At the heart of the 2010 Buell XB9SX Lightning naked motorcycle, Buell features a 983.3 cc (60 cu in) oil & air-cooled v2, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 92 HP (67.2 kW) at 7,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 94.9 Nm (70 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 93.6 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (5,500 rpm) and peak power (7,500 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 XB9SX Lightning measures 177 kg (390 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.52 HP/kg (1.92 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 765 mm (30.1 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,321 mm (52 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 14.45-liter (3.8 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Specific Output
93.6 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.52 HP/kg (1.92 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
5,500–7,500 rpm
Standover Height
765 mm (30.1 in)
Engine
Displacement983.3 ccm (60.00 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power92.0 HP (67.2 kW)) @ 7500 RPM
Torque94.9 Nm (9.7 kgf-m or 70.0 ft.lbs) @ 5500 RPM
Compression10.0:1
Bore x Stroke88.9 x 79.4 mm (3.5 x 3.1 inches)
Valves/Cylinder2
Fuel SystemInjection. 45 mm down draft DDFI 3 injection
Fuel ControlOverhead Valves (OHV)
CoolingOil & air
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchWet, multi-plate, compensated
Performance
ExhaustTuned, tri-pass resonance chamber with mass-centralised mounting
Chassis
Frame TypeBlack aluminium frame with Uniplanar™ powertrain vibration isolation system, fuel in frame
Rake21.0°
Trail84 mm (3.3 inches)
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 remote, under-seat reservoir and adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Rear Travel129 mm (5.1 inches)
Wheelbase1321 mm (52.0 inches)
Ground Clearance110 mm (4.4 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre120/70-ZR17
Rear Tyre180/55-ZR17
Front BrakesSingle disc. ZTL™ brake, 6-piston, fixed caliper; 375 mm, single-sided, inside-out, stainless steel, floating rotor
Front Brake Ø375 mm (14.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. Two-piston, direct mount caliper; stainless steel, fixed rotor
Rear Brake Ø240 mm (9.4 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight177.0 kg (390.2 pounds)
Power/Weight0.5198 HP/kg
Seat Height765 mm (30.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Length1935 mm (76.2 inches)
Overall Width754 mm (29.7 inches)
Fuel Capacity14.45 litres (3.82 US gallons)
Oil Capacity2.40 litres (2.54 US quarts)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsCherry Bomb Red Translucid, Kick Ash Translucid
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.
