Naked Motorcycles
1997Buell S1 Lightning
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The 1997 Buell S1 Lightning is a lightweight naked bike powered by a 1203cc V-twin that delivers strong low-end torque ideal for street riding. Best known for its minimalist American design and responsive handling, it suits riders seeking an affordable, accessible performance bike with genuine character and practicality.
- Capacity
- 1203.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 193.0 kg
- Seat height
- 749 mm
- Power
- 86.0 HP (63.3 kW)
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for spirited backroad blasts and aggressive cornering rather than outright top-speed runs or long-distance touring.
- Built for
- Gritty, torque-rich American muscle with a distinctive Harley-derived V-twin thump and a compact, mass-centralized chassis.
- Not ideal for
- Not the right choice for riders wanting long-haul comfort, passenger-friendly touring, or any off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 1203.0 ccm
- Power
- 86.0 HP (63.3 kW)
- Torque
- 107.0 Nm (10.9 kgf-m)
- Engine type
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.4456 HP/kg (dry)
- Cooling system
- Air
- Starting
- Electric
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Belt
Performance
- Top speed
- 200.0 km/h (124.3 mph)
Dimensions & weight
- Seat height
- 749 mm
- Dry weight
- 193.0 kg
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1997 | 1998 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1203 cc | 1203 cc |
| Dry weight | 193 kg | 193 kg |
| Seat height | 749 mm | 749 mm |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Buell S1 Lightning?
The 1997 Buell S1 Lightning has a Capacity of 1203.0 ccm (73.41 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Buell S1 Lightning have?
The 1997 Buell S1 Lightning has a Power of 86.0 HP (63.3 kW).
How many gears does the Buell S1 Lightning have?
The 1997 Buell S1 Lightning has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Buell S1 Lightning?
The 1997 Buell S1 Lightning has a Torque of 107.0 Nm (10.9 kgf-m or 78.9 ft.lbs).
How much does the Buell S1 Lightning weigh?
The 1997 Buell S1 Lightning has a Dry weight of 193.0 kg (425.5 pounds).
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