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Naked Motorcycles

1998Buell White Lightning

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The 1998 Buell White Lightning is a lightweight naked bike designed for riders seeking accessible performance and aggressive styling. Powered by a 1203cc Harley-Davidson V-twin engine producing 93 horsepower and 120 lb-ft of torque, it combines cruiser-derived reliability with sportbike agility. Known for its minimalist design and excellent power-to-weight ratio, the White Lightning appeals to riders wanting authentic American motorcycle character without excessive weight or complexity.

Capacity
1203.0 ccm
Engine
V-Twin
Gearbox
5-speed
Dry weight
193.0 kg
Seat height
749 mm
Power
93.0 HP (68.4 kW)
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How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 68Agility 82Comfort 55Off-road 15Touring 40Road manners 85
Off-road & trail15%
Cornering85%
City riding70%
Daily riding60%
Touring40%
Two-up35%
Track60%
Best for
It's built for spirited backroad blasting and cornering thrills rather than outright top speed or long-distance cruising.
Built for
Raw, mechanical, and full of personality, this Buell delivers a distinctly American take on the sportbike with a thumping air-cooled V-twin and belt drive.
Not ideal for
This is not the right choice for riders seeking plush comfort, pillion-friendly touring capability, or any 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?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us
At 749mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1998 Buell White Lightning, with a moderate knee angle of around 115 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 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
1203.0 ccm
Power
93.0 HP (68.4 kW)
Torque
120.0 Nm (12.2 kgf-m)
Engine type
V-Twin
Power/weight ratio
0.4819 HP/kg (dry)
Cooling system
Air
Starting
Electric
Valves per cylinder
2
Transmission
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Belt
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.

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Common questions

What is the engine size of the Buell White Lightning?

The 1998 Buell White Lightning has a Capacity of 1203.0 ccm (73.41 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Buell White Lightning have?

The 1998 Buell White Lightning has a Power of 93.0 HP (68.4 kW).

How many gears does the Buell White Lightning have?

The 1998 Buell White Lightning has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

What is the torque of the Buell White Lightning?

The 1998 Buell White Lightning has a Torque of 120.0 Nm (12.2 kgf-m or 88.5 ft.lbs).

How much does the Buell White Lightning weigh?

The 1998 Buell White Lightning has a Dry weight of 193.0 kg (425.5 pounds).

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