Description
Click here for an VINData Motorcycle History Report on this 2009 Buell Lightning XB12SCG. Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
Buell’s XB frame first arrived on the scene in 2002 with the launch of the Firebolt XB9R. The series introduced many of the brand’s innovative technologies, including an industry-first Zero Torsional Load (ZTL) perimeter floating front brake disc, a forged aluminum “fuel in frame” chassis, as well as a swingarm that doubled as an oil reservoir. In order to keep the bike’s mass even closer to the ground, Buell mounted the muffler beneath the engine.
Come 2003, Buell expanded the XB lineup via the Lightning XB12. In keeping with the series’ naming conventions, the model bumped the Harley V-twin’s displacement from 984cc up to 1,203cc. On the road, this meant that it made 103hp and and 84lb-ft of torque — a respectable output considering the bike’s 179kg (394-pound) curb weight. Along with the full-faired ‘R,’ Buell also offered the bike in naked streetfighter ‘S’ guise.
Over the course of the Lightning’s production life, Buell offered the model in a number of different variants, including the XB12Scg you see here. Compared to the standard XB12S, the ‘cg’ — an abbreviation for center of gravity — came in 1.75 inches lower courtesy of a reshaped seat, some slightly lower suspension, and a shorter swingarm. Beyond being more accommodating of smaller riders (thanks in part to the 28.6-inch seat height), the shorter wheelbase also helped with cornering performance in the turns.
As MCN found in its review of the XB12, “Superb handling. Buell were talking about (and using) mass centralisation years before the Japanese motorcycle manufacturers cottoned on. The Buell XB12S Lightning’s rim mounted disc brake works well plus lets the wheel be lighter for lower unsprung mass. Fuel in frame and oil in the swing arm aren’t rocket science but help keep the motorcycle’s weight where it’s best carried and the Buell XB12S Lightning corners with aplomb.”
Manufactured May 2009, this example is VIN: 4MZWX03D793501415. The seller purchased the bike September 2022 from The Cycle Exchange in New Jersey and states, “I have always had a soft spot for XB Buells. A 2005 XB12R Fire Bolt was my first street motorcycle. I had looked for a hero blue 2009 XB12Scg for several years when I happened on this one, and immediately drove to pick it up.”
During his ownership the seller has covered approximately 3,800 miles. The odometer shows 5,538 miles.
Maintenance:
The seller states, “When I acquired the bike I swapped all fluids, installed new tires, and went through the chassis. I had to repair wires on the fuel pump that were corroded.”
Modifications:
“I upgraded the front brake master cylinder to a Brembo unit from a KTM Super Duke as well as added bar end mirrors, LED turn signals, LED flasher relay, and replica 2010 integrated tail light. The seat has been replaced with a NOS XB12S seat, and the belt guards as well as the passenger pegs have been removed. The bike came with a Drummer exhaust, EBR race ECU, and K&N air filter.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop Sportmax Roadsmart III tires with date codes of 1122 and 1422.
The sale includes two keys, original low seat, mirrors, taillight, passenger pegs, belt guards, turn signals, and front brake master cylinder.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Hamilton, Ohio, this Buell is offered on a clean Ohio title. Have any Lightning XB12SCG stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
