Buell Firebolt XB12R - 2005 Specifications and Reviews

The 2005 Buell Firebolt XB12R is a lightweight sport bike powered by a 1203cc V-twin engine producing 103 horsepower and 113.9 Nm of torque, making it ideal for aggressive riders seeking nimble handling and thrilling acceleration. Known for its distinctive styling, innovative engineering, and shaft drive system, the Firebolt XB12R combines American V-twin character with European sport bike performance to create a unique middleweight alternative.

Not Rated stars Average rating: Not Rated from 0 votes
.

General information

CategorySport
Year2005
ModelBuell Firebolt XB12R

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemLarge diameter headers with InterActive exhaust
ClutchWet, multi-plate, compensated
Transmission type,final driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemOil & air
Lubrication systemDry sump
Fuel controlOHV
Fuel systemInjection. 49 mm down draft DDFI II fuel injection
Bore x stroke3.5 x 3.8 mm (0.1 x 0.2 inches)
Compression10.0:1
Torque113.90 Nm (11.6 kgf-m or 84.0 ft.lbs) @ 6000
Power103.00
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:1203.00 ccm (73.41 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter240 mm (9.4 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. stainless steel, single piston, floating caliper, fixed rotor
Front brakes diameter336 mm (13.2 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc. ZTL type brake, 6-piston, fixed caliper, single-sided, inside out, stainless steel, floating rotor
Rear tyre dimensions180/55-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR17
Rear suspension travel127 mm (5.0 inches)
Rear suspensionShowa coil-over monoshock with remote, underseat reservoir and adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Front suspension travel120 mm (4.7 inches)
Front suspensionShowa® inverted fork with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Trail84 mm (3.3 inches)
Rake (fork angle)21.0°
Frame typeAluminum frame with Uniplanar™ powertrain vibration isolation system - Fuel in Frame
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity14.00 litres (3.70 gallons)
Wheelbase1,321 mm (52.0 inches)
Ground clearance110 mm (4.4 inches)
Overall width716 mm (28.2 inches)
Overall length1,935 mm (76.2 inches)
Seat height775 mm (30.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.5749 HP/kg
Dry weight179.2 kg (395.0 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsThrust Blue, Midnight Black, Racing Red
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

103 hp
Peak Power
3.3s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track70%
City65%
Cornering90%
Daily Riding55%
Touring40%
Passenger35%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits an intermediate to experienced rider who appreciates a torquey, characterful V-twin with sharp, unconventional handling.
PurposeBuilt for aggressive cornering and spirited backroad riding rather than outright top-speed runs or long-distance touring.
Rider FitA light, compact chassis with a low center of mass makes it manageable for riders of varying size, though the firm suspension and sporty ergonomics reward a fit, active riding style.
CharacterQuirky and distinctive, with a thumping V-twin, mass-centralized design, and race-derived brakes that give it a raw, engaging personality unlike typical naked bikes.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders seeking plush comfort, pillion-friendly touring capability, or off-road versatility.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2005 Buell Firebolt XB12R Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 775mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2005 Buell Firebolt XB12R, with a cramped knee angle of around 65 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

Find bikes that fit your height →

Rider Reviews

Add a Comment


Please Login or Register if you would like to leave a comment.