1997 Buell S3T Thunderbolt review from United States of America
"Fun - if your idea of fun is working on motorcycles"
What things have gone wrong with the motorcycle?
Kickstand failed at 800 miles.
Hard bag latches failed at 900, 1500, 1700 and 2000 miles.
Right lower fairing failed at 2500, 6000, 8000, 12000 and 18000 miles.
Rear shock failed at 12000 miles.
Exhaust header failed at 12500 miles.
Rear isolator failed at 14000 miles.
Front motor mount failed at 35000 miles.
Wheel bearings failed at 8000 miles.
General comments?
This is a wonderful motorcycle for anyone that likes to work on motorcycles constantly, and has a reliable motorcycle to use when the Buell is suffering from design flaws.
Dealer service, parts and support is widely variable with the general level being best described as poor. Although the many design flaws, build quality issues and quirky nature of this motorcycle can be moderated by use of higher quality after market parts, the effect of these modifications is to push a serious value for dollar spent problem well into the completely ridiculous zone.
If you must have a Buell, the reliability is better on the newer "XB" line, and the quality and value are much better on those built before 1997.
More Buell S3T Thunderbolt reviews
| Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model Year | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Acceleration marks | 8/10 |
| Roll-on Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Handling marks | 8/10 |
| Braking marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | |
| Comfort marks | 3/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 1/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 8 miles |
| Most recent distance | 39000 miles |
| Previous motorcycle | Buell S2T |
| Date of Entry | 10th March, 2005 |