The Webmaster had the pleasure of attending the National Buell Launch last Thursday, and until the next issue of RidingOn is published here are a few comments..  

The weather for the launch at Eastern Creek was fantastic, and after a hearty breakfast and a talk (via a phone hookup) with Erik Buell we headed down to the pavilion were the bikes were awaiting us under leopard skin covers. The room was filled with smoke, and the sounds of growling leopards were being played loudly through the PA system. 

There were some pretty impressive sights to behold when the covers were lifted and the entire Buell range was represented. They are impressive looking machines except perhaps for the intake box and the exhaust. After-market products are available to rectify this so we are told. 

Then at about 10am we were on the 'Battletrax' circuit. This is a tight windy car park circuit the Buell reps insist is a true test of their bikes 'chuckability'. They made the bold claim that anyone would be able to traverse the course faster on a Buell than on their own bike, and it proved (in the author's case) to be true. 

Everyone was then invited to freely ride all the Buell models around Eastern Creek raceway. Unfortunately for the riders (fortunately for Buell) the main straight was closed for the day due to drag racing preparation. 

Overall most were impressed with the bikes. The motor provides effortless pull to an almost too low redline, and the brakes are unbelievable. The six pot caliper on the large 340 mm single disc making sure of that. The only criticism I would make is that the gearbox is not as smooth as it should be. Harley riders would probably argue otherwise. 

Buell motorcycles will be available from your local Harley Davidson Dealer. The starting price for the M2 Cyclone is $14988. The S3 Thunderbolt Touring is the highest priced model at $18711 

Many thanks to those at Buell and Fraser Motorcycles who made the day possible. It was a great event. 

Stay tuned for a more in-depth evaluation from the secretary shortly. 

Webmaster 

RELATED LINK 
 Buell.com