2008 Buell Ulysses XB12XT: MD First Ride

Cynics might be tempted to dismiss the Buell Ulysses XB12XT as just a mildly retooled model variation of the Ulysses XB12X dual-purpose model (itself an offshoot of the XB12 Lightning and Firebolt streetbikes). After all, the frame, engine and swing arm are identical. But differences are as important as similarities, and the XT model has a 1.1-inch lower seat height (at 30.7-inches) than the 12X, a taller windscreen (by four inches), and Pirelli Diablo Strada tires.

Strada is Italian for Street, in case you didn't know, emphasizing this bike's intended role as a sport tourer. Appropriate to that role, Buell has equipped the XT model with a fully adjustable 43mm inverted Showa front fork with triple-rate fork springs for progressive wheel control. A coil-over monoshock from the same supplier controls the rear wheel, and while it is similarly adjustable for compression and rebound damping, there is also a handy remote spring preload-change knob that quickly compensates for two-up riding or heavy luggage with just a quick twist.

Since the 12XT is not going to be bounding along goat paths, the suspension has less travel (4.9 vs. 6.5-inches), and the bike requires less ground clearance. For the same reasons, the Enkei cast aluminum wheels have lighter rim sections for reduced rotational mass and lower unsprung weight-both of which are known to ease handling transitions. Erik Buell's famous ZTL front-brake system with its rim-mounted rotor is retained along with the familiar underslung exhaust and belt final-drive system.

In keeping with the bike's role as a tourer, the top and side cases you see in these pictures are standard equipment. All three are large enough to accommodate a full-face helmet, and have convenient mounting and latching systems. Because these cases are essentially the same type as those made available to other Ulysses 12X models as accessories, they require a separate key for operation. Other than that minor consideration, the convenience of standard luggage is hard to overstate.

The "Uly" 12XT comes standard with heated handgrips as well as knuckle-guards. The later provide some wind cover along with protection against harder objects like branches or highway shrapnel. There is a 12-volt power socket on the dash and another under the seat, and Buell sells a specially adapted Garmin navigation system that bolts right on.

As with all of Buell's 2008 models, the XB12XT's Thunderstorm engine benefits from some technical revisions, including an increase in crankpin thickness from 1.25-inches to 1.5-inches, an improved oiling system, a new Walbro DDFI fuel injection system, and a progressive throttle cam.

Otherwise, the famous Harley-sourced V-twin is the same hoary brute beloved by many, and in this form it is capable of 103 horsepower at 6800 rpm, and 84 pound-feet of torque at 6000 rpm. In all of the Ulysses models the engine is a stressed part of the chassis, despite being rubber mounted to reduce vibrations.

But, vibrate it does. For anyone not familiar with the 45-degree V-twin used in most of the Buell motorcycles, the vibration that ensues after you've pressed the starter button can be disconcerting. The front wheel oscillates visibly and the whole bike shakes like a washing machine trying to spin a badly unbalanced load of laundry.

We're tempted to suggest that this level of vibration would be considered unacceptable by motorcycle manufacturers in other parts of the world, but there are a couple of aspects to consider. Firstly, the Buell guys say that many survey respondents like this characteristic Milwaukee motor boogie. It certainly hasn't dissuaded the multitude of Harley riders, and seems to be just part of the cruiser folklore that's spilled over into Buell's area of influence.

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