Newbie with XB12S vs. XB12Ss Question

[db4570]

Hi, Everyone.

I definitely have the Buell bug, having finally ridden one for the first time, an '04 XB12S that is for sale near me. But I am thinking I should instead keep my eyes open for an XB12Ss, the long one, since I'm such a big guy (6'2", 240 lbs.) I assume the Long model is better for bigger riders, so it would make sense for me to consider. Is this line of thinking correct? The regular XB12S I tried seemed to fit fine, for the 5 minutes I was on it. But I'd hate to make a mistake on something I want to keep for a long time.

The problem is that Buells seem pretty rare around here (Upstate/Western NY), so if I find a Long that I like and can afford, it will probably be out of town/state, and will require quite a commitment for me to just check it out for size. Any input appreciated!

Thanks!

David

 

[09buellxb12ss]

the SS is for bigger taller riders. i love my 09xb12ss. its a great bike.[up] the bike is longer and taller so u might want to find one and sit on it atleast to see the difference.

 

[n0ctrnlr3d]

5'11 175 here. SS rules

 

[stang65pony]

240ish lbs and 5' 10'' or so on an 09 xb12ss. wouldnt mind having it a bit shorter but shit happens. only sitting still for a few minutes at a time anyways

 

[Phazernut]

5'9" here 220lbs on an 09SS....wouldn't have it any other way

 

[Riderdie]

Owned an s and an ss.
6'1'' 200 lbs
My knees binded to much on the s. However I delt with it for 4 years and 6k miles. I ultimelty sold the s b/c of my knees as well as my balls being jammed into the air box with a passenger.

The ss is more comfortable when considering my knees binding and def has a bunch more breathing room for the family jewels. I often noticed my knees getting a little beat up from hitting the front of the tank right before the frame pucks due to Buell wanting the ss to hold a few more gallons of fuel

 

[EvilRX]

you could get a set of lower rider pegs to make it a bit better for you if you decide to get the s

 

[93fee]

Ss is definately more fit for taller riders.
I had S for two seasons, now have Stt, which is actually Ss frame with some styling details & even higher seat. what should I say - Ss is such a comfortable bike - you being rather tall will feel the difference.

 

[fishgutz]

+1M on Ss for tall peeps. [up][up][up]
6' and love the fit of the Ss. I have the stock seat and the TT seat. This winter I'll be getting a Baldwin for more comfort in old fart sensitive areas. Don't need blue pills and want to keep it that way as long as possible. Plus that damn tail bone things I have posted about before.

 

[FerrisBueller46]

I am 6'2" and love the my SS!!!! SS Rules!!!!

 

[WALLSXB]

I'm 6'1 260 and the SS fits perfect , found the S to be a nut hugger and really tight.

 

[TXbobber]

I'm in the same situation. I'm 6'3" and I can only find S models in my price range (around $4000) How much taller is the Ss and how much more passenger room is there? About how much would it cost to switch a S seat to a Ss?

 

[Riderdie]

I don't know exact specs but the ss is a considerable difference from the s. It's taller longer and wider. The seat has more surface area. At 6'1" my feet sit flat on the ground just as they did on the s but my knees aren't nearly as bent. With my girlfriend on the back it feels like moving from a civic to a Buick there is a ton more room on the seat.

Switching an s seat to an ss seat would be a good bit of work, money, and wouldn't look right. People usually put ss swingarms on s's but not ss subframe rails on an ss. You would need to change the frame rails, seat pan, seat, and maybe even the rear suspension.

Here are a few pics of the two next to each other.

 

[hdstn]

I have a STT and am in Buffalo. Shoot me a pm

 

[Dave A]

6ft and 160lb, came off a cruiser and wanted a better handeling bike with more upright seating. The 09 xb12ss works for me. I've never ridden another Buell. Seat is extremely comfortable up to about 1 and half hours.I take adventure rides that consist of highway and rural roads. The bike feels safe and performs well at all speeds. If your tall at all I'd reccomend this bike. I bought this bike because of the price but now I truly enjoy it.

 

[fishgutz]

db4570, Just buy the Ss.

BTW, Check out 147db on you tube. The dude has some stomach twisting Buell videos that make you lean in your chair.
http://www.youtube.com/user/147db

 

[Willie P]

FWIW- got a sTT and I am 5'8" with only 30 inch inseam. I am not what you would call "tall" but not super short either.

Anyway, the sTT is not imposing for us "smaller" riders. I really like it and can use both balls of feet or do a slight lean and keep one foot on peg and other on entirely flat foot. ...which I find more reassuring and comfortable than both feet on ground on the balls of my feet.

So, for a taller rider - I could see the sTT as a logical choice. plus, in the world of buell, the sTT is a rare bird amongst rare birds... wp

 

[Miami78]

6'4" and 38" inseam on an Ss. I think if my inseam were an inch longer it wouldn't work, but as is I'm very comfy.

 

[Mc Nasty]

6'5" on an 04 s no issues at all, but never had a passenger.