Buell S3T Thunderbolt Reviews

Nothing.

This bike was previously owned by a motorcycle mechanic.

Has a Vance & Hines exhaust, running synthetic oil, and in pristine condition. Rated at least a 9.

Has been tweeked to 100HP dyno-ed and will hit 145MPH. Fast enough and the mid range torque is phenomenal.

It's a joy to ride and handles well in twisties and esses.

My previous bike was a BMW R1100RS sport touring. The only thing I miss are the ABS brakes on BMW.

I've owned all models of rice burners, Harley, BMW, Motto Guzzi, and must say this hybrid hot rod is a blast. Been riding for 37 years and this bike puts a big smile on my face...

The bike is forest green and a real stunner.

Too early to give quality/maintenance report... just enjoying the ride.

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.

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.