MCN eval of the Ulysses after 17k mi.

[LENSMAN]

I just got the latest Motorcycle Consumer News. After 17,000 on the Ulysses, they found some interesting problems:

1. Vibration causing various bolts to fall out.
2. Side stand breaks.
3. Backpressure control solenoid logic problem
4. Engine heat on right leg.
5. Stud that holds exhaust breaks off.
6. Clutch cable breaks
 
They list some minor issues as well, but the fasteners coming loose would be a major pain.
My SV manual has a schedule for tightening the various bolts. I wonder if Buell has one for the bike and if they followed it?

 I still intend to test ride the bike, but I'm having second thoughts on buying an '07. Wait for the '08?

[Heath3n]

I know they're making some changes for '08, but I don't think they planned on changing anything for the Uly.  Also...keep in mind that they were riding an '06. There were some changes made on the'07 model like the front forks, improve air flow, and seat height.  Not sure if there are any recalls on the '07 model....owner's chime in! :P

[Rogue]

Bolts falling off....I think any bike that vibrates will have this issue especially when the engine is solidly mounted to the frame.  My VFR800 developed a few loose bolts in its life.  One of them was a major one that held the upper cowl to the frame.  Honda only has a sceduled check of engine/frame bolts at large mileage intervals.

Buell however is very good at reminding the owner to ALWAYS use loctite on almost every bolt when putting them back on the bike.  I have followed that reminder religeously on my '06 and so far havent had any bolts fall off at 9k miles.

I also make it a habit of going through most exposed bolts on my Buell prior to a big ride.  I do that with my other bikes as well but more so on the Buell.

Stud that holds exhausts - I've heard a couple of owners complain about this on their various XB's.  I don't think it's common but it happens.

Clutch cable breaks - ???  Was it binding?  Did they change the bars and stretch the cable?  I don't believe this is a common thing.  But with aftermarket bars that changes the positioning of the cable, it can accelerate cable wear.

Side Stand Breaks - ???  Another question mark as to how the sidestand was used.  My rule of thumb is, don't put anymore pressure on the sidestand except the weight of the bike.  Not a common occurance on the XB's as far as I remember.

[dangle]

Thanks for refs to the MCN article. I really want to like the Buell but the brand always had a history of eventually shaking itself apart. Using stronger and stronger glue is no answer either.

[Kootenanny]

I really want to like the Buell but the brand always had a history of eventually shaking itself apart.

I've got an 03, with over 25,000 km on it, and not one of the problems listed has appeared.  The bike is definitely not "shaking itself apart."  Maybe the trick is to ride the bike on the highway, not in stop-and-go traffic--the only time it really vibrates is when it's idling, which I do very little of.

Actually, I've had very few problems of any kind (and the one I did have, minor as it was, was fixed under warranty no problem).

[Prubert]

I have put 5K miles on my '07 Uly in the 2 months I have had it and I have had no problems other than a mis-adjusted clutch cable.

The article says that they were mounting the bike while on the side stand, I don't think it was designed for that kind of load.  This may have caused some of their side stand issues (they even admitted that).

From the way the article is written it sounds like they have talked to Buell about their problems and I think that is why they are getting an preview on the 2008 Uly. I think most of their concerns have been addressed by the 2007 model and probably by the 2008 model.

Check the Buell website tomorrow (Sun 7/8) for the 2008 info and find out for yourself!

Later.

[nanbil]

I read this article with some disappointmernt.  I really want to like Buell and the Ulysses but with Buell's history with problems...I don't know, I guess I'll have to wait.

[Rogue]

I've had no problems with mine after 9k miles.  It not shaken itself apart.  

I ride it hard but I don't abuse it.  I also follow the factory recommended procedures for servicing.  If it says use loctite, use loctite.  How hard is that to understand.  And mounting the bike with the sidestand is a no-no on any bike anyways.  Why would anyone mount the bike with the sidetand down unless they're posing?    Whatever.  I think their reliability issues were mainly owner-issues.

[Clive]

And mounting the bike with the sidestand is a no-no on any bike anyways.  Why would anyone mount the bike with the sidetand down unless they're posing?    Whatever.  I think their reliability issues were mainly owner-issues.

I'm not following this bit.  The bike is standing, leaned on its sidestand, as I approach it.  I take hold of the grips, squeeze the front brake lever, and swing my right leg over.  As or just after my right foot touches the ground, I start standing the bike upright, taking it off the sidestand.  Meaning the sidestand is ALWAYS down when I mount.

What technique are you guys talking about?  Stepping on the left footpeg and mounting it like a horse?

[Prubert]

What technique are you guys talking about?  Stepping on the left footpeg and mounting it like a horse?

Yup.

[atadaskew]

What technique are you guys talking about?  Stepping on the left footpeg and mounting it like a horse?

People do this on tall bikes like the Ulysses, BMW gs, KTM Adventures as they are harder to mount.  I think that the mfgs should realise this and make the side stands stronger.  Looking at the side stand on my Ducs, I would NEVER mount them in such a manner! (and the manual tells you not to sit on them with your weight on the sidestand).

[bomber]

the Uly's had some sidestand issues, and they were subject of free gratis fixes at the dealerships -- no reason why a rider should not be able to mount the bike with their weight on the peg

the problem with the bolts falling out that teh exhaust stud breaking sounds like someone poorly versed in things Buell caused them during prior services -- the exhaust thing, specifically, will simply not happen if the wrench turner is experienced and knowledgable --

[scott-sts]

I just got the latest Motorcycle Consumer News. After 17,000 on the Ulysses, they found some interesting problems:

1. Vibration causing various bolts to fall out.
2. Side stand breaks.
3. Backpressure control solenoid logic problem
4. Engine heat on right leg.
5. Stud that holds exhaust breaks off.
6. Clutch cable breaks
 
They list some minor issues as well, but the fasteners coming loose would be a major pain.
My SV manual has a schedule for tightening the various bolts. I wonder if Buell has one for the bike and if they followed it?

 I still intend to test ride the bike, but I'm having second thoughts on buying an '07. Wait for the '08?

The seat lock on my XX continues to loosen over time.  I even used red loctite.  This has happened to 2 different XX's i've owned.  When the bolt falls completely out, the seat lock falls in to 2 seperate halves.  
The plastic push pins either break or fall out-constantly.  Matter of fact, just doing an oil change wrecks the two pins under the fairing (That holds both sides together) because all kinds of sand and grit gets lodged in there.  Pliers are the only way to get them out (Without bleeding) but not to worry-the local dealer only charges $3.50 for each pin.  The bike has like a hundred of 'em.
I haven't had any clutch cable issues though...
CCT's need replacing every 10-15K miles which is a joy compared to replacing them every 4K like I used to.   No big deal, $70 at the dealer.

Engine heat is subjective to the rider.  ST1300's are known for roasting riders, as is the FJR1300.  Two of the most revered sport tourers ever...

I think if you buy a motorcycle and never lube the clutch cable or tighten bolts, you may end up having to replace the clutch cable and you will lose a few bolts.  I think this says more about lack of maint than "Buell".
     

[1KPerDay]

Wait for the '08?

You may want to... They fixed the lock-to-lock steering issue.

[HorizonJob]

Engine heat is subjective to the rider.  ST1300's are known for roasting riders, as is the FJR1300.  Two of the most revered sport tourers ever...  

It was such a common complaint on these bikes that Yamaha did extensive heat management alterations in 2006 that have substancially cooled the beast.

I think I would find an unscheduled loss of parts disconcerting.

[lws66]

None of those issues would concern me. Very trivial. That type of motor vibrates, nuts and bolts are going to come loose, unless proper torque along with loctite is used. Adhere to common sense and no worry. Side stand breaks? How many have broken to date, can happen to the best. A simple fix. The solenoid is an electrical component and electrical failures happen to many makes, including cars. Engine heat? So, both pipes exit on the right side, it's air cooled...what do they expect? A stud and cable breaks? None of these issues are of any concern. An exploding clutch, seized motor, frame cracked...things like that are a concern. I think most testers are spoiled and want a motorcycle to perform like a precision sewing machine!  

[nanbil]

None of those issues would concern me. Very trivial. That type of motor vibrates, nuts and bolts are going to come loose, unless proper torque along with loctite is used. Adhere to common sense and no worry. Side stand breaks? How many have broken to date, can happen to the best. A simple fix. The solenoid is an electrical component and electrical failures happen to many makes, including cars. Engine heat? So, both pipes exit on the right side, it's air cooled...what do they expect? A stud and cable breaks? None of these issues are of any concern. An exploding clutch, seized motor, frame cracked...things like that are a concern. I think most testers are spoiled and want a motorcycle to perform like a precision sewing machine!  

Things like bolts shaking loose and falling off a motorcycle are not trivial issues to me.  I really like the Ulysses but this report is troubling.  Remember that this bike was prepared by Buell and given to MCN for this long-term report.  Certainly Buell would know the proper torque for bolts and which items need loctite.

[mailman1175]

You may want to... They fixed the lock-to-lock steering issue.

Really? Where'd you hear this? Linky, por favor, 1K!

[naustin]

They were riding a first year new product `06 Uly.  It had some sidestand issues that were dealt with under recall.  Big deal.  The bike was ridden at the limit and had some fasteners vibrate loose.  That's no reason to have a fit and step in it...

If you want an opinion on Buell's reliability, try this:


http://a1264.g.akamai.net/7/1264/1354/19b1369db77abe/www.buell.com/en_us/news_events/pdf/112406+Motorrad_article_en.pdf

Pay particular attention to the editors statement on that last page.  

[nanbil]

 Really? Where'd you hear this? Linky, por favor, 1K!

Here is a link http://www.roadracingworld.com/news/article/?article=29551

Check out the second to last paragraph.  Good news here.

[nanbil]

They were riding a first year new product `06 Uly.  It had some sidestand issues that were dealt with under recall.  Big deal.  The bike was ridden at the limit and had some fasteners vibrate loose.  That's no reason to have a fit and step in it...

If you call the bolts that hold the exhaust headers in place fasteners, well then I guess you are correct.  Look I don't mean to bash the Buell Ulysses, it is still very high on my   list.  I really want to like this bike but I must admit that I'm not as enthusiastic about this product as I once was.  

[RedRocket]

I really want to like this bike but I must admit that I'm not as enthusiastic about this product as I once was.  

I wouldn't let that worry me.  Most every individual bike has some idividual issues.  For example your TDM850 has a history of fragging it's transmission.  Your's hasn't.  Just because they had a couple of issues doesn't mean you will have the same issues if your bought one.

Here's a clip from the Motorrad test:

None of us initially spent a thought on pushing the powerful pushrod twin over the full distance. But the Buell ran and ran and ran. The engine even seemed to get smoother and smoother as time went by.
And now it has finally done it (see page 48ff), performing at a whopping 100 horsepower from its two cylinders even after some 50,000 kilometers. Mechanically, the unusual American appears to be completely healthy. A miracle?  If you take a closer look at its design, you quickly discover just how much work Buell has put into the engine. Camshafts rotate in bearing sleeves, conduits run in artful loops, a lot is amply oversized, good old metal from America.  And that lasts. Longer than a lot that comes from Europe. And so the unique MOTORRAD endurance test once and for all dispenses with a prejudice. One which not even the MOTORRAD editors managed to avoid completely. Well done!

AN AMERICAN
MIRACLE
Cordially
Editor-in-chief Michael Pfeiffer

[dangle]

I don't think the engine or the tranny are the issues here. My main concern are the vibration and heat at low speeds and at idle. How is this bike as an urban commuter? Is it the best choice in stop and go (stop light to stop light) type use?

[1KPerDay]

 Really? Where'd you hear this? Linky, por favor, 1K!

http://www.buell.com/en_us/news_events/newsdetail.asp?news_id=1237

more info there... heated grips are now standard, forks are bigger/stiffer, and they have worked on the heat to the riders legs issue also. Redline is up to 7100. Way to go, Erik!

[RedRocket]

I don't think the engine or the tranny are the issues here. My main concern are the vibration and heat at low speeds and at idle. How is this bike as an urban commuter? Is it the best choice in stop and go (stop light to stop light) type use?

I think vibration at idle means nothing.  Once past 2000 rpm the motor smoothes out and vibration is minimal.
I've shaken bolts off of EVERY bike I've ever owned. Even my VFR, the epitome of smoothness shook off one of it's bar ends.  I think the torquey-ness off the engine makes for a great commuter bike.

[nanbil]

...your TDM850 has a history of fragging it's transmission. 

News to me.  My TDM has clucky transmission, but I can tell you for a fact that my TDM does not have a history of "fragging its transmission."   Seriously though, I get your point.  I belong to a TDM group and have never heard that TDMs have problems with their transmissions.  So whom do I trust?  You, or the numerous TDM riders I am in contact with almost daily: MCN or the many Ulysses owners who pipe in on this site.  The Uly is officially bank on my radar.  

[scott-sts]

I think vibration at idle means nothing.  Once past 2000 rpm the motor smoothes out and vibration is minimal.
I've shaken bolts off of EVERY bike I've ever owned. Even my VFR, the epitome of smoothness shook off one of it's bar ends.  I think the torquey-ness off the engine makes for a great commuter bike.

+1.  My throttle side bar end almost fell completely off.  Just caught and tightened it yesterday.  I'm talking about the Blackbird, btw.

[RedRocket]

News to me.  My TDM has clucky transmission, but I can tell you for a fact that my TDM does not have a history of "fragging its transmission."   Seriously though, I get your point.  I belong to a TDM group and have never heard that TDMs have problems with their transmissions.  So whom do I trust?  You, or the numerous TDM riders I am in contact with almost daily: MCN or the many Ulysses owners who pipe in on this site.  The Uly is officially bank on my radar.  

I didn't make it up.
I read it in the English RIDE magazine.  They had a comprehensive buyers guide article on TDM850's.  
Remember too that we always hear from the people with problems, and rarely from the people without.

[Oilhed]

I really like the Uly and enjoyed the test ride.  Some things, very minor, I couldn't get by were the 1) oil in the swing arm, 2) fuel in the frame, 3) gas filler next to air intake close to the triple clamp, 4) weird sidestand and 5) key dangling from side.  The shaking, loose bolts and fan I could all get used to.  Maybe I'm just too old fashioned.  That's why I almost got a Cyclone M2.