The Buell X1 Lightning Racer “Thunderstorm” by Speed of Color is a striking fusion of American V-twin performance and precision European custom engineering.
Based on the legendary Buell X1, this build enhances the bike’s raw racing DNA while refining every detail for improved performance, handling, and visual impact.
At the core of this custom Buell lies an upgraded engine featuring “Thunderstorm” cylinder heads combined with the OEM fuel injection system, delivering sharper throttle response and increased power. Breathing is optimized through a Forcefinder air filter and a dedicated engine breather kit, while a Buell Race muffler paired with a 2.5-inch race manifold provides an aggressive sound and improved exhaust flow true to the Lightning Racer character.
The drivetrain and wheel setup emphasize both performance and stance. The original rear rim has been widened to 6.25 x 17 inches, allowing the use of a massive 200/50 ZR17 Metzeler Sportec M5 rear tire, matched with a 120/70 ZR17 front tire on Performance Machine (PM) rims. A revised original pulley and a redesigned drive sprocket with a CNC-machined cover ensure durability, alignment, and a clean mechanical finish.
Handling and suspension are a major focus of this build. The front fork features anodized fork tubes with DLC-coated sliders and progressive AST springs, offering improved responsiveness and control. These are paired with a custom RRC fork bridge, featuring triple clamping below and double clamping above, with adjustable wheel trail for precise geometry tuning. At the rear, an AST shock absorber provides full 3-way adjustability, including high- and low-speed compression and damping travel.
Braking performance matches the bike’s increased power and agility. Both front and rear are equipped with Braking Wave discs, supported by SM brakes, steel braided brake lines, and distinctive PAZZO brake and clutch levers in white, delivering excellent feel and consistent stopping power under aggressive riding conditions.
The rear section is unmistakably Speed of Color. A SOC custom rear part with integrated rear light creates a clean and modern silhouette, complemented by a handcrafted SOC leather seat. Rider ergonomics are enhanced with LSL rear controls, while the cockpit features an LSL Fatbar handlebar (28.5 mm) in carbon, fitted with Rizoma Sport Line grips for a premium tactile feel.
Visually, the bike stands out through its cohesive design and premium finishes. The SOC “Lightning” engine spoiler reinforces the racer identity, while the V-Rod headlight mounted in a CNC-milled GSG lamp holder adds a bold, modern front profile. Additional highlights include the RRC pulley cover, OEM swingarm with custom coating, and a range of exclusive extras such as the 99-look tank cover with integrated tank strips, SOC point cover, GSG brake expansion tank, one-off ignition lock holder, and GSG belt tensioner.
The paintwork and coating by Speed of Color tie the entire build together. The tank, frame, rims, and swingarm are specially coated, while numerous components are powder-coated and laser-engraved, emphasizing the craftsmanship behind every detail.
The Buell X1 Lightning Racer “Thunderstorm” by Speed of Color is more than a custom motorcycle—it is a refined performance machine that honors Buell’s racing heritage while pushing it into a modern, highly engineered custom form.
Buell parts
- Engine: upgrade “Thunderstorm” cylinder heads, fuel injection
- Air filter: Forcefinder
- Exhaust / muffler: Buell Race muffler with 2.5 inch race manifold
- Carburettor: OEM injection
- Engine breather: engine breather kit
- Rear wheel rim: Original rim widened to 6.25″ x 17″
- Pulley wheel: Original pulley revised
- Tyres: Metzeler Sportec M5 – Front: 120 / 70 ZR 17, Rear: 200 / 50 ZR 17 on PM rims
- Drive Sprocket: Sprocket redesigned with CNC machined cover
- Rear part / seats: SOC rear part with integrated rear light, SOC leather seat
- Front fender: standard
- Handlebar: LSL Fatbar handlebar 28.5mm in carbon, Rizoma grips “Sport Line”
- Fork: Fork tubes anodized/slider tubes DLC coated, progressive AST springs
- Fork bridge: RRC fork bridge with triple clamping below and double clamping above, custom-made with adjustable wheel trail
- Shock absorber: AST shock absorber, 3-way adjustable (high/low speed compression & damping travel)
- Footpegs: LSL rear controls
- Brakes: front and rear Braking Wave discs, SM brakes steel flex lines, PAZZO brake and clutch levers in white
- Engine spoiler: SOC engine spoiler “Lightning”
- Headlight: V-Rod headlight with milled GSG lamp holder
- Rear swingarm: OEM coated
- Pulley Cover: RRC Pulley Cover
- Extras: Tank cover 99 look with integrated tank strips, SOC point cover, GSG brake expansion tank, ignition lock holder (one-off production), GSG belt tensioner
- Paintwork/Coating: Paintwork by SOC; Tank, frame, rims and swingarm specially coated; various parts powder-coated and laser-engraved
