Buell XB9SX Lightning CityX - 2010 Specifications and Reviews

The 2010 Buell XB9SX Lightning CityX is a lightweight naked bike designed for urban commuters seeking agile handling and accessible performance. Powered by a 984cc V-twin producing 84 horsepower, it delivers responsive acceleration ideal for city riding with minimal weight and a compact footprint. Best known for combining Harley-Davidson reliability with sportier Buell engineering, this model suits riders prioritizing maneuverability and everyday practicality over pure power.

2010
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General information

CategoryNaked bike
Year2010
ModelBuell XB9SX Lightning CityX
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemTuned, tri-pass resonance chamber with mass-centralised mounting
ClutchWet, multi-plate, compensated
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemOil & air
Fuel controlOHV
Fuel systemInjection. 45 mm down draft DDFI II fuel injection
Valves per cylinder2
Bore x stroke88.9 x 79.4 mm (3.5 x 3.1 inches)
Compression10.0:1
Torque81.00 Nm (8.3 kgf-m or 59.7 ft.lbs) @ 6750
Power84.48
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:983.28 ccm (60.00 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

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. ZTL brake, 6-piston, fixed caliper; 375 mm, single-sided, inside-out, stainless steel, floating rotor
Rear tyre dimensions180/55-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR17
Rear suspension travel129 mm (5.1 inches)
Rear suspensionShowa coil-over monoshock with remote, under-seat reservoir and adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Front suspension travel120 mm (4.7 inches)
Front suspension43 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
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity2.40 litres (0.16 quarts)
Fuel capacity14.45 litres (3.82 gallons)
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)
Seat height765 mm (30.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.4773 HP/kg
Dry weight177.0 kg (390.2 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsMidnight Black, Kick Ash Translucent, Cherry Bomb Translucent
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

84.5 hp
Peak Power
3.6s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track55%
City92%
Cornering88%
Daily Riding65%
Touring30%
Passenger35%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to intermediate to experienced riders who appreciate quirky, torque-rich V-twins with sharp, unconventional handling.
PurposeA mass-centralized, light naked bike built for aggressive urban riding and tight, twisty backroads rather than outright top speed.
Rider FitLow seat height and a compact, light chassis make it manageable for shorter or less physically strong riders, though the firm suspension and low ground clearance demand smooth inputs over rough surfaces.
CharacterEccentric and characterful, delivering punchy low-end torque, a distinctive exhaust growl, and razor-quick steering that rewards a playful, engaged riding style.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders wanting long-distance comfort, passenger-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

2010 Buell XB9SX Lightning CityX 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 2010 Buell XB9SX Lightning CityX, 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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