This FAQ is prepared, written and maintained by James L Woodley (woodley@cybernex.net)
This FAQ covers topics, questions, suggestions and all kinds of information
gathered from various printed and even spoken sources and is compiled for
your information. I can not and will not be held responsible for any personal
, physical, mental or property damages occurring from the use of this document.
The acquisition of information from sources so diverse, as well as the
opinions expressed in this document may not be accurate, verified or proven.
The information found in this document should be used wisely and carefully
- and AT YOUR OWN RISK.
This FAQ is in no way supported, approved, acknowledged or affiliated
with the Buell Motor Company or any of the other manufacturers mentioned
herein. Harley-Davidson is a registered trademark of the Harley-Davidson
Motor Company. Buell, S2 Thunderbolt. S3 Thunderbolt, S1 Lightning, S1
White Lightning, X1 Lightning, M2 Cyclone, and Blast! are registered trademarks
of Buell Motor Company.
Bikes covered in this FAQ:
M2 Cyclone, S1 Lightning, S1W/WL White Lightning, S2/S2T Thunderbolt,
S3/S3T Thunderbolt, X1 Lightning, and the Blast!
TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 First things first:
1.0 First things first:
1.1 Should I get a Buell as my first bike?
Blast, yes. Bigger Buells?........hmmmmm
This is a tough question, but 98% of the time I'd say no. I believe
the Buell is a bike that not only requires an experienced hand, but needs
experience to fully appreciate it's character. This is a VERY powerful
bike and it can get you in over your head in the blink of an eye. It also
feels different than other bikes and takes a bit of getting used to.
On the other hand, I've known very experienced riders who lost control
of their bikes, and riders whose Buell was their first bike ride like they
were born on it. Ultimately it's your choice....
I highly recommend a MSF course if you've never taken one. As a beginner
you will learn how to be confident on a bike. If you have been riding for
a number of years, I guarantee that you will learn something you never
knew about riding.
That really depends on how and where your ride, and what your personal
needs are. If you like to ride long distances or all day you may want an
S3Tor S3. If you ride in the city, a Cyclone might be better for you. If
you like to ride on one wheel, perhaps you want an X1. Just starting out,
how about the Blast? Do you ride fast? Do you like the twisties all the
time or just part of the time? There is a Buell for you, and if you're
honest with yourself, then you'll find the right one.
Be aware that ALL Buell dealers must have a demo bike for you to ride.
See if they have the model you're interested in and ride it - that's the
best way to make your decision. If you happen to be at a national motorcycle
event, you may find the Buell demo truck - feel free to ride one of every
model!
1.3 What are the differences between models?
Well, let's start with the most basic, and work our way up:
Blast! - Single cylinder, spine-type frame, very low seat height. Geared
toward new riders.
M2 Cyclone - Carburated, cammed for mid range and bottom, seats two,
97-98 had Lightning heads and narrow bodywork, 99-01 has Thunderstorm heads
and wide bodywork, traditional forks. No tach standard until 2001. Suspension
has fewer damping adjustments and no external shock reservior. Designed
to be an all-purpose sportbike.
S1 Lightning - Carburated, cammed for high end, single seat with twintail
option, 96-98 had Lightning heads and narrow bodywork, higher footpegs,
upside down forks. Designed for aggressive sport riding.
S1W/S1WL - WLs are White Lightnings (all pearl white), W's are same
specs but regular colors, carburated, cammed for high end, single seat
with
S2/S2T Thunderbolt - Predecessor to the S3/S3T made from 95 to 96, looks
similar to S3, but with a sculpted fuel tank and generally broad, swoopy
lines. 1" handlebars, angled air filter, and different frame than subsequent
models.
S3 Thunderbolt- Sport-touring, carburated 97-98, fuel injected 99-01,
cammed for high end, seats two, upper fairing, wide fuel tank. Designed
for sport-touring.
S3T Thunderbolt - same as S3 but with hard baggage and taller handlebars.
X1 Lightning - 1 ½ seat, fuel injected, new frame with external
tail section, Thunderstorm heads, wide tank, looks architecturally different
than preceding Buells lots of triangles and pointy features. Designed for
aggressive sport riding.
Of course, there are many more differences, but there are too many to
list for the scope of this document.
1.4 How much should I pay for a used Buell?
Prices on used Buells vary from $5000 for a used Cyclone to $11,000
for a used S3. It really depends on what accessories were installed, how
many miles, was it dropped, etc.. You can get a general idea of used prices
just by looking at the classifieds.
As of now, Buells don't seem to appreciate in value (with the exception
of the RR1000) but that will change in the future - anything will appreciate
if it's old enough.
1.5 Should I spend the money on an extended service
warranty?
Yes, it is always a good idea to extend any warranty on any product
because nothing is perfect. Motorcycle repairs can be very expensive, so
if you can pay a little up front, then you may not have to pay a lot later
on. Another advantage of the extended warranty is that you can bring your
bike to the dealer for every little thing without worry that you'll have
to pay for it.
Bear in mind that a warranty is only as good as the shop that works
on your bike. Finding a good dealer to service your bike is essential.
The Harley Davidson extended warranty is honored at any Harley/Buell dealership,
so if you do not feel comfortable with one dealer, then go to another.
I should also note that the warranty can cover a modified engine, but will
not cover a problem caused by a modification.
1.6 What does 'Buell' mean anyway?
Buell does not mean anything, it is the surname of the designer of your
bike. Erik Buell is a very talented engineer with a unique approach. Erik
has designed innovative parts for Harley-Davidson and has been building
production Buells since 1990.
2.0 The Right Stuff:
2.1 OK, I've got my bike, what modifications should
I do first?
If you just bought your bike, ride it around for awhile to get used
to it before you modify it - you will be able to better judge any improvements
made by upgrades. At the very least, complete the new bike break-in process
first.
The most common modifications make the bike breathe better, hence the
following things are changed: Air filter, jetting (for carburated models),
and exhaust. Even if you just want a louder bike, you should change all
of the aforementioned parts as they all work together.
Other modifications include carbon fiber bodywork, tachometer kit, oil
cooler, handlebars, mirrors and a host of other things. Buell, American
Sport Bike, Force, Banke, Axtell, Storz, Crossroads Performance and Joker
Machine are just a small number of companies that produce and supply high-quality
performance parts for your Buell.
2.2 How long will the tires last?
This really depends on how you ride. Your weight, riding style, and
frequented roads have much to do with tire wear. Stock Dunlop D-204 will
generally last from 3000 to 8000mi, stock Dunlop D-205 can last from 4000
to 11000mi. Maintaining proper tire pressure will allow you to get the
most out of your tire and extend it's useful life.
2.3 What tires work best on my bike?
This is another matter of preference. Many folks feel good about the
stock tire and replace them with the same ones.
The Dunlop D-207 is popular as are the Bridgestone BT-56ss tires. Other
tires that seem to be well liked are the Avon Azzaro, Pirelli Dragon, Michelin
Pilot, and the Metzeler ME-Z series.
2.4 I want to get a larger rear tire, what size
will fit?
Fitting the fattest tire possible on the rear seems to be fashionable
as of late, but this is not necessarily a good idea. Your rear wheel was
designed to perform best with a tire of a specific size. By exceeding the
design parameters you may actually lower your performance. Basically when
you stuff a wider tire on a wheel, you change the relationship between
the side wall and the tread - you can actually lose valuable contact patch.
That having been said, certain highly regarded tires may not be available
in your size. For example, the Bridgestone BT-56ss is not available in
the 170/60 size required by the 5" Buell wheels, so many folks have fitted
a the 180/55 instead. Also some people have fitted 190/55 on their PM rear
wheel. It's up to you...
2.5 What's the best oil to use in my bike?
Oil has always been a big debate among motorcyclists - some swear by
natural and others by synthetic not to mention that some use car oil. So
what is best for your bike?
A compilation of all of the things I've read will be to use Harley-Davidson
20w-50 for at least the first 4000mi and then a synthetic for the rest
of your bike's life. That seems like good advice, but you could also use
the Harley 20w-50 throughout your bike's life and enjoy long engine life.
I personally like half and half (natural & synthetic blend) when I
can find it, but Harley oil also works for me. Some other popular oils
are Mobil 1 for V-Twins, Redline, Amsoil, and Motul.
2.6 What's the best transmission fluid to use in
my bike?
Really, the best stuff is the stock Sport-Trans fluid, but other folks
may recommend Redline Shockproof Heavy - try them both and decide.
2.7 What kind of accessories are available for
my bike?
There are so many accessories for most Buells, that it boggles the mind.
Tankbags, covers, polished parts, carbon fiber, the list goes on. As well
as from Buell Motor Co., you can purchase accessories from American Sport
Bike, Joker Machine, Force Motor Products, and a host of others.
2.8 I crave more power, where should I start?
After opening up the breathing (air filter, jetting, exhaust), head
work, pistons and cylinders are the next step to serious power increases.
If you have the Lightning series heads, you may want to try the Thunderstorm
heads and pistons as a bolt-on power increase. Machined/ported heads will
increase your power, but is beyond the scope of the the average backyard
mechanic - Brian Nallin heads are coveted by the Buellers that use them.
Larger or better cylinders and pistons can also give you better bang for
the buck - Axtell and American Air-cooled Cylinders make great products.
Don't want to do all of that? How about a turbo? A turbo will give you
instant horsepower - like 30% more. Aerocharger makes a pretty good turbo
kit. Nitrous is another option, but may be better suited on carburated
models than FI models - YMMV.
2.9 What is the top speed of my bike?
The faster Buells may go 140 or so, but you might need a race ignition
module or ECM to allow the high rpms necessary to achieve this.
3.0 Oh no!:
3.1 My engine is spraying oil all over the bike,
what's happening?
The rockerbox gasket has blown, not uncommon. Replace front and rear
with James Gaskets or Cometic Gaskets.
3.2 My engine knocks and pings when I sit in traffic,
is that normal?
On most Buells this is normal, but not desirable. It is an indication
that your engine is getting too hot. You may be running too lean if you
have a carburated Buell.
The recommended plug was switched in 2000 from a 6R12 to a 10R12 (cooler
plug, made for the Blast!) which helps the knocking problem. Also be sure
to use premium fuel whenever possible.
3.3 I ran out of gas and now my bike is not running
right, what happened?
Your EFI module has reset itself and needs to be 're-taught'. What happens
when you run out of gas is that the EFI tries to compensate for lack of
fuel based on your throttle position. When this happens, it gets conflicting
information and resets itself.
3.4 My bike fell over, what should I check for?
Check the handlebars, foot and hand controls, turn signals, oil, and
fuel. Depending on what side it fell on, also check the airbox for cracks
or damage. Avoid riding with bent handlebars if at all possible, but more
importantly DO NOT RIDE WITH UNBENT HANDLEBARS! Handlebars that have been
bent from an accident and then straightened out are very weak and can break
off very easily. Just say no!
3.5 What is that rattling sound coming from the
front wheel?
It could be one of two things: The floating brake rotor or the brake
pads. This is a normal situation, but do check your front rotor for lateral
movement every now and then as this may be a sign that the carrier is wearing
out.
3.6 My bike goes through a lot of oil, is this
normal?
Not really. If the engine was not broken in properly then this is most
likely the problem. The engine needs to be broken in carefully so that
the piston rings seat properly otherwise this will cause oil blow-by and
may also score your cylinders.
3.7 My bike stalls when put it into first.
That would be the sidestand switch. The best way to deal with the situation
is to short the switch. Keep in mind that this is a safety feature that
you are disabling, if you ride off with your sidestand down, it could cause
an accident when you turn left.
3.8 My engine tries to cut out sometimes while
I'm riding, what's going on?
See previous question. Also check your battery connections.
3.9 Ow, my right leg is burning up on the header,
is there a way to fix this?
A pair of jeans works well enough in most cases, but chaps or leather
pants help quite a bit. I'll say right here in writing that if you're riding
a Buell and wearing shorts then you deserve the pain.
Earlier Buells (to '98) have a more exposed header than the 99 and up
models. Ceramic coating your headers or even exhaust taping your headers
will keep most of the heat from your leg. I moved my heat shield around
a bit and found better protection from the heat. Some folks have suggested
removing the heat shield ventilates the pipe better - I have not tried
this but I would advise you be very careful if you try this.
4.0 Maintenance:
4.1 Should I go to the dealer for an oil change?
You can do your own oil changes. You are not required by warranty to
have the dealer change your oil. Do it yourself, learn and save. Buy a
service manual, it's well worth the price.
4.2 Is it worth it to get my 5000mi, 10000mi checkups?
I would say yes. Simply because the dealer most likely has better tools
than you, he/she is better able to check for things like worn head bearings
at 10000mi. If you know what you're doing, you might do this yourself.
4.3 When should I change my belt?
Unless the belt is damaged, it's good for 60,000mi
4.4 What recalls have been done on my bike? How
can I tell?
Front Motor Mount System in all 1997 - 1998 models;
all 97-98 models:
All 99 - 2000 models:
These are the main ones, there are more recalls to be added. Bear in
mind that almost any manufacturer of any vehicle on any model year will
have at least one recall of some sort.
4.5 My dealer is not being very supportive, what
should I do?
Incidences of this situation are becoming fewer and fewer, but there
are still a number of dealers that do not seem to like Buells. They are
selling Buell to make money, but they may not know how to work on them
or how to effectively communicate with a sport-biker. Let's face it, many
Harley dealers are used to selling and bolting on chrome, and a performance
questions can really turn their world upside down.
Try to contact Buell, they are very friendly and can help you straighten
out the situation.
4.6 This bike feels wrong around turns, what's
wrong?
Most likely your suspension needs to be set up. On a bike with such
a short wheelbase, any suspension changes are noticeable, especially around
bumpy curves.
Basically, the suspension should be set in three parts: preload, load,
compression and rebound. To be very brief, preload is the measured distance
of suspension traveled while the bike is at rest, unloaded and without
a rider. The measured distance, front and rear should be noted in the owners
manual and adjusted if necessary by adjusting the preload adjusters on
the front and rear of the bike. Once the preload is set the load needs
to be set with the rider on the bike with a full tank, gear and everything
else the rider will carry. Once again, the distance traveled by the suspension
is measured both front and rear, against the previous measurements, and
preload is adjusted until within the specs outlined in the owners manual.
Finally Compression and rebound can be done by evenly pushing on the bike,
and watching the bike to see that it compresses and bounces back evenly
- this may take some practice to execute properly. Andy Spiegel has written
an informative FAQ regarding suspension tuning (Bab Weather Bikers) and
this informationcan also be found in Battle 2Win and The Road Ahead Newsletter.
4.7 Why does my bike wobble at high speed?
Head bearings are the primary cause of this. Because of the head angle,
the bike is very sensitive to the head bearings. Common causes are worn
bearings, bearings too tight or bearings too loose.
Other causes may be: Misaligned wheels, incorrect tire pressure or balance.
Rider input is another factor. If you grip the bars too tightly, any effects
of the wind on your body are transmitted to the front end. Also if you
grip too tightly, the rigidity of your body will act like a worn bearing
to the front end. Relax your grip and don't put your weight on your wrists.
4.8 My feet just reach the ground but I can't 'flatfoot',
should I lower my bike?
Lowering your bike will affect your cornering clearance and geometry
and it will affect how your bike feels. While there are a few options to
lower your bike, you might consider getting shoes with thicker soles. I'm
not kidding, just a quarter of an inch can make a big difference in your
parking lot maneuvers. New shoes will also cost less than lowering your
bike, so it's worth a try.
It is a fallacy that one must put their foot flat on the ground to ride
safely. Practice and planning is key - plan on how you want to get out
of that parking spot before you park, look for the oil in the intersection
before you put your foot down, etc..
4.9 My SO likes to ride with me, how do I adjust
my bike for the extra weight?
As all models should have the recall shock, adjustment simply requires
loosening the large locknut at the rear if the shock, and adjusting by
twisting the cannister with the larger cannister nut. If the threads are
clean, adjustment can also be made by tightly grabbing the can and twisting
it. The closer the can is to the rear of the shock, the more preload there
is. Be sure to re-tighten the locknut before riding. If you have compression
and rebound adjustments on your shock, you may also want to increase these
by a small amount.
4.A I've heard so and so say that their bike was
in the shop more than it was on the road, will my bike be like that?
Those who complain seem to have the loudest voices. It is unfortunate
that Buells, like many cars are not always perfect - some are just plain
lemons. Most Buells, however are pretty reliable and have made many owners
happy. A happy owner is usually too happy to bother raving about their
bike, so you might not hear much from them.
4.B Where else can I find Buell information and
meet other Buell owners?
Buell Groups and resources:
Publications:
Suppliers and services:
1.1 Should I get a Buell as my first bike?
2.0 The Right Stuff:
1.2 Which model should I get?
1.3 What are the differences between models?
1.4 How much should I pay for a used Buell?
1.5 Should I spend the money on an extended service
warranty?
1.6 What does 'Buell' mean anyway?2.1 OK, I've got my bike, what modifications
should I do first?
3.0 Oh no!:
2.2 How long will the tires last?
2.3 What tires work best on my bike?
2.4 I want to get a larger rear tire, what size will
fit?
2.5 What's the best oil to use in my bike?
2.6 What's the best transmission fluid to use in my
bike?
2.7 What kind of accessories are available for my bike?
2.8 I crave more power, where should I start?
2.9 What is the top speed of my bike?3.1 My engine is spraying oil all over the bike,
what's happening?
4.0 Maintenance:
3.2 My engine knocks and pings when I sit in traffic,
is that normal?
3.3 I ran out of gas and now my bike is not running
right, what happened?
3.4 My bike fell over, what should I check for?
3.5 What is that rattling sound coming from the front
wheel?
3.6 My bike goes through a lot of oil, is this normal?
3.7 My bike stalls when put it into first.
3.8 My engine tries to cut out sometimes while I'm riding,
what's going on?
3.9 Ow, my right leg is burning up on the header, is
there a way to fix this?4.1 Should I go to the dealer for an oil change?
4.2 Is it worth it to get my 5000mi, 10000mi checkups?
4.3 When should I change my belt?
4.4 What recalls have been done on my bike? How can
I tell?
4.5 My dealer is not being very supportive, what should
I do?
4.6 This bike feels wrong around turns, what's wrong?
4.7 Why does my bike wobble at high speed?
4.8 My feet just reach the ground but I can't 'flatfoot',
should I lower my bike?
4.9 My SO likes to ride with me, how do I adjust my
bike for the extra weight?
4.A I've heard so and so say that their bike was in
the shop more than it was on the road, will my bike be like that?
4.B Where else can I find Buell information and meet
other Buell owners?
twintail option, only made in '98, had Thunderstorm heads and wide
fuel tank, higher footpegs, upside down forks. Designed for aggressive
sport riding.
Negative Battery Cable in 1996 - 1998 S1 Lightning and 1998 S1 White
Lightning models;
Rear Brake Line in 1999 Lightning X1 models;
Side Stand Switch in all 1996 - 1999 models, except S2 and S2T Thunderbolt
models;
Fuel Tank Retention System in all 1995 - 1999 models, except Lighting
X1 models;
Fuel Tank Vent in all 1995 - 1999 models;
Swing Arm in all 1995 - 1998 models;
Shock Eye in all 1995 - 1998 models.
Turn signal relay - not detectable.
Rear shock absober - SRP package installed. Clamp and strap around
front eyelet, conical support around the rear of the can.
Bad Weather Bikers
American Thunderbike Club
PACBOG
BRAG
St. Paul BRAG
DC BRAG
RockBOG
American Sportbike
Night
SCAB
UKBEG
Buell Mailing List of Japan
Buell
Enthusiast's Webring
Battle
2win
Thunder
Press
The Road Ahead
The Weather Report
Sport Bike USA
American Sport Bike
Trojan
Horse Products UK
Buell Motor Company
Streetwise Sportsbike
Necessories
Buell Germany
Buell Japan
Force Motor Products
Crossroads Performance
Eurocomponents
Joker Machine
Storz Performance
Nallin
Head Service
Axtell Cylinders
American Aircooled Cylinders