Naked Motorcycles
1997Buell S3 Thunderbolt
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The 1997 Buell S3 Thunderbolt is a naked bike powered by a 1203cc air-cooled V-twin engine producing 86 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque. Designed for riders seeking aggressive styling and raw performance, it's best known for its distinctive frame design and potent mid-range power delivery. The lightweight chassis and manageable seat height make it accessible to experienced riders who value character and handling.
- Capacity
- 1203.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 211.0 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
- A sporty allrounder built for engaging back-road riding and spirited daily use rather than outright top-speed chasing or long-distance cruising.
- Built for
- Has the raw, gritty personality typical of an air-cooled American V-twin, with quick steering from its compact, mass-centralized chassis.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good fit for riders seeking plush long-haul touring comfort, off-road capability, or a smooth, vibration-free ride.
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
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.4076 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
- 210.0 km/h (130.5 mph)
Dimensions & weight
- Seat height
- 749 mm
- Dry weight
- 211.0 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 | 211 kg | 204 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 S3 Thunderbolt?
The 1997 Buell S3 Thunderbolt has a Capacity of 1203.0 ccm (73.41 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Buell S3 Thunderbolt have?
The 1997 Buell S3 Thunderbolt has a Power of 86.0 HP (63.3 kW).
How many gears does the Buell S3 Thunderbolt have?
The 1997 Buell S3 Thunderbolt has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Buell S3 Thunderbolt?
The 1997 Buell S3 Thunderbolt has a Torque of 107.0 Nm (10.9 kgf-m or 78.9 ft.lbs).
How much does the Buell S3 Thunderbolt weigh?
The 1997 Buell S3 Thunderbolt has a Dry weight of 211.0 kg (465.2 pounds).
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Similar bikes
Same category, weighted similarity
1997 Buell S3T Thunderbolt
1203 cc · 211 kg · 749 mm
1997 Buell M2 Cyclone
1203 cc · 197 kg · 749 mm
1997 Yamaha XJR 1200
1188 cc · 233 kg · 790 mm
1998 Yamaha XJR 1200
1188 cc · 232 kg · 785 mm
1997 Suzuki GSF 1200 N Bandit
1157 cc · 215 kg · 840 mm
1998 Suzuki GSF 1200 N Bandit
1157 cc · 214 kg · 835 mm
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