Feedback requested : V-Twin Forum: Harley Davidson Forums

Ride · 07-08-2007, 12:45 PM

Was at my dealer yesterday getting some work done on my 99FLHRCI and saw he had a new 2006 Firebolt XB12 whatever ya call it. Not new to sportbikes but new to Buells. Not sure I've even got the model right but it's the top of the line 2006 bike. I'm 20 minutes from the Bighorn Mountains and have been considering a second bike just to run the twisties on the weekends. Would like a used Ducatti but the closest service is 400 miles away in Ft.Collins CO and from what I've read so far the Duc's are pretty expensive when it comes to parts and service. I think the bike was stickered at around $10K but with the new water cooled models coming out any day I'm thinking I could get a really good deal on the 2006 and possibly an upgraded exhaust etc. From reading a few reviews it sounds like a fun bike for what I have in mind. Any feedback on price, performance, maintenance issues etc. is appreciated and thanks in advance.

Ride

tireater · 07-08-2007, 01:35 PM

I think that bike was rated as best turning among 50 sport bikes...

Buellbomb · 07-08-2007, 02:06 PM

I have a '04 XB12S Lightning, 10K miles. A kickstand bolt broke, other than that, it's been trouble free. I've ridden it 600 miles in one day, in the southern heat, and it didn't miss a beat. No oil useage or leaks.

I think you can make a deal, especially on a leftover.

Performance-wise, it's not the fastest, but it'll rip pretty good, top speed around 135. With a different pipe, it sounds like a motorcycle, too. Parts are reasonable, although not all HD shops carry the brand.

NOYACANT · 07-12-2007, 01:38 AM

Can't speak of the XB models. Although this tube frame X1 I picked up a few weeks ago is almost as much fun as a barrell of monkeys and a 20 ga pump! Accelleration, handling and braking are great. This bike is so smooth above sixty, it's close to flying. Fast, fun bike but ugly as sin!

Ride · 07-14-2007, 03:41 PM

Thanks to all who replied. I think I'll stop back by in another week or two and see what kind of deal I can swing.

Ride · 08-19-2007, 01:55 PM

Been busy with work and Sturgis but headed over to the dealer to demo the 2006 XB12 next weekend. I'm thinking if I can get a new exhaust and race chip for around $8500 I've got a fun bike for not a lot of money.

Fxsts103ci · 08-30-2007, 03:45 PM

Go for it . My son has a 2004 XB12R only problem he has with it is keeping rear tires on it. They sure dont last long ...I have ridden it a few times and even this old fart likes it. Dont think I would like it for 500 miles but a few hours on the twisties its great.

I really want to see the 1125r up close and personal. Might just be one in the garage in the near future. Cant let the boy have all the fun

Buelligan · 08-30-2007, 04:46 PM

I own 5 Buells, and 4 Harleys.
The Buells are, like stated above, Funner than a barrel of monkeys.
I only have one of the newer XB's, it's a great bike, and handles like a dream.
I have 4 of the older "tuber" buells, and they are great bikes. I like the older hot rodded Sportster motor, easier to find parts for, and alot easier to work on.
If you don't get the XB, definitly look around for an '02 or older Buell, you can find these for around $4000.

Old_Mil · 12-16-2007, 10:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ride

he had a new 2006 Firebolt XB12 whatever ya call it. Not new to sportbikes but new to Buells. Not sure I've even got the model right but it's the top of the line 2006 bike. I'm 20 minutes from the Bighorn Mountains and have been considering a second bike just to run the twisties on the weekends. Would like a used Ducatti but the closest service is 400 miles away in Ft.Collins CO and from what I've read so far the Duc's are pretty expensive when it comes to parts and service. I think the bike was stickered at around $10K but with the new water cooled models coming out any day I'm thinking I could get a really good deal on the 2006

Sounds like a good opportunity - the Firebolt is the XB12R. There have been incremental upgrades in the 2006 model and again in the 2008 model, but the 2006 captures the better transmission that the 05 lacks. It'll make a great machine to do what you describe above - Buell's handle better than anything else I've ever ridden. Just keep in mind that if you get the Firebolt, you may soon start looking for a Ulyssess as a touring rig to replace your FL.

...and yes, you should be able to get a smoking deal on a 06. The KBB retail value for a 06 bolt is $7920, and personally I'm thinking that's probably a bit on the high side.