Buell motorcycles were a line of motorcycles produced by the Buell Motorcycle Company, an American motorcycle manufacturer founded by Erik Buell. Buell motorcycles were known for their unique design, innovative engineering, and sporty performance.
Erik Buell started the company in the early 1980s and initially focused on building high-performance racing motorcycles using Harley-Davidson engines. Over the years, Buell motorcycles gained a reputation for their distinctive styling, incorporating features like a perimeter frame, fuel-in-frame design, and underslung exhaust.
One notable aspect of Buell motorcycles was their use of Harley-Davidson V-twin engines, which provided a combination of torque and power. The engines were modified and tuned by Buell to suit the sporty nature of the motorcycles.
Buell motorcycles were categorized into various models, including the Lightning, Firebolt, Ulysses, and 1125 series. The Lightning models were streetfighters with an aggressive stance, the Firebolt models were sportbikes designed for track performance, the Ulysses models were adventure/touring motorcycles, and the 1125 series featured liquid-cooled engines and advanced technology.
In 2003, Buell Motorcycles became a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, and production continued under their ownership. However, in 2009, Harley-Davidson made the decision to discontinue the Buell brand as part of a restructuring plan during the global financial crisis. The last Buell motorcycle rolled off the assembly line in October 2009.
Despite no longer being produced, Buell motorcycles have a dedicated following among enthusiasts who appreciate their unique design, performance characteristics, and the innovative approach Erik Buell brought to the motorcycle industry. Used Buell motorcycles can still be found in the market, and they remain a distinct part of American motorcycle history.