Buell S2-T - 1996 Specifications and Reviews

The 1996 Buell S2-T is a sport touring motorcycle powered by a 1203cc Harley-Davidson V-twin engine producing 76 horsepower and strong mid-range torque. Built for riders seeking aggressive styling with practical touring capability, it delivers a top speed of 206 km/h and distinctive American cruiser character. The S2-T is best known for pioneering Buell's radical chassis design and proving that performance-oriented V-twin machines could compete in sport touring markets.

1996
5 stars Average rating: 5 from 1 votes
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General information

CategorySport touring
Year1996
ModelBuell S2-T

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust system2 into 1 underslung muffler
Greenhouse gases107.0 CO
Fuel consumption4.61 litres/100 km (21.7 km/l or 51.02 mpg)
ClutchWet plate
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
Lubrication systemDry sump
IgnitionElectronically triggered, dual-stage advance
Fuel controlOHV
Fuel systemCarburettor. 1, 40mm Keihin
Valves per cylinder2
Bore x stroke88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches)
Compression9.0:1
Max RPM6200
60-140 km/h (37-87 mph), highest gear4.100 seconds
1/4 mile (0.4 km)12.340 seconds
Top speed206.0 km/h (128.0 mph)
Torque103.05 Nm (10.5 kgf-m or 76.0 ft.lbs) @ 5200
Power76.00
Engine typeTwin, four-stroke
Capacity:1203.00 ccm (73.41 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter230 mm (9.1 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Single-action Brembo caliper
Front brakes diameter340 mm (13.4 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc. 1, six-piston PM caliper
Rear tyre dimensions170/60-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR17
Rear suspension travel124 mm (4.9 inches)
Rear suspensionWP Extension type
Front suspension travel119 mm (4.7 inches)
Front suspension40mm Inverted WP
Trail99 mm (3.9 inches)
Rake (fork angle)25.0°
Frame typeChrome-moly steel perimeter with Uniplanar vibration isolation system

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity18.92 litres (5.00 gallons)
Wheelbase1,387 mm (54.6 inches)
Ground clearance132 mm (5.2 inches)
Overall width953 mm (37.5 inches)
Overall length2,070 mm (81.5 inches)
Overall height1,219 mm (48.0 inches)
Seat height756 mm (29.8 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.3455 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc233.6 kg (515.0 pounds)
Dry weight220.0 kg (485.0 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsParkway Blue Quicksilver
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

76 hp
Peak Power
3.8s
0-60 mph
128 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track45%
City55%
Cornering75%
Daily Riding55%
Touring60%
Passenger45%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to riders with some experience, since the torquey big-bore V-twin and quick-steering chassis reward confident, deliberate inputs.
PurposeBuilt for spirited sport-touring, blending backroad cornering ability with enough wind protection and range for longer rides.
Rider FitA moderate seat height and manageable dry weight make it accessible, though the firm sport suspension and lean-forward stance suit riders comfortable with a sportier posture.
CharacterHas the raw, mechanical charm typical of early Buells, with a thumping air-cooled V-twin and distinctive underslung exhaust giving it a raw, characterful feel rather than refined smoothness.
Not Ideal ForNot ideal for riders seeking plush long-haul comfort, a passenger-friendly setup, or any off-road capability.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

1996 Buell S2-T Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 756mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1996 Buell S2-T, with a cramped knee angle of around 65 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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