Buell Lightning XB12S - 2004 Specifications and Reviews
The 2004 Buell Lightning XB12S is a raw, aggressive naked bike designed for riders seeking authentic performance and character. Its 1203cc twin-cylinder engine delivers 100 horsepower and impressive 109.7 lb-ft torque, making it best known for combining American V-twin muscle with lightweight agility and sharp handling characteristics.
General information | |
| Category | Naked bike |
| Year | 2004 |
| Model | Buell Lightning XB12S |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Belt |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Fuel control | OHV |
| Valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel system | Injection |
| Bore x stroke | 88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches) |
| Compression | 10.0:1 |
| Torque | 109.70 |
| Power | 100.00 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | Twin |
| Capacity: | 1203.00 ccm (73.41 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,320 mm (52.0 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 127 mm (5.0 inches) |
| Overall width | 831 mm (32.7 inches) |
| Overall length | 1,924 mm (75.7 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,232 mm (48.5 inches) |
| Seat height | 765 mm (30.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Dry weight | 179.0 kg (394.6 pounds) |
| | |
Buell Lightning XB12S dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 240 mm (9.4 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes diameter | 375 mm (14.8 inches) |
| 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 shock absorber with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload |
| Front suspension travel | 120 mm (4.7 inches) |
| Front suspension | Showa inverted fork with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload |
| Trail | 83 mm (3.3 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 21.0° |
| Frame type | Aluminium Frame with Uniplanar powertrain vibration isolation system |
| | |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.5587 HP/kg |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Midnight Black, Racing Red/Graphite-Grey/Translucent Amber |
| Fuel capacity | 14.00 litres (3.70 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
103 hp
Peak Power
3.3s
0-60 mph
Best For
Track65%
City75%
Cornering92%
Daily Riding60%
Touring40%
Passenger35%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to riders with intermediate to advanced experience who can handle a torquey, quick-steering V-twin with sharp, unconventional handling traits. |
| Purpose | Built for aggressive backroad blasting and twisty-road carving rather than commuting or long-distance touring. |
| Rider Fit | A light, compact naked bike with a low dry weight and short wheelbase that rewards an active, engaged riding style over raw muscle. |
| Character | Delivers punchy low-end torque, a distinctive American V-twin growl, and razor-sharp cornering agility thanks to its mass-centralized design and steep steering geometry. |
| Not Ideal For | Not ideal for riders wanting plush comfort, pillion-friendly ergonomics, or a bike suited to long highway journeys or off-road use. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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