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Sport · 2003

Firebolt XB9R

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MotoLibrary Score
57 /100 Balanced
Power/Weight
0.53 hp/kg
Torque
92 Nm
Engine
984 ccm

2003 Buell Firebolt XB9R Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

At the heart of the 2003 Buell Firebolt XB9R sport motorcycle, Buell relies on a 984 cc (60 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 92 HP (67.2 kW) at 7,200 rpm while maximum torque reaches 92.2 Nm (68 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 93.5 HP per liter and a 1,700 rpm working window between peak torque (5,500 rpm) and peak power (7,200 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.

On the scales, the Firebolt XB9R measures 175 kg (386 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.53 HP/kg (1.9 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 775 mm (30.5 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,321 mm (52 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 14-liter (3.7 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.

Within MotoLibrary's Buell archive, this model family spans 5 indexed model years from 2003 to 2007, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
93.5 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.53 HP/kg (1.9 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
5,500–7,200 rpm
Standover Height
775 mm (30.5 in)
Engine
Displacement 984.0 ccm (60.04 cubic inches)
Engine Type V2, four-stroke
Engine Details V2, four-stroke
Power 92.0 HP (67.2 kW)) @ 7200 RPM
Torque 92.2 Nm (9.4 kgf-m or 68.0 ft.lbs) @ 5500 RPM
Compression 10.0:1
Bore x Stroke 88.9 x 79.4 mm (3.5 x 3.1 inches)
Valves/Cylinder 2
Fuel System Injection
Fuel Control Overhead Valves (OHV)
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 5-speed
Final Drive Belt (final drive)
Chassis
Frame Type Aluminum Frame with Uniplanar powertrain vibration isolation system
Front Suspension Showa® inverted fork with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Front Travel 120 mm (4.7 inches)
Rear Suspension Showa® shock absorber with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Rear Travel 127 mm (5.0 inches)
Wheelbase 1321 mm (52.0 inches)
Ground Clearance 127 mm (5.0 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 120/70-ZR17
Rear Tyre 180/55-ZR17
Front Brakes Single disc
Front Brake Ø 375 mm (14.8 inches)
Rear Brakes Single disc
Rear Brake Ø 240 mm (9.4 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 175.0 kg (385.8 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.5257 HP/kg
Seat Height 775 mm (30.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height 1092 mm (43.0 inches)
Overall Length 1924 mm (75.7 inches)
Overall Width 768 mm (30.2 inches)
Fuel Capacity 14.00 litres (3.70 US gallons)
Other
Color Options Battle Blue, Arctic White/Blue, Arctic White/Orange
More from Buell
Buying Checklist

Before You Compare This Bike

Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.

Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟡
Intermediate
Requires some riding experience.
🏁
Best For
Sport & Track
📏
Seat Height
77.5 cm / 30.5 in
⚖️
Handling
Manageable weight for most riders
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