Engineered by Buell for the naked motorcycle segment, the 2008 Buell Lightning XB12Ss utilizes a 1202.9 cc (73.4 cu in) oil & air-cooled v2, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 103 HP (75.2 kW) at 6,800 rpm while maximum torque reaches 113.9 Nm (84 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 85.6 HP per liter and a 800 rpm working window between peak torque (6,000 rpm) and peak power (6,800 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 Lightning XB12Ss measures 181.4 kg (400 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.57 HP/kg (1.76 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,372 mm (54 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 16.65-liter (4.4 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Buell archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 2006 to 2008, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
85.6 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.57 HP/kg (1.76 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
6,000–6,800 rpm
Engine
Displacement1202.9 ccm (73.40 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power103.0 HP (75.2 kW)) @ 6800 RPM
Torque113.9 Nm (11.6 kgf-m or 84.0 ft.lbs) @ 6000 RPM
Compression10.0:1
Valves/Cylinder2
Fuel SystemInjection
Fuel ControlOverhead Valves (OHV)
LubricationDry-sump
CoolingOil & air
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchWet, multi-plate, compensated
Performance
ExhaustTuned, tri-pass resonance chamber with mass-centralized mounting
Chassis
Frame TypeAluminum frame with Uniplanar™ powertrain vibration isolation system, fuel in frame
Rake23.5°
Front Suspension43 mm Showa inverted forks with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Front Travel120 mm (4.7 inches)
Rear SuspensionShowa coil-over monoshock with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Rear Travel126 mm (5.0 inches)
Wheelbase1372 mm (54.0 inches)
Ground Clearance118 mm (4.7 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre120/70-ZR17
Rear Tyre180/55-ZR17
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø375 mm (14.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø240 mm (9.4 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight181.4 kg (400.0 pounds)
Power/Weight0.5677 HP/kg
Overall Length2070 mm (81.5 inches)
Overall Width754 mm (29.7 inches)
Fuel Capacity16.65 litres (4.40 US gallons)
Other
Color OptionsCherry Bomb Translucid (New), Valencia Orange Translucid (New), Midnight Black
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.
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.
