In a market where more bikers seem to be aged over 45, and obviously suffering various back/knee/wrist joint problems, the `streetfighter type of motorcycle is becoming the norm, and the Buell Lightning Long makes a funky V-Twin alternative to bikes like the CBF1000 Honda, as well as facing competition from the Aprilia Tuono, Ducati Monster S4/S2 range and Suzuki SV1000 on the V-Twin front.
The Buell suffers a serious handicap in the shape of its antiquated engine. Fact is, that 1203cc H-D Sportster-derived motor still has stuff like pushrods and overhead valves inside it, plus a gearbox that still needs booting harshly from first into second - despite some tweaks to improve the gearbox on the Lightning Long.
But the Buell chassis never ceases to surprise me. It takes real engineering skill to make a motorcycle handle adroitly on a variety of road surfaces, as well provide the rider with some degree of comfort.
The front brake is excellent, but you wonder if that large rim-mounted disc is one of the reasons why Buells take more input to steer into tight, low speed corners - there must be a certain inertia effect as all that rotating mass keeps trying to go straight ahead.
The Lightning Long also has a longer swingarm, but I can't say I noticed any difference in the bike's overall handling from shorter wheelbase Buells.
But it all feels a tad underpowered, and it seems to overheat all too easily. I love the unique styling of the Buell and the idea of an American made sportsbike, but the truth is that all Buell bikes need more power, better gearboxes and water-cooling.
At nearly £8,000 on the road, the Buell still feels like a blast from the past - and that's not always a good thing.
© Copyright 2008 Manchester Evening News. If you wish to use this article for commercial purposes please contact our syndication department.
