New (to me) Tuber Buell. What should I know?

B.Curvin · 11-06-2010, 09:00 AM

I've never owned a Harley engined anything before. Any pointers on how to keep this thing tip top? I have BIG plans for this but I'll keep that under hat til the time is right.

My initial impression from the ride home.

TORQUE!!!! good lord. Up to 80 this thing flat gets it. I didn't go any faster only because I hadn't registered/insured it yet. Down the on ramp and through the gears I was doing 85 in an instant.

Vibration. At cruising speed, no problem. At idle I see quadruple. I played with the idle in the driveway and got rid of a lot of it. I now know why Harley riders keep the idle so low it sound like it's going to die. I never knew there was an actual reason for it. The 98 Tiger I traded for it buzzed like crazy at 70. HATED IT! This thing feels like it's idling at 80. Perfect.

My first plans of attack once I have the energy for it. Check and adjust the primary chain. Adjust the clutch. Adjust the belt tension. PO has the belt too tight for sure. Oil, filter and plugs. Slap on some Protaper 7/8 KX high bars in black. I already picked up some US made thick foam grips. Acerbis hand guards (are there any hand guards made in the US?). The PO had taken the rubber off the foot pegs but I've already replaced those. American made foot pegs, $24 for a set. Schweeeeeeet. The Corbin seat is vehry nice.

Any pointers?

I almost forgot. The tires are shagged. I've got four sets of Pirelli SuperCorsa's but they are all 160-60/17 rears. It calls for a 170 rear. Anyone have experience with a 160 on the rear of a tuber?

It also has a Forcewinder (I think) intake and a Borla exhaust. The fueling is great. Snap it open from idle without a hint of a bog or miss, but it does fart and pop A LOT! I'm gonna make up some sort of baffle cause it's way too loud. Suggestions? I have the mid pipe baffles from a Hayabusa (several actually) and was thinking of modifying those to go in the muffler. Any reason why not to?

Clem Kevin · 11-06-2010, 09:40 AM

That's an awesome bike. Could you tell me some about it? What's the model name?

B.Curvin · 11-06-2010, 10:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Clem Kevin

That's an awesome bike. Could you tell me some about it? What's the model name?

1997 Buell M2 Cyclone.

According to the specs.

435 lbs (this one's had a lot of stock stuff removed)
83Hp (see force winder intake and Borla exhaust above. 100ish?

)
Torque (no clue. An SAE assload)
Parts (available, and CHEAP!)

One thing I forgot to mention. Rear shock damping has left the building.

Shock will be headed to Cogent Dynamics soon as I get off my ass.

B02S4 · 11-06-2010, 12:18 PM

Nice! Learn to embrace the vibration at idle and enjoy the smoothness at cruise.

I suggest that you check each and every fastner. Twice.

And watch the heat off the rear header. Good thing its already wrapped.

Hughlysses · 11-06-2010, 03:19 PM

Go to a dealer and make sure all the recalls have been done; they can check by your VIN. It looks like you have a pre-recall rear shock. You may be able to get a FREE new rear shock installed.

LOTS of good info on Buell tubers here: http://www.saintjohn.nbcc.nb.ca/Marriott/x1/index.htm

About the only glitch with tubers that isn't covered here is some recent problems with the front/upper engine isolator. Apparently some of the replacements sold by the factory had a VERY short life. Check the tuber section at Badweb (see below) for the latest info. IIRC there's a recently issued updated isolator that fixed the problem. Just be sure if you have to replace yours you get the updated part.

Badweb has a good tuber section too: http://www.badweatherbikers.com/buel...tml?1289074629

American Sport Bike is your best source for aftermarket (and many factory) parts: http://www.americansportbike.com

Most engine parts are common with Sportsters so you can find a lot of stuff in stock at your local HD dealer.

B.Curvin · 11-07-2010, 04:48 PM

Thanks Hugh. I had meant to check with an (ex) dealer already but forgot.

I'll get in touch with a shop tomorrow. I had already read about the front upper

mount on Badweb so I'll look into that once I sort out a few things.

Per my usual MO I started the morning with the plan of bleeding the brakes

and changing the fluids. I wound up rebuilding that six pot caliper

which burnt half the day. I hope to register it and change the fluids tomorrow.

B.Curvin · 11-08-2010, 07:27 AM

Just my VIN checked. All has been done.

I was hoping for a new rear shock.

JasonH · 11-08-2010, 07:56 AM

I just had Race Tech rebuild my rear shock. They did a great job and the price was very reasonable. Cheaper than what used shocks are going for on ebay. Most folks swear by the Works or Penske but that wasn't in my budget.
Sweet looking bike!

mud390 · 11-08-2010, 01:38 PM

I have nothing useful to add other than nice bike!

Kris

Kamakura Kid · 11-08-2010, 02:47 PM

Mid 90's Buells were known for a high speed weave around 75 - 80 mph. Nothing too bad, just something to keep in mind so it doesn't take you by surprise when it happens. The specific bike I rode, and encountered this phenomenom, was a 95. And, yes, I knew about the weave before I rode the bike. Maybe Buell fixed the problem by 97.

kdstang · 11-08-2010, 04:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kamakura Kid

Mid 90's Buells were known for a high speed weave around 75 - 80 mph. Nothing too bad, just something to keep in mind so it doesn't take you by surprise when it happens. The specific bike I rode, and encountered this phenomenom, was a 95. And, yes, I knew about the weave before I rode the bike. Maybe Buell fixed the problem by 97.

I certainly can't speak for earlier bikes, but my 99 X1 was rock solid at 130 mph. I've never had any problems cruising at 80+ mph.

Lomax · 11-08-2010, 04:12 PM

TUBER

Nice find.

Marc

B.Curvin · 11-08-2010, 05:29 PM

To all that said "nice bike", thanks.

Know what I hate about bikes? Previous owners.

The list so far:
Mismatched fasteners everywhere.

The front brake reservoir had been replaced by a piece of brake line

. I put the reservoir back on and rebuilt the caliper too. Someone had removed the caliper pistons with channel locks at some point

. MUCH firmer brakes now.

The carbon fiber muffler was mounted in such a way that the trans drain rubbed a hole in it.

The primary chain had 1" of vertical play (should have 1/2" max).

Clutch lever and perch worn out. It had been so long since it was cleaned or greased the bushing is worn through and the hole in the lever has turned oval.

Clutch cable broke when I tried to adjust it.

Tank vent leaks.

Drive belt way too tight.

no biggie though. A little elbow grease and a few bucks and all will be right in the world.

kdstang · 11-08-2010, 06:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by B.Curvin

The primary chain had 1" of vertical play (should have 1/2" max).

Not a terribly bad thing, better a little loose than tight, about 3/4" is suggested for tuber buells.

vernon dent · 11-09-2010, 05:16 AM

i owned this x1 lightning. 19,000 miles on the clock, looked new. great bike but it was a one owner machine.
the tube frame bikes will be much easier to get engine parts for, since it was a modded sporty motor. the later ones used a short stroke motor based on a sporty lower end with buell blast top end components.
apparently h-d sold all their remaining buell parts stock off at public auction, how nice....
yours looks good

in

11-06-2010, 09:00 AM	#1
B.Curvin ^OP Feral Chia tamer Joined: Feb 2004 Location: Left of the dial. Canton, NC Oddometer: 2,607	New (to me) Tuber Buell. What should I know? I've never owned a Harley engined anything before. Any pointers on how to keep this thing tip top? I have BIG plans for this but I'll keep that under hat til the time is right. My initial impression from the ride home. TORQUE!!!! good lord. Up to 80 this thing flat gets it. I didn't go any faster only because I hadn't registered/insured it yet. Down the on ramp and through the gears I was doing 85 in an instant. Vibration. At cruising speed, no problem. At idle I see quadruple. I played with the idle in the driveway and got rid of a lot of it. I now know why Harley riders keep the idle so low it sound like it's going to die. I never knew there was an actual reason for it. The 98 Tiger I traded for it buzzed like crazy at 70. HATED IT! This thing feels like it's idling at 80. Perfect. My first plans of attack once I have the energy for it. Check and adjust the primary chain. Adjust the clutch. Adjust the belt tension. PO has the belt too tight for sure. Oil, filter and plugs. Slap on some Protaper 7/8 KX high bars in black. I already picked up some US made thick foam grips. Acerbis hand guards (are there any hand guards made in the US?). The PO had taken the rubber off the foot pegs but I've already replaced those. American made foot pegs, $24 for a set. Schweeeeeeet. The Corbin seat is vehry nice. Any pointers? I almost forgot. The tires are shagged. I've got four sets of Pirelli SuperCorsa's but they are all 160-60/17 rears. It calls for a 170 rear. Anyone have experience with a 160 on the rear of a tuber? It also has a Forcewinder (I think) intake and a Borla exhaust. The fueling is great. Snap it open from idle without a hint of a bog or miss, but it does fart and pop A LOT! I'm gonna make up some sort of baffle cause it's way too loud. Suggestions? I have the mid pipe baffles from a Hayabusa (several actually) and was thinking of modifying those to go in the muffler. Any reason why not to? __________________ Mutt'n the custard. On the outside with my back turned.

11-06-2010, 03:19 PM	#5
Hughlysses Beastly Adventurer Joined: Jun 2004 Location: Summerville, SC Oddometer: 2,665	Go to a dealer and make sure all the recalls have been done; they can check by your VIN. It looks like you have a pre-recall rear shock. You may be able to get a FREE new rear shock installed. LOTS of good info on Buell tubers here: http://www.saintjohn.nbcc.nb.ca/Marriott/x1/index.htm About the only glitch with tubers that isn't covered here is some recent problems with the front/upper engine isolator. Apparently some of the replacements sold by the factory had a VERY short life. Check the tuber section at Badweb (see below) for the latest info. IIRC there's a recently issued updated isolator that fixed the problem. Just be sure if you have to replace yours you get the updated part. Badweb has a good tuber section too: http://www.badweatherbikers.com/buel...tml?1289074629 American Sport Bike is your best source for aftermarket (and many factory) parts: http://www.americansportbike.com Most engine parts are common with Sportsters so you can find a lot of stuff in stock at your local HD dealer. __________________ 2007 Buell XB12X Ulysses 1983 Honda VT500FT Ascot

11-07-2010, 04:48 PM	#6
B.Curvin ^OP Feral Chia tamer Joined: Feb 2004 Location: Left of the dial. Canton, NC Oddometer: 2,607	Thanks Hugh. I had meant to check with an (ex) dealer already but forgot. I'll get in touch with a shop tomorrow. I had already read about the front upper mount on Badweb so I'll look into that once I sort out a few things. Per my usual MO I started the morning with the plan of bleeding the brakes and changing the fluids. I wound up rebuilding that six pot caliper which burnt half the day. I hope to register it and change the fluids tomorrow. __________________ Mutt'n the custard. On the outside with my back turned.

11-08-2010, 07:27 AM	#7
B.Curvin ^OP Feral Chia tamer Joined: Feb 2004 Location: Left of the dial. Canton, NC Oddometer: 2,607	Just my VIN checked. All has been done. I was hoping for a new rear shock. __________________ Mutt'n the custard. On the outside with my back turned.

11-08-2010, 02:47 PM	#10
Kamakura Kid Studly Adventurer Joined: May 2006 Location: currently in Kamakura, Japan! Oddometer: 689	Mid 90's Buells were known for a high speed weave around 75 - 80 mph. Nothing too bad, just something to keep in mind so it doesn't take you by surprise when it happens. The specific bike I rode, and encountered this phenomenom, was a 95. And, yes, I knew about the weave before I rode the bike. Maybe Buell fixed the problem by 97. __________________ You can only be young once, but you can be immature forever!

11-06-2010, 09:40 AM	#2
Clem Kevin Nude With Boots Joined: Aug 2007 Location: Santa Cruz, CA Oddometer: 519	That's an awesome bike. Could you tell me some about it? What's the model name?

11-06-2010, 12:18 PM	#4
B02S4 Aye Joined: Mar 2009 Oddometer: 503	Nice! Learn to embrace the vibration at idle and enjoy the smoothness at cruise. I suggest that you check each and every fastner. Twice. And watch the heat off the rear header. Good thing its already wrapped.

11-08-2010, 07:56 AM	#8
JasonH Gnarly Adventurer Joined: Jul 2005 Location: McKinney, Texas Oddometer: 145	I just had Race Tech rebuild my rear shock. They did a great job and the price was very reasonable. Cheaper than what used shocks are going for on ebay. Most folks swear by the Works or Penske but that wasn't in my budget. Sweet looking bike!

11-08-2010, 01:38 PM	#9
mud390 Gnarly Adventurer Joined: Apr 2010 Location: Japan Oddometer: 160	I have nothing useful to add other than nice bike! Kris

11-08-2010, 04:12 PM	#12
Lomax Nanu-Nanu Adventurer Joined: Jul 2004 Location: Westminster Colorado Oddometer: 7,093	TUBER Nice find. Marc __________________ 04 R1150RT,06 KTM 450EXC, 84 R100RS LE, 89 XL600V, 2012 Stelvio, 72 Guzzi Eldorado http://s22.photobucket.com/albums/b327/lomaxcm/?sc=3

11-08-2010, 05:29 PM	#13
B.Curvin ^OP Feral Chia tamer Joined: Feb 2004 Location: Left of the dial. Canton, NC Oddometer: 2,607	To all that said "nice bike", thanks. Know what I hate about bikes? Previous owners. The list so far: Mismatched fasteners everywhere. The front brake reservoir had been replaced by a piece of brake line . I put the reservoir back on and rebuilt the caliper too. Someone had removed the caliper pistons with channel locks at some point . MUCH firmer brakes now. The carbon fiber muffler was mounted in such a way that the trans drain rubbed a hole in it. The primary chain had 1" of vertical play (should have 1/2" max). Clutch lever and perch worn out. It had been so long since it was cleaned or greased the bushing is worn through and the hole in the lever has turned oval. Clutch cable broke when I tried to adjust it. Tank vent leaks. Drive belt way too tight. no biggie though. A little elbow grease and a few bucks and all will be right in the world. __________________ Mutt'n the custard. On the outside with my back turned.

11-09-2010, 05:16 AM	#15
vernon dent Studly Adventurer Joined: Oct 2010 Location: apparently halfway to motorcycle hell Oddometer: 565	i owned this x1 lightning. 19,000 miles on the clock, looked new. great bike but it was a one owner machine. the tube frame bikes will be much easier to get engine parts for, since it was a modded sporty motor. the later ones used a short stroke motor based on a sporty lower end with buell blast top end components. apparently h-d sold all their remaining buell parts stock off at public auction, how nice.... yours looks good in

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