Ulysses – made for the traveller

4:59pm Tuesday 19th February 2008

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THE NEW Buell Ulysses XB12XT model was introduced last month as the second model in the Buell Ulysses family of motorcycles.

Reports are that the second generation Ulysses has the intuitive handling and tremendous torque that Buell has come to symbolise, so the XB12XT creates a sport riding experience on a very capable long-distance motorcycle.

Based on the Buell Ulysses adventure sport bike, the XB12XT features a specially-tuned shorter travel suspension and lower standard seat height.

I'm strongly in favour of the height reducing changes - I loved riding the original Ulysses but did find it a struggle having to slide off the saddle at stops.

But, it has to be said, not as much as some other adventure bikes that could do with a small stepladder in the top box.

I'd never considered myself short until trying some of today's trailies, so good for Buell.

Erik Buell, chairman and chief technical officer at Buell Motorcycle Company, said: "The XB12XT will dish out considerable comfort and potent performance at every turn.

"The new suspension and many other features will let riders and passengers enjoy this motorcycle on all kinds of roads. It's the perfect bike for zipping through the city, getting out to the country and back again, or vice versa."

By focusing on paved road performance, the XB12XT suspension springs and damping were optimised to soak up road imperfections, which allows a reduced suspension travel, resulting in a lower ride height and thus a lower centre of gravity.

Rider comfort has been given a lot of consideration, the screen and heated grips (both standard) should keep riders happy in the extreme conditions that the XB12XT can easily handle.

There are also two 10 amp/12-volt accessory power outlets to make sure modern riding necessities such as mobile phone, satnav, music and intercom systems, heated clothing and air bed pump can be used while many miles from home.

And rider and passenger will be able to carry enough clothing and kit to go the distance securely locked away inside the detachable side and top hard cases and there's also an additional storage cubby under the textured seat.

Having a 16.7 litre fuel-in-frame reservoir gives the XB12XT substantial riding range.

The XB12XT will be available from authorised Buell UK dealerships at £8,385 on the road from next month.