2009 · Sport touring
The 2009 Buell Ulysses XB12XT represents a distinctive chapter in American sport touring. Building on the original Ulysses XB12X, the 'XT' variant leaned further into the touring aspect with a road-biased setup. This model emerged from Buell's unique engineering philosophy, aiming to offer an alternative to established sport touring contenders like the BMW R1200GS Adventure and the Ducati Multistrada 1100. It catered to riders seeking a different flavor of adventure, one rooted in Buell's unconventional design and Harley-Davidson's V-twin heritage.
At its core, the Ulysses XB12XT is powered by a robust 1202.88 ccm (73.40 cubic inches) air/oil/fan-cooled V-twin engine. This powerplant generates a healthy 103.00 HP (75.2 kW) at 6800 RPM, providing ample power for sustained highway cruising and spirited backroad exploration. Torque figures are equally impressive, with 113.90 Nm (11.6 kgf-m or 84.0 ft.lbs) arriving at 6000 RPM, ensuring strong acceleration and effortless overtaking. Fuel capacity stands at 16.65 litres (4.40 gallons), offering a reasonable range for touring duties. While not a lightweight, the engine's power delivery is characteristic of Buell's emphasis on usable, real-world performance.
Riding the XB12XT is a unique experience. The seat height, adjustable to a lowest setting of 780 mm (30.7 inches), accommodates a variety of riders, contributing to its touring comfort. Unlike the more off-road oriented XB12X, the 'XT' features a more road-focused suspension setup, designed to absorb imperfections on paved surfaces while maintaining stability at speed. Its sport touring category designation means it balances long-distance comfort with the ability to handle twisty roads with enthusiasm, without adopting track-focused ergonomics or aggressive rearset pegs.
The 2009 Buell Ulysses XB12XT appeals to a specific rider: one who values individuality, a distinctive American V-twin character, and a capable touring platform with a sporty edge. It's for those who appreciate Buell's unconventional engineering solutions, such as the ZTL perimeter brake and the fuel-in-frame design. While it may not offer the widespread dealer network or luggage capacity of some of its European rivals, the XB12XT delivers a characterful and engaging ride for the discerning sport touring enthusiast seeking something off the beaten path.
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⚠️ Things to consider
⚖️ Comparison & Competition
With 103 HP, requires full Class A license. Riders must be 24+ or have 2 years A2 experience (20+).
Estimated average for 1203cc class: 28-40 mpg (6.0-9.0 L/100km)
⛽ Tank: 16.65 litres (4.40 gallons)
Insurance grouping for Buell Ulysses XB12XT (1203cc):
Personalised premium estimate for the Buell Ulysses XB12XT (UK rates):
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$12995 USD
MSRP / listing
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