Buell Lightning XB12S - 2005 Specifications and Reviews
The 2005 Buell Lightning XB12S is a potent naked bike that appeals to experienced riders seeking aggressive performance and American muscle. Known for its innovative 1203cc V-twin engine delivering 113.9 Nm of torque, it excels at delivering thrilling acceleration and distinctive character. Its lightweight, nimble handling combined with powerful braking makes it ideal for spirited riding.
General information | |
| Category | Naked bike |
| Year | 2005 |
| Model | Buell Lightning XB12S |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Clutch | Wet, multi-plate, compensated |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| 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 II fuel injection |
| Bore x stroke | 3.5 x 3.8 mm (0.1 x 0.2 inches) |
| Compression | 10.0:1 |
| Torque | 113.90 |
| Power | 92.00 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | V2 |
| Capacity: | 1203.00 ccm (73.41 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,321 mm (52.0 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 110 mm (4.4 inches) |
| Overall width | 754 mm (29.7 inches) |
| Overall length | 1,935 mm (76.2 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,074 mm (42.3 inches) |
| Seat height | 765 mm (30.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Dry weight | 179.2 kg (395.0 pounds) |
| | |
Buell Lightning XB12S dimensions and frame | |
| Exhaust system | Large diameter headers with InterActive exhaust |
| Rear brakes diameter | 240 mm (9.4 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. stainless steel, single piston, floating caliper, fixed rotor |
| Front brakes diameter | 336 mm (13.2 inches) |
| Front brakes | Single disc. ZTL type brake, 6-piston, fixed caliper, single-sided, inside out, stainless steel, floating rotor |
| 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 remote, underseat reservoir and 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 | 84 mm (3.3 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 21.0° |
| Frame type | Aluminum frame with Uniplanar™ powertrain vibration isolation system - Fuel in Frame |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.5135 HP/kg |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Midnight Black, Racing Red, Thrust Blue |
| Fuel capacity | 13.00 litres (3.43 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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