Buell Lightning XB12SCG - 2009 Specifications and Reviews

The 2009 Buell Lightning XB12Scg is a lightweight naked bike suited for riders seeking aggressive styling and strong mid-range torque. Known for its compact 1202cc V-twin engine delivering 103 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque, this American machine excels in urban riding and spirited cornering. The belt-drive 5-speed transmission and nimble chassis make it ideal for performance-oriented streetfighters.

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General information

CategoryNaked bike
Year2009
ModelBuell Lightning XB12Scg

Engine and Transmission Specifications

ClutchWet, multi-plate, compensated
Transmission typefinal driveBelt
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemOil & air
Fuel controlOHV
Valves per cylinder2
Fuel systemInjection. 49 mm down draft DDFI II fuel injection
Bore x stroke88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches)
Torque113.90
Power103.00
Stroke4
Engine typeV2
Capacity:1202.88 ccm (73.40 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,316 mm (51.8 inches)
Overall width754 mm (29.7 inches)
Overall length1,923 mm (75.7 inches)
Seat height726 mm (28.6 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight179.2 kg (395.0 pounds)

Buell Lightning XB12SCG dimensions and frame

Exhaust systemTuned, tri-pass resonance chamber with InterActive valve and mass-centralised mounting
Rear brakes diameter240 mm (9.4 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Two-piston, direct mount caliper; stainless steel, fixed rotor
Front brakes diameter375 mm (14.8 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc. ZTL2-type brake, 8-piston, 4 pads, fixed caliper, 375 mm single-sided, inside out, stainless steel, floating rotor
Rear tyre dimensions180/55-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR17
Rear suspension travel90 mm (3.6 inches)
Rear suspensionShowa coil-over monoshock with remote, under-seat reservoir and adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Front suspension travel79 mm (3.1 inches)
Front suspension41 mm Showa inverted forks with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Rake (fork angle)21.0°
Frame typeBlack aluminium frame with Uniplanar™ powertrain vibration isolation system, fuel in frame

Speed and acceleration

Power/weight ratio0.5749 HP/kg

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsCherry Bomb translucid; Hero Blue translucid; Midnight Black
Reserve fuel capacity2.83 litres (0.75 gallons)
Fuel capacity14.45 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 ForBest suited to intermediate to experienced riders who can manage a torquey, quick-steering V-twin with sharp, unconventional handling.
PurposeDesigned as a light, punchy street naked built for aggressive backroad carving and canyon cornering rather than long-distance cruising.
Rider FitIts 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.
CharacterA quirky, high-torque American V-twin with a distinctive chassis philosophy, rewarding riders who enjoy eccentric, hands-on machines with real personality.
Not Ideal ForNot 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.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2009 Buell Lightning XB12SCG Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 726mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2009 Buell Lightning XB12SCG, with a moderate knee angle of around 105 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.

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