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.

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General information

CategoryNaked bike
Year2005
ModelBuell Lightning XB12S
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

ClutchWet, multi-plate, compensated
Transmission typefinal driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemOil & air
Lubrication systemDry sump
StarterElectric
Fuel controlOHV
Valves per cylinder2
Fuel systemInjection. 49 mm down draft DDFI II fuel injection
Bore x stroke3.5 x 3.8 mm (0.1 x 0.2 inches)
Compression10.0:1
Torque113.90
Power92.00
Stroke4
Engine typeV2
Capacity:1203.00 ccm (73.41 cubic inches)

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,321 mm (52.0 inches)
Ground clearance110 mm (4.4 inches)
Overall width754 mm (29.7 inches)
Overall length1,935 mm (76.2 inches)
Overall height1,074 mm (42.3 inches)
Seat height765 mm (30.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight179.2 kg (395.0 pounds)
 
 

Buell Lightning XB12S dimensions and frame

Exhaust systemLarge diameter headers with InterActive exhaust
Rear brakes diameter240 mm (9.4 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. stainless steel, single piston, floating caliper, fixed rotor
Front brakes diameter336 mm (13.2 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc. ZTL type brake, 6-piston, fixed caliper, single-sided, inside out, stainless steel, floating rotor
Rear tyre dimensions180/55-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR17
Rear suspension travel127 mm (5.0 inches)
Rear suspensionShowa coil-over monoshock with remote, underseat reservoir and adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Front suspension travel120 mm (4.7 inches)
Front suspensionShowa® inverted fork with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Trail84 mm (3.3 inches)
Rake (fork angle)21.0°
Frame typeAluminum frame with Uniplanar™ powertrain vibration isolation system - Fuel in Frame

Speed and acceleration

Power/weight ratio0.5135 HP/kg

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsMidnight Black, Racing Red, Thrust Blue
Fuel capacity13.00 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 ForBest suited to riders with intermediate to advanced experience who can handle a torquey, quick-steering V-twin with sharp, unconventional handling traits.
PurposeBuilt for aggressive backroad blasting and twisty-road carving rather than commuting or long-distance touring.
Rider FitA light, compact naked bike with a low dry weight and short wheelbase that rewards an active, engaged riding style over raw muscle.
CharacterDelivers 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 ForNot 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.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2005 Buell Lightning XB12S Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 765mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2005 Buell Lightning XB12S, with a moderate knee angle of around 110 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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