BUELL XB12S SUPER TT (2007 - 2008) Review

The Buell XB12STT is a new, horny looking, supermoto-inspired derivative of the Buell XB12S Lightning and Buell XB12R Firebolt series is probably the most fun Buell motorcycle yet. Great looks, a stumpy and sharp chassis plus the familiarly grunty 1203cc Harley-Davidson derived engine add up to motorcycle that’s great to hoon about out. The Buell XB12STT suffers from limited practicality and still suspect reliability, though.

Buell XB12X Ulysses frame but with longer swing arm and fairly long travel suspension give the Buell XB12STT a true supermoto motorcycle posture. But it manages to blend quick flickability and high speed stability well and is great fun to ride this motorcycle through the twisties, although the Ducati Hypermotard is better yet.

The Buell XB12STT uses the same powerplant as the Buell XB12R Firebolt and Buell XB12S Lightning. The Harley-Davidson derived, 1203cc Thunderstorm V-twin produces 103 horsepower and 84 lbs.-ft. of torque. That’s impressive enough but, though undeniably grunty the Buell XB12STT lacks the smoothness, sophistication and top end power of more modern rival motorcycles.

Despite the Harley-Davidson connection Buell motorcycles still have a long way to go before they are held in such high regard. The Buell XB12STT's quality is only average and reliability has tarnished the Buell motorcycle name over recent years (although it is starting to improve now).

The Buell XB12STT's £7295 list price sounds cheap for a funky Harley-Davidson engined motorcycle with more than its fair share of techno wizardry and in a way it is, but compared to direct rival motorcycles such as the mouth-watering Ducati Hypermotard, the Buell XB12STT suddenly doesn’t sound quite the same bargain. Find a Buell XB12STT for sale.

Buells have always been fairly basic motorcycles and the Buell XB12STT is no different – it even only comes in white! The clocks are OK rather than attractive, the switchgear look like something that came off a 1994 Kawasaki motorcycle, there’s no mainstand or luggage provision and the Buell XB12STT's mirrors aren’t nice either. Compare and buy parts for the Buell Super TT in the MCN Shop.