Erik Buell brought out his newest offering, the EBR 1190RX, which seems to be the more street friendly version of the 1190RS Super Bike, though at 419 pounds, 185 horsepower and 102 foot pounds of torque, we’re still looking at a very serious machine here.
The tech specs detailed below are impressive, but let’s talk price, MSRP is $18,995! What a difference a partnership with a big company can make. Full scale production is scheduled to begin in December.
Press release follows:
ORLANDO, Fla. – After months of speculation from motorcycle dealers, media and sportbike enthusiasts, Erik Buell Racing (EBR) today unveiled their latest sportbike, the EBR 1190RX, at the American International Motorcycle Exposition (AIMExpo) in Orlando.
While the new, street-legal high performance motorcycle is a direct descendant of EBR’s race-bred limited edition 1190RS Super Bike, the 1190RX features many new rider-focused features and has substantially raised the bar over competitive sportbike offerings. Most notably, the new motorcycle weighs-in at just 419 pounds, yet boasts 185 horsepower and 102 ft.-lbs. of torque from its ET-V2 1190 cc V-Twin engine. Few, if any, production motorcycles have ever produced this level of peak torque. The 1190RX’s wide torque band assures riders that ample power is available in every gear, and 21 traction control settings keep the power within the rider’s control in all road conditions. Aside from boasting the broadest torque band, the new engine delivers a combined highway/city fuel economy of over 40 mpg. Likewise, the hydrocarbons and nitrous oxide exhaust emissions produced by the 1190RX are less than 25% of those allowed by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards. Carbon monoxide emissions are just 6% of the level allowed by U.S. federal regulations.
The breakthrough engine design and EBR’s racing-inspired handling features are coupled with all-new styling and scientifically-derived aerodynamics that rival the performance and drivability of any superbike produced by any manufacturer in the world. The multi-function digital instrument gauge cluster allows the rider to adjust performance parameters such as traction control, as well as to access numerous functions including track performance data, service intervals and system diagnostics.
Perhaps the most surprising announcement during the unveiling and accompanying press conference, however, is the 1190RX’s price: The new model is being offered with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of just $18,995.
The EBR 1190RX is completely assembled at EBR’s facility in East Troy, Wis., combining EBR’s in-house engineering and manufacturing capabilities with specialized components from world-class suppliers around the globe. Full-scale production is scheduled to begin in December, 2013.
Engine
- Type ET-V2: 72° V-Twin, Liquid Cooled, Four-stroke
- Bore x Stroke 4.17 in. x 2.66in. (106 x 67.5 mm)
- Displacement 72.6 cu in. (1190cc)
- Compression Ratio 13.4 : 1
- Fuel Delivery Electronic Fuel injection with 2 port injectors and 2 showerhead injectors
- Peak Torque 101.6 ft-lbs. @ 8200 rpm (137.8 Nm @ 8200 rpm)
- Peak Horsepower 185 hp @ 10,600 rpm
Dimensions
- Overall Length 80.3in. (2040mm.)
- Overall Width 29.0in. (737mm)
- Overall Height 43.7in. (1110mm)
- Seat Height 32.5in. (826mm)
- Ground Clearance 4.7in. (120mm)
- Rake 22.4°
- Trail 3.80in. (96.5mm)
- Lean Angle 55°
- Fuel Capacity 4.5 gal (17.lL)
- Weight (Wet, no fuel) 419lbs. (190kg)
EBR will be exclusive distributor for Hero in North America
And speaking of that big company partnership, it was also announced that Erik Buell Racing will be the exclusive distributor of Hero brand motorcycles and scooters in North America beginning in the summer of 2014. It looks like both Erik Buell and Hero are winners in this arrangement. Erik gets the financial stability and backing necessary to bring out a bike like the 1190RX at a realistic price while Hero gets the opportunity to bring their bikes to North America in conjunction with a recognizable name.
Those dealers will have everything from scooters to razor edged sport bikes like the 1190RX. Erik had stated previously a stand alone Buell dealer would have had a very hard time surviving economically. This Buell and Hero combination looks like it could be a winner.
Link: Erik Buell Racing
Tom Lyons says
I think it’s a very interesting offering. Clearly in Ducati territory, and built in the US.
That just might “check all the right boxes” for a lot of people.
Paul Crowe says
I think the Buell and Ducati match up could be great to watch because this is, indeed, squarely in the Ducati world.
Jake318 says
I am in agreement . I own 15 Fully upgraded Superbikes in total , 1 of which is a 2010 Ducati 1198 with upgraded suspension. K-tech rear shock/fork cartridges, intake, engine tuning , exhaust(engine breathing/tree hugger package) 1 2009 Buell 1125R, Dan Crower racing cam(Great deal,+20hp 600$ ) Mupo rear shock , Ohlins FGR00 Superbike forks, ISR 6 piston racing calipers on Braking front rotors. Intake free flow pipercross air filter, Full race inconel exhaust system.
1. 2007 1420cc Buell XB12RFirebolt with Garrett, Sicom Ceramic perimeter Front brakes/rotor ( http://www.sicom-brakes.net= BTW Sicom ceramic UNBELEIVABLE=No traditional system compares and less than traditional Brembo race spec system.
Lastly a EBR1190RS Full factory Superbike.(won Daytona + record for fastest motorcycle ever ran on high banks)
Sorry long winded point is the EBR & Buell have a better handling chassis for track day/sport riding. This is opinion of race team rider (not naming rider do not want to get anyone poed) But the Ducati 1098/1198/1199 has the better engine package. NOW with the 1190RX ,EBR has a Stock Superbike creating 165hp at the REAR wheel.
This is roughly the same output of the 1199s Panagale, and about 5 hp down on the 1199R model. Both weigh in at roughly 420lbs wet.
The Ducatitista? sp? might argue , but the new EBR1190RX And the new Ducati 1190s/r Panagale are practically identical twins …on paper…. I cant wait to see a full blown comparison.
Mark L. says
This looks like it is a brilliant marketing move on both sides. The $18K price tag is relatively awesome as well. I can’t wait to see these actually hit the road.
Mark L.
Medicated Steve says
18k? I could by two new litre bikes for that and have more power. Sorry but after owning a Buell, this makes me vomit in my mouth a little. Most likely this bike with be competitive with a Jap 750. People will most likely go to a EBR dealer for a Hero, not an 1190. In fact, Hero sales will probably be the only way he stays a float.
Medicated Steve says
Btw, it doesnt even have matching wheels. Yes, It matters.
rohorn says
Any high performance enthusiast who prefers function over form should understand the design of those wheels. F & R wheels see different loads on this application – why should they look the same to an informed rider?
I’m guessing Erik doesn’t care a whole lot for the low information motorcycle market, which is also why I’m guessing Harley had no use for him.
Medicated Steve says
Is there another bike out there (largly produced) with two completely different styled wheels? I get what youre saying, but seriously, you could design the front to match the rear and not just re-use some old xb wheels. I suspect the ztl setup wouldn’t work on that rear wheel for whatever reason.
rohorn says
Very understandable – but there are an awful lot of people who dislike the perception that all sportbikes look the same. Paint every bike on the WSB grid white and ask the public to identify them – most of them couldn’t. So I’m guessing the wheel design thing helps differentiate them from the rest of the market – and appeals to the few sportbike individualists.
MrDude_1 says
All Single Side Swingarm bikes have mismatched wheels.
That said, these match.
The front can have lighter spokes, because the brake torque is applied directly to the rim.
The rear has thick spokes, because the engine power, and rear brake torque, is applied through them..
But, the rear is the exact inverse of the front. look at the side view, they fit inside each other.
GenWaylaid says
Take a close look at the spoke patterns on any bicycle. Front wheels are almost always radially spoked unless a disc brake is employed (bicycles and Buells apply brake torque at the rim). Rear wheels have spokes that cross each other to handle the drive torque being applied at the hub. The cross pattern may even go so far that the spokes are tangent to the hub flange, so that hub torque translates directly into spoke tension.
Jeff says
They are not “old xb” wheels. They are a completely different design. If you had an XB, you should be easily able to discern the difference. These wheels have no hub, which makes them much lighter than the wheels found on other bikes, including the XB. As far as being different, why compromise performance for purely esthetic reasons?
FREEMAN says
If you’ve ever seen any of the videos from Harley’s website when Buells used to be sold there, then you would know that Buell believes in keeping unsprung weight low and the mass centralized in the design of his bikes. Hence the ZTL setup and the very lightweight-looking front wheel. The rear wheel will have more severe forces acting through it and as such is designed to accomodate them. Function over form. I get what you’re saying, but think about it before you just throw down the hate.
Paul Crowe says
I, too, owned a Buell a long time ago, an RS1200 in 1989, and it had a LOT of issues, but Erik managed to start a motorcycle company, build it up to the point where Harley bought in, then took control and eventually shut it down. He came back with his own small firm, built more bikes and then partnered with Hero.
Up until now, Erik has always been operating with too little cash and then, under Harley, a management that didn’t support his efforts. Now he has the resources and a partner who gives him the backing and support necessary to build a proper motorcycle. He’s been one persistent and stubborn guy and he’s done a lot more than most of his critics.
The economy is his greatest enemy right now, but that’s an issue for all motorcycle companies. All other things being equal, I think Erik has a chance to do extremely well and you might want to wait and see what this bike can do before writing him off. As Tom says above, it checks all the right boxes.
Medicated Steve says
Yes Paul you are right. Its somewhat of a sensitive subject as I just recently sold my immaculate XB for a fraction of what it should have been worth. I also had a whole bunch of issues, including needing a new stator with only 4000 miles on it. Shortly thereafter it left me for dead when my ecu went bad and the bike started to pour fuel out of the rear cylinder’s exhaust pipe. Add to that all the little things and again the ridiculous price tag and horrible resale value, I guess at the end of the day, I am severely jaded. I used to be all about owning an american motorcycle, but for now, I cant stand the thought of it. I am all about giving someone second third and sometimes even a forth chance so maybe I will just relax and see what the future holds.
Racetrack Style says
What 2 new liter bikes can you buy for the same price?
Medicated Steve says
Agreed. It was a slight exageration. Again what are you getting for 18k that you cant have for 12? Possibly even 11? Grab up a left over for 9 or 10? On ebay right now are a bunch of leftover 2012’s for about 10k with ZERO miles.
Adam says
And that’s the problem. No one wants the Japanese liter bikes anymore. I think due to the lack of interest in the Japanese liter bikes (and the heavy discounting combined with a plethora of 2 year and 3 year old leftovers), a lot of people have forgotten what the Japanese are stating as MSRP:
Honda CBR1000RR: $13,800
Suzuki GSX-R1000: $13,799
Kawasaki ZX-10R: $14,299
Yamaha YZF-R1: $14,490
And don’t forget, most of the Japanese 600’s have MSRPs around $12k these days.
Richard Gozinya says
What liter bike with more power than this is available new for 9k?
Jake318 says
Medicated Steve, I was VERY skeptical of the EBR claim of 185hp(that’s at crank) as the EBR1190RS was Claimed to have 185hp at the rear wheel but was found to have only 145hp at the rear wheel.( the 185 RWHP was a 1190RS with race package)
I Guess EBR learned its lesson.I did hear from those in the know that the early production bikes did in fact Dyno at 165hp at the rear wheel. The 185HP makes sence at the crank and MANY companies use ..at crank.. hp figures so you cant blame EBR for doing the same. American motorcycle engineers seem to first develop Great Chassis/handling bikes, then add HP to later models.
Fischer motorcycles in Maryland USA had the BEST handling motorcycle on the market.
Google Fischer WRX 650? VERY cool looking and handled like a true MotoGP bike.
Engine …. Hyosung 650 liquid V-Twin. Glad to see an Superbike with both power and handling .
TwoWheelsNoBrain says
If only I had space in my garage I’d fill it with one of these. I had an XB12X that I rode for 20,000 trouble-free miles. I only got rid of it because I modified it to the point where it was no longer fun to ride (too loud, and too wheelie-prone). If this bike can compete with the BMW S1000RR (in the same price range), it could be a definite contender. Best of luck to Mr. Buell after getting totally crapped on by HD.
jim says
I understand it’s ‘assembled at EBR’s facility in East Troy, Wis’… but it being manufactured in India?
Mike says
No it is not. Even the engine is built in-house now.
Medicated Steve says
I thought they were all rotax engines… I doubt Rotax would allow somone else to assemble their engines.
Rebecca says
EBR purchased the Rotax 1190 from Rotax, so they have all rights now.
Jeff says
Buell designed the engine, and had Rotax manufacture it, since HD didn’t have the resources due to other projects. They bought the engine manufacturing rights from Rotax and have made significant changes since. This is not a Rotax motor. Even the one in the1125 wasn’t a Rotax motor. It has only ever been used in Buell motorcycles. It was conceived and designed by Buell. Rotax didn’t even do the castings. They simply did the machining and assembly.
jon says
How do you think most bikes are done in the US? Most of the parts are made overseas and then just put together here.
Leston says
very glad to see EBR with a production ready motorcycle that is in an appropriate price range. Will this bike be able to compete against the 650cc I-4 in AMA or will it compete against the liter bikes?
Paul Crowe says
The word is EBR will campaign this bike in World Superbike next year, heads up against the Ducati 1199.
Leston says
I look forward to your excellent coverage of EBR debut in the world superbike class 😉
Fred says
That’s what missing in world superbike, an American contender. This should help boost the world superbike fan base over here. I wish EBR good fortune.
🙂
jar says
To EBR = best bike so far.
As always, I’m glad to see someone making something a bit different.
However, while $19k is better than $40k, it’s still a reach for most of the riding public.
If I’m inclined to reach, I’m going to Ducati chasing the 899 which has a better look, weighs 20lbs less, has fully adjustable suspension, ABS, various electronic ride modes, and has a dealer network. I sacrifice a bit of torque and HP (the Duc does have a better lb/HP ratio), but I’m into a marque with history and a (substantial, global) following. Plus I put $4k or so back in my pocket.
Goodluck to the guys at EBR (and Motus for that matter), it’s a tough road selling expensive, exclusive rides today with the market thick with viable more cost effective alternatives.
***brake duct looks ugly, shoulda looked harder at the vintage triumphs and such with the vented drums, much cleaner look
Medicated Steve says
Exactly.
jerseymayhem says
where are you getting your information from?
A Ducati 899 Panigale weighs 425.5lbs vs the 419lbs of a 1190rx…
And the hp/lb ratio is: 2.875hp/lb for the 899 Panigale vs 2.26hp/lb for the 1190rx
And FYI:
1190rx: 1.02 hp/kg
1199 Panigale: 1.19 hp/kg
so there’s that…
This new 1190rx is really cool, hopefully I can get my hands on one.
jar says
You caught me…
Ducati’s site:
Wet weights indicate total bike weight with all operating consumable liquids and a fuel tank filled to 90% of capacity (as per EC standard 93/93).
The 899 is listed at 425lbs Wet = 90% full tank of gas = 4.05gal @ 6.25lbs per gallon. Plus, we know it has all other consumables…
So, in “apples to apples” as best we can, the EBR is at 419lbs (Wet, No Fuel) vs the 400lb (corrected) Duc.
You have me on the power to weight however, EBR has the advantage based on published numbers and without knowing anything more about EBR’s reporting of “weight” other than “Wet, no fuel”.
EBR 185HP/419lbs = .44 HPs pushing each pound
vs.
Duc 899 148HP/400lbs = .37 HPs pushing each pound.
I shall re-phrase my earlier statement modestly to include “the Duc likely has a better actual HP/lb ratio”….only because Duc cites an EC specification regarding how they are generating their figures, whereas EBR does not – likely because there is more than a bit of fudge here – based on my experience as an OEM vehicle manufacturer and “published” values….
I like my chances of throwing a leg over the 899 in my lifetime a whole lot better than finding an attainable 1190rx….
FYI – if we assume the asterisks on the Duc1199 site indicates the same EC spec….then the power to weight for the 1199 would look like this:
Duc 1199 = 195HP/ 390lbs = .5HPs for every pound
some day, might even find one of those as well, still less of a unicorn than the 1190RX
Oz says
hmm, ducati 899 panagail 2.68 lbs/hp, buell 1190rx 2.26 lbs/hp (both wet weights w/o fuel) so more pounds per horsepower is better? My math gives the buell a better than 18% “disadvantage”. It is even greater using the torque figures.
Dano says
I looked the Motus over again just last weekend at Barber. The price tag scares me back to the reality of my (retired) pocketbook. This machine looks as though it could fill that ‘day trippin’ with spunk’ void that I would like to fill.
Some small ergonomic changes and some small soft bags on the back and I’m in at $19K.
I’m not sure how a 72 degree twin will sound though, like one of the Vulcans trying to sound like a H.D…not pleasing. With any luck EBR realized that and mellowed it out.
This should sell very well.
Jeff says
Buell spent quite a bit of time coming up with the 72 degree angle. The way it sounded was part of the equation. 72 is a vactor of 720, the number of degrees in a complete combustion cycle. It didn’t happen by accident.
MrDefo says
I hear lots of people saying that “if only it were priced lower,” or “I can get the same performance for a couple thousand less.” Okay yes, you can. But those are established companies that aren’t American. This is a relatively young company who only now has received anything close to decent funding, and if we let a few thousand dollars separate us from supporting an American sports bike, something that people have been asking for for years, then we have no room to complain about the endless parade of same-old bikes from Japan and Europe. The fact of the matter is that it’s only going to get better from here, if we take charge and put our money where our mouths are now. Otherwise EBR is just another flash in the pan example of “why we can’t have nice things.”
jar says
@MrDefo
I get and understand your argument, and can go with you to a degree.
However, at some point the value proposition (what I get vs. what I spend) has to move closer to correct.
I’m willing to pay a premium if what I’m getting is that much better, but I don’t think “made in the USA” warrants that in and of itself.
If and when I pay a premium for a US made product (or any premium product really), my expectation is superior quality, superior performance, superior-ness (is that a word?) of some nature vs. other options that I have for my purchase.
With EBR we have very little to set the product apart, let alone above any of the other more cost effective options – even less for those products in a similar premium price category. All we have, to the tune of ~+50% additional cost, is made in the USA – without better performance, without better quality, without superior-ness.
The biggest issue I have with your logic is that this is that “it’s only going to get better from here”. At this price point, which will lead to a sales volume of maybe 100-200 units a year, perhaps 1000 at the absolute most, such that “here” is the only place we’re going to get to….terminating perhaps in another firesale 3 years from now a la 1125…
Like it or not, getting the value proposition right is key to success – for anyone, US manufacture or not – this one misses the boat, and will – unfortunately – suffer for it.
In the end, if the product is unable to stand on it’s own and do what it is supposed to (generate revenue), it will not exist for long, or it’s called a “hobby” wherein turning a buck isn’t the primary interest….
Medicated Steve says
Thank You. Fire sale is right.
Bart says
jar,
Right on! In addition, think about the value proposition from the dealer point of view: is this the next best way to add value/generate revenue vs the available alternatives? Somebody is going to have to throw down big $$ for spares inventory, training a mechanic on service/repair in addition to to the flooring charges for a few $19K bikes. Or EB’s new backer is going to have to subsidize this to some degree to make it palatable. I would like to see the business plan offered the dealers. It will have to be sold thru dealers that survived the recession, they are the smart ones, the survivors.
This bike is competing against bikes/dealer network like the KTM 1190 RC8 R at $16.5K, a solid bike with performance capability beyond 95% of those that ride it. I know, I have pushed one with slicks pretty hard on the track a few times. Its is “ready to race” or certainly hold its own on a track day at an A-pace.
We demoed the thing for a season to our track day customers, they came off the bike very impressed.
Nobody bought the bike! Very thin market for edgy/pricey bikes like that and this new EBR bike. Your value argument stands.
Leston says
In addition, saw the Motus last weekend at barber and at their facility in Birmingham. It is a remarkably comfortable bike and its performance potential rivals a liter bike at its core. Best of luck to both EBR and Motus
Hooligan says
I don’t think the Ducati Panagale is any real benchmark in WSBK it has never been competative with the other bikes. Nor in BSB either, the old Troy Baylis Ducs would probably trounce it anyday. But when WSBK goes for standard control ECU’s and all the expensive electrics are shorn off it might be a different story. But I doubt it, BSB has standard control ECU’s and no electronics and the Panagale is nowhere. The standard/controll ECU’s have made BSB some of the most exciting close racing you could imagine. It’s no longer a case of how much money you can throw at a bike but how well you get it to work and how good the rider is.
Ry says
I am very interested, Above I saw complaint of how this $18K is over priced compared to liter bikes. If you have ever ridden a 100 horsepower Ducati and compared it to a 100 hp liter bike you would understand. This being said, in 07 or 08 my brother picked up a new 1125r and we went for a jaunt threw some appropriate roads, my brother on his new Buell and me on my 1000 CC Duc. About half way out we swapped bikes and if I was blindfolded The only indications that I was on a different bike was the lack of clutch chatter and the extra 3500 rpm before the limiter. Since this day I have seen Buell as Ducati’s direct competitor and now with this price and the much improved styling it is only a matter of time till people come around. After saying this , I am currently riding a 600 GSXR for my sport bike and I deeply miss the endless torque that my duc had.
As for the wheel not matching, if you have a engineering background it makes sense that they don’t match but it may have been a good idea to visually balance them to each other. That being said, not a deal breaker and I may have to move this bike to my motorcycle bucket list.
WillyP says
From an engineering standpoint if the front and rear wheels matched the front wheel would be heavier than necessary.
For 19k, a compromise like that would be unacceptable. If I paid 19k for a bike, I would excpect a very high level of each part being optimized to it’s specific purpose. Not designed in a particular way because ‘it looks good’
Jake318 says
RY you make a good point .Superbikes have gotten to the point they are SO good VERY few people have the skill( and low weight ) to ride the bike to its Limits.
I know I myself do not possess the skills needed to full test a superbike (and I own 10 Superbikes +5 unique performance builds ) How Easy it is to ride the bike fast then becomes a major factor.. Look at the Triumph Sprint ST 1050. 125hp 530lbs, NO WORLD BEATER by any means. Yet many track day instructors use them
because they are so EASY to go fast on . Ask around at a track day and there always seems to be a guy with the latest/greatest Superbike telling a story of an old guy on a Triumph Sprint ST 1050 passing/running same lap times as him and he couldn’t figure out how someone could go so fast on a bike that’s down 40-50hp .
Point is the high torque figure +hp at lower RPM of the EBR1190RX makes it EASIER to go fast than the Ducati 1199 Panagale. For that reason alone IMHO I can see magazine testers loving the EBR1190RX
Gidgester31 says
While I appreciate the discussion regarding aesthetics, the design of the front wheel / brake combo and its subsequent reduction to both unsprung and rotating (gyroscopic) mass is probably THE key reason to be excited about this bike. Imagine riding a liter bike that steers & flicks into and out of corners more or less like a 250cc class sportbike… if the 1190RX steers anything like the 1190RS that predates it, feeling this kind of steering response will now be a very real (quasi-affordable!) option for many people. Upon testing the 1190RS, Cycle World called it the greatest sportbike they had ever tested due (primarily) to its handling properties. If the wheels did not look as they do, you would not achieve this benefit to its fullest extent!
Regarding the concerns over the 1190RX’s suspension quality, have we collectively forgotten that the Showa Big Piston Fork has widely been given accolades by all who have tested it in the press; with many stating that its blend of ride control and compliance rivaling that of an Ohlins?
All of this, combined with the 100 ft. lbs. of torque should make the EBR a VERY compelling ride!
Medicated Steve says
Like I said, tell me of another bike that doesnt have matching wheels? A streetbike. Not some one off custom. For 18k the wheels better freaking match. Find a way to design them to look alike and perform as they should. Its naive to think that they can’t do that. Its not a deal breaker, but goddamn. Someone on here said sssa bikes have different wheels. Not all, and the ones that are different are at least VERY similar. Also, You cant build an entire company on handling alone. Which is what EBR keeps trying to do. Remember “own the corners”? Doesnt matter how great you own them when any 600 since 1994 blows right by you out of the turn. If you really weigh the pros and cons of each bike you will surely see how this falls way behind. Ducati has a large market, tons of vendors, customer service, etc. There is no contest. I bet ducati isnt even thinking about a rivalry.
150k + Rider says
Having read through most of the posts, I have to ask why do you have such a hard on for downing Buells? I mean what is the real reason, because all of the liter bikers I interact with are appreciative of Buell. Mostly, they praise the handling, and cite the lack of speed as the reason for not owning one. I mean, I am unimpressed with the offerings of Kawasaki or Suzuki, but they fulfill someones needs.
Like wise, Buell fills the need for domestically produced, fun to ride, piratical sport bikes. So, if your biggest concern in life is bravado, then buy the”in” liter bike that won the most races this year. However, if you are more concerned with the ride, then determine your riding needs and find the bike that best fulfill those needs.
I have rode over 150,000 miles in the past ten years on Harley’s, R1’s, and Buell’s. By far, the Buell was the best bike I have rode for piratical reasons. I put 40,000 miles on my xb9r with out a single problem, got 54 MPG, and still managed to skunk my friends on 600’s and liters during our rides because they can not maneuver like me. The 55 degree lean angle partnered with the mass centralized design of the Buell’s makes a huge difference the performance during high speed cornering compared to other bikes. So, for $11,200 I could not ask for, nor find, a more well engineered bike for my needs. If I wanted a track bike I would go buy a track bike, but I wanted a sport bike for commuting so that is what I got.
I can agree that the 1190RX lacks the sex appeal of the other sports bikes. However, I prefer a functionally engineered piece of equipment over a pretty one any day. If you know your history, you will know that Buell has been an industry design leader for the past 30 years. Because, while everyone else has been concerned with topping the other in horsepower and torque, Buell has been focused on making the power of a bike more usable to the rider. Just think about how squirrely sport bikes were before mass centralization.
Here are some important points to note:
1.Prior to the introduction of Buell’s “Mass Centralized Design” no one designed their bikes that way; now “Mass Centralized System” is a catch phrase in every manufactures pamphlets.
2.Buell’s hub-less breaking system forced other manufactures to engineer improvements in breaking power and weight reduction into their bikes.
3.Then, the Buell design of the fuel in the chaises and oil in the swing arm caused other manufactures to retool their tubular cage-style chaises to make the ride more manageable by making the bike more ridged.
4.Just, look at the chaises architecture of the the ’13 or ’14 liter bikes, they all mimic the design angles of the Buell chaises.
5.Finally, Yamaha adopted the duel “bug eyes” look of the xb9r. Prior to this bikes were designed to have only one headlight or to minimize the headlight profile.
So, it appears to me that the foreign guys owe Buell some royalties for successfully utilizing his designs to win races over the past 30 years. At least we should give credit where credit is due.
Consider this as well:
1. Buell dominated NHRA drag bike, even beating out the V-Rods, for three years while Harley Davidson was funding them.
2.The 1125r also won the AMA national series the year Harley Davidson dropped Buell.
3. This year, in Daytona the 1190 finished in 9th place. Placing in the top ten during the first race of the first production year of the bike is impressive.
4.Further more, the design of the 1190RX resembles a more developed version of the Suzuki TL1000r, which was no slouch.
Buell, has has a history of upsetting the status quo.
So, as an engineering student, its just my humble opinion, that the only thing Buell’s ever lacked was power being engineered into the power plant. So, lets see what Buell has engineered, now that he is not constrained as he was. Because, judgment of a product is best reserved for those who have studied and utilized that product, and who understand there needs against what the product offers. A Buell might not fit your needs. But, I don’t see how a $14,000 liter bike, getting 33 MPG, that requires almost twice the maintenance is more cost effective than the Buell unless you are making a living form racing.
Dan says
@medicated steve
Do you even ride a bike on the regular? I ask because your comments seem utterly rediculous. OK let me state my reasons rather than just blurting out what first comes to mind. I currently ride a 09 buell xb9sx, and my buddies all blow me away on their r1’s and busas and what not in the straights of course! But what happens as soon as we hit the canyons? Im almost always behind the r1’s (theres 2) only the gsxr gives me trouble on a bad day riding. Why is this? Its because of the geometry and handling of the bike, i can flip mine from corner to corner at speeds much higher than them. Of course you can say rider skill comes into play and obviously it does, but except for a few of us we are all very simaler and decent riders, however when we switch bikes and hit the corners i can FEEL the weight of their bikes and no lie, its scary. Thus causing me to slow down in the bends. This is the defining characteristic of the buells and EBR bikes. Obviously we have not ridden the 1190rx but from the sounds of it they have drastically improved it and untill you have experienced the “feel” of these modern marvels i would say its hard to explain. The bikes literally feel like a class down in terms of weight and handling which is amazing! Plus theres no way a 600 will pull away from the 1190rx with that much hp and tq, i mean its just retarded to say that. Its possibly the highest tq of any production bike ever. when you drop 18 k on a bike your an enthusiest and you care about SO much more rather than if the spokes are preciseley the same, this is why i know you are not.
Medicated Steve says
First of all, I never said a 600 would pass an 1190. I was making a general statement (if you reread) that handling isnt everything. I do restore and ride motorcycles, although I do not road race. Hyabusya’s are not race bikes. They are also not as quick as most literbikes. They are meant for top speed highway cruising. “Super Sport Touring” would be the category. If you have a friend who drags a knee on a “busa” they are obviously on the wrong bike. Second, having owned a xb9sx myself, I do not believe for one second that you are ever even near a 1k unless they have stopped and waitied for you. I have ridden with people on 600’s that can barely balance themselves and still the Buell couldnt hang. Its not an opinion, its a FACT. My friend races semi-pro on an r6. After taking my bike for a spin, he got off and is still talking trash to this day. My 250 thumper was quicker. Also, hows that death wobble anywhere over 90? Don’t lie. They all do it. (Google Buell High Speed Wobble) Probably has a lot to do with the “geometry”. Wonder if the new ones will be subject to that. @jar has it absolutely right. FIRE SALE! I’ll tell you this, If anything these bikes will be collectable.
rohorn says
“My 250 thumper was quicker”
Any credibility you might have had left just went down the toilet.
Oh yes – the only Buell I ever top-ended that wobbled stopped doing so with some adjustments that took about 20 seconds to make. Buells aren’t idiot proof. And I had to deal with some idiots that bought them. Oh yes – I’m an ex-Buell mechanic from a Buell dealer that was their top seller for a number of years.
Medicated Steve says
You do realize “quick” and “fast” are two very different things? So you dont think that power to weight ratio of say a yz250f isnt more than that of a Buell xb9? You honestly think a Buell will take a 250 thumper off the line? Well then, there goes your cedibility. I’m sure you were the supertech of the century. Sounds like you have stock in Harley, and hope to again be a Buell tech. Good luck to you sir. Keep patting yourself on the back. At least there will always be work for you.
Medicated Steve says
Let me add, Since Mile 1 My Buell had death wobble. I went to several different dealers and they all said it was “normal”. Too bad you didnt work there you could have fixed it 123 I’m Sure.
rohorn says
A decent sprinter (As in “Athlete with shoes on”) can beat any bike “Off the line”. BFD. Motorcycle speed “Off the line” is a useful metric for those riding in, say, those that lost their licenses and have to ride around outdoor basketball courts, or for those who’ve done worse and have to imagine riding around prison courtyards or other areas of confinement….
Paul M Edwards says
My 2008 1125R has no such wobble, at least not up to the 160 mph speed I’ve hit on it several times during the 63,300+ (yes, sixty-three thousand) miles I’ve put on it.
Gidgester31 says
From my point of view, the wheels do match; both the front wheel and the rear wheel are a “six” spoke design, where each of the “spokes” is actually comprised of two separate spokes that are optimized for the stress they will encounter. Hence the wheels are both actually “six”/twelve spoke designs when viewed from the side view.
As with all aesthetic issues, “beauty is in the eye of the beholder”… I personally think these wheels look amazing, and certainly fitting the level of design and technology I would expect from an $19K motorcycle. The exhaust is a different story however… hopefully the aftermarket will have good looking & functional upgrade options!
With the power and likely handling of the 1190RX, this should be a sweet bike!
Regarding riding on the street and the need for more power, etc…. I am a year-round Pennsylvania rider, and have been for many years now. I ride either a 1998 Honda Superhawk or a 2012 CBR250R, and generally ride fairly aggressively. When I ride with some of the guys I know, many who ride new GSXR, R1 and / or Ducati liter bikes, I am usually one of (if not THE) fastest riders in the group… regardless of which bike I am riding! If you carry your momentum through the corners, you don’t need to accelerate hard on the other side. I understand that this only works if the road is very tight, but a good handling bike in the hands of a competent rider will often beat a fast, ill handling beast in less skilled hands.
If you doubt the EBR’s speed, have you watched this year’s AMA races? While it’s true that EBR didn’t score any podiums this season, it would be a gross error to call these bikes slow! From my view of the races this year, they were down –a little– on top speed; in addition to this, it looked like they needed some TC fine tuning… however, it certainly looked like they had the foundation for a competitive package.
JeCo says
I like the miss matched wheels. I like the the hollow hub technology that makes the need for it even more. What I dont like is the yellow paint, exposed fans and secondary canister. Two of the three can be fixed, game on.
I like how people think is this going to be some huge seller.. The key is that people that really dig it will feel confident enough to buy it. I believe there is a cool enough bike there for people to do so.
Good luck EBR.. lets hope that front rotor can hold up to the task.
Nicolas says
Let’s consider that not long ago, EBR was left for dead (almost), selling “racing” components. Now they’re back on the market, with a competitive bike up to par with any of its competitors, that can be purchased by anybody with loose cash or a decent credit score. What an accomplishment ! It’s awesome ! Who gives a flying damn if it’s +/- 10% off on the weight/power ratio or if the wheels are not alike …
I say great job, congrats, and godspeed EBR !
Cowpieapex says
It’s great to see Erik still in the game. His individualistic approach to motorcycle design has brought forth high performance character filled machines unlike the sterile high tech wonders that dominate today’s market.
I may always regret parting with one such machine of an earlier era (a Ducati GT750) but my S3T stands ready to remind me how close the man/machine/road/ interface can be.
scat says
It’s styling is completely underwhelming…..I hate to seem superficial, but where is the passion reflected in the styling…..?
Medicated Steve says
Don’t bother. Its function over form. It could look like a 3 legged dog as long as leans well and goes fast. See above comments. Obviously style has fallen to the back burner in the american sportbike world.
Mr. Joe says
I’ve had my 2008 XB12XT up to 130 a couple times… No death wobble. 1190RS has done well at 180 with no wobble, also. I’ve seen it. As for me? I’ve got a spot already cleared out in the stable for an RX.
Martin says
What engine is used in this bike? Does it based on some other bike engine?
Tim says
There is little I dont’t love about this bike for 19k. If it were being built anywhere but WI, USA it would be cheaper to import it than Fed, State and City taxes of making it here in the USA. Its true on all EBR bikes styling almost always takes a back seat to function. For those of you that say the wheel don’t match… for 19k I rather have wheels optimized to work over looking good. May be its because I’ve alwasy been a function over form guy, but the exposed fans are blessing to anyone who has ever been stuck in traffic on a liter bike. The stock exhaust is there to meet international sales requirements. Namely Austrailia and Japan. There are alot of tracks in the UK a stock Panigale can’t pass sound DB level requirements. Buell have history, like Ducati, Aprilia and Triump some good some bad. This bike if it improves on the best of the 1125r and fixes the that bike gremilins had, will be great! YMMV
chris says
I would like to know what two litre bikes from japan are combined less than 9.000.00 each and what 750cc jap bike makes over 185 horse power and 102 lb.ft. of torque?
Palmer says
Honestly, I really don’t care about the looking of the wheels.
I do like asymmetry, and if you look at the design of almost all Buell motorcycles you may see that there’s always been asymmetry somewhere.
But that’s not the point. What I like about the “hubless design” of the 1190rx wheels is that they engineered a product that works just fine (AMA races results confirm that) and probably cost a lot less than the best rival products available on the market, like a marchesini rim with brembo gold calipers.
It’s probably not that good, but in any case it can compete with isuch a setup without problems.
The awesome thing is that it’s probably a lot cheaper and a lot easier to industrialize.
That said, i’m looking forward for a couple of those rims for my 1125 (probably for less than a single marchesini magnesium rim), and it will be just outstanding, way better than any ecm, mufller and s**t like that, things that the average street rider really doesn’t need.
Any little experienced biker knows that reducing the weight of the rims will dramatically increase the handling (=fun) of the bike.
There’s a really interesting episode of Craftmans Experience which explains the engineering of Buell’s hubless wheels; they even make a weight comparison between the best “traditional” setup (front wheel with discs and calipers) on the market and the Buell setup.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qou7EovDH9M
That’s what I call an awesome technology, easy to produce, probably cheap and good as a top product.
canbalen says
at least an alternative to the ducati niche market ,rotax engines are rock solid and reliable . front brake is clearly a buell signature , just regret the muffler under the engine but this engine may require the actual configuration , anyway congrutalations to offer something new under the sun
Matt says
What I think that most of you commenters are forgetting when you’re comparing this to the ricers or the pasta rockets.
This bike represents something, us as Americans since this bike will be in WSBK in 2014. If this bike doesn’t “work”, he’s gonna have a massive haters club, bigger than he has now and I don’t know a single person willing to risk that.
Erik is the only American that can take on the other manufacturers and doing so within a breath of having BMC shut down? Yeah, that’s a big deal since I don’t see anyone doing such a thing except for BMW who just happens to have many decades or motorad under their belt and a sister car brand.
This is his FIRST bike!! How long has his competitors been in production? Don’t forget the big picture while trying to pick the RX apart.
Ty Augustine says
A lot of “glass is half empty” folks commenting on this.
Comparing a brand new bike to anything before it, especially without having ridden said bike, is pretty dumb….
Harry says
I saw top-speeds of the WSB on Phillips Island and the EBR are about 20 km down on the rest of the pack. How is that possible ? In this way it hardly makes sense to join this level of racing.