BUELL

1200 RSS – 1992

Son of Harley

Erik Buell had been a prototype development engineer with Harley-Davidson – he was responsible for the FLT and Sturgis models – before launching out to build motorcycles under his own name. However, the Buell is based on the mechanics of the Harley-Davidson Sportster XLH 1200.

Break with Tradition

Erik Buell has created a sports bike that breaks completely with traditional Harley styling – and the result is stunning. The cycle part is light and modern; the V-twin power unit is suspended from an upper space frame of small-bore tubing. The weight is 430 lb, a reduction of 60 lb over the XLH powered by the same Harley Evolution engine.

Compact and Powerful

The machine is so compact that there is room beneath the power unit for the single damper of the rear suspension, which, like the upside-down telescopic front forks, is made by White Power. The front disc brake is an impressive 12.6 inches in diameter and is operated by no fewer than s ix pistons! The RSS version is strictly a single-seater, while on the RS, the backrest lifts up to create a dual seat that is ingenious rather than elegant. A machine like this is explosive: its power output is 24 percent more than the Harley Sportster and its torque output is some 15 percent more than the Sportster. Its acceleration is awesome and performing wheelies is its favorite party trick!

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: 1203cc (89x97mm) Harley-Davidson Evolution air-cooled 45-degree V-twin four-stroke

Power Rating: 68 hp @ 6000 rpm

Valves: overhead-camshafts

Fuel System: Keihin 40mm carburetor

Transmission: 5-speed, chain final drive

Suspension: inverted telescopic forks (front); swing arm with single horizontal damper under the engine (rear)

Brakes: 12.6 inch twin discs with six-piston caliper (front)

Wheels: light alloy; 3.50x17 inch (front); 4.50x17 inch (rear)

Weight: 430 lb

Erik Buell's impressive 1200 RSS is derived from the Harley-Davidson Sportsman but bas a much lighter frame assembly.