1995 Buell Thunderbolt S2
Miles: 10,485
Clean Arizona Title
Listed Price: $8,750
Listing Ends: Jan 17th, 2025
Introduced in 1994, Buell’s Thunderbolt S2 was based around a hopped-up 1203cc 45° Harley-Davidson Sportster engine, backed by a five-speed transmission, rubber-mounted in a stylish and lightweight tubular frame, wrapped in minimalist bodywork that showed off the big twin engine to good effect. Claimed power was an unimpressive 76hp, but the engine was obviously famed more for its massive torque that gave the relatively lightweight 457lbs dry machine impressive shove. Adjustable WP suspension provided excellent handling, 17″ wheels [cast or optional machined aluminum] meant modern performance rubber could be fitted and, although there’s just a single brake caliper up front, it’s a massive six-piston unit that provides plenty of stopping power for road use. Basically, the Thunderbolt was the truly sporty Sportster Harley should have built.
1995 Buell S2 Thunderbolt signature series #1066 of 1399 made. Low 10,485 miles. Ice pearl white paint. PM factory wheel upgrade. Super trap stainless exhaust, original included. Corbin seat, original included. WP forks recently serviced with new seals, have receipt. New tires and fluids. Original CV carburetor with thunder jet kit installed. Factory carbon fiber and forged components which disappeared after Harley purchase. Bike is in excellent overall condition. Senior owned. Factory service and owners manual included. A couple very small rock chips which have been touched up, see last three photos. Runs and drives great. Arizona titled and registered in my name. Local pickup only. Bike located in Mesa AZ. Full cash payment upon pickup. Questions answered or bike can be viewed prior to purchase just message through eBay to schedule a viewing.
Although early Buells have a bit of a kit-bike reputation and style, with those very 80s/90s Performance Machine wheels, pearl white paint, and big, clunky Harley switchgear components, they’re also full of thoughtful engineering touches, and have a reputation for being well built, with excellent handling and power. This Buell Thunderbolt S2 has low miles, has been tastefully upgraded, well cared for, and comes with the original parts, if originality is your thing. I’m still shocked these go for so little money: it’s a modern classic that offers performance and style and character, and you should be able to get it serviced at your local Harley dealer. Even if they look at you sideways when you rumble in.
-tad
Back in the day when theses were new, I test rode one at a dealership. Probably 50 miles – never over revved it, never missed a gear. By the time I got back the front brake was warped, the shock was blown, something in the primary had come apart and the rear cylinder was puking oil all over. Later, after I worked at a Harley/Buell dealership for a few years I became very familiar with the saying “they all do that sir”
Yikes! I’d read good things about them and a buddy of mine had an S1 Lightning for years, but it sounds like you’ve got plenty of experience with these bikes and know your stuff. Bummer to hear that about them!