A KLR guy rides a Buell Ulysses

[@jcwikla8160]

I own a 2009 Ulysses and live in Chile for 6 years. This bike is super rare here. Harley dealer says they only imported 6. . the Vin reads as a European model and only in kilometers. This bike still gives me the biggest smiles. Ride on brothers

[@cranbrandt]

NOT a Harley 1200 sportster engine. Buell 1203 Thunderstorm is mo better, much faster. Made in the Buell factory in East Troy, WI and designed by Eric Buell.

[@williamv9058]

I'm going out on a limb and state that if a reviewer has lots of laughing and maybe a giggle or two when riding a bike, that says a lot to me about the bike itself. good review. nice vid.

[@ScratchBabble]

Thanks William

[@mannybonello4667]

I agree with William Scratch.😎

[@butlersracing7692]

I have the same year model. Surprisingly unique. It was Harley Davidsons advertisment bike when they launched in South Africa in 2006 hence the Blue Frame, Carbon Air-intake Cover and everything Touratec. It has only gone 14 000km now and has been nothing but joy. I have a shop just down the road from me called House of Buell and the owner is an ex Buell mechanic so we have parts galore and cheap as chips to maintain. We have a staunch following and let's face it... Nothing sounds better than a bunch of Buells banging it down the high street👍😎

[@ScratchBabble]

+Ricky Jeffers I was shocked by the torque! Then again I'm comparing it to a KLR lol

[@butlersracing7692]

@@ScratchBabble Ah man those bikes are time pieces and they hold up against some mighty big stuff. Especially in the canyons 😱😂

[@Topper-gf8xl]

Original 07 Uly owner here. The torque is addicting. Good bike for touring. Thanks for the review.

[@jasonbradstreet5168]

I have a 2007 Ulysses xb12x and yes the smile Factor still there. I absolutely love that bike I will keep it forever.

[@ScratchBabble]

Every time I go back and watch this vlog I fall in love with the sound and power of that bike

[@evodgamehunter4290]

I put thousands of miles on one of these. Best bike I ever had!

[@hamptontanguero]

It's not a Sportster engine. It's a Thunderstorm engine, that shares a set of pistons with the Sportster. Everything else was designed by Erik Buell.

[@paulnoel9123]

Right on the nose!

[@WoodrowfolloweroftheMessiah]

I went from 2005 KLR to a 2006 Ulysses that I rode for 2 years traded for a triumph tiger. Wish I would have kept my Buell! Back to a 2009 KLR now! 👍🏻🙏🏻✝️😀

[@KK-hy6zn]

Out of all 3 bikes you owned, which one was the best?

[@WoodrowfolloweroftheMessiah]

@@KK-hy6zn -2005 KLR best for more off road riding. The Buell Ulysses was the funnest on the pavement! The Tiger was a good in between.

[@streetgangtm]

I wanted a Uly so bad when I was a teenager. I think I was one of the few kids who loved the ADV bike concept. Instead I ended up buying an 1125R that I couldn't afford which was their superbike just because I wanted a Buell. I sold that and ended up buying a KLR several years later lol. The sportster motor would be the absolute best motorcycle motor with a 6th gear. All that torque...

[@ScratchBabble]

The torque was addictive!

[@hugieflhr03]

Nice job on the honest review! I will tell you I was disappointed you didn’t crack that throttle all the way.

[@pub6023]

Good review mate…appreciate you not pretending to know all about the Buell, rather sending your thoughts down the wire…or wireless. Cheers 🍻

[@tetomedinawallace5955]

I agree with you on it being a fun bike, all bikes are fun. However, after over a half dozen bikes including 1000rr, dirt bike,ls, vrod....the KLR takes the cake. I love my KLR....camping on the KLR changes your life forever, specially when over 1,000 mies from home and you know that bike is going to get you back home!!!!

[@ScratchBabble]

Other bikes are like visiting friends. The KLR is family!

[@toddlange2266]

I have both, a 2018 KLR and a 08 Uly. KLR is going up for sale in the spring. I don't offroad anymore so the road characteristics of the Uly blow the KLR away. If you do any highway riding....the KLR becomes just plain not fun.

[@Shartmiester]

KLR is like a Swiss Army knife. It can do anything but does nothing well.

[@tetomedinawallace5955]

@@Shartmiester actually it does one thing very well! It puts a big smile on those who take it on the path to happiness!

[@papatorr3669]

Until you ride a DR650...

[@masonsadv]

I've ridden a couple Buels over the years and always enjoyed it! Great to see one again. Cheers Scratch!

[@ScratchBabble]

Thanks Mason!

[@jimbelcher7881]

Your chuckle says it all my friend!

[@ScratchBabble]

Thanks Jim! It was fun

[@aircooled2068]

A buell is Defo one for the bucket list! I had a thunderbolt sold it,crying since! Now I have my eye on a 08 uly,cant wait😀

[@1990-t1j]

424 lbs dry. It was the lightest in its class. Very manageable to push around. It is NOT a Sportster engine. It shares no internal parts, apart from the pistons. It is not topheavy. The pegs are the best I've had my feet on. Great bike, ruined by that big screen. What is the exhaust system? Good review apart from some of the above. I've had a 2006 one from new. Very reliable apart from the drive belt snapping at 12,000 miles and the rear wheel bearings wearing out at 13,000 miles. Mine has had a lot of modifications.

[@ScratchBabble]

Yep I have been educated since

[@motooilermotooiler9597]

Would like to have one but where do I get parts … 😢😢😢

[@terrycurtin2137]

I ride my 06 Ulysses daily. Go from off road tires to touring tires. Fast enough and does what ever I ask it too. My Harleys did one thing. Ride down the street. Slow. Even new ones. Heavy and power but not much real fear factor. Love it.

[@ScratchBabble]

Terry I couldn't believe that bike. It's like a bronco!

[@steveo4601]

G'day from Queensland Australia, I own a 2006 xb12x Ulysses from new, love it .

[@kingdomkom]

You're my Hero!!! I knew The Great Oz would be road-munching territory for an Ully, it fits the Oz cycle psyche. If it dangerous and fun, give it to an Aussie and let 'em run!! Cheers from America...

[@steveo4601]

I'm sitting here with a cuppa and beef jerky , standard brekky , read your reply and subbed up, BUELLLLLLL.😎😎😎😎

[@richardbarr6814]

Buells are engineered by a racer who not only rides but was engineer for Harley. It shows with the cool design elements and great handling elements. Im looking for the CR 1075 or Ullysis. Xt 1200. The more l think or study on it the more lm convinced

[@indyfivehundred8990]

in 2006 i went to Harley Davidson to buy my dream bike 'V ROD' and came out with Buell Ulysses and still owns it. its the only bike I 'll ever own until I die. this is the bike of the future that current generation never appreciated or too ignorant to evolve and embrace the future. in the past I pretty much owned every European and Japanese bike and buell tops every one

[@russartist6359]

I’ve just purchased a 2009 Ulysses with 370miles from new yes (370) it’s my second one , not putting on the road till the spring, been hunting a low mileage one for sometime, they are great bikes, can ride all day in comfort, not for the short legged, I will post a video next year! Thanks for the upload

[@starmanskye]

Russel; WoW are you lucky. I'm a bit envious. Wish you loads of fun and joy on your new ride, mate! I love the XBs, and especially the Ulysses. Found one I want to put my buddy on, as I can no longer ride. AWESOME, iconic and endearing legacy-tribute machines to a golden era when possibilities seemed limitless.

[@russartist6359]

starmanskye ,thanks, I didn’t/couldn’t ride for some time so I’m going to take it easy, prob take it in my van to Scotland where the roads are good, starting prep now replacing my gear etc, choosing go-pro to record stuff, KZbin not that popular last time I rode. All the best to you!

[@ScratchBabble]

+Russell Artist Looking forward to seeing that!

[@butlersracing7692]

Russel that is amazing. I picked up a 2006 Uly which Harley Davidson used as their advertising bike to launch in South Africa. The guy I bought it from only did 5000km in 10 years. Long story short one of a kind bike with everything Touratec but due to bad storage the fuel starting having a meal at certain items but we're all good now 🙏👊

[@russartist6359]

Ricky Jeffers Nice one! I’m looking to put some touratec additions , if you have any recommendations? Also have you done many miles on it?

[@dutchpride187]

The wobble you are experiencing is from not having the suspension setup properly for your weight. Buells are very sensitive to proper suspension setup. Get that suspension setup properly and the bike will be as planted as any bike ever ridden.

[@billwelch9431]

I've had a 2006 I bought new in 2007 and never experienced any "wobble" and never had the suspension set up. It handles like a dream and the torque is badass. I've hung with hyabusa's slamming through twisties. It'll do what you want it to and is easy to wheelie on. I will say it's off road capability is limited in stock condition, but wouldn't take much to upgrade the suspension a little and you'd be good to go. I love the bike, which is why I still own it in 2023.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I've always been intrigued by Buells more for the sound of the V twin than anything. Back in my sport bike days I even considered looking at one or two but the extra HP and reliability the Japanese bikes offer won me over every time. From what you have said about the new motors Harley is putting in the new bikes I am hoping they come out with an off road worthy adventure bike, not saying I would buy one but I would test ride it! Haha.

[@ScratchBabble]

Ditto! Hell if I could afford it I'd have 5 or 6 different bikes!

[@RobRidesCarolina]

The Pan America ..launching in 2020. Looks like a Blast! www.harley-davidson.com/us/en/motorcycles/future-vehicles/pan-america.html

[@pauliej4208]

Pan American. Your wish granted!

[@erisgh0sted961]

@@pauliej4208 came to say exactly that. Not to mention it's probably the second best Harley ever made. Behind the Dyna.

[@ianjones2731]

Pretty nice styling..never seen a Buell on the road down here in Oz. Keep em coming Scratchmeister 😎

[@Shartmiester]

If you get a chance to buy one you will be thrilled. Best canyon Carver around. Great for an in town errand run. Wanna pop the front tire up just run it to 3500 rpms and crack the throttle. Nonstop fun. Just like riding a motorcycle should be.

[@iant720]

I love my XB12 Lightning. And been looking at adventure bikes... and thought why not another Buell??

[@ScratchBabble]

I can understand why!

[@valhala56]

KLR is going into history like Buel, to be discontinued after 2018 model year. It had 31 years of production. The last of it's type for sure.

[@ScratchBabble]

And they'll keep running as long as there is someone who wants to ride them!

[@RedNeckBiker109]

My local dealer says he's not heard they are discontinuing the KLR, I have no idea whats happening lol.

[@1990-t1j]

The best bike in its category when it came out. It weighs 193 kg dry, the lightest in its class. And it is not top-heavy. Mass centralisation was invented by Erik I own a 2006 Ulysses which has been in my garage for too long. It's going back on the road soon and staying there. Still the best bike I've ever been on.

[@derekakaderek]

It is top heavy, the bottom of the engine is higher than a bmw 1200 adventure

[@1990-t1j]

@@derekakaderek It doesn't feel remotely top heavy, and it is the riding experience which counts.

[@cbcsucks2205]

I have a KLR and a Buell. They are great stablemates

[@theripkatz1555]

Fun video, Scratch. A few bikes ago, I had a Buell X1 Lightning. Really was a fun bike for short trips and just goofing around on. Unfortunately, I took it to Phoenix for Bike week with a bunch of friends - all with cruisers, and I was so uncomfortable on long rides, I couldn't take it. Sold it off soon after. If money were no object, I would like to have a 1. Cruiser 2. KLR and 3. A Buell or Duke naked bike/street fighter. They all serve such different purposes and it would be nice to have the option to enjoy each at different times. Why can't I just strike it rich?!!!

[@ScratchBabble]

I'm with you brother!

[@roybatty-]

That Ully has a full Micron exhaust with equal length headers.

[@garyteague9555]

I have a 2000 P3 Buell , I absolutely love it

[@jamestucci8318]

Having fun. Be safe my friend. Another great video. Thanks KLR Jim

[@ScratchBabble]

Thanks James! It was definitely fun

[@chadmurtorff573]

I own a 2007 makes me laugh and smile every day.

[@klrbiker]

Interesting, just popped hole in my KLR, BUT after 98000 miles, just found a Ulysses online. Could be cheep plaything, wonder about parts, I could do the mechanicals. Thanks

[@ScratchBabble]

It's a very interesting bike Daryl. 8 have virtually no mechanical knowledge but I personally know a guy locally who bought one recently that needed work and as far as I know, sourcing the parts he needed wasn't a problem

[@MrPepper312]

I traded in my Harley 1200 Sportster for my 2018 KLR and never looked back. The Sportster was so buzzy over 65 mph so uncomfortable. The KLR ran smoother and was so very all day comfortable.

[@jalford5089]

MrPepper312 That’s why you should’ve had a Buell

[@donwoodcock7696]

You should have give the throttle a good twist to get the full fun effect. These things are wheelie machines with zero effort. I have a 2009 Ulysses and smile everyday I ride it, but I also smile when I ride my 07 cvo 110” road king :) loved your comments

[@Ron_C]

It sounds fantastic! To be honest...I have enjoyed just about every motorcycle I've ever ridden. By the way...it might just be my stuff, but I only had audio in my left earbud, and some crackling static in the right untl 4:23 where it became clear and loud on both left/right. then back to left after you started using the helmet again...loose connection?

[@ScratchBabble]

I think it's the mic Ron. I'm ordering a replacement today

[@Ron_C]

I screwed around with my audio settings to make sure it wasn't me. Technology owns us....just like my my issues this weekend...so frustrating.

[@ScratchBabble]

It's rediculous. If it's not the mic then it has to be the audio jack in the camera. Lord i hope it's not that

[@richardbarr6814]

I love Buells second only to Harleys. But will be buying Buell in future theres just no other greater value for your money anywhere else. And they are good handling and innovative

[@motooilermotooiler9597]

What about the parts??? That is a deal breaker mate…😢

[@jered2177]

been wanting a Buell since the 90's.

[@ScratchBabble]

I can see why ADS

[@mannybonello4667]

It does look like fun!👍

[@fvgc454ss]

I love buells. Trying to find a clean S1. Currently have a x1 and 1190sx. Xb12 lightning's are fun bikes too.

[@truckmanonfire]

Or maybe more like an adventure sport bike like the Ducati or the Versys. More highway, with a touch of gravel.

[@ScratchBabble]

And a touch of drag strip!

[@truckmanonfire]

True true. Sounded good for sure.

[@mikebigeasyrider]

Last time I saw a Buell was when HD used them for the Riding Academy some years ago.

[@ScratchBabble]

Yep that was the Buell Blast!

[@timwinfield8509]

The reason you're getting so much vibration out of the Buell is that you're riding it like a big twin or Sportster, which it is not. Wind out the motor and you'll get a smooth and powerfull accelleration. The Ulyses has a longer suspension and it needs to be set up for your type of riding, weight etc.Try out a street version and you'll see a big diference.

[@gvs5318]

It's you. (or the tires). My Uly does great with no ill manners, (AND: I do enjoy the same giggle factor you do)

[@1990-t1j]

It is not top-heavy. The fuel in the frame keeps the weight low. Mass centralisation was invented by Erik. I find mine to be quite light. You obviously seem to like it.

[@BOC_Adventures]

I know a couple of people who had Buells and loved em. Glad you had fun on it. Its a shame Harley shut down the Buell line. It was to appease the "air cooled", "Thats not a Harley!" customers. Those days are gone for Harley. The economic climate is really forcing them to innovate. Not sure if you saw this yet: www.outsideonline.com/2331121/harley-davidsons-first-adventure-bike

[@jimperry4420]

Scratch discovers horsepower lol.

[@ScratchBabble]

That's exactly right Jim! Hahaha

[@holeephuk]

Stick with klr scratch...to fast for you 😉

[@holeephuk]

If it aint got wire spoked wheels,its no good..

[@ADVNevada]

I have been looking for one for a while.

[@ScratchBabble]

I was shocked at how much fun it was

[@MrCheaterpipe]

Haven't seen a buell in a good while

[@ScratchBabble]

My first

[@alangaudry724]

Twitch probably front wheel / tire balance

[@stoneblue1795]

Has a nice sound to it.... but I like the chucka-chucka-chucka tune from a KLR....

[@ScratchBabble]

It does grow on you for sure

[@richardbarr6814]

Im guilty of occasionally cracking the throttle while still. But like the sound of Harleys and performance machines. I could relax and sleep to hp motors on highway a half mile away and enjoy it whether its car or motorcycle. Typical motorhead

[@chrisrogersBueller4life]

Love the review. Thank you, brother.

[@chrisrogersBueller4life]

I'm trying to buy one of these right now. I just very recently sold my Buell xb12scg. Love it, miss it; but it's time to go adventuring.

[@donmcneil5201]

Too bad you didn't have a twisty mtn road to ride. The Uly really is at home there. Rt 129 (dragon) is a lifetime ride, and have rode it many times, with the Uly being most capable.

[@galley89]

Great video Scratch!

[@cranbrandt]

And, by the way, you have an XB12X, which was designed for 70 percent off road and 30 percent on. The XB12XT is the touring version, 70 percent road. I have one of each. And once again, NOT a sportster engine. Harley did not buy Buell out until 2008 and shut it down in 2009, after 2 months of 2010 production. My 2010 XB12X puts out 110Hp and eats 1200 Harleys. Even on off road tires.

[@1990-t1j]

The X was not designed for 70 per cent offroad. There are very few meaningful differences between the X and XT.

[@markyoung9027]

ya I took one on a run in st.louis they are as you say alil top heavy diffent change of pace type a mortocycle really live/brisk acceleration excellent commuter bike would rather b on a klr on the trails ☺

[@ScratchBabble]

Me too!

[@pinkiewerewolf]

The Ulysses used to get decent reviews, even from reviewers that panned the other models.

[@jered2177]

Think this is on my next bike list.

[@ScratchBabble]

It was a beast

[@leepedersen7759]

I am also a KLR rider who tried a Buell Ulysses. I was giggling like he was, and knew I would buy the bike after riding about 10 seconds. These are unrefined, have swagger and are bad-a$$

[@ScratchBabble]

Perfectly said

[@tetomedinawallace5955]

Having said that the KLR does lack power....sometimes!

[@paulcondie2520]

I jetted my klr with a lexx exhaust and did a airbox mod. Really woke up the tractor! Lol

[@tetomedinawallace5955]

@@paulcondie2520 It would be cool of you could be more descriptive.

[@paulcondie2520]

@@tetomedinawallace5955 You said sometimes the klr lacks power. That was a big issue with me as well when i got my 08 about nine years ago. So i put a dyno jett kit in the carb along with a lexx exhaust and drilled 3,1 inch holes on top of air box! Made her breathe much better and runs much better. Love my bike! Has been reliable as a hammer as well!

[@tetomedinawallace5955]

@@paulcondie2520 cool! Did you get maybe 8-10 more horsepower....whadaya think? Thanks for sharing this advice as it is one of the only things I sometimes dont like about my bike

[@paulcondie2520]

@@tetomedinawallace5955 maybe 5-8? Its very noticable but your still not gonna crack the throttle n rip a wheelie! Lol

[@nwfadv7086]

Mr. Jim!! No joke... when are when gonna trade bikes, and do a collab video!!??

[@valhala56]

Didn't know Buell made a ADV bike.

[@ScratchBabble]

They don't! Lol

[@dutchyjhome]

Dude, You were on a real motorcycle...one you really can play with and feed the onions when nice and warm...and go like hell. You however rode it like a very gentle old man, while she was screaming...: GIVE IT TO ME....GIVE IT TO ME..... and yet gentle throttle, no serious hauling no revs, nothing ....you left her unsatisfied cooling down on your driveway..... How harsh... not your bike, I know, but how harsh.... I hope she is going to forgive you... ;-)

[@ScratchBabble]

Guilty on all counts Your Honor! In my defense....screw it, there is no defense lol.

[@wynnfpv]

nice

[@ScratchBabble]

Thanks Wynn

[@henryhawk978]

Looking at a ULY

[@derekakaderek]

it feels heavy because it's Center of Mass is so high. placing the exhaust bellow the engine is a marketing/visuals stunt that was an awful decision.

[@michaelklinge1857]

great vid great review not a harley guy there like the general motors of motorcycles ill stick with the japanese stuff way more durable and reliable better bang for the buck

[@ScratchBabble]

I like them all and find their different personalities interesting

[@RobRidesCarolina]

Looks like fun, but if I'm gonna switch to that brand for ADV, I would probably wait for the Pan America. www.harley-davidson.com/us/en/motorcycles/future-vehicles/pan-america.html

[@creepymccreeperson8308]

Second? So so fan? Good videos.

[@ScratchBabble]

Thanks Creepy!

[@jered2177]

B.A bike

[@ScratchBabble]

Indeed

[@DustlessMirror]

First!!! 🏆 i’ll have to watch this later, I just wanted everyone to know I’m the biggest fan

[@ScratchBabble]

Hahahahaha! Noted!

[@markowsley4954]

I had a chance to ride the Buell and was not impressed at all. Hotter than hell and very uncomfortable for me. I’d take an Vstrom 1k or Versys 1k. You need to try riding more bikes and you’ll see what real performance is like. The weight listed was nowhere near real life weight.

[@ScratchBabble]

I'd believe that about the weight for sure. As someone else mentioned "Scratch discovered power" lol. It's wasn't a bike I'd want to own just a fun experience. I definitely want to ride a DL 1000, Versys 1000, Super Tenere, and an Africa Twin. And if I could get my hands on an R1200GSA I'd be thrilled.

[@markowsley4954]

I’ve ridden everyone but the Africa Twin. The GSA 1200 was unbelievable. I lust after one of those but unfortunately the bank account won’t support it. ☹️

[@ScratchBabble]

@@markowsley4954 same. I feel your pain

[@ScratchBabble]

@@markowsley4954 How did you like the ST?

[@markowsley4954]

Scratch Babble I liked the ST. Power was a little less than the bmw but it gets the job done. It doesn’t excite me like the bmw but it does nothing bad. For the money I don’t think it can be beat. Electronic suspension and cruise control plus its a Yamaha so reliability is a non issue. If you haven’t already check out Craig Ripleys videos he took one to Alaska with no problems. My understanding on the Buell weight was it was list with no gas, oil and battery. So wet weight is a lot higher. I work for a H-D dealer and agree with you the Roadking is my favorite H-D.