Which model year?

[4is2tooMany]

What has changed from '08 to '09 in realtion to power, handling, and reliabity?

I noticed the '09 line no longer has the XB12S... It is either the Long (Ss) or Short (Scg) (right?). I think the seat height on the XB12S ('08) is what I want, I am 6'2".

 

[jsg]

Well other then collor like all black frame and fork there is nothing new in 09. You a right about the regular S they are gone but the Ss and Scg (which isn't the short but the low version of the S) are still there. I wanted the S but because there was nothing 08 left here in Canada I settled for a 09 Scg and got the regular S seat on it. For me it's perfect eight but I would still like the S suspension because I'm around 220lbs and when missing a wheelly landing it bottum the fork.

 

[dave_xb12r]

The XB9SX is the same as a 12S. There is barely any difference between the 9's and the 12's, so I say, if it fits you get it.

 

[4is2tooMany]

Power and Torque differences between 12 and 9?

 

[xtremelow]

About 10 hp and a torque is just a few.

I think the biggest difference would be the noticable torque down low but both are tuned in a way that they are pretty even.

 

[dave_xb12r]

Plus, the 9 has a better power-per-dollar ratio. It revs higher, has higher compression and some others that I'm not sure of

 

[pdxanderson]

how about the made for california's emmissions xb12ss? is there anything lost in the mechanics if i buy it in California?

 

[Stevenc150]

I think the seat height on the XB12S ('08) is what I want, I am 6'2".

'08 XB12S = Seat Ht. 30.1" - '09 XB12Ss = Seat Ht. 30.6" - '09 XB12Scg = Seat Ht. 28.6"

You're 6'2", you might be better off on the XB12Ss. Just my 2 cents. The 12 has an exhuast actuator valve that gives an extra kick in the lower-mid range. Also, if you did get the 9, would you be wondering & wishing you'd gotten the 12 after a while? Whatever it is, if it's a Buell, you'll be happy. Good luck.