2023 Buell Freedom Edition Hammerhead 1190 | First Look Review

2023 Buell Hammerhead 1190 Freedom Edition

Just in time for Independence Day, Buell Motorcycles, the manufacturer of the only American-built sportbike lineup, has announced the launch of a 40th-anniversary Freedom Edition Hammerhead 1190. The Freedom Edition has a paint scheme featuring red, white, and blue stars and stripes, which the company says celebrates 40 years of Buell Motorcycles “and the lifeblood of American freedom.”  

“We’re thrilled to introduce the new Freedom paint scheme. Applied directly to the Hammerhead’s standard full carbon fiber bodywork, its design commemorates 40 years of Buell’s exciting journey and our enthusiasm for the next 40,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell. “To us, the Freedom Edition represents our unwavering commitment to our heritage, our fans, and the freedom that comes with riding a Buell.”  

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Along the lines of that riding freedom, the Buell Hammerhead 1190 has a liquid-cooled, 72-degree V-Twin that makes a claimed 185 hp at 10,600 rpm and 102 lb-ft of torque at 8,200 rpm, a 6-speed transmission, and vacuum-operated slip/assist clutch.   

2023 Buell Hammerhead 1190 Freedom Edition

The Hammerhead 1190 has an inverted Showa Big Piston fork and Showa rear monoshock, and stopping power comes from an 8-piston inside-out caliper biting a 386mm disc up front and 2-piston Hayes caliper clamping down on a 220mm disc in the rear. An aluminum frame, aluminum swingarm, and aluminum wheels (17.5 x 3.5 inches in the front, 17 X 6.0 in the rear) all contribute to a relatively trim 419-lb dry weight.   

2023 Buell Hammerhead 1190 Freedom Edition

Starting July 1, 2023, enthusiasts can own the 40th-anniversary Freedom Edition Hammerhead 1190 priced at $24,990. Top-tier models are available at $26,775 for those seeking enhanced features and customization, including Buell’s black-out kit (normally available on the SX only), custom embroidered seat, Öhlins steering stabilizer, and special four-year warranty.   

2023 Buell Hammerhead 1190 Freedom Edition

The first 40 Freedom Edition bikes will also feature the four-year warranty, and the underside of the bodywork will be autographed by the Buell factory family.  

The Freedom Edition can be purchased directly through the Buell website or from an authorized premium and display service center.   

2023 Buell Hammerhead 1190 Freedom Edition
2023 Buell Hammerhead 1190 Freedom Edition

“Our fans have been requesting a red, white, and blue color scheme for a long, long time,” Melvin said. “We listened. And we’re proud to deliver a design that truly reflects the fiercely independent spirit Buell shares with this great country.”  

For more information, visit the Buell website.  

8 COMMENTS

  1. The engine is made in The US, originally dubbed the ETV2 or East Troy V Twin. Based on the design that was built by Rotax but with several design changes, some that carry over from the 2010 1125 motors. These motors are hand assembled by the small team at Grand Rapids so perhaps they are now GRV2 motors.

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