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Of course a racetrack introduction does nothing to assess the street values of a machine and riding over to the Motoplex brought this quickly home: the bike is going to need a little thought in traffic to mate the clutch and throttle for smooth take offs.

I can’t comment on fuel consumption and long distance comfort either until we get to take one to the streets, but have a feeling that the twisting mountain roads of my North Carolina home are going to be the perfect venue for this bike. Not overpowered, and 101% capable of dealing with the speeds attainable, the massive amounts of grunt available low down are going to make these bikes a breeze to ride quickly.

Visually the bike is beyond stunning and parking either the Firebolt of the Lightning is going to induce much conversation. The bikes look so unique and both come in a choice of two colours: Midnight Black and Racing Red. The new graphite grey frame and swing arm are just so tough looking and the colour matched amber wheels; windshield, (on the Firebolt) tank and fairing decals are the height of “chic.”

For those not familiar with the current series of Buells, the frame doubles as the gas tank and the swing arm as the oil tank to help keep as weight possible as low as possible. Buell offers a two-year warranty and reduced maintenance schedule. Built by a serious group of enthusiasts for the serious motorcycle connoisseur, the new 2004 Buells not only look the absolute business, they run strong and handle well.