Hey guys, I am very new to the motorcycle area and am considering getting one next year, after taking a few riding classes. I hear a lot about your typical bikes, (GSXR's, CBR's, Ninjas, etc.) but I don't hear to much about Buell's. Specifically the Blast and the Cyclone. Does anyone know anything about these bikes, maybe as to why the dont get any recognition? Also, what size engine comes in these bikes? Thanks for the help.

 

I like the Buell line of bikes...you don't see many of 'em around, and the new models are by all reports very nice. Mostly Buell gets no recognition because Japanese/Euro bike riders look down their noses at anything associated with Harley, and Harley riders look down their noses at anything sportbike-like (generalisations I know but you get the point).

The Blast is a single-cylinder 500cc bike...would make a nice little twisty-carver or city bike. It's an excellent beginner ride, too...light and easy to handle. Decent aftermarket support, if you outgrow it and want to make a little cafe racer or perhaps a singles class track bike.

The Cyclone is an older model (than the new XB9R/S), and was Buell's midrange bike. It's got a 1200cc Harley motor and loads of torque (mmm, wheelies!). Not sure I'd recommend it for a new rider as it's somewhat heavy, but still a nice bike, with quite a lot of aftermarket bits.

 

Yeah, I did a little research last night on some bikes, and read some reviews, and I read basically everything you stated. Except I believe they said the Cyclone wouldnt be to bad for a beginner because it is relatively light, as it is a "naked" bike. I like the japanese sport bikes, but you see so many around. I think these types of bikes (Blasts, Cyclones, Ducati Monsters, Suzuki SV650s) look a lot better, and would be better for city riding, longer trips, as you stated. I really love the look of the Ducati Monsters, and it tended to get better reviews, but it is a little more expensive. Anyone have any more knowledge or experience of any of the bikes stated above?

 

naked bikes aren't much lighter than plastic clad "sportbikes". It's only plastic... less that 15lbs for sure. I like Sv's but keep in mind for freeway cruising that naked bikes begin to get baffled by wind as you speed up due to lack of aero plastic. Still good for city/street riding and much cheaper to repair if you drop it. Monsters are nice too. I wouldn't recommend the buell blast... too many reasons, and a couple prejudices. Ever seen a blast compete outside of buell only events? Don't know anything about the cyclone.

 

mmm.... Monster....
Not too pricey, good looking and its a Ducati
i love the sound of Ducatis.

 

Yes I'd stay away from the Buell Blast. It is nice for a starter bike but it shakes annoyingly at idle which can become a nuisance. Yes all bikes have some sort of shake but this one was ridiculous IMO.