Motorcycle specifications BuellXB-9R FIREBOLT 2002 A breath of fresh air

Its designer, Erik Buell, can be damn proud of his concept. The machine he presents to us kicks all prevailing concepts and truths in the ass. With its tiny size, the XB-9R is a radical, sporty toy. Its minimalist wheelbase and avant-garde technical solutions augur well for its temperament. Its aluminum perimeter frame is surprising in both size and function, providing incredible rigidity and also serving as a fuel tank. The oil is contained in the swingarm. Wait, don't rush. Look between the forks. A huge 375 mm perimeter brake disc. it brakes hard, but won't that dampen the liveliness of the steering? Not a chance. With a rake angle of just 21° (by comparison, a Ducati 999 can only get it down to 23.5°) and minimal, well-distributed weight, the Buell can be ridden with the flick of a finger.

Thanks to its geometry, the bike is particularly sensitive to the slightest adjustment. Once you've set it up and learnt how to use it, the Firebolt offers intense riding sensations. Its mengine comes, as always, from Harley. A big twin doped by Buell's engineers to produce 92 grunts. An air-cooled, fuel-injected engine that's no slouch when it comes to torque and thrills... but it's lost some of its brute American edge. This pure, barbaric character is diluted by a gain in length. Contributing to the rigidity of the chassis, the engine vibrates less than its predecessors without making us forget its origins. This is especially true of the typically Harley gearbox, which is sluggish and locks uncertainly. Above all, the XB-9R's ride and unique sensations will keep you enthralled. The pleasure is omnipresent, but the practical aspects are unknown. It's a toy, period. And for those who'd like a little more wattage and torque, the small American manufacturer offers its big sister in 1200 cm3.

M.B
(manufacturer's photos)