| Author | Message | ||
     Bertotti |
I don't understand why they reduced the turning radius or did I read that wrong? | ||
| Danger_dave |
I hope I can still get - or will still fit my '06 seat. Don't need no short saddle...don't want no short saddle.... | ||
| Paochow |
I think its neat that they did away with the TPS resets and timing adj, but I just did the 10K maintenance on my 06 and didn't find them very hard to do. I'd still rather do them than take a 8Amp loss in electrical output. I think I'll being sticking with my 06 as well. My wishes are for more fuel capacity and a 6th speed, so I can go 90mph @ 3000RPM. The larger oil cooler sounds intriguing. I may see if that can be retrofit. Dangerdave, for a muffler guard you could always pick up the Touratech one. Pricey, but it does the job. | ||
| Broads |
"don't understand why they reduced the turning radius or did I read that wrong" Reduced is good....takes smaller space to turn around.} | ||
| Thespive |
Huh? They increased steering angle from 54 degrees to 74 degrees. --Sean | ||
| Florida_lime |
Increasing the steering angle decreases the turning radius. In other words, it turns tighter to make a smaller circle. | ||
| Bertotti |
Oh thanks all I get it. I read it right but understood it backwards. I want to decrease my turning radius also. Maybe a file or grinder? We'll see come winter. Unless of course a 08 front end will fit? I also wonder if the engine changes are workable on my 07? | ||
| Danger_dave |
>>Dangerdave, for a muffler guard you could always pick up the Touratech one. Pricey, but it does the job.<< Yeah thanks - seen it - Military looking thing. All functuion no form. coulpa well placed hoops would do the job. removable. | ||
| Florida_lime |
" I want to decrease my turning radius also. Maybe a file or grinder?" If I understand it correctly (since I haven't seen any photos yet), the fork tubes are shifted forward, but the axle position is shifted backwards. This maintains wheelbase, rake, and trail, but allows the steering radius to be increased because the fork tubes have more clearance to the frame with the tubes being offset forward. So unless you want to take an angle grinder to your frame (gas tank!), I'd look into the option of fitting the '08 forks to your bike !  | ||
| Chadhargis |
The engine does seem to run smoother at idle. I got a chance to crank it up and sit on it. As Dave said...the turning radius and heat never bother me. Forks seems fine too. But I would like some better ridability in the lower RPM range, and I was told that it is much improved. While I wasn't ready for the Buell guy to snap my picture, here it is anyway. I look like I just woke up. LOL!  | ||
| Danger_dave |
>>I look like I just woke up. LOL! << Or a pretty good Lou Reed act. Why is that vehicle not smoking up? Donut smiley time. | ||
| Jammin_joules |
"If I understand it correctly (since I haven't seen any photos yet), the fork tubes are shifted forward, but the axle position is shifted backwards. This maintains wheelbase, rake, and trail, but allows the steering radius to be increased because the fork tubes have more clearance to the frame with the tubes being offset forward." New front end has different fork clamps, probably setting the forks more forward allowing clearance with frame. You can't shift fork mount at clamps forward, and axle back without affecting rake though. My guess is same rake and slightly longer wheel base. Shut up and ride! ~jammer New on Ulysses XB12X for 2008 New 47mm front forks replace the previous 43 mm forks. Secured with a new triple clamp design, this new front end improves the torsional rigidity of the entire chassis. Fork flex is reduced during hard braking for improved stability and feedback. Steering sweep lock-to-lock is increased to 74 degrees from 54 degrees to reduce the turning radius in off-road low-speed maneuvers. New off-set triple clamps maintain the 23.5 degree rake and 4.8 inch trail. Heated hand grips are now standard equipment on the 2008 Ulysses. The grips are rated at 18 watts per side on the High setting and 11 watts per side on the Low setting. New air guides positioned on the tail section of the Ulysses deflect engine heat away from the rider’s legs. Modifications to the 1203 Thunderstorm V-Twin engine enhance performance, reduce maintenance, and allow a new redline of 7100 rpm (see separate Thunderstorm release for details). The instrument panel styling is refreshed and the tachometer reflects the new 7100-rpm redline. A commemorative Buell 25th Anniversary graphic with Erik Buell’s signature is placed on the handlebar clamp.} | ||
| Jammin_joules |
"I also wonder if the engine changes are workable on my '07? " Some, others not without serious machining mods. (eg. oil cooler - yes, crank sensor, crank pin, oil pump, DDFI3 - no) For 2008, the following changes have been made to both the Thunderstorm 1203 and the Thunderstorm 984: New Timing System * The timer cover is eliminated, as the engine is now crank timed from a new crank position sensor, which eliminates the need for manual timing, reducing maintenance costs. The ECM actively monitors and adjusts timing based on driving environment. The new sensor makes 30 reads per revolution, compared to the previous two reads per revolution, for more precise control of fuel mapping and timing to conditions. More Robust Crankpins * The size of the crankpins is increased to 1.50 inches from 1.25 inches. Oiling System Upgraded * A higher-output oil pump supports oiling to the new crankpin area. The new pump is driven off of the crank, a design based on the Buell XBRR production racing motorcycle. * A new eight-row oil cooler offers enhanced cooling performance. * All oil line ends are now equipped with Jiffy-tite fittings. New DDFI 3 ECM (Engine Control Module) * A new ECM with increased computing capacity. * DDFI 3 actively controls and monitors the TPS (throttle position sensor), IAC (idle air control), and timing. DDFI 3 automatically zeros the TPS and adjusts fuel metering for smoother idle, eliminating service intervals and reducing the cost of ownership. * A new progressive throttle cam and new throttle cables provide smoother throttle input from stops, and less rotation to full throttle. | ||
| Florida_lime |
"New front end has different fork clamps, probably setting the forks more forward allowing clearance with frame. You can't shift fork mount at clamps forward, and axle back without affecting rake though. My guess is same rake and slightly longer wheel base. " Rake, trail, and wheelbase all check the same with '06 and '07. "New off-set triple clamps maintain the 23.5 degree rake and 4.8 inch trail. Wheelbase is 54.1 inches " | ||
| Thespive |
Increasing the steering angle decreases the turning radius. I was typing quickly and misspoke. I meant to say steering sweep, not angle. --Sean | ||
| Blake |
I'm diggin' all of it! Thank you Buell! And thank you Chad and Dave (Jammin Joules) for the excellent reports on the Ulysses and generic Thunderstorm engine improvements/upgrades for 2008. The folks at Buell have been extremely busy and prove once again that they are listening well to their customers.
(Message edited by blake on July 09, 2007) | ||
| Court |
Blake: As you and I ease into our sunset years . . . I'm thinking we're "Uly kinda guys"!  | ||
| Road_thing |
I'm thinking the same thing, Court, but Blake's barely past high noon while you and I are rapidly approaching dusk! Bomber may already have turned on the lights... I was reflecting on this whole age thing as it relates to motorcycling, especially after reading about the new 1125r. I think Court and I are of one mind on this: the older I get, the less I care about maximum performance from my vehicles. Remember how Rolls-Royce used to advertise the HP in their cars? "Adequate." That works for me these days. Every bike I own, even my old Norton, goes faster than I want or need to go. The Ulys are looking pretty good. I might just let go of my S2 for one. rt | ||
| Snub13 |
Court / RT "Sunset years"????? No such thing! I ran into an 84 year old guy in Alaska. He rode up solo on his soft-tail from Virginia! He told his wife that he didn't know when he would be home. He had already been on the road for three weeks. I hope I'm still riding when I'm 84! PS; with 39 degrees of lean angle before "soft contact" and 100 ish HP & 84 Ft lb torque the Uly is plenty of fun! | ||
| Adrian_8 |
The new changes sound good...wished they would have given the ULY better lighting..in my case for daytime riding. That one light bulb is not enough for the "little old lady " with her cataract glasses on. I know guys have added PIAA etc but from the factory we need more lighting...ala "Road King" style...well almost that much...I have an Aprilia Tuono with a 70 degree V-twin.. fantastic motor but the ULY is good and with the new changes it should run smoother down low.PS..mine is still in the shop waiting on a front rotor and pads... | ||
| Alatriste |
Hopefully, it will be possible to do some retrofitting for the 06 models. The 08 fits the expectatives, but 2 years late  BUT, please please Buell I want the 08 changes (some at least) in mine  regards/SAludos (Message edited by alatriste on July 09, 2007) | ||
| Chinook |
do you think Chad ran out an bought a blue jacket to match the blue Uly?  | ||
| Court |
>>No such thing! I ran into an 84 year old guy in Alaska. It's not age that got us . . it'a MILEAGE! I think Chad is totally styling . . . it was cool to have a Buell Owner/Male Model on hand to get info to us! | ||
| Chadhargis |
I'm not a handsome dude by any means, but I've looked better. After spending all day in a parking lot teaching an MSF course, then riding over to Opryland in 97 degree heat...I was pretty hot and sweaty. Damn picture makes me look like I have a handful of grease in my hair. LOL! | ||
| Court |
Chad: Not everyone can endeavor to have Road Things looks . . don't let it get you down. You were the best we could do on short notice and your performance was exemplary! Court | ||
| Etennuly |
Blake, Court, RT, The Uly is the nuts! I turned 50 on the way to the Homecoming and road back some 730 miles in less than "good" condition on what I have to call my very inspiring motorcycle. I want to thank all of those involved with the design and implementation of this machine. I truly hope that with all of the afore mentioned hoopla about more and faster new bikes, that the Ulysses doesn't get modified and refitted in the future to become something else. I really like what has been done to the Uly for '08. IMHO Buell is on the right track. Tweek the Uly to perfection and build a fastass bike for the speedy crowd. GO BUELL MO CO! | ||
| Chadhargis |
Now...give us an 1125 engine in the Uly and the world will be right. (Message edited by chadhargis on July 09, 2007) | ||
| Danger_dave |
>>Now...give us an 1125 engine in the Uly and the world will be right.<< In the absence of a test ride - Show me the torque and power curves before I jump aboard your bandwagon. If it's all happening post 7000rpm I stay thunderstorming. | ||
| Atoms |
There is no bandwagon! I'll let Mr. Hargis speak for himself, but I think he was kidding about the 1125 engine. I'm quite partial to two big features of the Thunderstorm: 1. not water cooled (less crap to maintain) 2. made in USA (i'm not jingoistic, but right now we have a HUGE trade imbalance) The thing is *plenty* fast for normal everyday use. | ||
| Lorazepam |
I like the thunderstorm engine, just give me a lower first gear, something that I can ride under 20mph without riding the clutch. I dont need to cruise at 90mph at 2500rpm. I would rather be able to ride through a school zone without lugging the engine, or riding the clutch. DD I agree, 15k redlines are as useful in real world applications as a screen door in a submarine. |
