998, the expensive to make fiberglass components all went to mass production cheap ABS plastic. Ducati style hand crafted chrome-moly perimeter frame, Performance Machine front and Brembo rear calipers, and inverted WP forks. Corbin seat ($500), D&D Racing carbon fiber exhaust cannister ($500), lightweight quick release lockable luggage ($1500 option), new sport touring tires; front IRC ProTech SP-11F, rear Metzeler RoadTech Z6 ($400), newer AGM battery ($100) , newer front brakes, new rear brakes. That's already $3000 in stuff without even mentioning the rest of the bike. USA bidders only. MODEL YEARS PRODUCED 97-98, 00-02 APPROX. NUMBER BUILT 1,779 1997 = 384 1998 = 630 1999 = NIL 2000 = 349 2001 = 164 2002 = 252 Displacement: 1203cc 91HP@5800RPM Torque: 87 ft.lbs @ 5,200 rpm Bought it in September 2012 with 14665 miles, as a third bike that I always wanted, and have only put on a thousand miles in three years. Originally I was going to completely refreshen the bike to showroom condition...someday...well guess its time for a new owner. Another "Bueller" enthusiast would be perfect. Starts and runs excellent, it is tuned and piped for 100HP like the later Thunderstorm motor but without the troublesome head and cylinder gasket issues of the 1998 and later models. Has always been run on Mobil One synthetic 15w50. Primary chain and belt drive tension adjusted, valves are maintenance free hydraulic pushrods, self adjusting. Carburetor has been re-jetted for performance. Rear end lowered two inches for better comfort, can easily be redone to original. Handles incredible, upright sitting position and pretty comfortable in the saddle overall. I added rubber gel grips to smooth out some hand vibration. Bike is very light, only around 450lbs, top speed around 130 in under a minute for those adrenaline junkies. The luggage black tubing frame is one piece and removes in minutes for a very sport bike look, tail fender was also clipped by previous owner for a very clean modern look. Its imperfect, if it was showroom the value would be $5,000. It was almost $14,000 new in 1997. This rare Thunderbolt ST3 needs some small cosmetic details finished; gas tank ovals were going to be airbrushed with the new Pegasus Buell symbols, some small paint bubbles on gas tank, left foot peg rubber end is broken off, some scratches on saddle bags. Fairing leg lowers missing, removed for better cooling. Upper plastic belt drive cover missing, removed for easy drive belt inspection. Custom made license plate bracket, nice, but not original. Bonus: BUY IT NOW winner will also receive two authentic Buell saddlebag liners which are worth $200 (not pictured), they are no longer available from Buell and nearly impossible to find. Keep in mind Ebay charges $125 to the seller (me), so if you can come see it in person, cash in pocket will get a better deal. I am near the Pittsburgh Airport, fly in, I will pick you up, ride home. Its reliable enough to ride cross country on any given day. Everything works as it should. It's listed for sale local so I reserve the right to end the auction at any time. An outdoor fabric cover is included if needed. I have many other photos if you request, apologies for the poor quality. Mileage will go up slightly as I still ride it every week. Also I am open to trading my Buell Thunderbolt plus cash to anyone who has an adventure type bike I can occasionally ride off road; like a Buell Ulysses, Triumph Tiger, BMW, KTM, Husqvarna, etc. Unlike most motorcycles, consider this one an investment rather than an expense. The value goes up slightly every year instead of down, and in 2017, at twenty years, will appreciate even faster as a classic. (nice unedited article below for those curious about Buells. Here in Pittsburgh, where Erik Buell grew up, worked as a motorcycle mechanic, and attended the University of Pittsburgh; Buells are LEGEND.) THE 1999 BUELL S3 THUNDERBOLTBy Chuck Hawks Thunderbolt! That is the only way to understand this motorcycle. I had looked at Buell motorcycles, especially the top of the line S3 Thunderbolt, almost every time I visited my local Harley-Davidson dealer, but I never understood these motorcycles until I finally took a test ride. That is what the Buell motorcycles are all about: the ride. There are fancier, plainer, costlier, cheaper, prettier, homelier, faster, slower, lighter, heavier, bigger, and smaller motorcycles available, but in all my years of riding I have never ridden anything like a Buell. That also seems to be the opinion of the Buell owners I have talked to, including those who have owned a variety of expensive (read Italian) sport bikes. Speaking of which, Harley's investment in Buell appears to be paying off. Last year (1998), Buell outsold all of the other "specialty sport bikes" (a term which, I believe, excludes the regular production of the Japanese Big Four) in the U.S. except Ducati, who managed to stay in first place by the slimmest of margins. This year, Buell expects to outsell Ducati and take over the number one spot. As I write this, in 1999, the Buell line of Vee-twin sport bikes consists of three models. There is the surprisingly economical M2 Cyclone, the X1 Lightning street fighter, and the sport or sport-touring oriented S3 Thunderbolt. All exhibit similar, but not identical, styling and performance, and all three are powered by a modified Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 motor. All three are sporty motorcycles designed to get you off the line and down the road quickly, with the maximum amount of fun. Real world performance is the forte' of these bikes, and not much can catch them on the road. Like all Buells, but unlike most other sport and sport-touring bikes, the engine of the S3 is left open to view. There is no bodywork to hide that big powerplant. The visible V-twin motor is probably the easiest way to identify a Buell American Motorcycle. In a world of look-alike sport bikes, nothing else looks like a Buell. Because I am a fan of the sport-touring concept, the Thunderbolt S3T is the Buell for me. All Thunderbolts feature a frame mounted sport fairing designed to protect the rider and gas tank (without obscuring the motor), You get to pick from a variety of color combinations for the Thunderbolt. My favorite color scheme for 1999 is the "Molten Orange" (fairing,tank, and tail section) with "Nuclear Blue" (frame and wheels) color scheme. Hey, there's safety in conspicuity! I recommend the S3T touring package. This includes touring handlebars, fairing lowers, two fitted soft storage bags for the fairing, an underseat tote bag (perfect for a toolkit, and not much else), and the newly improved, color coordinated, detachable, hard saddlebags, which come with fitted removable liners. The saddle bags come with your choice of deep (read bulky) or narrow (read trim) covers. Although the deep covers will swallow a full face helmet, I prefer the sleeker and more attractive narrow covers, a triumph of form over function. The other covers can be ordered separately later, if it becomes necessary. I don't have much use for the color matched fairing lowers, included in the S3T touring package, because they trap even more of the already excessive heat generated by the big 74 cubic inch engine throbbing within inches of the rider's legs, and detract from the bike's appearance. Also, they are fairly flimsy (the body parts of these bikes are designed to be light in weight) and stick out to the sides, and are therefore liable to damage if the bike falls over in a parking lot mishap (or something similar). Fortunately, they are designed to be easily removed. Two options available only from the aftermarket (as I write this) are a taller "touring" windshield, and thicker, softer, gel handgrips (is anybody at Buell taking notes?). Buell does offer an excellent tank bag, which I recommend. The result is a sport-touring bike from the sporty end of the spectrum. Other neat features of the Thunderbolt include a chrome-moly tubular perimeter frame, digital electronic fuel injection (which eliminates the hassle of a fuel tank petcock, as well as a choke), hydraulic self-adjusting valve lifters, electronic ignition, belt drive, stainless steel header pipes, fully adjustable suspension with inverted front forks and a rear mono shock which operates in extension, aluminum arc swingarm, hollow 3-spoke cast wheels, "Z" rated radial tubeless tires, superb brakes, completely sealed maintenance-free battery, halogen headlight with an adjustment knob in the fairing, excellent fairing mounted mirrors (you actually see the traffic behind you, instead of your arms), European passing lamp flasher (a little trigger on the left handlebar controls that flashes the high beam), and folding footpegs. About all that is missing is self-canceling turn signals (Dear Buell representative: please note). All 1999 Buells come with a much improved dual seat, and I am happy to report that the new, wide, Thunderbolt seat is adequately comfortable for solo commuting and Sunday rides. I have not taken any long trips, so I cannot comment on its suitability for serious touring. A drawback to the wider seat is that it is a longer reach to the ground than it used to be from the old, uncomfortable but narrower, version. The factory specification says the seat height is 29.5 inches, but they must have measured it with the suspension at both ends set to the lowest possible setting, and the tires flat. It feels higher than that. The Thunderbolt would not be my first choice, given my 30 inch inseam, for a lot of complicated parking lot maneuvers. Nor is it a particularly good bike for riding with a passenger. The bike is somewhat top heavy to start with, and this top heavy feeling is aggrivated by a seat that puts the passenger too high and too far back. If you ride two up a lot, a Buell may not be the bike for you. After mentioning the new seat, I should mention that I find the rider's seating position quite comfortable. An average size rider is postioned in a relaxed position with a slight froward lean. It is better, in my opinion, than the seating position on a BMW R 1100RS sport-tourer, or a Triumph Thunderbird Sport (bikes with which it might reasonably be compared). The location of the rider's footpegs, in particular, is very good. So is the height and reach of the touring handlebar. The layout of the handlebar controls and switches is conventional, and easy to learn. Mounted in the dash are a large tach and speedo, plus a surprisingly useful quartz clock. Also on the dash are a variety of idiot lights, including a handy low fuel warning light which illuminates when .4 gallon of petrol remains. The large 5.4 gallon fuel tank means 225-265 miles (on average) before the low fuel warning light comes on. This is outstanding range, greater than that offered by most luxury touring bikes. On a recent 205 mile Saturday ride from Eugene to Sisters and back, involving both the old and new Mckenzie Highways over Oregon's Cascade Mountains, I actually averaged 59.94 miles per gallon. That would mean approximately 300 miles from a full tank of gas before the low fuel light comes on! More complete technical specifications for all of the Buells, and many other top sport bikes, can be found in the "Sport Motorcycle Comparison Chart," on my Travel page. The only area that needs improvement, to make the Thunderbolt a decent touring bike, is rider protection. The factory supplied windshield is pure sport bike. Combined with the smallish fairing, it offers good protection for the torso, none for the hands, and directs the slipstream coming over the windshield about at the chinbar of the rider's helmet. This is tolerable on a Sunday sport ride, but fatiguing on a long freeway ride. I fitted a Rifle brand replacement windshield 17 inches tall (the only aftermarket replacement I could find) and while this represents a marginal improvement, it is far from ideal. The factory windshield is very short, about 13 inches, and angled at what appears to be less than 45 degrees above the horizontal. The Rifle replacement is angled almost bolt upright, and still too low. The wind collapses behind and around this windshield, and hits the rider in the face and shoulders. It is marginally better than the factory windshield, in that you are being hit in the face by broken air (I believe the aerodynamic term is "burble"), rather than the almost laminar airflow off the factory windshield. Faint praise, to be sure, since at speed the rider's head is still continually buffeted by the wind. If I lay over the tank, the Rifle windshield provides excellent protection--but who wants to ride a long distance laying over the tank? What is needed is a windshield taller than the Rifle version by about 5 inches, and angled back at about 60 degrees. This would put it somewhere between the excessively upright stance of the Rifle windshield, and the very swept-back angle of the factory windshield, and hopefully it would send the slipstream over the rider's head. Certainly a competent designer, with a little practice, could produce a satisfactory touring windshield for the Thunderbolt fairing. It has been done for plenty of other motorcycles. It is no secret that Buell motorcycles have had something of a "kit bike" reputation. After all, Eric Buell originally started building them in his garage. (Bill Harley and the Davidson brothers started the same way, back in 1903.) Everyone agreed that they were a blast to ride, but niggling problems like cracks in ultra light body parts, excessive heat radiating from the engine and exhaust pipes, broken engine mounts, uncomfortable seats, saddle bag latches that didn't work, and similar problems have drawn criticism, and rightly so. The 1999 models are the first since Harley-Davidson acquired 98% of Buell American Motorcycles. Eric Buell remains in charge, and still owns 2% of the stock. Harley had previously owned half of the company, with Buell owning the other half. The changes allowed by Harley's deep pockets are apparent. Everything has been improved, including the frame, engine mounts, fuel injection, front forks, swingarm, rear monoshock, seat, handlebar controls, the S-3 fairing, the S3 saddlebags, and more. Unfortunately, work remains to be done to eliminate the small, niggling problems to which the bikes are still prone. Judging by my experience with the S3, build quality still does not appear to be as good as a Harley-Davidson. In fact, it is probably below that of an average Japanese motorcycle, not really bad, but not perfect. There is no assembly line at the Buell factory. Each motorcycle is built individually, by a small team of workers, who work only on that particular bike until it is finished. This system yields great job satisfaction, high employee morale, a lot of promise for the future, and motorcycles that are maybe a little less uniform than they might otherwise be. Before founding Buell American Motorcycles, Eric Buell worked as an engineer for Harley-Davidson. Based on what I have read about Eric Buell, the most basic ingredients of his design philosophy seem to be centralization of mass, low unsprung weight, and frame rigidity. Let's take a quick look at these concepts, because they are central to why a Buell is so much fun to ride. I am no engineer, but as a sailor I am familiar with the benefits of mass centralization. A boat designed with the weight concentrated in the center, instead of out at the ends, will respond more quickly. It will tend to ride over, rather than plow through, the waves. Two people with access to a small skiff, dinghy, or rowboat can experiment with this concept. First, have one person sit in the very bow, and the other at the stern. Note how the boat feels sluggish and responds slowly to the waves. Now move both people (the mass) to the middle of the boat. Suddenly it feels more lively, and responds faster, now that the mass is centralized. The same basic principle also holds true for motorcycles. This is why Buell concentrates the weight of the heavy components of the motorcycle, the engine/transmission, muffler, gas tank, rear monoshock, and battery near the center of the motorcycle. Everything is basically placed above or below the engine/transmission unit, the heaviest single component of the motorcycle. The result is that Buell motorcycles feel exceptionally lively, and a lively motorcycle is more fun to ride. Unsprung weight is the weight of the components not supported by the suspension, principally the wheels, tires, lower fork legs, and brakes. Lower unsprung weight allows the tires to maintain better contact with the uneven surface of the road, thus making for a safer, better controlled, and more enjoyable ride. Buell uses hollow 3-spoke alloy wheels of the lightest and most rigid type for all of their models. For the Thunderbolt, Buell uses expensive Showa inverted front forks. Inverted forks put the smaller diameter fork section on the bottom, which lowers unsprung weight. They are also extremely strong, and more rigid than conventional telescopic forks. Going further to eliminate as much unsprung weight as possible, the Thunderbolt has a single stainless steel floating front brake disc, rather than the dual discs found on almost all other specialty sport bikes. Brake discs and their associated calipers are very heavy. To ensure adequate swept area, that single disc is the largest found on any production bike, 340mm in diameter. To make it lightweight while retaining the necessary thickness in cross section, it is extremely narrow in profile, and to ensure an excess of stopping power, the Thunderbolt comes with a 6-piston front brake caliper. "Stoppies" are easy on a Buell. Other premium motorcycle manufacturers can and do take some of these same steps to lower unsprung weight, but none combine all of these strategies as Buell does. Almost everyone agrees that a rigid frame is crucial to precise handling and control. Buell selected the expensive but effective method of using chrome-moly alloy steel tubing to build a perimeter frame with triangulated sections. Buell calls it a "geodesic perimeter frame." In the best modern fashion, the engine serves as a stressed member of the frame. The result is an exceptionally light and stiff frame, which improves handling and control. A bike that handles precisely and delivers exceptional control is more fun to ride. The centralized mass, low unsprung weight , stiff frame, and premium suspension, when combined with a rather short 55 inch wheelbase and only 24.5 degrees of front-end rake, should result in a light and quick handling motorcycle, and indeed it does. You might think the same combination would also make for a twitchy feeling motorcycle, but it doesn't. I expected, and found, a fast handling bike, but what I found most surprising was the Thunderbolt's excellent static stability. Static stability means that left to its own devices, it will run straight. This is a bike that will run straight as a die with the rider's hands off the handlebar. I guess the 3.8 inches of trail has something to do with that. Whatever the reason, the bike responds quickly, handles superbly, and runs true. Of course, more than trick engineering is necessary to build a complete motorcycle. The motor is the key to performance, and all Buells use a highly modified Harley-Davidson Sportster V-twin engine. The hot-rodded 1203cc "Thunderstorm" power plant used in the Thunderbolt produces an ample 101 horsepower at the crankshaft, and a gut wrenching 90 ft. lbs. of torque. This translates to about 71-78 ft. lbs. of torque and 85-90 hp. at the rear wheel, depending on whose dyno you read. Remember that horsepower is a measurement of work performed over time, and torque is the turning force at the crankshaft (or rear wheel). This is why torque is more important in everyday riding. Torque is what is responsible for that slingshot feeling when you roll the throttle on, not to mention those "power" wheelies. The vibration produced by the compact 45 degree V-twin motor is isolated from the frame, and the rider, by Buell's proprietary "Uniplanar" mounting system. This system works. It is amazing to ride a bike, powered by what is basically a Sportster 1200 engine, that is so smooth. At idle it feels about like a Sportster, but as the RPM increases, vibration diminishes. By the time the tach has moved past 3000 RPM, vibration is almost completely absent. The Sportster, as I wrote in my article "The Harley-Davidson Sportster," is quite pleasant to ride below about 60 MPH (in 5th gear). But vibration intrudes as speeds increase, and becomes uncomfortable (to me) by about 70 MPH. But on its cousin, the Buell Thunderbolt, the faster you go the smoother it gets. At 70 MPH and above, it is uncannily smooth. It is hard to believe it is powered by a Sportster 1200 motor, let alone one producing about a third more power. It seems to me that the Thunderbolt is a pretty good sport-touring bike, by which I mean a great sport bike for Sunday rides, with its power and razor sharp handling, that still has the capability of making overnight and longer trips. It has the range, speed, smoothness, stability, comfortable seating position, and available luggage to serve as a solo touring bike, plus the benefit of a very extensive dealer network should something go wrong while on the road (a good point to consider before purchasing some exotic brand sport-touring bike). Rider protection is the primary deficiency at present, but all it needs is a properly designed touring windshield to bring it up to snuff in that area. I hope that someone, either at Buell or in the aftermarket, will eventually respond to fill this need. If you want a sporty looking motorcycle for cheap transportation, there are more economical alternatives. But if you're leaning toward a sport or sport-touring bike, and ride for the pleasure of the experience, you owe it to yourself to at least test ride a Buell Thunderbolt.

Trim S3T Sport Touring Edition

Buell : Thunderbolt 1998 buell s 3 t thunderbolt sport touring

Buell : Thunderbolt 1998 buell s 3 t thunderbolt sport touring

$4,499

Aurora, Ohio

Year 1998

Make Buell

Model Thunderbolt

Category -

Engine 1203 Thunderstorm

Posted Over 1 Month

1998 Buell S3T Thunderbolt Touring Model 1203cc Thunderstorm Motor Full Kooks Headers and Custom Exhaust Carbon Fiber Buell Racing Air Cleaner Carbon Fiber Rear Hugger Buell Racing Front and Rear Sprockets Performance Machine Inc. (PMI) Rear Rotor and Caliper Narrow and Wide Buell Factory Hard Bags Buell Factory Hard Bag Liners with Zippers and Handles Buell Factory Tank Bag Only 28,000 miles Looks and Runs Like New Kooks Custom Exhaust System, Hard Bags Set and Carbon Fiber Hugger are in High Demand by Buell Owners and Worth 1/2 the Asking Price!

Trim S3T

2000 Buell Thunderbolt S3

2000 Buell Thunderbolt S3

$5,300

Salinas, California

Year 2000

Make Buell

Model Thunderbolt

Category Sport Touring Motorcycles

Engine 1,200 cc

Posted Over 1 Month

2000 Buell Thunderbolt S3, This is the most pristine, nicest and doted over motorcycle out there and certainly the best value. A covered garage queen in showroom condition, never down, perfect. 2nd owner bought for fun and investment but health and need for room forces sale. It is ready to roll, the 5,000 mile service has been completed w/synthetic H-D oil. It is versatile you can ride with the Harley guys, ride with the sport bike guys, ride with the tourists and you"ll fit in anywhere and be still be unique. This Bike always attracts arts attention. Take it to Quail. 2000 Buell Thunderbolt: All Harley Davidson running gear, 4500 mi.+; 1200 c.c., 101 H.P., 450 lb. D.W., stock w/ Harley eng. & trans. Fuel injection, solid state ignition and belt drive. Call Don in Salinas CA, 831.663.0850 $5,300.00 8316630850

Trim S3

2003 Buell XB9R FIREBOLT

2003 Buell XB9R FIREBOLT

$2,950

Gurley, Alabama

Year 1995

Make Buell

Model Thunderbolt S2

Category Sport Bikes

Engine 1,203 cc

Posted Over 1 Month

This is the original Red Snap paint, powder coat white frame, billet aluminum, and carbon fiber design that the bike was best known for. Note that just a portion of the bikes were shipped from the factory featuring these Polished PM Aluminum Wheels. Subsequent Buell models got away from the one-off hand-built details of this example. The Buell S2 Thunderbolt had one limited production run resulting in 1399 bikes being hand built for the 1995/1996 model years. This was the first model produced by Eric Buell with Harley Davidson backing. I purchased this bike in 1995 from the local dealer and have enjoyed it myself throughout the years since. I was hooked on the S2 because of its unusual responsiveness and “flip ability”. Eric Buell designed this into the bike with a short wheel base, low center of gravity, and insane torque. This bike draws head turns and compliments to this day. This bike was designated the first “Signature Series” by Eric Buell and is distinguished from other models as historically significant. I have included the Numbered Timing Cover (mounted), Certificate of Authenticity, Registration Card, and Original Letter. I could part this bike out for much, much more money than my reserve price, but would prefer to preserve the matching serial numbers. I had all the factory recalls done. Other modifications include a Custom Corbin Seat, Screamin Eagle Cam Kit, and Vance & Hines exhaust. The S2 Corbin seat is extremely desirable and just about impossible to come by. I also replaced the blinkers as the original housings are known to degrade. I have a clear Alabama title. Includes original mint condition user manual. The power plant and bike overall are in good working order and very tight. It does not use oil and runs clean. I kept up all the required service. It has a new battery, drive belt, fresh motor oil, filter, gear box fluid, and good rubber on the tires. It does have all the typical scratches and other flaws in the finish one would expect of a bike this age. I have included plenty of clear close-up photos for your reference. Do not be concerned with service or parts. The power plant and many other components are the same as a Harley Davidson 1203 Sportster making your local dealer an option. There is an online active enthusiast forum with answers to just about every question you could imagine, including sourcing parts and accessories called badweatherbikers. I am selling this motorcycle AS-IS and with NO WARRANTY, written or implied. I am happy to assist with shipping, but the buyer is responsible for all packaging, shipping, and transport expenses. The entire purchase price must be paid in full prior to transfer. Acceptable methods of payment include cash, check, or money order. Funds must clear the bank first.

2006 Buell Blast *Manager's Special*

2006 Buell Blast *Manager's Special*

$6,000

Austin, Texas

Year 1996

Make Buell

Model Thunderbolt S2T

Category Sport Touring Motorcycles

Engine 1,203 cc

Posted Over 1 Month

1996 Buell Thunderbolt S2T, I am selling my 1996 Buell S2-T Thunderbolt and Accessories. I have health issues and am no longer able to ride it. I bought it new and have taken excellent care of it. Its never been wrecked, dropped, broken down, or needed any attention outside of regular maintenance. ***About the Buell*** Signature Series, S2-T (Touring Model) Touring Models came with Front Engine Fairings and Hard Saddlebags painted to match the hand-laid bodywork and taller Handlebars than the standard S2 - The S2 Signature Series Motorcycles were the first models produced after Harley Bought its stake in Buell, and it came with some frills like a Welcome Letter from Eric Buell, Custom Ignition Cover, etc. ***Condition*** Excellent overall, 5-6 nicks/scratches in the original paintjob that can still be waxed to brilliance with no discoloring. The windshield has dulled and could use polishing or replacement - The Gearshift Lever works fine but the chrome finish is bad. - The kickstand doesnt lock downward and will allow the bike to lean if its pushed forward - The tires are over a decade old and need to be replaced ***New Parts*** New Throttle/Return Cables, Carburetor and Intake Gaskets, Fuel line, Gas Tank Vent Line (Blue), Hand Grips, Turn Signals and Stalks, Oil Filter, Engine Oil, Transmission Lube, Primary and Clutch Cover Gaskets, New Sealed Lead-Acid Battery(20AH Maintenance-Free) ***Extras*** Buell gave me a bunch of promotional shwag thats in various new to used conditions: Autographed Eric Buell Ignition Cover and the original Buell Letter welcoming the new owner from Eric Buell - Buell Custom Motorcycle Cover - Buell Branded Motorcycle Helmet(Shoeii RF700 Series, Medium size) - Buell Sunglasses - Buell Fairing Bags - Buell Tank Bra - Buell Tank Bag - Buell Pegasus Wrist Watch ***Accessories*** Buell Service and Repair Manual - SuperTrapp Muffler - White Fiberglass Exhaust wrap around the Stainless Headers - Thunder Heart Performance Ignition Module (Not currently Installed and requires a PC Running DOS to program. AS-IS with the Cycle) ***Conditions of Sale*** I am asking $6,000 and Im motivated to sell it - Because of the condition of the Tires and no Current Insurance on the Cycle, there will be No Test Rides. Im selling it As-Is, but I will give anyone the opportunity to examine it for soundness, run the engine, and have their own mechanic examine it if they please, but I cant take the Liability for any damages caused by anyone riding it. - I do not accept Checks, MO, etc. Cash Only Please! - Please contact me if youre interested in seeing it. $6,000.00 2145971050

1996 Buell Thunderbolt S2

1996 Buell Thunderbolt S2

$5,995

Florence, Alabama

Year -

Make -

Model -

Category -

Engine -

Posted Over 1 Month

1996 Buell Thunderbolt S2, 1996 BUELL S2 THUNDERBOLT, RARE 1996 MODEL #93 OF 200 PRODUCED THAT YEAR. COLLECTOR QUALITY. ALWAYS PROPERLY STORED IN A CLIMATE CONTROLED ENVIRONMENT. NEWER STYLE POLISHED SWINGARM AND UPDATED SHOCK. PM POLISHED WHEELS. EXTRA SET OF NOS MARCHESINI WHEELS W/NEW DUNLOPS. CORBIN SEAT. POLISHED CHROME EXHAUST. VANCE & HINES POLISHED SLIP-ON. BUELL SPROCKET COVER. THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS OF EXTRA PARTS, ADDITIONAL CORBIN SEAT, FULL SET OF 1995 RED BODY WORK. STOCK SEAT, STOCK MUFFLERS, STOCK SWING ARM, EXTRA NOS PARTS. A SERIOUS PIECE OF US MOTORCYCLE HISTORY. $5,995.00 2563356868

1995 Buell Thunderbolt S2

1995 Buell Thunderbolt S2

$2,800

Prestonsburg, Kentucky

Year -

Make -

Model -

Category -

Engine -

Posted Over 1 Month

1995 Buell Thunderbolt S2, Michelin Pilot Road 2 tires with only 100 miles on them. Supertrapp muffler repacked last summer. No mechanical issues, rides great. Some paint bubbles appeared on tank and front fender during storage one winter. Selling to help with a new car. $2,800.00