Buell team up with Roland Sands for new 175hp Super Cruiser

Buell Motorcycles have teamed up with American bike builder Roland Sands to create a new raked out Super Cruiser, said to produce more power than a Ducati Diavel V4.

Launched at Daytona Bike Week in the USA on February 10, the blacked-out brawler is powered by Buell’s 1190cc liquid-cooled V-twin also found in the Hammerhead 1190 superbike, 1190 SX super naked, and Baja Dune Racer.  

Capable of up to a claimed 182.5bhp @ 10,600rpm in some other applications, the motor is housed in a minimalist trellis frame, which allows the motor to remain as visible as possible.

The SC Project full exhaust system featuring on this launch model should get the most from its twin-pot soundtrack, but don’t expect it to pass Euro regulations any time soon.

Speaking about the build, Buell CEO Bill Melvin said: “The market is full of American manufacturers known mostly for big, heavy bikes – not fast, hot ones like the famous V-twins of the 30s. Our Buell Super Cruiser will be the hottest bike on the market. Period.” Bold claims indeed.

This was followed up by Roland Sands, who added: “When Bill first approached us about building a high-performance cruiser using the Buell motor, it was as if the bike designed itself.

“Considering the history of Buell and the market’s need for a truly high-performance cruiser, and the build quality of the existing Buell chassis parts, motor, and rolling kit, the project was a natural fit.”

Although the bike has now been revealed, it’s likely the finished cruiser will look more refined, with the pairing only planning to bring it to market for 2025. Bikes can currently be pre-ordered, with a deposit paid at the Buell website.

Unlike many traditional bikes in this class, the Buell uses a pair of 17in wheels lifted straight from the Hammerhead superbike – meaning a wider range of road friendly rubber and potentially better handling. The pegs also sit below the single seat, rather than stretched out in front of you – suggesting this is a bike designed to go round corners with gusto.

Other bits borrowed from Buell’s sporting option include the forks and aluminium swingarm, with a single shock that runs from the top of the swingarm into a mount behind the rear cylinder head.

Elsewhere, you also get a single 386mm disc and eight-piston caliper that wraps around the rim of the front wheel – a system long adopted by Buell that they claim allows for lighter spokes as it keeps the braking forces away from the central hub.  

Buell Super Cruiser highlights

• Capacity: 1190cc
• Engine type: Liquid-cooled 72-degree V-twin
• Power: 172.6bhp
• Weight: 204.1kg
• Price: £TBC