There’s something classically American about a cruiser motorcycle, whether made by U.S. companies Harley-Davidson and Indian or foreign manufacturers like Yamaha and Honda. Seeing one on the street brings to mind a leather-jacketed Marlon Brando in “The Wild One,” which is only normal considering cruiser motorcycles are based on bikes from that era.
So, what is a cruiser motorcycle? Think of Marlon Brando’s bike with a lower seat and forward-mounted foot pegs, giving riders that relaxed, legs-forward riding position. Cruiser bikes are heavier and don’t come with the acceleration and handling of sport bikes, but they’re perfect for daily commutes to work or short- to medium-distance rides on weekends.
Sit back as we take you through our guide to the best cruiser motorcycles available today. You’ll also learn more about cruiser models to assist you when shopping for the best cruiser motorcycle for you.
#1 2023 Harley-Davidson Softail Standard
This bike delivers on Harley-Davidson’s promise of a basic, old-school bobber. The bobber was a standard motorcycle with a shortened or bobbed rear to reduce overall weight. The Softail Standard is the perfect choice for cruising around town or light touring when the mood hits you. The bike is 91.3 inches long with a seat height of 25.8 inches. If you’re looking for traditional Harley-Davidson style, then this is the cruiser bike for you.
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2023 Harley-Davidson Softail Standard Specs
- Engine: Milwaukee-Eight 107
- Power: 92.5 HP
- Torque: 110 lb-ft. @3,000 RPM
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Curb weight: 655 lbs.
Pricing starts at $14,399 for the 2023 model.
Pros
- Basic bike ready for customizing.
- Maneuvers easily through hills.
- You’ll love the comfort.
- Affordable for a Harley.
Cons
- Color choice is limited to vivid black.
- Handling could make city riding difficult.
- The bike’s heavy, so maneuverability suffers.
#2 2023 Yamaha Bolt/Bolt R-Spec
Yamaha’s bobber-look cruiser motorcycle has a compact and stable chassis for outstanding maneuverability, making it one of the best cruiser motorcycle for beginners. Riders sit in a more upright position than you’ll see in other cruiser models, but Yamaha points out that it’s a motorcycle made for customization, allowing you to personalize it as you wish.
Additionally, pricing starts at $8,899 for 2023, making it an excellent choice for new motorcyclists or any budget-conscious rider.
2023 Yamaha Bolt/Bolt R Specs
- Engine: 942cc air-cooled V-twin
- Power: 65 HP
- Torque: 59.3 lb-ft.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Curb weight: 542 lbs.
Pricing starts at $14,399 for the 2023 model.
Pros
- A high-torque and sporty urban cruiser.
- It’s priced to be easy on the budget.
- Its compact size and low 27.2-inch seat height make this bike perfect for riders of all experience levels and sizes.
Cons
- Not the best cruiser for long distances over highways and interstates.
- A relatively small 3.4-gallon fuel tank limits the miles you can cover between fill-ups compared to other cruisers.
- The lack of a fairing or windshield on the basic model leaves riders at the mercy of the wind, but you can add one later if you like the bike.
#3 Indian Scout Bobber Sixty
Classic bobber styling in a 2023 bike – that’s the best way to describe our number three pick of best cruisers for 2023. The Indian Scout Bobber Sixty combines the minimalist style and look you want in a classic motorcycle from Indian Motorcycles with state-of-the-art engineering to give it the power and handling you need on the roads.
Indian Scout Bobber Sixty Specs
- Engine: 1133cc liquid-cooled V-twin
- Power: 78 HP
- Torque: 65 lb-ft.
- Transmission: 5-speed
- Curb Weight: 549 lbs.
Pricing starts at $8,999 for the 2023 model.
Pros
- A comfortable ride with a 25.6-inch seat height.
- More than enough power and performance to please all riders.
- Sleek and stylish design.
Cons
- Thicker handlebars and grips that may be uncomfortable for some riders.
- Do yourself a favor and swap out the stock seat for a more comfortable one.
- The lack of security features, including a way to lock the front fork, is an issue you’ll have to address with an after-market device.
#4 Kawasaki Vulcan S/ABS
A peppy engine and adjustable rear shock absorber make the Vulcan S feel lighter than you would expect from a bike weighing 498 pounds. Its vintage design and styling, coupled with an aggressive riding experience, are enough to put it in the top five cruisers for 2023. Even if you’re not sold from this review, you should at least take one for a test ride.
Kawasaki Vulcan S/ABS Specs
- Engine: 649cc liquid-cooled
- Power: 60.4 HP
- Torque: 46.3 lb-ft.
- Transmission: 6-speed with positive neutral finder
- Curb Weight: 498.3
Pricing starts at $7,349, but it increases to $7,899 for the model with ABS.
Pros
- Combines the feel of a Sport Bike with the looks of a cruiser.
- Light enough for any rider, regardless of strength and size.
- Thank Kawasaki for building a reliable bike to keep you on the road and not in the shop.
Cons
- The sport-bike frame could be a negative for shoppers looking for a true cruiser motorcycle.
- Get rid of the stock headlight – it’s not bright enough.
- While swapping out the headlight, you may also want to replace its uncomfortable seat.
#5 Ducati Diavel 1260
It should not be surprising that an Italian motorcycle company’s entry into the cruiser field turns out to be cruiser-meets-sport bike. It may sound odd, but Ducati has developed a motorcycle that turns heads on the road for all the best reasons. The Diavel 1260 combines the muscle of a cruiser with the style and performance of a sport bike. Cruise control and a state-of-the-art electronic instrument panel, ABS, and Ducati Power Launch are only some of the features that may have you adding this bike to your shopping list.
Ducati Diavel 1260 Specs
- Engine: 649cc liquid-cooled
- Power: 60.4 HP
- Torque: 46.3 lb-ft.
- Transmission: 6-speed with positive neutral finder
- Curb Weight: 498.3
Pricing starts at $26,695.
Pros
- Unique, stylish design.
- Powerful, responsive engine.
- Advanced technology, including traction control, cornering ABS, and more
Cons
- On the heavier side at 538 pounds.
- Its design does not make it the most comfortable ride on long trips.
- A hefty price tag makes this one of the more expensive cruisers on our list.
#6 Harley-Davidson Low Rider
No surprise that another Harley is making our list of best cruiser motorcycles. If your taste in cruisers leans toward the classic look of the West Coast style, then you’ll want to check out the Low Rider from Harley-Davidson. It has more of a sport-bike feel and agility with a cruiser design.
Harley-Davidson Low Rider Specs
- Engine: Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin
- Power: 93 HP
- Torque: 114.3 lb-ft.
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Curb Weight: 679 lbs.
Pricing starts at $18,199 for the 2023 model of the Low Rider, but MSRP varies depending on options and features.
Pros
- Powerful, high-performance machine.
- Excellent handling, especially on turns and winding roads.
- Creates a unique look by combining classic cruiser and sport bike elements.
Cons
- A heavy member of the cruiser class at a robust 679 lbs.
- The Low Rider has a steep price tag compared to other cruiser motorcycles.
#7 Honda Rebel 1100
There’s a reason the Rebel cruiser has been part of Honda’s line of motorcycles since 1985. Honda continues the cruiser tradition with the 2023 Rebel 1100. One of the tweaks for this model year was the camshaft, designed to create an experience closer to a classic V-Twin engine.
Honda Rebel 1100 Specs
- Engine: 1,084cc Liquid-cooled parallel-twin
- Power: 86 HP
- Torque: 72 lb-ft.
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Curb Weight: 487 lbs.
Pricing for this cruiser motorcycle starts at $9,499, which makes it a budget-friendly option compared to others.
Pros
- Enough power and torque for even the most experienced rider.
- Excellent bike for zipping around town or taking on the highway for longer trips.
- Breathtakingly classic cruiser style with a modern flair.
Cons
- Customization options are limited compared to other cruisers on our list.
- Taking a passenger along would be a problem unless you add a passenger seat.
- Tall riders may have a problem with its low 27.5-inch seat height.
#8 Triumph Bonneville Bobber
The name tells you everything there is to know about the classic design of this contribution from Triumph. The classic bobber style from a bygone era features 21st century engineering. Cruise control, LED lighting, and other features combine with a powerful engine to give a unique cruiser experience.
Triump Bonneville Bobber Specs
- Engine: 1,200cc Liquid-cooled SOHC Parallel-Twin
- Power: 77 HP
- Torque: 78 lb-ft.
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Curb Weight: 502 lbs.
Pricing for this cruiser starts at a mid-range $11,950.
Pros
- Eye-catching black-out style and a classic cruiser design.
- Perfect for shorter riders with a seat height of 27.2 inches.
- Many accessories and options available for customizing your bike.
Cons
- Suspension cannot be adjusted.
- You’ll be riding alone, thanks to the lack of a second seat.
- The low seat height may be a problem for taller riders.
Conclusion
You now have eight of the best cruiser motorcycles to get you started as you shop for a classic bike. Use the list to compare features and pricing, but remember that cruisers are only one type of motorcycle.
There are other types of motorcycles you may want to consider based on your preference and riding style. For example, if some of your riding takes you off paved roads, another type of bike may be a better option than a cruiser. The size of the bike may be an essential consideration. A low seat height may be a plus for short riders, but it could make the same motorcycle unsuitable for tall riders with long legs.
Whatever type of motorcycle you choose, it’s important protect yourself by obtaining motorcycle insurance. Check the insurance laws and coverage requirements in your state and get the insurance you need before taking your motorcycle on the road.
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FAQ: The Best Cruiser Motorcycles
What is a cruiser motorcycle?
Cruisers are designed and built for style and comfort rather than high speeds, quick turns, or off-roading. They are lower, heavier, and place the rider in more of a legs-forward posture than other types of motorcycles.
What are the different types of cruiser motorcycles?
There are generally two types of cruisers. Bobbers or choppers are modified cruisers that change the shape and weight of stock motorcycles through extensive bodywork and other modifications. The other type is a power cruiser, which is a standard cruiser with powerful engines and other high-performance changes.
Are cruisers good for long-distance rides?
The answer can be found in the name “cruiser.” It’s a type of motorcycle best suited to cruising around town or taking short rides. Cruisers are not necessarily made for rider comfort on long rides.
Should a beginner get a cruiser motorcycle?
As long as a motorcycle is not too heavy or has a seat that is too high, there is no reason why a beginner cannot ride a cruiser motorcycle. The only note of caution is to recognize the limits of your riding ability and not buy any type of bike with an engine that is too powerful for a novice to control.
What is the best cruiser motorcycle for women?
It’s unfair to generalize and pick a particular motorcycle as the best one for women. There are tall women, short women, women who can handle a 680-pound bike at low speed, and women who would have difficulty keeping it upright. Come to think of it, all of that applies to men equally as well. Regardless of gender, you must find a motorcycle that fits you, including your size, strength, and skill level. A test ride before buying is the best way to decide if a particular bike is the right one for you.
