BUELL unveiled their new Lightning Super TT XB12STT - a motorcycle packed with muscular performance and a totally unique urban character. The Lightning Super TT, made its worldwide debut at the EICMA International Motorcycle Show in Milan, Italy.
"Our motorcycles empower riders in the city and out on the back roads, and are purpose-built to offer a truly exhilarating ride," said Erik Buell, chairman and chief technical officer, Buell Motorcycle Company. "The Lightning Super TT XB12STT continues that vision by blending street and track performance with heaps of torque and power into a bigger, eye-catching and versatile Supermoto-inspired design."
As the latest addition to the Buell Lightning family, Buell has aimed to combine hardcore Streetfighter attitude with the agility and style of a Supermoto. The Lightning Super TT boldly reflects a rebellious and aggressive spirit.
Buell claim its 81 ft lbs of torque and broad powerband from the Buell Thunderstorm 1203cc 45º engine, will mean the Lightning Super TT is well prepared to rule both the urban jungle and anyf twisty mountain road. The air/oil/fan-cooled V-Twin engine features DDFI II electronic fuel injection and the Buell Interactive Exhaust is tuned for the ultimate in performance and control.
Buell claim the Buell "Trilogy of Technology" featuring frame rigidity, mass centralisation and low unsprung weight works to provide the Lightning Super TT with superior handling, powerfully smooth acceleration and legendary Buell torque. A lightweight aluminium frame contains the fuel, with the oil in the swingarm. The muffler is located below the engine and the Immediate Throttle Response System, with a light Goodyear Hibrex final belt drive with Flexten Plus technology, provides what feels like a direct connection between the throttle and the rear wheel for an exhilarating ride in all conditions.
A ZTL (Zero Torsional Load) front brake features a 375 mm disc gripped by a powerful six-piston caliper. The disc is mounted on the wheel perimeter at the base of the six-spoked wheels finished in Villain Black. The Pirelli Scorpion Sync tyres on the Lightning Super TT have an aggressive tread pattern to provide superb bite on the most challenging of urban roads.
The Lightning Super TT has a long, smooth Supermoto-style solo seat with a 798mm height. The 1365 mm wheelbase, comparable to a superbike, should offer plenty of agility for twisty roads. Fully adjustable, 43 mm Showa inverted front forks and an adjustable Showa rear shock mean the bike isn't limited in setup potential, either.
While this new Buell motorcycle will stand out from any crowd with its slick, competition-inspired look featuring racing-style number plates and flyscreen with a minimalist Satin Black tail section, riders can showcase their own inspiration by easily personalising the bodywork. The Arctic White Surlyn bodywork is combined with wide, flat handlebars with cross-brace, instrument panel and deflectors for a unique and aggressive street style. The upper front fender provides debris protection with a Supermoto look.
Will it be ebough to pull punters from their Superbikes and Supermotos? Will we be swopping double-bubble screens for number boards? We'll find out in 2007.