Motorcycle Cruiser Features
If you ask someone to imagine a motorcycle, they’re probably envisioning a cruiser. This extremely popular style of bike is iconic for a reason. Their classic stylings make them turn heads on city streets, which both new and veteran riders love. Their easy handling is especially appealing to the novice rider but benefits the experienced rider equally well. Cruiser motorcycles are a great option for everyone because of these traits.
We’re big fans of cruiser motorcycles here at Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson®, so we’ve detailed some of their best and most appealing features below. This should help you figure out whether they’re the right type of bike for you!
Aesthetic Appeal
The motorcycles that were constructed in the early-to-mid 20th century, between the 1930s and the 1960s, are the inspiration for the cruiser. That’s why so many of these bikes have a cool vintage look that only amplifies their appeal. They come with shiny chrome or anodized black fittings and attractive finishes that are sure to catch the eyes of passersby.
The riding posture is the most distinguishing feature of a cruiser. When you straddle one of these machines, you’ll sit lower on the bike than the fuel tank’s position, reaching up to grab high-mounted handlebars. This is a very active and upright position that makes you look like you’re ready for anything.
In terms of function over fashion, cruisers tend to go the opposite way, favoring looks over efficiency. You won’t find them as comfortable to ride for long distances, for example, and they aren’t the most fuel-efficient machines due to their bulk and weight. But you will look cool and you’ll get a surge of adrenaline every time you twist the throttle!
Powerful Performance
The main thing your cruiser is made to do is go at high speeds on highways and interstates. That’s why it’s equipped with a powerful engine that can give you all the power and fast acceleration you need to enjoy your ride and gain that sense of freedom when you’re coasting down the road.
Most of these bikes’ engines will easily top 1000cc in terms of their displacement, with larger displacements giving you lower torque, making them easier to ride. You won’t have to shift so much to maintain your control or speed up, so you’ll feel more relaxed. This is of special benefit to new riders who need to be able to handle their motorcycles confidently.
Cruiser Customization
In addition to the above benefits, cruisers are also extremely customizable, which means you can build your bike to your exact desires. Because their frames are so simple, these bikes can be easily adjusted and added onto without much trouble. Since they’re also pretty sizeable, any parts you add to them also won’t stick out as much and are more likely to blend into the body of the bike.
Perhaps you’re looking to improve the comfort of your ride. You can add an ergonomic adjustable backrest to help you get into the perfect riding posture. Maybe you’d like your bike to perform just that little bit better, so you adjust its acceleration and improve its fuel efficiency instead with upgraded components or different tires. Or you might simply want your motorcycle to reflect who you are, so you add on designs or custom paint jobs or colored LED lighting. Using the wide array of customizations available, you can get the bike of your dreams easily!
As you can see, the cruiser is a classic for so many great reasons! From its unmistakable style to its breezy handling, this type of bike is built to satisfy motorcyclists from all walks of life. Seeking Harley-Davidson® cruiser motorcycles for sale near Salem? Then you’ll want to pay our Eugene dealership a visit to see our wide selection of new and used cruiser motorcycles for sale. Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson® proudly serves all our Oregon customers in the cities of Corvallis, Portland, Medford, and Salem.