Returning American motorcycle maker Buell has unveiled its first new releases since its last revival with the launch of the Buell SuperTouring 1190 and DR Baja dirtbike at Daytona Bike Week.
The company is undergoing another metamorphosis about six years after being mothballed in 2016 for the second time after being taken down by former Harley-Davidson owners in 2009 as well.
After restarting production in November 2021 with a rebooted version of the existing Buell 1190 RX sportbike – now known as the Hammerhead – Buell revealed this weekend the production version of a new touring motorcycle that she teased when announcing her comeback 12 months ago.
The Buell SuperTouring 1190 uses a detuned 185 hp version of the engine available in the Hammerhead, which the company says makes it the fastest production sports tourer in the world.
While that title may be challenged by other models claiming to be categorized in the Sports Tourer category – like the Kawasaki H2 SX – the SuperTouring 1190 is highly valued with 101 lb-ft of torque and prices starting at $21,995. . (around £17,000).
Although not an adventure bike, the SuperTouring 1190 could be considered a spiritual success for the Buell Ulysses and seems destined directly for Harley-Davidson Pan America.
Much like the Ulysses – which was both maligned and become a cult favorite for its quirky looks and unusual on-road configuration – from the start, the SuperTouring 1190 buys the quirky nature of the Buell with a boxy, utilitarian appearance. which will divide opinion.
The sculpted side profile is dominated by a fuel-alloy design in the frame, which appears to resemble older Buells dating back to the Harley-Davidson era, such as the 1125R and XB9R.
The overall finish also commands attention with an unusual front end dominated by two closely spaced circular headlights wrapped in a large rectangular bonnet, plus a running light strip attached below and a vertical windscreen.
Buell Baja DR makes bolder claims
At the other end of the scale, the Buell Baja DR sees the company move into dirt bike territory, an area it says represents a big step for the company.
It also comes with the same 1190cc 72-degree V-twin engine producing 175hp, enough for Buell to consider it the most powerful production dirtbike in the world.
Notably, the frame appears to have a tubular design—rather than the alloy of its rivals—plus motocross-style suspension and bodywork.
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