| Author | Message | ||
     Greenlantern |
So it is approaching a year since my ample bottom first saddled my 2007 12Ss and I thought I would share my observations of the bike with you all. Miles traveled: 4200 Problems: At 600 miles had a leak at throttle body intake manifold that put bike in limp home mode. Did not get stranded and it was of course a warranty fix. Problem was assembly line in origin and I just happen to be the winner of that lottery, what are you going to do? and that concludes the problem section of my account. Observations, Drivetrain: There is nothing not to like about this engine/transmission set up , the powerband is truly real world with shifting and gear position being almost a afterthought in most situations. I sometimes find myself looking for a sixth gear but a quick look at the speedo and tach usually convinces my brain to pick another topic of discussion. Gas mileage is stellar and since i have no chain to muck with I actually spend too much time checking my oil and tire pressure! Observations: The heat can get your attention once in a while and the fan seems to run excessively regardless of ride type and length , but moving on to realization I have to say that the 2 previous bikes I have owned ('94 VFR and '90 ZX6)both cooked me on occasion just in different spots. this is what happens when you put a engine under your jewels so not a problem in my book. Both former bikes which were LIQUID COOLED had aux. fans which ran constantly which always bugged me! They were not as loud as the XB's, but then again they were not muted by a boatload of moronically expensive plastic either. I will try some Amsoil on my next change just to see how it works out. (many posts have suggested this helps) If it does nothing I am ok with it because at least I can understand a fan running on a AIR/OIL/FAN cooled bike! Chassis/ handling: Again there is nothing to not like about this bikes handling manners! Caffeinated reflexes, feedback as good as anything I have ever driven including my sneakers and a suspension I still can't believe came on a stock motorcycle ! Observations: Seat can wear a bit thin on the long day / high mile rides but I have been spoiled by Corbin seats on my last 2 bikes and this one's is on order so problem solved. Braking feel has gotten a little vague/ less progressive of late so following the advice of many posts here Lyndall golds are on order from Al @ americansportbike.com. Mirrors...well this is always a crap shoot with bikes anyway so a pair of Napoleon bar ends will be keeping the brake pads company on the U.P.S truck. Summation: My previous bike (the VFR) did nothing wrong and everything well. I could not find a fault with it at all and only sold it because I thought I was taking a hiatus from motorcycling. (Yeah i know, "What the hell was I thinking?") So when I came to my senses and decided to rediscover motorcycling I of course looked at a current VFR as my first choice. Bike looked good in person and on paper but did not illicit any emotional response from me. Honda had added so much technology for technology's sake to the machine that it had lost it's soul in my eyes. I then remembered Erik Buell and his crusade to put a American sportbike on the map from my cycle rag(s) subscription days and googled Buell which led me to the companies site but more importantly here. I spent some weeks observing , enjoying and on more than one occasion laughing out loud from the banter, exchange of information and just plain comraderie that transpires on this board daily. Well that got me into a dealership and I have not looked back since. This motorcycle is the best vehicle I have ever owned bar none and Kudos to Mr. Buell for it's creation and execution. In creating the Buell Motorcycle Company, Erik has reaffirmed my belief in American ingenuity and this board with all you wonderful folks who make it what it is has reaffirmed my faith in community. Thank you for listening and ride happy, ride safe!, Randy  | ||
| Xl1200r |
Good deal. I've got almost 4000 miles on my '07 XB12R since May and I've got the same basic observations as you - my leg gets hot and the seat sucks. Big deal. Everything else is just downright great. | ||
| Glitch |
Good read Randy. Now get out there and put some miles on that bike, the fan will run less, and the mileage gets better. Your ass will still be sore though.  | ||
| Tx05xb12s |
Nice sentiments Randy. Thanks for sharing, but you're preaching to the choir! | ||
| Bueaddicted |
Me 1 year = 12,000 miles. Bike Problems: None worth mentioning... normal stuff, all repaired under warranty... Service Problems: Too many... Observations: Most enjoyable bike I've owned... Summation: Remove bike from Harley dealers, allow others to sell and service the bike, or perform every service yourself if you can. Currently trying to sell the bike to purchase something else... Paul | ||
| Ironhead1977 |
Randy, from my personal experience, I know you are speaking the truth. |
