The latest variation on the theme is the Ulysses; an adventure sporting bike, with optional hard luggage, a flip-up backrest/luggage rack and long-travel front suspension.
The Ulysses is primarily designed for road riding but has some off-road pretensions too. It is relatively cheap at just over £8,000 on the road but does the Buell offer a viable, low budget alternative to more expensive rivals like the 1200 GS BMW, or KTM’s 990 Adventure?
The answer is: not really. True, the Buell is two grand or so less than a BMW, but the engine and gearbox feel a bit old-fashioned, the bike runs too hot and looks distinctly odd from some angles. On the upside it is very comfortable, with one of the best seats I have sat on this year. The pillion perch is good too. The Buell handles well, thanks to Showa suspension, a compact chassis and the brakes are top class.
The Ulysses is absolutely the right concept at the right time, but it needs a new, 21st century engine and gearbox, plus some well thought out accessories to really compete at the highest level.
The ten grand bike buyer is out there Buell. If this bike had a water-cooled, DOHC, V-twin motor it would be seriously tempting.
More info: harleydavidson.com and insidebikes.com
