14 August. Friday 2026
Buell Lightning XB12SCG - 2008 Specifications and Reviews
The 2008 Buell Lightning XB12Scg is a muscular naked bike powered by a 1203cc air-oil cooled V-twin engine producing 103 hp and strong 114 Nm torque. Built for riders seeking aggressive performance and distinctive American character, it excels at delivering responsive acceleration and urban agility. Known for its compact design and potent mid-range power delivery, the XB12Scg suits experienced riders prioritizing raw thrills over refinement.
General information | |
| Category | Naked bike |
| Year | 2008 |
| Model | Buell Lightning XB12Scg |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Clutch | Wet, multi-plate, compensated |
| 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 | 1,316 mm (51.8 inches) |
| Overall width | 754 mm (29.7 inches) |
| Overall length | 1,923 mm (75.7 inches) |
| Dry weight | 179.2 kg (395.0 pounds) |
Buell Lightning XB12SCG dimensions and frame | |
| Exhaust system | Tuned, tri-pass resonance chamber with InterActive valve and mass-centralized mounting |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes | Single disc |
| 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 | 79 mm (3.1 inches) |
| Front suspension | 41 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 | Cherry Bomb Translucid, Valencia Orange Translucid, Midnight Black |
| Fuel capacity | 14.45 litres (3.82 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
103 hp
Peak Power
3.2s
0-60 mph
Best For
Track75%
City70%
Cornering92%
Daily Riding55%
Touring40%
Passenger35%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to intermediate to experienced riders who can manage a torquey, quick-steering V-twin with sharp, unconventional handling. |
| Purpose | Designed as a light, punchy street naked built for aggressive backroad carving and canyon cornering rather than long-distance cruising. |
| Rider Fit | Its low dry weight and short wheelbase make it easy to muscle around, though the firm suspension and sporty ergonomics demand decent core and wrist strength. |
| Character | A quirky, high-torque American V-twin with a distinctive chassis philosophy, rewarding riders who enjoy eccentric, hands-on machines with real personality. |
| Not Ideal For | Not ideal for riders wanting plush comfort, pillion-friendly touring capability, or any serious off-road use. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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