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Buell Announces 2008 1125R - Superbike Contender
7-9-07 This just came in today.

2008 Buell 1125R
 Model Overview

The Buell Motorcycle Company is set to break the convention in the superbike category with the Buell 1125R, an all-new, liter-class motorcycle that delivers an artful balance of street and track performance. Rooted in the core design principles and character that have defined Buell motorcycles for 25 years, the 1125R offers power, handling and agility that will take its owner to a new level of riding experience.

The Buell 1125R riding experience derives not just from its power, but from a carefully considered combination of engine performance, precise-and-agile handling, advanced aerodynamics, and superior rider environment and control, all packaged with distinctive styling that leaves many of the motorcycle's mechanical components exposed.

The Buell 1125R Helicon engine is a new 1125cc DOHC V-Twin, the first liquid-cooled engine to power a street-legal Buell motorcycle. This compact, 72-degree engine is the result of collaboration between Buell and BRP-Rotax, a leader in the development and manufacture of advanced engines for recreational products. The most-powerful street-legal engine ever offered by Buell, the Helicon engine is rated at 146 crankshaft horsepower, and is designed to deliver optimized usable power, with a broad powerband across its 10500 rpm range. Its V-Twin design retains the styling and character that has always defined the Buell riding experience.

BUELL 1125R FEATURES AND TECHNOLOGY DETAILS
EAST TROY, Wis. (July 8, 2007) – The Buell 1125R represents an all-new platform from the Buell Motorcycle Company that is changed in almost every respect from previous Buell models, but stays true to Buell's design and engineering philosophies. Although some of these ideas go against the conventional wisdom of the category, their steadfast application results in a motorcycle that delivers outstanding power, handling, comfort and convenience; a motorcycle that will deliver an exceptional rider experience.

The Buell 1125R joins the XB and Blast as a third and distinct Buell motorcycle platform. The Buell 1125R is expected to arrive in Buell dealerships in late 2007.

Trilogy of Technology: The Gospel According to Erik
The three legs of the Trilogy of Technology underpin every aspect of design at Buell Motorcycle Company: Mass Centralization, Low Unsprung Weight and Chassis Rigidity. The goal is always to create a motorcycle that handles intuitively, and that predictably and accurately responds to input so that the bike behaves as an extension of the rider. Here are some examples of the Trilogy of Tech as applied to the new Buell 1125R:

Mass Centralization and achieving the optimal center of gravity makes quick direction changes seem effortless.

Chassis Rigidity allows the motorcycle to hold a precise line when it is subjected to side-loads in corners.

Low Unsprung Weight enhances traction, maneuverability and stability.

The Helicon Engine
The Buell 1125R Helicon engine is a high-performance, 72-degree DOHC liquid-cooled V-Twin specified by Buell and designed in collaboration with BRP-Rotax, one of the premier recreational-engine manufacturers in the world. Buell provided a detailed specifications list to BRP-Rotax, outlining powertrain requirements to meet the performance goals of the Buell 1125R. Buell also directly contributed technology and engineering on a number of key areas, including the compensating front sprocket, transmission layout, the shift mechanism, engine cases, pistons, intake, exhaust, and new DDFI 3 EFI system. All major components of the Helicon engine are unique to Buell and developed specifically for the Buell 1125R, although a few components, such as the stator and various fasteners, are used in other BRP-Rotax products. The new Helicon engine will remain exclusive to Buell. The Helicon engine will be assembled by BRP-Rotax in Austria. The Buell 1125R motorcycle will be assembled by Buell in East Troy, Wisconsin. Its V-Twin design perpetuates the look, sound and character that have always help to define the Buell riding experience.

Rather than design the Helicon engine to fit a specific displacement category or racing classification, Buell developed this powertrain to meet a customer experience specification, both in terms of its power output and its contribution to the overall performance of the Buell 1125R. The engine produces 146 crankshaft horsepower at 9800 rpm and 82 ft. lbs. of peak torque at 8000 rpm. Redline is 10500 rpm. Its generous 1125cc displacement allows the Helicon engine to make abundant peak power with a broad powerband and flat torque curve free of dips and weak spots. The Helicon engine is designed to make useable power across the entire RPM range that will enhance any riding experience.

Helicon engine features:
 

  • 72-degree cylinder angle and a very compact case and cylinder head design allow the engine to be located far forward in the chassis, distributing 54 percent of the vehicle weight on the front tire.
  • The 72-degree V-angle provides a steep 18-degree valve angle and straight path for the down-draft intake system.
  • A cylinder angle of 72 degrees reduces shaking forces. The engine is also fitted with three balance shafts: two balancers for canceling primary rotating imbalance and a third balancer for canceling the rocking couple.
  • The displacement of 1125cc was chosen to create an optimal 103.0 mm bore x 67.5 mm stroke configuration – generous bore for more valve area and better breathing and short stroke for reduced friction, increased rpm range and instant throttle response.
  • The engine has a low-inertia flywheel for a quick-revving performance and smooth shifting.
  • The engine is a stressed member of the frame and contributes to overall chassis rigidity. The swing arm pivot is located in the engine cases providing optimal pivot location and adding to overall chassis rigidity.
  • Dual overhead cams with self-adjusting chain drive on each cylinder to the intake cam and gear drive from the intake to the exhaust cam. This design requires less space over the cylinder head than a two-sprocket design, allows the engine to be located further forward, and reduces engine weight.
  • Valves are actuated with finger followers and adjusted with shims, a design derived from Formula 1 engine technology.
  • Finger follower valve actuation reduces friction, permits a quicker valve opening, and eliminates valve float. This design also allows a steep valve angle of 18 degrees and a downdraft fuel injection system. The design of the follower retention system makes shim replacement quick and easy, reducing maintenance costs. Valve covers are magnesium to reduce weight.
  • Primary balancing with three internal shafts reduces chassis weight by minimizing vibration isolation requirements.
  • Dry sump oiling reduces internal windage losses. An integrated oil reservoir is located in the lower left side of the crankcase casting to lower the center of gravity and help keep the engine compact.
  • Buell DDFI3 EFI is a closed-loop system for precise mixture control, resulting in smoother throttle operation and better fuel economy. Dual downdraft 61 mm throttle bodies provide superior intake air flow. A new ECU controls the TPS, IAC, and monitors engine performance while continually adjusting to the environment.
  • Ram-air system pressurizes the air box for a gain in peak performance. The air intake is located between the front fork legs and below the fairing. Air flow to this area and the size and shape of the intake were optimized using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models. The 12-liter airbox is designed to accommodate a large air filter and to be easy to service.
  • Twin side-mounted free flowing radiators are mounted longitudinally within aerodynamic cowlings. The position of the radiator system lowers the center of gravity and centralizes mass, and allows the cowlings to direct free-flowing air to each radiator. The cowlings have an internal vane (splitter) to split airflow efficiently and were designed with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models to optimize air flow at all speeds and to create a pressure differential around the radiator to pull air through the core. Hot air is also exhausted away from the rider for enhanced comfort.
  • The exhaust system features a large-volume muffler mounted below the engine to optimize cg location and mass centralization. The muffler is tuned to produce a linear horsepower and torque curve without the added cost, weight and complexity of an active exhaust system. A Helmholtz chamber within the muffler further reduces noise output. Twin brushed stainless exhaust outlets produce less exhaust noise than a single side-mounted outlet.

Chassis and Suspension Features
 

  • An all-new Buell IRC (Intuitive Response Chassis) is made in the USA and is the stiffest chassis ever offered by Buell. Its rigidity is aided by the engine, which is a rigid stressed member of the chassis. The inner frame incorporates air-flow channels that create a low-pressure area behind the engine to draw hot air out the rear of the motorcycle. Utilizing patented Buell Fuel in the Frame technology, the aluminum frame spars double as a 5.6-gallon fuel reservoir.
  • The stiffness of a new cast-aluminum swing arm has been tuned for the 1125R. The pivot point of the cast-aluminum swing arm is located in the engine cases to create a more rigid connection between the rear wheel, the frame, and the front wheel. By placing the swing arm pivot point forward in the engine cases, the anti-squat properties and suspension control of the 1125R were optimized. The rigid connection to the engine was used to optimize the stiffness of the swing arm in relation to the overall chassis.
  • A fully-adjustable Showa rear shock/spring unit features an external piggyback reservoir for good heat dissipation. To reduce weight, the shock is mounted directly between the frame and the swingarm without linkage, and its off-center placement optimizes airflow through the motorcycle.
  • Fully-adjustable Showa 47mm inverted front forks and new triple clamps stiffen the torsional response of the front end and improve steering response. A new fixed bushing slides against the hard-chrome surface of the fork tube, reducing friction. Compression adjustment can be made with a simple hex-key tool.
  • Wheelbase is 54.5 inches, rake is 21 degrees and trail is 3.3 inches.

Brake System Features
 

  • New Buell ZTL2 (Zero Torsional Load) front brake utilizes an eight-piston caliper based on a design developed for the Buell XBRR production racing motorcycle. The eight-piston design offers a larger pad surface, optimizes heat-dissipation capability and allows even pressure distribution over each of the four pads in the caliper.
  • The caliper casting was optimized for clamping stiffness, yielding a more progressive and connected braking feel to the rider. A single 375 mm stainless steel rotor is mounted directly to the wheel rim. This design produces outstanding stopping power and weighs less than a dual-disc system. And because braking forces are transmitted directly from the rotor to the rim, torsional load acting on the rest of the wheel is virtually eliminated. This permits the use of a very lightweight front wheel that also helps reduce steering inertia.
  • The rear brake utilizes a 240 mm stainless steel rotor gripped by a two-piston caliper. The caliper is mounted directly to the inner surface of the swing arm, so it is hidden from view and also weighs 1.5 pound less than a typical rear-brake design.
  • Front and rear brakes are fitted with braided steel brake lines for optimal feel and braking performance.
  • The front brake hand control is adjustable for reach. The rear brake foot control is adjustable for reach, and the toe piece is adjustable to match rider foot size.

Clutch and Transmission Features
 

  • HVA (Hydraulic Vacuum Assist) Slipper Action clutch features hydraulic actuation from the hand control with assistance from engine vacuum for lighter clutch effort. The vacuum assist also produces the same effect as a "slipper" clutch for more controlled engine braking during high-speed downshifts.
  • A six-speed, close-ratio transmission is an oblique stacked configuration that is tilted to minimize overall powertrain length and allows the engine to be optimally placed within the chassis. Gear ratios were selected to allow the engine to remain within its optimal power band at typical operating speeds.
  • A Goodyear Hibrex final drive belt with Flexten Plus technology weighs just 1.06 pounds, compared to drive chains that weigh four to five pounds. The belt system is clean, quiet and extremely strong.

Aerodynamics
 

  • Quiet Zone cockpit aerodynamics were developed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models and experience gained in development of the Buell XBRR production racing motorcycle. The shape of the fairing and windshield optimize air flow over and around the rider for reduced drag and enhanced rider comfort.
  • Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models were also used to design the efficient, aerodynamic shapes of the radiator cowlings, which direct radiator heat away from the rider.
  • The fairing incorporates a six-bulb headlight system for brilliant road illumination at night. Two bulbs are illuminated in daylight running mode for enhanced visibility in traffic.
  • LED turn signals are incorporated in the aerodynamic mirror housings where their placement and brilliance are more visible to other drivers.

Rider Interface
 

  • The Buell 1125R offers an athletic rider position with a foot peg location that provides 50-degree lean clearance in cornering situations.
  • Quiet Zone cockpit aerodynamics optimizes air flow around the rider.
  • Brake and clutch hand controls are adjustable for reach.
  • Foot controls (brake and shifter) feature toe pegs that adjust to rider foot size.
  • Wiring harness is pre-wired for accessory heated hand grips.
  • Instrument cluster features:
    • Large analog tachometer
    • Digital speedometer on an LED screen visible within a 50-degree angle of view
    • ODIS (Onboard Diagnostic Information System) displays service codes
    • Four-digit security code system immobilizes the ignition
    • Lap timer and splits
    • Ambient air temperature
    • Coolant temperature
    • Two trip odometers
    • Instantaneous miles per gallon
    • Average miles per gallon
    • Low fuel indication with trip count

Buell 1125R Colors
Bodywork: Midnight Black
Wheels: Diamond Blue
Frame and Swingarm: Diamond Blue
Engine Trim: Fusion Bronze

2002 Buell Firebolt XB9R
Model Overview

BUELL 2002 FIREBOLT XB9R
(specs have been updated)

It happens on winding country roads, box canyon highways and everyday street curves. It's the experience of not just carving the twisties and curves, but owning them. It's a feeling, an emotion and a characteristic Buell engineers have worked to capture with every motorcycle they build - delivering intuitive handling, maximum agility, big torque and ultimate fun on the road. The result of their recent efforts is a motorcycle with an attitude and personality beyond competitive cookie cutter offerings: The new 2002 Buell Firebolt XB9R.

The Firebolt XB9R is a new breed of motorcycles Buell calls sportfighters: Motorcycles that deliver an artful balance of racetrack and real world performance. The Firebolt is completely dedicated to providing the ultimate middleweight street riding experience. This new sportfighter is perched on a host of industry-leading features, including fuel-in-the-frame, oil-in-the-swingarm and a new Zero Torsional Load brake. Additionally, the Firebolt rests on telepathic chassis geometry - the compact 52-inch wheelbase features a steep 21-degree rake with 52 percent of the bike's weight balanced on the front wheel. Combine these traits with the all-aluminum, lightweight and extremely rigid chassis and the Firebolt delivers exceptional agility, flickability and intuitive handling.

It starts with a unique all-aluminum frame. An light, multifunctional structure which, through its inherent design, delivers exceptional torsional rigidity, superb strength and serves as an integrated fuel cell. Yes, that's right, the fuel is carried inside the frame. Building upon Buell's "Trilogy of Tech" design philosophies - mass centralization, frame rigidity and low unsprung weight - utilizing the frame as a fuel tank significantly lowers the overall center of gravity and reduces the moment of inertia, which spells quick reaction to rider inputs.

Buell's patented Uniplanar engine mounting design reduces vibration and allows the engine to serve as an integral stress member of the overall chassis - thus adding more rigidity to the equation. Couple this technology with the Firebolt's fuel-in-the-frame design, and you've got a bike with the goods to deliver exceptional agility and responsiveness.

Beyond this backbone, the Firebolt is oozing with more innovation. A massive aluminum swingarm further enhances rigidity and pulls double duty as an oil reservoir, with oil residing in the space around the swing arm pivot. This innovative design reduces parts, centralizes mass and allows for a Showa linkage-less shock absorber to be mounted directly to the swingarm. Fully adjustable in both compression and rebound, as well as pre-load, the shock is tightly packaged within the frame and delivers 4.7-inches of travel.

Supporting the front contact patch is a pair of Showa inverted forks, which also offer full rebound, compression and pre-load adjustments. Telepathic chassis geometry positions a tight 21-degree fork angle with an 85mm trail and a compact 52-inch wheelbase. With 52-percent of the bike's mass resting on the front wheel.

In building this new American sportfighter, the quest for "tight, light and right" didn't stop at the chassis and suspension components. Every detail of the Firebolt was examined and designed to create a tightly packaged, extremely lightweight performance motorcycle. The sub-frame tail section is aluminum alloy square tubing and the front module - which houses the twin projector beam headlamps, instrument panel, electrical components and fairing - is constructed of featherweight magnesium. Additionally, Buell's stunning Zero Torsional Load front brake design mounts a massive 375mm inside-out brake rotor on a unique tab design near the front rim and is coupled to a six-piston caliper. As the name implies, braking forces are fed via the shortest path to the rim, virtually eliminating torsional loads to the front fork, meaning you can stop fast with control. All together these traits equate standout-stopping power, tight tracking, less unsprung weight, and low steering inertia. 

The rear wheel is also bred with these same traits of low unsprung weight and balanced stopping power. And, a healthy 180mm Dunlop ZR17 tire transmits power to the pavement. On the edges, minimalist Surlyn color-molded bodywork sculpts airflow and enhances an ergonomic package that balances the handlebar-seat-footpeg relationship between performance and control.

To deliver the best torque-to-weight ratios of any middleweight bike on the road, Buell and Harley-Davidson engineers developed an all-new, fuel injected, 984cc, 45-degree fan-cooled V-Twin engine with a short stroke light flywheel configuration that revs high and hard. Its compact size and lightweight air-cooled design make it a perfect fit for the Firebolt mission. Fed by an updated Dynamic Digital Fuel Injection (DDFI), the 984cc engine churns a claimed 92 horsepower and 68 ft-lbs. of torque. 

Fuel charge is engulfed through a Ram Air intake and fed through a Zero Loss airbox before being channeled through the 45mm downdraft throttle body. Spent wastes are evacuated via a free-breathing 2-into-1 exhaust system. 

Lightweight pistons, high strength connecting rods, a new oiling circuit, high flow heads and new lightweight valve-train all point to an engine which keeps the faith of Buell torque, but can rev quick and hard to a blistering 7,500 rpm redline. It's a balance of serious torque, controllable power and reliability all tightly nestled within the Firebolt cage.

Transmitting this power surge is a transmission featuring a new dual rail, low inertia shift mechanism, specifically designed for the quick revving short-stroke 984. Couple this with the smooth supple power delivery of belt drive - now featuring an additional idler pulley to deliver precise and constant belt tension geometry - and you have excellent power control.

Innovative features and premium components such as the multi-functional frame and swingarm, as well as an all-new, 984cc V-Twin, give the Firebolt a lot to boast about. Harnessed under the Buell nameplate, the 2002 Firebolt XB9R may be ready to lead a revolution through the corners on every street and back canyon road. 

2002 Buell Firebolt XB9R - Specifications
ENGINE
Type: Air cooled, Four Stroke, 45 degree V-Twin
Displacement: 984 cc
Bore and Stroke: 3.5 x 3.125 in/88.9 x 79.38 mm
Compression Ratio: 10 : 1
Valve Train: OHV, two valves per cylinder
Valve Adjustment: Self Adjusting
Fuel Delivery: 45 mm downdraft DDFI Fuel Injection
Exhaust: Free-breathing 2 into 1 collector
Intake: Zero resistance air box, ram Air intake
Power: 92 hp @ 7200 rpm
Torque: 68 ft-lb @ 5500 rpm
Lubrication: Dry Sump, 3.5 qts. (3.31L cc)
Oil Filtration: Screw-on disposable element
Battery: 12 volt, 12 Amp-hour, SLA (Sealed Lead Acid)
DRIVE TRAIN
Transmission: Five-speed, constant mesh
Ratios: (1) 2.69, (2) 1.85, (3) 1.43, (4) 1.18, (5) 1.00
Primary Drive: Triplex chain; 1.68: 1
Clutch: Wet, multiple-plate compensated
Final Drive: Constant path; 11mm GT profile Kevlar Belt, 2.4 ratio 
CHASSIS
Frame: X-Blame Aluminum frame with uniplanar 
powertrain vibration isolation system
Wheelbase: 52 in.
Rake / Trail: 21 degree, 3.3 in/83 mm
Front Suspension: Show a inverted fork with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Rear Suspension: Showa shock absorber with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Front Wheel Travel: 4.7 in. total travel
Rear Wheel Travel: 5 in. total travel
Front Brake: ZTL type brake, 375 mm stainless steel floating rotor, six piston caliper
Rear Brake: Single piston caliper, 230 mm stainless steel rotor
Front Wheel: 6-spoke cast, 3.5 x 17 Stardust Silver finish
Rear Wheel: 6-spoke cast, 5.5 x 17 Stardust Silver finish
Front Tire: Dunlop D207 FY 120/70 ZR17
Rear Tire: Dunlop D207 Y180/55 ZR17
Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.7 gal./14 L
MPG-EPA2: 47 City/51.2 Highway
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 850 lbs/386 kg
Dry Weight: 385 lbs/175 kg
Load Capacity: 465 lbs/211 kg
Seat Height: 30.5 in/775 mm
Ground Clearance: 5 in/127 mm
INSTRUMENTS
Electronic speedometer with tachometer, odometer, tripmeter, reserve tripmeter, clock, low fuel light, engine check light, oil pressure warning light, high beam indicator, turn signals and neutral.
ELECTRICAL
Charging System: 540 Watt trident three phase AC alternator
Headlight: 55/55 w, projector beam
Taillight: 5/21 Watts
Turn Signals: Manual canceling 
COLORS(3)
Artic White/Blue, Artic White/Orange, Battle Blue/Orange
Availability: N/A
MSRP (US): In the neighborhood of $10,000

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