| Author | Message | ||
     Snowshoeboarder007 |
So after much time searching for a bike that I would like to have, I ended up talking to a gentleman on an xb9r Firebolt over Memorial Day weekend at the resort that I used to work at in West Virginia, and he had some great things to say about the bike. Up until then I had my eyes set on a Uly, but since I am not sure how much long distance riding I'll be doing while living in NYC, and the price range of a used Uly is higher that I can currently justify, I am looking at the Firebolts. I am selling my car (def. hassle in the City), and would like to replace with a bike. I grew up riding in Alaska, could ride a mini-bike before I could ride a regular bicycle, and have had a few bikes over the years. My Dad and I are taking 10 day motorcycle trip in the summer, so I would say that I am a fairly experienced rider. My main question is if I should be looking at the xb9r or the xb12r? For those who have ridden both, what are some key differences, pros and cons to both setups? The $$ may have a bit of a factor along with insurance being a little less expensive for the xb9r (I think), but if there are any major power differences or "gremlins" in the smaller engine, it would be great to know about them. Keep in mind most of the time I'll be riding in the City, so any words of wisdom or advice would be much appreciated, and help me a lot in my search for my first, and hopefully not last, Buell. JS P.S. This site kicks some serious arse! | ||
| Chippy |
if you like sitting on the uly, and want the best bang for your buell buck, get a city cross. i rode em all at a couple demos, and this was the best choice for me. for the difference of about 2 grand retail i'm not missing a few more lbft, or horsepower. either bike will deffinitely do more than the avg rider is capable of making it do. | ||
| Ratbuell |
9 revs quicker, and accelerates similarly to the 12 due to lower overall gearing. Top end is not as stout as the 12. 12 has more top end grunt and a little more shake from the larger displacement (still well within reason, though). Curb weight difference is a paltry 5 lb. All mine are 12s (S2, S1W and Uly). I know folks who ride 9s who will never touch a 12, and vice versa. I'm not aware of any engine-specific 'gremlins'. | ||
| Xbeau12s |
If your gonna go long distances and you don't get the Uly the S models are better suited for a long ride situation. Think "Dirtbike" I rode my friends 07 XB9SX and it's quite a bit of difference compared to my 04 XB12S with the Buell Pro Race kit. 12 all they way for me! | ||
| Snowshoeboarder007 |
Thanks everyone...I think that starting out, the 984 should suffice. Now I just need to see what is out there on the used market in terms of an City or Firebolt...pretty much the only differences here are seat, handlebars, and fairing/lights correct? | ||
| Psychoxb |
xb12s for me.... | ||
| Retrittion |
I ride a 12R but if I was moving into NYC I would go CityX -- better in traffic and good seating as well. Honestly XBs are great so you're gonna be good either way. I say join the Hero club and start there -- you can always change down the road. |
