1997 Buell Thunderbolt

Rare Buell S3T Thunderbolt in really good condition. The T model denotes that this is the touring version of the Thunderbolt which came with higher bars, panniers, soft pannier inner bags, plus leg shields. These are still with the bike, but not currently fitted, and look virtually unused. The bike also now has an aftermarket Devil exhaust and Force air-filter, however the original silencer and airbox are also still with the bike.

This model wasn't initially available in the UK and this example was imported from the US, in 2008 and has had three previous owners.

The seat has been reupholstered, and relatively narrow and low, making this an easy bike to manoeuvre off the stand.

With a tuned, rubber mounted Harley Sportster engine, the bike is pretty quick, has lots of torque and sounds great. Smaller and lower than a lot of the current touring bikes, you don't have to be tall to get your feet down, so this is not an intimidating bike to ride. It handles very well and makes a great noise, but not too loud.

Spare parts are still available from Harley dealers and the simple, push rod engine and single carburettor, make this simple to service and maintain. These are in my opinion great looking bikes, and very rare in the UK, so not a run of the mill. As a tourer, the fairing keeps a lot (but not all) of the wind off you, and the combination of a torquey, willing motor, and precise handling make A road travel a real blast. On the motorway, the bike is pretty smooth and burbles along, as you'd expect for a bike with a Harley engine.

Having previously owned 4 Buell Lightnings, I always wanted a Thunderbolt, and purchased this one 18 months ago. Unfortunately, due to a back injury and subsequent surgery, I'm now looking for something lighter, so regrettably have to let this beauty go. I might consider a p. x. for a drum brake Moto Morini 350 Sport or a 500 Camel.

The bike must go, so I am open to sensible offers.