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2008 Buell Ulysses XB12XT

The ZTL (Zero Torsional Load) front rotor is back, clenched by a single six-piston caliper.

The level of wind protection from the 4-inch higher windscreen is surprisingly effective, with the unit the same screen offered as an accessory on the regular Ulysses.

The top case on the XB12XT is roomy and easy to open.

At the correct gear and rpm, the frisky Ulysses purrs along in euphoric bliss, and at the heart of the matter is the air-cooled Thunderstorm 1203 V-Twin.

The side cases open easy and are roomy.

The suspension sucks-up road imperfections and is quite proficient for sporty riding, with a rider able to dial in the rear shock’s preload via an easy-to-access underseat dial (in fact, our Buell tech said he makes small adjustments on the fly).

The rear monoshock utilizes a new compression bumper to cushion bottoming force

The rear binder isn’t anything innovative, but it works.

Another touring perk with the XT seat is a flip up pillion backrest, for those two-up journeys.

Carried over from the Ulysses accessory catalog are the XB12XT’s standard side and top cases.

The instrument console features an attractive analog tach on the right and speedo to the left, but no gear position indicator, fuel gauge or engine temp gauge are to be had.

The handgaurds are a helpful addition to touring comfort.

Up front the ZTL design is formidable but it won’t be confused with the high-performance stopping power of dual 4-pot radial brakes.

For 2008 the 45-degree Twin is tweaked, with a shorter crank pin and improved oiling responsible for raising redline from 6800 to 7100 rpm.

The Ulysses XB12XT is a belt-driven with Buell’s Aramid-reinforced Goodyear Hibrex belt providing a smooth and quiet transfer of power to the rear wheel which requires no lubrication or adjustments.

Wind protection from the windscreen is surprisingly effective, especially at non-freeway speeds.

Riding position on the Ulysses is upright and relaxed.

Curvy Highway 74 also showcases the Ulysses’ quick-turning chassis.

Motoring up Highway 74 to Idyllwild, California, we sample the new XB12XT’s on-road performance on some of So-Cal’s tightest, twistiest stretches of pavement.

Although our side cases were unladen, the well-balanced Ulysses felt light and nimble in transitions.

Riding along at a steady clip, each turn is a splendid bend for the new Ulysses.

The Ulysses XB12XT is a confidence-inspiring machine that carves roads apart with swift transitions and its well balanced chassis.

The newest Buell can scoot around the corners with the best of them.

First looks would lead to the assumption the XB12XT is just a standard Ulysses with bags, but there is more to the story.

The Buell's suspension sucks-up road imperfections and is quite proficient for sporty riding, with a rider able to dial in the rear shock’s preload via an easy-to-access underseat dial.

While the Ulysses moniker has been in the Buell lineup since the debut of its dirt-capable XB12X in 2006, the XB series has lacked a purpose-built on-road touring platform. The new Ulysses XB12XT is that touring machine.

The new Buell Ulysses XB12XT is a fine-looking machine and Buell's first purpose-built road touring platform.

Also aiding in the easy handling characteristics are all the things that make a Buell a Buell: Oil in the swingarm, fuel in the tank and, of course, the underslung exhaust.

A deceptively, mellow handler on the twisty mountain roads, the proof was manifest when through a series of tight 25 mph turns a casual glance at the speedo revealed an unexpected 50 mph.

Interested riders will have to shell out $12,995 for the new XT, which is available in Thrust Blue, Racing Red and Midnight Black.