| Author | Message | ||
     Maytag |
Hi all, Im currently bikeless, sold my 02 VFR around 3yrs ago and for the past year I have been researching Buells and Ducatis trying to decide on my next bike. Leaning more toward it being a XB12R, its very unique and its just made for me (I'm a Twisties kinda guy, anyone can ride fast in a straight line). Can you all help me decide between these 2 bikes. A 07' XB12R with a Drummer and other minor upgrades w/3k miles for $6k or a 08' XB12R all stock except dbl bbl screen and sliders for $5k but w/10k miles. My big concern about the 08' is all the issues I've read regarding lower fuel economy because of the updated ECM/Fuel Delivery system. I've also read some saying a s/w flash by the dealer fixes the 08-09's problems but does it cost anything. So these are my current choices, both blk/red. There is one other but its a 400mi trek, a guy is asking $7400 for a brand new (only 624mi on the odometer) 09' XB12R and I like the blacked out motor on the 09's but thats another $1400 for what I would consider a seasonal weekend toy. Thanks, any input will be appreciated. -maytag | ||
| Slaughter |
Go with the 08. More robust motor. Bigger bottom end bearings. Better oiling system. The bugs you mentioned can be resolved (and have been). Heck, I JUST NOW bought another 08 flywheel on ebay for my spare motor going together. This is an 08 going into an 07 motor (lots of mods) | ||
| Maytag |
Thanks for the swift input Slaughter but what do you think about the 08' having 10k miles on it, the dealership (Honda) is asking $5995 for it but I know it was a trade-in and theyve had it in their inventory since last winter. What are my chances theyd let it go for $5k OTD? Would this be a good buy for $5k on a 08' w/10k miles? What would H-D charge if this bike is in need of the s/w flash? -maytag (Message edited by Maytag on May 11, 2010) | ||
| Slaughter |
I'd not know what Hardley would charge for the re-flash. That is going to vary WILDLY from free (at one of the few remaining Buell-enthusiast dealers) to 1.5 shop-hours - nearly 2 bills. You might shoot Erik Buell Racing an email to ask about one of their race modules that you can plug in and will by-pass all of the pollution-mandated weirdness in the powerband. IF you EVER consider engine modifications, I'd consider asking Erik Buell Racing what intake/exhaust systems they have dyno'd and written ECM controls for before buying engine goodies. Personally, the only reason to change exhaust is to get lighter weight, not for performance. The new Erik Buell Racing modules apparently do wonders for throttle response - but IF you are considering engine modifications, you probably ought to wait until you get THEIR inputs on intake/exhaust - unless you enjoy engine tuning. (I think the time is better spent riding) I'd wait to hear from others here who have had their '08 ECMs re-flashed with stock intake/exhaust. Again - the mileage of the 08 isn't a concern and YES - they OUGHT to take $5K for it. I'd be tempted to leave my contact information with the sales guy - give him/her a $5K offer and if they hesitate, say (nicely) "well, here's my contact information, you know how to get in touch" Not sure that the newer XB12R is worth the extra money. | ||
| Slaughter |
So - thread jack - MAYTAG? My old boss used to collect and restore the classic 2-stroke, gas-engined Maytag washing machines. Amazing machines from the day before our rural electrification. (OK, back on track now) | ||
| Maytag |
Sorry but forgot to update after picking up an 08' Firebolt. Black/Red with 1" dropped pegs, heated grips, Buell Saddlebags , rear seat bag, Buell Custom Rider seat and only 1700mi on it. Picked up on May 27th, yah its been a while cuz I've been having way too much fun with the beast. All the bags come off fairly easily but I'm sure they'll come in handy at some point. The heated grips work but being a fair weather rider I'm not sure I'll ever need to turn them on. I didnt find the Rider seat comfortable (back to stock) but the 1" dropped pegs are nice, good for my 40+ yr old knees. Already performed a few mods myself: My own DIY SoftClutch mod, ZeroGravity Dbl Bubble Screen, Fully Open Exhaust Valve (till Drummer in the offseason), Flared open the mini Factory rightside Air Scoop, All reflectors removed, GPS with hardwired 12v socket Absolutely the best handling bike I've ever ridden. (Message edited by maytag on July 20, 2010) |
