2003 Buell XB9R Track Bike (Engine Cases Only)
Going racing was one of Buell’s main goals. Along the way, he had created a number of track bikes that were meant to go head to head with the competitors and our find today highlights Buell’s success in his objective.
As you guys all surely remember, sport bikes were being developed wildly fast in the 80s-early 00s with new models coming out every couple years. Buell had his work cut out for him from the start. His 750cc race bike missed the mark as the racing governing bodies moved the super bikes from 750cc to 1000cc. Many X1 chassis were turned into race bikes but those were far behind the competitors in terms of technology. The release of the XB platform was good in the sense that it was different than what the competitors were making and it was a big step up in terms of technology from the X1. The XB quickly became a popular platform for racers all around the country.
These XBs came nowhere close to the factory XBRR that debuted in 2007. These bikes largely had stock powerplants with upgrades to brakes, suspensions, bodywork, etc. They were also no match for the 600cc inline 4s as they lacked the top end speed needed on a long straight. Where they did shine was against other 2 cylinder bikes. The XB platform more or less ran the ASRA Thunderbike championship in a field of Ducatis and BMWs from 2003-2007.
After doing some research, I suspect this bike was rode by either Dave Estok or Bryan Bemisderfer in the ASRA Thunderbike Championship. It’s unclear if this is a championship winning bike but there is a good shot considering Estok won multiple Thunderbike Championships in the same period the XBs were being produced. The history would definitely be something work probing with the seller.
From the seller:
You are bidding on 2003 Buell Race Chassis. Frame & Engine Number Have Been X Out and Stamped Race Only. Just Bare Cases in frame, no other motor parts come with it. Has Penske Rear Shock and brembo Master Cylinder. Front Forks are Engraved RACE ONLY. Many custom and modified Carbon fiber parts. Comes with custom Stand. Bike Sold with Bill of Sale Only
As mentioned by the seller, the bike is missing a motor but is otherwise complete. XB motors can be had for cheap and I can’t imagine the sale price of the chassis will eat up a couple months pay. If you know your way around Buells or know someone who does there is tremendous opportunity to have an interesting project and riding experience for not too much money. There may also be an opportunity to make your money back later on if you can make her roadworthy considering the history this bike may have. This is an interesting proposition for sure.
Thanks for reading!
Norm
