Buell to launch Bolt-based tourer

Buell will launch a touring version of its revolutionary Firebolt sports bike later this summer.

You can read the full story on the new Buell tourers in the latest issue of MCN, but here’s our first impressions:

*The new bike is currently undergoing final tests at racetracks and on the roads around the Milwaukee factory.

*The new bike will share the majority of its parts with the Firebolt but will be softened to offer riders, and pillions, more weather protection and comfort for touring

* The new bike is thought to have abandoned the Firebolt’s sporty stepped seat and pillion perch in favour of a single pillion and rider seat and feature less radically positioned handlebars with the clip-ons replaced with flat-bars.

*As the 984cc V-twin motor is a low revving engine with loads of torque it will be fine for touring and isn’t expected to be changed at all.

The new bike is expected to be launched in July, alongside parent company Harley-Davidson’s new range of special 100th anniversary bikes, although Buell may delay this so as not to detract from the birthday celebrations.