Naked Motorcycles

2010Buell XB9SX Lightning

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The 2010 Buell XB9SX Lightning is a lightweight naked bike designed for riders seeking agile handling and accessible performance. Powered by a 983cc V-twin producing 92 horsepower, it delivers punchy mid-range torque ideal for urban commuting and spirited road riding. Known for its compact dimensions and responsive character, the XB9SX appeals to both novice and experienced riders wanting a nimble, practical streetbike.

Capacity: 983.3 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 177.0 kg
Seat height: 765 mm
Power: 92.0 HP (67.7 kW)

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How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering92%

City riding80%

Daily riding60%

Touring35%

Two-up30%

Track65%

Best for: Built as a light, punchy streetfighter that thrives on twisty roads and urban blasts rather than long-distance cruising.
Built for: Has the eccentric, mechanical charm typical of Buell, combining a booming V-twin with genuinely agile, front-loaded handling from its distinctive frame and single-sided front rotor.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders wanting plush comfort, pillion-friendly touring capability, or any kind of off-road versatility.

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 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2010 Buell XB9SX Lightning, 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: 983.3 ccm
Power: 92.0 HP (67.7 kW)
Torque: 94.9 Nm (9.7 kgf-m) @ 5500 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.5198 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 88.9 x 79.4 mm
Compression: 10.0:1
Cooling system: Oil & air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 2

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: Wet, multi-plate, compensated

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1321 mm
Overall length: 1935 mm
Overall width: 754 mm
Overall height: 1074 mm
Seat height: 765 mm
Dry weight: 177.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 14.50 litres
Ground clearance: 110 mm
Oil capacity: 2.40 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Black aluminium frame with Uniplanar™ powertrain vibration isolation system, fuel in frame
Front suspension: 43 mm Showa inverted forks with adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Rear suspension: Showa coil-over monoshock with remote, under-seat reservoir and adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload
Front wheel travel: 120 mm
Rear wheel travel: 129 mm
Rake (fork angle): 21.0°
Trail: 84 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. ZTL brake, 6-piston, fixed caliper; 375 mm, single-sided, inside-out, stainless steel, floating rotor
Front brakes diameter: 375 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Two-piston, direct mount caliper; stainless steel, fixed rotor
Rear brakes diameter: 240 mm
Front tyre: 120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre: 180/55-ZR17

Other

Color options: Cherry Bomb Red Translucid, Kick Ash Translucid
Modifications compared to previous model: Second oxygen sensor and updated EFI calibration improves fuel economy and drivability.

Specs last verified against published sources: October 2026.