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Buell XB12XT and Ulysses XB12X Buell XB12XT and Ulysses XB12X
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Which Bike? Comments and Questions on what is the best bike for YOU, for YOUR trip. Note that we believe that ANY bike will do, so please remember that it's all down to PERSONAL OPINION. Technical Questions for all brands go in their own forum.
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  #1  
Old 17 Aug 2008
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Buell XB12XT and Ulysses XB12X
Whilst doing some research on the Guzzi Stelvio I came across these bikes. Originally (2 - 3 months ago) I had my mind set that I would try a Buell for the next bike. However for the mileage I am likely to be doing I didn't think they made anything suitable.

However I have read a few reviews and they seem good bikes. I really quite fancy having a V twin.



The XB12XT comes as standard with panniers / top box. 2 * 12volt power outlets and heated grips.

Tank range could be better as it only has 16.7 litres housed within the frame. I have read you can expect 55mpg from them.

This seems to me the answer. Naked sports looks with a touring ability.



This then takes me to the Ulysess. More designed so you can also take the adventure off the tarmac that little bit.


Any comments on both bikes appreciated.

Thanks
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Old 18 Aug 2008
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This seems to me the answer. Naked sports looks with a touring ability.

Yes.
I did one of the mag reviews on this bike when it came out. It has similarities with the xb12x but the bars, suspension, wheels and tires are set up for the road. It handles great. I liked it much more than the original.
And let it be said that the Xb12x has little interest in dirt. Hard packed dirt roads maybe but it is no dirt racer.
The luggage comes standard. And even considering the size of the bike, there is plenty of room for a passenger.
$ for $ it's a good buy.
However it has the world's loudest cooling fan. yeeech.
See this web site for a guy tring a distance world record on this bike.
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Old 19 Aug 2008
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I haven't ridden the Uly
hate the fan noise also! Ear plugs mate!
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Old 19 Aug 2008
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You never state what you want to use the bike for and usage is everything.
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Old 19 Aug 2008
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At the moment. My plan for the next 2-3 years in to see every country in Europe and also including Russia (Moscow).

Most of the roads I guess will be tar or tight gravel at worst which makes me think the XT would be just as suitable. I am not looking for any serious off road use. Just something maybe that I could get to where a sports bike rider would probably think twice about.
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Old 19 Aug 2008
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But on long highway sections in Europe you
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Old 19 Aug 2008
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There are a ton of bikes that would fit your needs, the TDM and V-Strom quickly coming to mind and I'm sure Honda and Kawasaki also have decent entrees.

But the Buell looks like it would also be good for an 80-20 mix especially as your off road usage would probably not get any more drastic than a gravel road. I would read up on dependability and parts availability in the areas you'll be riding before I made my choice. I ride different bikes for different scenarios and I also enjoy the type of ride you mentioned. For this type of ride I use a TDM and I love it.

Patrick is very correct on the XT, you would lose the joy of running a twisty mountain road.
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Old 19 Aug 2008
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Just to confirm. When I mention XT I am refering to the Buell XB12XT as pictured above. Not the Yamaha XT which I think you are refering to. For the amount of unpaved/ gravel work I am looking at I am wondering if the XB12XT would be just as suitable as the more 'off road' biased XB12X.
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Old 19 Aug 2008
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Do a test ride .... it's interesting
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