The Buell XB12S Lightning, a motorcycle that combined elements of the cruiser, sport, and streetfighter worlds, was introduced to the market in the early 2000s. With its 1203cc Evo V-twin engine, Buell Thunderstorm heads, fuel injection, and ECM-controlled exhaust, the bike was able to pump out an impressive 103 horsepower and 84 foot-pounds of torque. The antique engine design was paired with a modern chassis featuring fuel in the frame, oil in the swingarm, a toothed kevlar belt drive, and a giant front perimeter disc brake. The short 1320mm wheelbase made it easy to lift the front wheel with just a twist of the wrist, and the bike could complete a quarter-mile in a respectable 12.2 seconds. Despite its unconventional appearance, the Buell XB12S was described as a fun and practical motorcycle.

We caught up with Wayne Buys from South Africa’s FabMan Creations (FMC), who specializes in hand-fabricated motorcycle components. Wayne had previously worked on a KTM 950 Desert Sled, which we featured in 2020. This time around, Wayne was given a wide open design brief for a Buell XB12 custom build, allowing him to follow his vision with little constraint. Wayne’s goal was to create a motorcycle with clean lines and a smooth, streamlined monocoque appearance. Most of the bodywork, including the vast aluminum top cover and tail, belly pan, air scoops, and headlight / speedometer housing, were all handmade. The seat and subframe were also custom, as was the stainless silencer, which was mated to modified headers. Wayne himself laid down the paint on the finished bike, which he nicknamed “Delila.” The motorcycle seems to streamline the silhouette of the Buell machine rather than reinventing it.

We spoke with Wayne to get more details on the build. When asked about the design concept and what influenced the build, Wayne replied that he was given free rein by the client and was looking to do a build with clean lines. As for the nickname “Delila,” Wayne confessed that it was due to a lack of imagination, but he thought it sounded cool. Finally, Wayne described the bike as an absolute blast to ride.

Here is the build sheet:

• Modified header pipes and built a new stainless silencer.
• Handmade aluminium top cover, belly pan, scoops and new light/Speedo housing.
• Changed frame lines to match up with top cover.
• Built and covered seat
• Installed Kustom Tech hand controls on mx bars
• Shortened stock front fender
• Powder coated wheels
• Laid down some paint
• Wayne thanks the Lord for his blessings and gives Him all the Glory for this build.

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