| Author | Message | ||
     Danman2540 |
Hi, I've had a few jap sport bikes but I'm now looking at getting a Buell. I'm looking at a 2003 XB9s, so is there anything I should check or look for when I go look at it? Also it's got 10,000 miles, is that a lot? how long do v-twins usually last? And lastly, I'm not looking to go superfast but is this bike as gutless as some say. I just want to be able to keep up with other bikes fairly well, not out run everyone. | ||
| Exupmonkey |
Hi Danman, before you buy you want to check all the usuals like tyres, bearings etc however you also want to make sure that it has had its 10000 mile service...which is a big 'un in terms of financial outlay (by you if its not been done.) Could be a good lever to get the sticker price reduced if it has still to be done. As for the performance, some say that the engine is the weak link in the package however an XB will be more than capable of keeping up with a japanese bike on the twisties although the straights are another matter. I will guarantee you will get more smiles to the mile with the XB, although the 03 model has been known to be occasionally fragile, but most folks on this board have had trouble free riding. | ||
| Danman2540 |
How much is that 10,000 mile service? And what do you mean by fragile? And an 03 blue books for 5,500 so how much should I give for it? | ||
| Diablobrian |
there was a recall on the kickstand. Look for an "R" stamp on it. There have been a couple of problems with the speedo sensor, but there is an update for it. I think that covers the "fragile" bits. other than that, there are guys on the board with at least 40k miles on their bike with only minor hassles It has been claimed that the Buell XB series has the lowest number of warranty claims of any H-D product. | ||
| Glitch |
how long do v-twins usually last? I'm still testing, get back with me on that. 43thousand plus miles so far. Bought new in 03, and I've not given an inch, this bike has been through quite a bit. Only problem was a dead stator around 20thousand. | ||
| Dapope |
For some reference - I bought an 03 last year BRAND NEW (leftover) for $6500. They also gave me the first service free and the Race kit at cost. | ||
| Rafartist |
I picked my 03 up in February with 700 miles fro a private owner for $5k cash. I dont know where you are located but they can be had cheap. Use the tread on the tires as leverage too. And from first hand experience it is able to whoop a 600 ricer off the line stop light to stop light if you are an experienced rider. I have smoked a many of squid on my bike and as said, those ricers are a dime a dozen, you will get thumbs up everywhere you go. Even when my bike is dirty from daily driving, it catches a many of stare. | ||
| Brineusaf |
I second the whooping of 600's. I've taken 04/05 R6's... novice R1, New Mercedes, Corvette so far. All from light to light, and these bikes definately stand out. I get alot of questions about the fan, I usually tell them what it is for... "to aid in oil breakdown to promote engine performance/life"...or at least that's what i consider truth. | ||
| Sik_s |
Shouldn't that read "to prevent oil breakdown to promote engine performance/life"? | ||
| Glitch |
I get alot of questions about the fan, I usually tell them... I tell 'em it's my After Cooler. | ||
| Skyguy |
Use the P.O.S. 03 drive belt and pulleys as leverage as well. Mine has snapped twice way before it's replacemnet interval. Now the third one is starting to look "funky" and I am sure it is about to go as well. The 06 upgrade to a lifetime belt and new pulleys will run about $400.00 and you are looking to get stranded if you don't replace it. HEY BMC RECALL THE DAMM BELTS!!!!!!!!! Cause if mine fails and I get hurt becasue of it I am calling an attorney!!!!!!! Sorry all just had to get my bi-monthly belt rant out of the way...............  | ||
| Deuceman |
As for engine longevity, Buell V-twins typically go many trouble free miles. They are also easy to rebuild which is exactly why I bought a Buell. Helps that both of my brothers are Buell techs as well. I have over 14,000 miles on my '03 with the original belt (with no guards), and I have had exactly 0 problems except for a leaky fuel pump. | ||
| Danman2540 |
Ok well thanks for all the info guys. I ended up checking out my local Buell Dealer here in St Louis MO and got a better deal. I got a black 03 XB9S with 1,600 miles for $5300, they had just taken it in on trade a few days ago so I got really lucky cause there is NO used ones around here to be had. I've hardly ridden it but so far I LOVE IT. Now my question is.....is the fan supposed to come on when you turn the key on even when its cold? I had read about a problem with that on here and noticed mine doesnt come on so I asked them and they said thats only when its hot. I havent gotten it real hot yet so I don't know but the fuse is good. thanks | ||
| Diablobrian |
The fan does not come on when it is cold. Some people may mistake the sound of the fuel pump for the fan though  Now you are officially part of the Buell family! If you end up riding out a little ways west from St Louis (90 miles or so) you'll be in my neck of the woods. Give me a shout. I'm out here in Mexico, MO | ||
| Rasmonis |
I miss riding in MO. Welcome to the family! |
