14 August. Friday 2026
Buell Firebolt XB12R - 2008 Specifications and Reviews
The 2008 Buell Firebolt XB12R is an aggressive American sport bike powered by a 1203cc V-twin engine delivering 103 horsepower and strong low-end torque. Built for riders seeking raw performance and distinctive styling, the Firebolt excels in street riding with its potent acceleration and nimble handling. Its oil-cooled engine and innovative design make it best known for delivering accessible high-performance thrills.
General information | |
| Category | Sport |
| Year | 2008 |
| Model | Buell Firebolt XB12R |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Clutch | Wet, multi-plate, compensated, reduced lever effort |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Belt |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Oil & air |
| Lubrication system | Dry-sump |
| Starter | Electric |
| Fuel control | OHV |
| Valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel system | Injection. 49 mm down draft DDFI III fuel injection |
| Compression | 10.0:1 |
| Torque | 113.90 |
| Power | 103.00 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | V2 |
| Capacity: | 1202.88 ccm (73.40 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,321 mm (52.0 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 110 mm (4.4 inches) |
| Overall width | 716 mm (28.2 inches) |
| Overall length | 1,935 mm (76.2 inches) |
| Dry weight | 179.2 kg (395.0 pounds) |
Buell Firebolt XB12R dimensions and frame | |
| Exhaust system | Tuned, tri-pass resonance chamber with InterActive valve and mass-centralized mounting |
| Rear brakes diameter | 240 mm (9.4 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. 2-piston calipers |
| Front brakes | Single disc. 8-piston calipers |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 180/55-ZR17 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 120/70-ZR17 |
| Rear suspension travel | 127 mm (5.0 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Showa coil-over monoshock with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload |
| Front suspension travel | 120 mm (4.7 inches) |
| Front suspension | 43 mm Showa inverted forks with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload |
| Rake (fork angle) | 21.0° |
| Frame type | Aluminum frame with Uniplanar™ powertrain vibration isolation system, fuel in frame |
| | |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.5749 HP/kg |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Midnight Black, Arctic White (New) |
| Fuel capacity | 14.45 litres (3.82 gallons) |
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 For | This bike suits an intermediate to experienced rider who appreciates a torquey, characterful V-twin with sharp, unconventional handling. |
| Purpose | Built for aggressive cornering and spirited backroad riding rather than outright top-speed runs or long-distance touring. |
| Rider Fit | A 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. |
| Character | Quirky 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 For | Not 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.
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