2004Buell Lightning XB9S

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The 2004 Buell Lightning XB9S is a middleweight naked bike that delivers punchy performance with its air-cooled 984cc V-twin engine producing 84 horsepower. Known for its aggressive styling and responsive handling, it appeals to riders seeking an affordable yet spirited streetbike experience. The Lightning XB9S excels as an accessible entry into performance riding without overwhelming complexity.

Capacity: 984.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 175.0 kg
Seat height: 765 mm
Power: 84.2 HP (61.9 kW)

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What’s new for the 2004 Buell Lightning XB9S

vs the 2003

Spec	2003	2004
Power	92.0 HP (67.7 kW)	84.2 HP (61.9 kW)
Torque	92.2 Nm (9.4 kgf-m or 68.0 ft.lbs)	85.6 Nm (8.7 kgf-m or 63.1 ft.lbs)
Front suspension	Showa® inverted fork with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload	Showa inverted fork with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Rear suspension	Showa® shock absorber with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload	Showa shock absorber with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload

Other years 2003 2004

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering90%

City riding78%

Daily riding60%

Touring30%

Two-up25%

Track65%

Best for: A purpose-built canyon-carving and street naked bike that prioritizes agility and low-end torque over outright top-end speed.
Built for: Quirky, mechanical, and characterful, with a big-thumping air-cooled V-twin pulse and a distinctly American take on the sportbike formula.
Not ideal for: Not ideal for riders seeking long-distance comfort, passenger-friendly touring, or smooth, refined power delivery.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 765mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2004 Buell Lightning XB9S, with a moderate knee angle of around 110 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 984.0 ccm
Power: 84.2 HP (61.9 kW)
Torque: 85.6 Nm (8.7 kgf-m)
Engine type: Parallel Twin
Power/weight ratio: 0.4811 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 88.9 x 79.4 mm
Compression: 10.0:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Valves per cylinder: 2

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1320 mm
Overall length: 1924 mm
Overall width: 831 mm
Overall height: 1232 mm
Seat height: 765 mm
Dry weight: 175.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 14.00 litres
Ground clearance: 127 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Aluminium Frame with Uniplanar powertrain vibration isolation system
Front suspension: Showa inverted fork with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Rear suspension: Showa shock absorber with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Front wheel travel: 120 mm
Rear wheel travel: 127 mm
Rake (fork angle): 21.0°
Trail: 83 mm