Most Popular Cruiser Motorcycles

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Cruisers are among the best selling motorcycles in North America. Many companies make great cruiser rides. Learn about the most popular cruiser motorcycles here.

Some of the most renowned cruiser models include Yamaha V Star 250, Indian Scout Bobber Sixty, Triumph Bonneville Bobber, Honda Rebel 500, Shadow Phantom, and the Suzuki Boulevard C50T. All of these rides have their own class and are quite popular among motorcycle enthusiasts.

Although the cruiser motorcycle scene has evolved dramatically in recent years, the market remains enormous. Manufacturers have invested substantial money into research and development to manufacture cruiser motorcycles.

There are many cruiser motorcycles available on the market. So, if you are searching for the best cruiser, you might find it hard to find a ride that's ideal for you. To help you with your search and make it easier, we've compiled a list of the most popular cruiser motorcycles. We have also tested several rides over the years and found these models to be the best cruiser motorcycles of all time.

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1. Yamaha V-Star 250

The Yamaha V-Star 250 cruiser has a V-Twin engine and is a quarter-liter racer. This motorcycle features a classic cruiser style and is one of the best options for inexperienced riders looking for a cruiser.

The Japanese-made V-Star 250 is a compact cruiser regarded as one of the friendliest beginner motorcycles in the 2021 series. It's inexpensive, fuel-efficient, and strong enough to give plenty of power to riders.

The Yamaha V-Star 250 cruiser motorcycle is rider-friendly, with a 27-inch height adjustment and a 325-pound curb weight. Moreover, thanks to an 85-mph maximum speed and an efficient 78-mpg fuel usage, the V-Star 250 is completely capable of two-up riding.

The 2021 model is a continuation from the previous year and is virtually the same motorcycle Yamaha has sold since 2012 when the reflectors were modified and the buckhorn grips, which were conspicuous in prior model years, were dropped. The front suspension is handled by telescopic forks with 5.5 inches of movement, while the back suspension is supported by twin shocks with 3.9 inches of transportation and fully adjustable preload, both of which are ordinary but sufficient for keeping you comfortable over the potholes.

When you hit the brakes, the 282 mm solitary front disc and back drum brakes are engaged. The V-Star 250's low center of gravity makes it easy to maneuver in parking areas and around corners, and the high-quality tires ensure that the motorcycle doesn't lose its grip on the road while turning.

Overall, the long-stroke engine on this version produces plenty of low-rpm power to get you off the line quickly, and the wide-geared gearbox provides a higher peak speed at lower rpm on the interstate, but you'll have to work hard to get it there. The automated cam-chain tensioner that comes standard is an advantage in terms of maintenance.

2. Indian Scout Bobber Sixty

The Indian Scout Bobber Sixty cruiser is among the greatest cruiser motorcycles for new riders, offering a lot of power. It has a five-speed gearbox and a compact cast aluminum chassis with a fuel-injected liquid-cooled V-Twin engine.

The motorcycle's sliced back fender, bowed seat, dual-shotgun pipes, and side-mounted license plate holder add to the ride's visual appeal. The non-ABS base model is also available in a different style.

The Indian Scout Bobber Sixty is among Indian's smallest-displacement explorers, yet it's quite powerful and will make your adventures more fun. At 5,220 rpm, the Scout Bobber Sixty produces 55.8 lb-ft of torque. While Indian has eliminated a gear, the Scout Bobber Sixty's driveline five gears are high, and the additional gear isn't missed on the freeway.

The first gear can go up to roughly 40 mph before being shifted to the second. The leftover gears expand and offer useable power as the arching analog speedo needle rises to greater speeds, easily propelling the Indian Scout Bobber Sixty to motorway speeds and beyond. Things start to get rumbly about 4,000 rpm, and the cars and scenery in the teardrop mirrors become a hazy, pixelated jumble.

Dual shocks in the back provide three inches of travel. On the other hand, the front suspension is stiff and has 4.7 inches of movement. The 41mm telescopic fork cheerfully soaks up the shocks while maintaining the front tire end of the motorcycle under the command and connected to the terrain.

3. Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS

The Vulcan S is a speedy mid-sized cruiser built on the Ninja 650 chassis, which is popular and extremely practical. As a result, the ABS-equipped Vulcan S has a sport motorcycle-inspired frame and the same 650cc twin engine as that of the Ninja, although significantly different.

The Kawasaki Vulcan S family is distinguished by its commitment to Kawasaki's Ergo-Fit concept. You may customize the Vulcan S to fit your needs. Three foot peg settings are available, and the lowered handlebar brings the grips 1.7 inches closer to the user. The motorcycle also offers three different seat positions to choose from. Furthermore, you can configure the distance between the hand controls and yourself.

The Vulcan S ABS has a signature 650cc parallel-twin engine that provides enough power to keep experienced commuters amused while remaining gentle enough to instill trust in newcomers. The Vulcan's rear-view shock is adjusted for preload, while the manufacturer establishes the 41mm fork. The Vulcan S isn't precisely light, but its ultra-low seating makes its 500-pound weight relatively tolerable.

The Vulcan S delivers a steady ride, thanks to the low-slung frame with a large 62-inch wheelbase and comfortable 31 degrees of rake. The Dunlop Sport max D220 tires guarantee that you may confidently push the cruiser to its limits.

Pearl Blizzard White is a new color option available for the baseline Vulcan S. A black tank graphic and rims with electric blue highlights complete the motorcycle’s appearance. This motorcycle is built and designed very well. It is one of the most reliable cruiser motorcycles. The best thing about this ride is that it is quite affordable and brings the cruiser segment closer to a wider range of riders who might not be able to afford Harley motorcycles.

4. Honda Rebel 500

Each year, Honda's second-generation Rebel motorcycles top the list of the most popular cruisers because they manage to outperform the competition in terms of speed, value, and set of features. In the 2020 model, modifications were made in the suspension and led bulbs. Moreover, the motorcycle also featured an additional slipper and assist clutch. All of these features make the Honda Rebel 500 more popular among cruising enthusiasts.

The 2020 Honda Rebel 500 is an excellent choice for motorcyclists upgrading from beginner motorcycles. The vehicle is a nice step forward from the single-cylinder Rebel 300. It's still tolerant if you make mistakes and has enough strength to pull you out of difficulty with a touch of the throttle as your riding skills improve.

We all want to be while cruising, and the ergonomics of the Honda Rebel 500 ensure that. The seating position is comfortable and natural. The footpegs are far enough forward to let you know you're driving a cruiser but not so far ahead that you must scramble to find them.

When you turn the Honda Rebel 500 on and press the electric starting button on the right handlebar, the 471cc DOHC liquid-cooled engine comes to life. The ride performs well in stop-and-go traffic, and there are no unexpected jerks or snatchy reflexes.

The cruiser-style power is adequate when needed, but it has a smooth delivery that won't create problems for inexperienced riders. The Honda Rebel 500 boasts a new assist and slipper clutch, as well as a light and smooth lever movement. In addition, the motorcycle's transmission and gearbox provide a smooth and comfortable ride.

Since the gearbox is easy to use, changing gears is instinctual. It's easy to shift into neutral, allowing you plenty of time to prepare for the stop. The six-speed gearbox provides a wide variety of ratios, which can be used on both city streets and highways.

Overall, the Honda Rebel 500 is an excellent option in the beginner cruiser motorcycle category. It offers smooth power, comfortable seating, good attention to detail, useful updates, and affordable pricing, making this ride enjoyable regardless of skill level or gender.

5. Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S

The Suzuki M109R B.O.S.S. is the racing cruiser that all other motorcycles wish to be. This heavy and muscular motorcycle boasts a robust V-twin engine with some of the industry's biggest pistons, making it a motorcycle that will get your blood pumping every time you ride it.

Slash-cut dampers, drag-style bars, a single-seat cowl, and a specially formed headlight nacelle are among the extreme design features on the ride. The black engine and sliced exhausts add to the customized cruiser look, while the drag-style handlebars and thick 240 tire help ensure smooth turns.

Sturdy inverted forks, a concealed single-shock suspension system, and an ergonomically designed saddle give snappy handling and an exceedingly pleasant ride on this motorcycle. From tip to tail, the 1.Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S has a sleek and efficient design. The design looks even better when the additional tail cowl is installed in place of the passenger side.

A double-cradle chassis made from high-quality steel is designed to comfortably manage all speeds and torque while providing nimble handling and a comfortable, smooth ride. Furthermore, the deep, luscious paint is applied beautifully on a long, intimidating muscle cruiser, unlike anything. This motorcycle is one-of-a-kind, from the unusual headlight to the drag-style handlebars and gigantic 240mm broad rear tire. Finally, the passenger and rider seats on this cruiser are designed for comfort –they allow for flexibility of movement, are well padded, and can accommodate riders of various sizes.

Suzuki's digitally regulated SET system is used in the 2-1-2 steel blacked-out exhaust for optimal engine efficiency and strong V-twin noise. A wide-ratio, five-speed transmission with a higher fifth gear ratio is also available for comfortable highway cruising. The minimal shaft drive is spotless and has minimum torque response as it properly delivers power to the huge 18-inch back tire.

6. Triumph Bonneville Bobber

Triumph motorcycles are class cruisers. They have a captivating, elegant, attractive, and aesthetically engaging quality about them. With its comparatively attractive conventional seat height, signature black finish, and grassroots elegance, the Triumph Bonneville Bobber is one of the most popular cruiser motorcycles.

This motorcycle has a lot of charisma, plenty of flair, and a commanding attitude. The simple design of the Bonneville Bobber is a tribute to the very first bobbers. It also has prominent thick front tires, which give it an imposing, powerful appearance, and broad rear tires, adding to the bold look of the ride.

With a hard-tail appearance, caged swing arm, and sleek moto-shock gear, a single hovering seat abides by its bobber heritage. The twin-thumper engine's exhaust stream maintains a symmetrical visual appeal on both sides.

Moving towards the engine, the 2020 Bonneville Bobber features 1200cc liquid-cooled with 78.17 lb-ft of maximum torque and 76 peak horsepower. It features a 97.6mm bore and an 80mm stroke. At roughly 4000 rpm, it is impossible for the amazing torque produced by the ride to go unnoticed. The motorcycle has a snappy twin-thumping power and a substantial rumbling growl that blasts out a mechanical flex of personality that is instinctively responsive.

Owing to the approachable 27.1654-inch seat height, the Bonneville Bobber gives you the freedom to drive and is a delightful asset for any rider. While it doesn't have the greatest suspension, it still has easy maneuverability and a regular handlebar rise, representing classic bobber aesthetics with some performance and comfort.

7. Honda Shadow Phantom

The Honda Shadow Phantom has demonstrated that a 750cc V-Twin cruiser can be an excellent option in all its numerous configurations over the previous 38 years. Over a decade, the Honda Shadow Phantom has brought the delight of basic, unfiltered riding to new and veteran riders alike.

With a torquey V-twin 745cc engine and a sleek, minimalist design emphasized by thorough blackout coating, the Shadow Phantom is a solid contender for cruiser enthusiasts. The sleek lines, which look fantastic with the black trims, represent the Phantom's simplicity. The wide tire design adds heft to the overall vision, but once on the road, riders will notice the easy-handling characteristics that Honda motorcycles are renowned for.

Historical elements are preserved on the Phantom cruiser. The modest gauge cluster on the traditional fuel tank only shows the speed and distance. The 34° rake front fork connects to a traditional wire-spoke tire and a solitary 296mm disc with a twin-piston caliper. The back wheel is shaft-driven and is controlled by a conventional drum brake, which is managed by classical dual outboard shocks.

The Shadow Phantom has been refined over many years by Honda, and it should appeal to beginner riders. With a seat height of 25.8 inches, you may confidently place your feet on the ground. The V-Twin engine produces 48 lb-ft of torque to propel the 549-pound motorcycle easily. The Phantom can control extended road trips, 2-up racing, and everything else you hurl at it, and it does so without fear.

8. Suzuki Boulevard C50T

Suzuki has always been steadfast in its support for the V-twin displacement class, and the C50T is an example of this. The Suzuki Boulevard C50T is a legendary cruiser from the past. This Japanese motorcycle is a modest, dependable torque-producing vehicle made for relaxing rides through highways.

It has the same 805cc V-twin engine as the C50 but comes with a windshield and saddlebag arrangement for longer-distance commuting comfort. The torquey liquid-cooled engine has enough power to allow a rider to commute at highway speeds without getting drained. Most people would like a six-speed gearbox, but the C50T's motor has enough power to get by with a five-speed.

The windscreen is huge, giving the rider ample protection. The proportions on the C50T are not tight, thanks to a wide handlebar and front floorboards. The motorcycle features lots of suspension travel, even though it isn't customizable. With the help of a connection array for the shock, the back fork is over four inches long, and the front fork is 5.5 inches long.

The beautiful, white-walled IRC Grand High-Speed GS-23 tires meet the motorcycle's modest needs. This tiny tourer is all about fluidity, and owing to a 33.2-degree rake, the riding is easy, so the tires aren't overworked.