The Best Cruiser Motorcycles: Comfortable and Stylish Rides
When it comes to motorbikes, cruisers have a feel and look of their own. This category of motorcycles is not about speed and power (even though most of them have these attributes) but it is about cruising in style, as the name implies.
Cruiser motorcycles tend to have a very low seat, a relaxed feet-forward riding position, a large rear wheel, high handlebars, and engines focused on low down torque instead of top-end power. These are some of the attributes and features that make cruisers so unique. There are many cruiser motorcycles on the market today, and we would be reviewing the best of the best cruiser motorcycles out there.
Read on to see out top recommendations for both professionals and beginners.
Top Pick
Our top pick for the best Cruiser motorbike is the Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S. because it is ideal for different types of riders. It comes with many great features and functionalities as well. It features an amazing finish with a 1,783cc engine that delivers great power.
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Here are the Best Cruiser Motorcycles:
1. Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S. — Best Cruising Motorcycle
The Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S. is one of the most beautiful, high-performance cruiser motorcycles on the market. This cruiser is great for excelling in the twisties and jaunting down the boardwalk, thanks to its mono-shock in the rear and inverted fork upfront. It provides a very comfortable ride stance, thanks to its wide forward controls and high back seat.
This cruiser boasts of high performance because it comes with a very powerful engine. It comes with a liquid-cooled, 8-valve DOHC, V-twin, 1,783cc engine. Suzuki designed this engine to produce responsive torque and massive tractable power. The motorbike is also equipped with Suzuki Advanced Sump System (SASS), which is a compact dry sump lubrication system that provides a lower crankshaft position, reduced engine height, and a lower center of gravity.
This cruiser comes with a generous fuel storage tank with a capacity of 4.9 gallons. The passenger and rider seats are designed for comfort, well-cushioned, and allow for freedom of movement. It features a 5-speed constant mesh transition with a front seat height of 27.8 inches. You can also get it in different colors.
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2. Indian Chief Dark Horse
If you are looking for the best cruiser motorcycle with great aesthetic and functionality, you should consider the Indian Chief Dark Horse. This is one of the most storied motorbikes out there because it has a lot to offer. It has wide handlebars, sweeping fenders, classic appeal, a powerful engine, and an illuminated figurehead.
It also features an impressive design that promotes good and comfortable posture. The motorbike is loaded with modern conveniences and features such as cruise control, ABS brakes, and keyless ignition – pretty cool right? Many bikers also love this machine because of its aggressive, blacked-out design.
It comes with an impressive V-twin, 1811cc engine that delivers great power and speed. The engine of this cruiser is also very easy to maintain. The controls are very easy to reach and it has a screen that shows you the speed, fuel gauge, and more. It also has large fuel storage, which means you do not have to refill frequently while enjoying a cruise. The motorbike is super stable, and you can use it on different terrains.
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3. Ducati Xdiavel
Next on our list is the Ducati Xdiavel, and it is one of the best cruiser motorcycles out there. When it comes to power, the XDiavel crushes many motorbikes out there. The motorbike is also lightweight, weighing only 485 pounds, making it a great option for mid-level and professional motorbike riders. This machine comes with technology that makes it very easy to maneuver. It is also great for low-speed riding because of its amazing design that keeps you comfortable and relaxed.
The bike features a maximum torque of 93 lb-ft at 5,000 RPM. It comes with broad handlebars and footpegs that are further forward. This cruiser has a level of technical content and performance that allows for unique experiences and riding versatility.
This motorcycle comes with the latest evolutionary step of the Testastretta engine – the DVT 1262 engine. With the 1,262cc L-twin engine, this machine provides more than enough power to cruise any terrain. It comes with backlit handlebar switches, Ducati Power Launch (DPL), cruise control, Ducati Safety Pack, full-led lighting, and a new dark brown seat.
This cruiser motorbike does not come cheap, but it offers a lot for the money. It provides superior comfort and control. This machine also comes with a one-year warranty. The safety features of this bike include Ducati traction control, Bosch cornering ABS, and riding modes.
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4. Triumph Bonneville Bobber — Best Cruiser Motorcycle for the Money
Triumph is one of the best brands to run to if you are looking for a stylish and functional motorcycle. This bike left many people “wowed” when it was announced in 2016. The 2020 version is much stronger and better, and it now has a new black edition as well. It features great styling, which is why many love it. However, one of the unique selling points of this machine is its performance. It offers superb acceleration and handling, more than you will expect from a cruiser.
This cruiser offers more power than the Bonneville T120, thanks to its 1,200cc 8-valve, SOHC, parallel-twin engine. It also has many great features to offer such as ride modes, switchable traction control, a slipper clutch, and ride by wire. It also comes with a very attractive price tag despite bagging all these great features.
The transition is 6-speed while the fuel capacity is 2.7 gallons. The seat height from the ground is 27.2 inches while the overall weight is 502 pounds. When it comes to brakes, this cruiser bobber features 310mm disc, Nissin 2-piston floating caliper, and ABS at front brakes while the rear brakes include ABS, Nissin single-piston floating caliper, and single 255mm disc.
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5. Harley Davidson 2020 Low Rider S
The Harley Davidson 2020 Low Rider S is another great cruiser motorcycle with exceptional functionalities. This machine features drag bars and a footpeg position that makes the ride position on this bike a bit more aggressive. The bike features a very beautiful design and modern finishing. It also has some fancy rider features such as keyless ignition and ABS.
One of the most notable features of this bike is its engine. It comes with the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine. This powerful 1,868cc, V-twin engine has an output of 93 horsepower at 5,020 RPM. Despite the hefty weight of this machine, it still has a lot of pull, thanks to its powerful engine. The sound of the engine is also very impressive, and you would love it.
The seat height is 26.5 inches while the overall weight is 650 pounds. It has very large fuel storage, with a capacity of 5 gallons. The fuel consumption of this bike is also very low, making it a highly efficient motorbike. It comes with an advanced rear and front brake system to keep you safe at all speed levels.
The specification of the front tire is 110/90B19,62H, BW while that of the back tire is 180/70B16,77H, BW. It is also available in two different colors.
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6. Kawasaki Vulcan S
If you are looking for the top cruiser motorcycle that is great for both beginners and professionals, you might want to consider the Kawasaki Vulcan S. If you are a beginner rider or on a tight budget, this is a great option to consider as a good starter bike. The engine of this machine is relatively small, as it comes with a 649cc engine. The output of this cruiser makes it a great option for new riders, as it makes the bike easier to control.
The motorbike is highly responsive, which makes it easier for new riders to handle. This motorcycle provides a stripped-down experience, and it does not come with complex controls that are on most advanced cruiser motorbikes. It comes with ABS, which is one feature you should look for in a motorcycle before buying.
The liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-stroke parallel-twin, 8-valve engine is also very easy to maintain, and it will not give you any issues provided you service it when due. The motorbike is environment-friendly and it economizes fuel pretty well.
It has a fuel capacity of 3.7 gallons, which is pretty great for a relatively cheap cruiser motorcycle. The seat height is 27.7 inches, and it is designed to provide you with a high level of comfort while riding. The overall weight of this motorbike is 505 pounds, and this makes the motorcycle easier for new riders to control.
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7. Honda 2020 Shadow Phantom
The Honda 2020 Shadow Phantom is a simple yet stylish cruiser that comes with many great features. If you are looking for an unabated experience with the road, this is the perfect motorcycle for you. With this cruiser motorbike, you will always be in tune with the road.
It comes with a powerful 745cc V-twin engine that delivers exceptional performance and sound. The engine produces a quieter sound that will not disturb your peace while riding. The power of this machine is also consistent throughout all ranges of RPM in all five gears. It is also possible to carry a passenger on this motorbike, thanks to its design.
This motorbike has the lowest seat height on our list so far, as the seat is as low as 25.8 inches. The curb weight is 549 pounds. It has a fuel capacity of 3.7 gallons with 0-9 reserve. You can get this motorbike in two different colors; Matte pearl and blacks.it also comes with an unlimited-mileage limited warranty for one year. This bike is also known to be a great fuel economizer, which means your fuel expenses would reduce.
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8. Triumph Rocket 3
The Triumph Rocket 3 relies on inline-triples for power, and the inline-triple is mounted longitudinally. This cruiser motorcycle has a lot of power behind it, with a jaw-dropping 2,500cc engine. This is a car-sized engine with a torque of 163 ft-lb and an output of 165Hp. It also bags other great features such as cornering ABS, traction control, ride modes, a Bluetooth-enable TFT display, a hill-hold, and cruise control.
You can get the Triumph Rocket 3 in two variants Sporty (R) and Touring (GT), allowing you to choose the one that best suits your cruising style. The water-cooled, inline 3-cylinder, DOHC, 2500cc engine is also very easy to maintain. It features a full aluminum frame with 17x3.5 inches cast aluminum front wheel and 16x7.5 inches cast aluminum rear wheel. It also comes with a very effective front and rear suspension system that delivers great performance.
The seat height of this machine is a bit high, at 30.4 inches. It comes with large fuel storage, with a capacity of 4.8 gallons. The motorbike is fuel-efficient and friendly to the environment as well. This bike allows for easy maneuverability while providing you with a comfortable and smooth cruise. It is a bit pricey but it is worth the investment.
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9. Yamaha VMAX
The last on our list is the Yamaha VMAX, and it is one of the best cruising bikes out there. If you are looking for a cruiser motorcycle with the latest features and technologies, this is the right cruiser bike for you. This motorbike comes with the latest technology and gadgetry to provide you with enjoyable and smooth rides. The technology of this machine consists of wave-style brake discs with ABS, 5-speed transmission with slipper clutch, and fully adjustable suspension.
When it comes to performance, this machine offers a lot of it, thanks to its 1,679cc, liquid-cool V-four, DOHC, 16-valve engine. It delivers enough power to give you a smooth and safe cruise on any road. The motorcycle also comes with Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T), which delivers optimum acceleration under any condition.
For clean looks and efficiency, the high-performance engine of this machine is cooled by two radiators. This bike is designed to handle curves and straightaways pretty well, thanks to the lightweight aluminum chassis that puts the engine forward and low for mass centralization.
The Yamaha VMAX comes with a seat that is 30.5 inches high from the ground. The wheelbase is 66.9 inches while the fuel storage capacity is 4 gallons. This machine weighs about 683 pounds, which is neither too heavy nor too light. It has an OLED display with much useful information about the bike and bright lighting to illuminate your path.
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What to Look for in a Cruiser Motorcycle
Engine Power
Before buying a cruiser motorcycle, the first thing you should consider is the power of the engine. The right engine power is dependent on your intended use for the machine. Hence, you need to first consider what you want to use the machine for.
You should also consider your level of experience, as new riders are not supposed to play with cruisers designed for professionals. The higher the engine power, the more powerful the machine will be. As such, you want to make sure your experience level matches the power of the engine. If you are not a professional, we recommend you go for a 1,000cc engine or less, as you will find them much easier to control.
Comfort
Another vital thing you should consider is comfort. You want to make sure the motorcycle is very comfortable to sit and ride on. Many factors contribute to the comfort motorcycles offer, one of which is the height of the seat. Low seat height provides better comfort than higher ones. As such, you should go for an option with low seat height. A wide handlebar is another comfort-contributing factor. Wider handlebars are very easy to reach and control.
Don't forget that the right cruiser boots and gloves would also contribute to having that comfortable ride.
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
An anti-lock braking system is one of the most important features to look for when buying a motorcycle. The ABS is a standard safety feature that helps to prevent the wheels from locking up while helping them to maintain grip with the road below. As such, you want to make sure the bike comes with this system. You should also look out for other safety features that would help you ride safely and more comfortably. Motorcycle tires are also an important consideration when buying a cruiser motorcycle. While cruiser motorcycles are designed for a long, comfortable ride, choosing the best motorcycle tire for a cruiser is also the most important thing. The right tire can support huge loads and last longer.
Of course, practice basic motorcycle safety and always wear a helmet.
Conclusion
Those are some of the best cruiser motorbikes on the market. There are many options on the market, but only a handful tends to stand out as the best because they come with the latest technology and safety features to give riders comfortable, safer, and smoother rides. With the cruiser motorcycles and the buyer’s guide above, finding your next cruiser motorcycles should no longer be an issue.
If we were to pick just one product, it would be the Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S. because it comes with many great features. It also comes with a powerful engine, low seat height, comfortable positioning, stunning design, and it is averagely priced.
