Buell XB Platform 20th Anniversary 2002 - 2022.
On the 12th of July 2001, Buell announced its most exciting and radical new model to date: The 2002 model year Buell Firebolt XB9R, writing a new chapter in the company's history.
The Firebolt XB9R featured a unique combination of innovative technology: fuel in the frame, oil in the swingarm, ZTL inside-out front disc brake and radical chassis geometry including a 1320mm wheelbase and 21° front fork angle.
The Firebolt XB9R is powered by a 984cc force air cooled 45° V-Twin engine that was developed by Harley-Davidson and Buell to deliver optimum performance, offering great torque over a wide rpm range and sufficient, controllable power.
On the 16th of July 2002 Buell announced its 2003 model year range featuring a second model on the XB platform: the Buell Lightning XB9S.
In July 2003 Buell extended the XB range for the 2004 model year with the introduction of the Lightning XB12S and the Firebolt XB12R.
A total of 68,946 Buell XB platform motorcycles were manufactured for the 2002 to 2010 model years.
XB9 & XB12 Firebolt = 17,892
XB9 & XB12 Lightning = 41,518
XB12 Ulysses = 9,480
XBRR = 56.
For production totals of each Buell model see this page: Buell/EBR Info
Em’s Day 2022 event on Saturday 13th August will commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Buell XB platform. See: Em's Day 2022
