Cruiser

Low, relaxed, full of torque

Cruiser Motorcycles

What are cruiser motorcycles?

A cruiser is a motorcycle with a low seat, forward-mounted foot controls and a laid-back riding position, usually powered by a torquey twin-cylinder engine and styled after classic American bikes.

They are about style and relaxed riding rather than speed. The low seat makes many cruisers very friendly for shorter riders and beginners.

Best for
Relaxed riders, shorter riders, fans of classic American style.
Riding position
Laid back, feet forward
Typical engines
300–1900 cc, mostly V-twins — Engines

Pros

  • Low seat height
  • Relaxed, laid-back riding
  • Strong torque, easy to ride
  • Huge customisation culture

Cons

  • Limited cornering clearance
  • Heavy
  • Feet-forward position is tiring on bumps

Example models

Honda Rebel 500Kawasaki Vulcan SIndian ScoutHarley-Davidson Softail

Frequently asked questions

Are cruisers good for beginners?

Small cruisers are very beginner-friendly thanks to their low seats and relaxed power. Big cruisers are heavy, so start small.

Are cruisers good for short riders?

Yes — cruisers have some of the lowest seat heights of any motorcycle type.

What are the types of cruisers?

Common styles include classic cruisers, power cruisers with big engines, baggers with hard saddlebags, and stripped-down bobbers.