7 Best Cruiser Motorcycles of 2024

In the realm of two-wheeled freedom, few vehicles evoke the spirit of the open road quite like cruiser motorcycles. These iconic machines always has low-slung stance, rumbling engines, and classic styling. All these features and advantages have captured the hearts of riders worldwide. In 2024, the allure of those best cruiser motorcycles remains as captivating as ever. Many motorcycle brands have unveiled lots of models that blend power, comfort, and timeless aesthetics.

In this article, we will introce the top options of cruiser motorcycles in the market. We will introduce them for both short riders and tall riders. You can choose according to your demand and preferance.

Before viewing the best cruiser motorcycles of 2024, it's essential to understand some basic knowledge about this kind of motorcycle.

What is a Cruiser Motorcycle?

Cruiser motorcycles are designed for comfortable long-distance riding. They usually feature a low seat height, relaxed riding position, and a focus on style and ease of handling. This is their core advantage comparing with other types of motorcycle.

Besides, they often equipped with larger engines, they emphasize torque over high-speed performance. Many riders like the throaty rumble of a V-twin powerplant on the cruisers. These engines not only deliver robust torque and smooth power delivery but also contribute to the unmistakable sound. Nowadays, this sound has become synonymous with the cruiser lifestyle.

Cruisers are ideal for leisurely rides and highway cruising, offering a classic, laid-back motorcycling experience.

The Appeal of Cruiser Motorcycles

Beyond their distinctive styling and performance, cruiser motorcycles offer a unique allure. This resonates with riders across various backgrounds.

For some riders, it's the sense of freedom and independence that comes with hitting the open road. While others are drawn to the rich heritage and cultural significance that these bikes embody.

Cruisers are also renowned for their versatility. They can seamlessly transitioning from daily commutes to weekend adventures and cross-country journeys.

I really appreciate their comfortable ergonomics and ample storage options. For me, just like most riders, it is the ideal motorcycle for long-distance touring.

Besides, their agile handling and responsive power delivery ensure an exhilarating ride, regardless of the terrain.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cruiser Motorcycle

With such a diverse range of options available, selecting the perfect cruiser motorcycle can be a daunting task. To help narrow down your choices, here are some key factors to consider when purchasing them:

Engine Displacement and Performance

Cruiser motorcycles come in a wide range of engine sizes in the market.

From compact and nimble 500cc to thunderous 1,800cc behemoths, you can find them. When choosing your ideal cruiser, consider your riding preferences and experience level.

Larger engines offer more torque and acceleration, but they are harder to control. While smaller displacements may be better suited for urban environments or novice riders.

So, consider your own riding skills and ability first, and then make the right choice. Large engine does not mean better, the most suitable one should be your best option.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Comfort is paramount when it comes to cruiser motorcycles. Most time when you are riding a cruiser, you'll spend extended periods in the saddle.

Thus, you need to pay attention to the riding comfortness when you are choosing a cruiser. The seat height, handlebar positioning, and footpeg placement are main factors you should pay attention to.

You can try sitting or riding them, make sure you are relaxed and the riding position is ergonomic.

Besides, some cruisers provide features like adjustable suspension and windshields. They are also worth consider, as these features can further enhance your comfort on long rides.

Style and Aesthetics

Cruiser motorcycles are as much about style as they are about performance. From sleek and modern designs to classic and retro-inspired aesthetics, there's a cruiser to suit your taste.

Consider the overall look and feel of the bike, make sure it resonates with your personal style.

These include the paint schemes, chrome accents, and design elements.

"There are a thousand Hamlets in a thousand people."

So, choose a motorcycle that pleases yourself, don't blindly follow what others say.

Brand Reputation and Reliability

When investing in a cruiser motorcycle, it's essential to consider the brand's reputation. It is best to choose a brand that is known for its quality, reliability, and after-sales support.

Also, you should research common issues, maintenance costs, and customer satisfaction ratings of the brand. Make sure you're making an informed decision before finally choose the cruiser brand.

Pricing and Value

Cruiser motorcycles have a wide range of price points in the market. There are both budget-friendly options and high-end, premium models.

Thus, you will need to determine your budget and focus on the features and capabilities that matter most to you. Bese on these aspects, you will get the best value cruiser motorcycle for your investment.

The Best Cruiser Motorcycles of 2024

With these factors in mind, I believe you can know better about how to choose the ideal cruiser for yourself.

Now, let's explore some of the most highly anticipated and top-performing cruiser motorcycles for the 2024 model year.

1. 2024 Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114

2024 Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114

Main parameters:

• Bike Type: Cruiser motorcycle
• Curb Weight: 653 lbs
• Transmission Type: Manual
• Gas Tank Capacity: 3.5 gal
• Engine Type: V Twin
• Seat Height: 26.8 in
• Carburetion: Fuel Injected

The 2024 new Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114 is powered by a powerful Milwaukee Eight-114 engine. This engine is lightweight, but it's powerful. Currently, the Street Bob 114 is one of the lightest Softail models equipped with this engine.

The electronic throttle, LED lighting, and redesigned frame are all very friendly upgrades.

Standard features include digital instrumentation and keyless ignition. Four-piston front brakes and dual-piston rear brakes are standard, as is a safety system. ABS is optional.

Overall, the Street Bob is the lightest and most affordable Harley-Davidson softtail cruiser. The low seat height helps accommodate a variety of riders, especially short riders.

Whether commuting to get off work or embarking on an off-road adventure, you can choose the Street Bob 114. It gives you a smooth and comfortable riding experience.

2. Indian Chief Dark Horse

Main Features:

• Bike Type: Cruiser
• Curb Weight: 764 lbs
• Transmission Type: Manual
• Gas Tank Capacity: 5.5 gal
• Engine Type: V Twin
• Seat Height: 26 in
• Carburetion: Fuel Injected

You will get everything you need. I have ridden the Indian Chief Dark Horse cruiser motorcycle many times. This minimalist cruiser gives you great fit, power and control.

Here is the configuration of the basic Indian Chief Dark Horse:

• Six-speed gearbox
• 5.5-gallon fuel tank
• 16-inch alloy wheels
• ABS
• Four-piston front brakes
• Dual-piston rear brakes
• Cruise control
• Keyless ignition

I have to mention that Dark Horse pays great attention to details. When I first saw this cruiser, I noticed that the welds on its body were very clean. I believe that the treatment of these small details is enough to prove the quality and workmanship of Indian motorcycles.

The weight of 304 kg is also in the weight range of most cruiser-style motorcycles. For most riders, it is easy to control this motorcycle. Moreover, its low seat height of only 662 mm/26.0 inches makes it easy for even short riders to handle it. Mid-set foot pegs, ample seating space, comfortable seat, wide handlebars...it has everything you want!

Overall, the Indian Chief Dark Horse cruiser is a comfortable and enjoyable ride. You’ll have fun controlling it and handling it!

3. BMW R 18 Roctane

BMW R 18 Roctane

Main Features:

• Bike Type: Cruiser
• Curb Weight: 825 lbs
• Transmission Type: 6-speed/exposed shaft
• Gas Tank Capacity: 4.2 gal
• Engine Type: Air/oil-cooled, horizontally opposed twin boxer; 4 valves/cyl.
• Seat Height: 28.3 in
• Carburetion: Fuel Injected

The BMW R 18 is a testament to the continued success of the BMW Motorrad soul. The BMW R 18 Roctane is the fifth 1.8-liter heavy cruiser model.

The R 18 Roctane lacks protective bodywork and high handlebars, but BMW still defines it as a touring conversion. But most R 18 enthusiasts think of it as a R 18 B (Bagger) without a fairing.

It is equipped with an air-cooled 1,802cc engine and 116.5 lb-ft of torque, which is simply powerful.

Besides, the R 18 provides a black finish, a large 21-inch front wheel, a mini apehanger handlebar and a hard-shell luggage. These premium features make it stand out from the crowd of cruiser motorcycles.

In addition, the 720 mm (28.3-inch) racing seat makes this cruiser easy to handle for many riders.

The R 18 is available in a variety of new paint colors for riders to choose from. For many riders who like to express their style in a unique way, this is definitely something they will envy.

I took the standard R 18 for a long trip on the roads of California. By the end of the trip, my butt was numb and uncomfortable.
But once I sat in the racing seat of the Roctane version, I knew it was a different story. I think I could have ridden the same road for more than 100 miles without discomfort.

4. Kawasaki Vulcan S

Kawasaki Vulcan S cruiser motorcycle

Outstanding Parameters:

• Bike Type: Cruiser
• Curb Weight: 491.7 lbs
• Transmission Type: Manual
• Gas Tank Capacity: 3.7 gal
• Engine Type: Parallel Twin
• Seat Height: 27.8 in
• Carburetion: Fuel Injected

The Kawasaki Vulcan S series is the quintessential Kawasaki sport cruiser motorcycle. It is also one of our recommendations for the best cruiser motorcycles of 2024.

Unlike other cruisers of the same type, it perfectly blends sport performance and classic cruiser aesthetics. And its appearance combines avant-garde style with retro elements. The aggressive yet elegant appearance will appeal to riders who want to stand out.

The Vulcan S is equipped with a powerful 649cc parallel twin engine with 46.3 lb-ft of torque. The power of this engine is smooth and responsive, making every ride an exhilarating experience. Whether it is commuting or a leisurely day trip, this cruiser is a very suitable choice.

The basic configuration of this motorcycle includes:

• Six-speed transmission
• Dual-piston front brake
• Single-piston rear brake
• 18-inch front tire
• 17-inch rear tire
• 3.7-gallon fuel tank.

The innovative ERGO-FIT® system allows the Vulcan S to provide up to 18 different configurations. Any rider can customize this model to their height and reach. From the seat, footpegs, and handlebars, you can find the best fit for comfort and control.

If you are 5'6" or less, you can set the seat height to a lower level. If you are over 6'1", you can choose to raise the seat height.

We also have to praise the performance of the Vulcan S. This cruiser with standard Ninja® DNA is very light and responsive. It is also equipped with optimal traction and smooth, adjustable rear shock.

I also personally rode this cruiser motorcycle from Huntington Beach in Los Angeles to Oceanside. I felt comfortable and the vehicle was easy to control during the ride. Overall, this cruiser is worth owning.

5. Honda Rebel 1100

Honda Rebel 1100

Honda continues to roll out their Honda Rebel 1100 series of cruiser motorcycles in 2024. The main models are the CMX1100 Rebel and the touring CMX1100T Rebel.

There are no mechanical changes or major updates to these two motorcycles. But it still can't stop most riders from putting it on the list of the best cruiser motorcycles in 2024.

The Honda Rebel 1100 still retains its acclaimed bobber styling. Don't let its simple appearance fool you, it is a cruiser with real performance.

The powerful 80 horsepower 1,084cc parallel twin-cylinder engine is really wild enough. After being tuned, it can provide super bottom and mid-range torque, which makes its power output enough to meet most long-distance riding needs.

In 2023, the Honda Rebel 1100 performed very well in the European custom motorcycle sales rankings. Its popularity on this side of the Atlantic is second only to its younger brother Rebel 500 series.

Honda Rebel 1100 Key Benefits:

• mid-mount controls
• throttle-by-wire
• easy handling
• adjustable engine power, and traction control
• DCT transmission option

To sum it up, this biggest Rebel is still a top-choice cruiser motorcycle option worth every penny.

6. Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster

Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster

Featured Parameters:

• Bike Type: Cruiser
• Dry Weight: 245.5 kg
• Transmission Type: Liquid cooled, 8 valve, SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin
• Gas Tank Capacity: 12 L
• Engine Type: Liquid cooled, 8 valve, SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin
• Seat Height: 705 mm(27.75 inch)
• Max Power: 76 Bhp @ 6,100 rpm
• Max Torque: 106 Nm @ 4,000 rpm

If you’re thinking of getting a classic cruiser, the Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster is worth considering.

The new Speedmaster uses the same 1,200cc parallel twin engine as the T120 and Bobber. And, its 76 bhp and 106 Nm of torque ensure that you always have plenty of power when riding this cruiser.

With a low seat height, a comfortable riding position and high-spec brakes and suspension, you can cruise down any interstate with ease.

For many motorcycle riders, the classic looks of the new Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster will pull at their heartstrings. But this cruiser is more than just a show, there’s a lot of new technology hidden under the hood.

Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster Cruiser Basic Benefits:

• Swept-back beach handlebars
• Front footpegs
• Larger fuel tank capacity
• Removable pillion seat and grab rails
• Different chrome silencers
• 16-inch spoked wheels
• Two front twin-piston floating calipers Brembos
• Rear single-piston floating caliper Nissin

With a dry weight of 245 kg, you'd think it's heavy. But it's that solid feel that makes it feel solid.

Consider owning a Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster, you can enjoy long distance riding on the road!

7. Yamaha Sport Touring FJR1300AE

Yamaha Sport Touring FJR1300AE

Basic Parameters:

• Bike Type: Cruiser
• Torque: 134.4 N⋅m (99.1 lbf⋅ft) @ 7,000 rpm
• Power: 105.5 kW (141.5 hp) @ 8,000 rpm
• Curb Weight: 264 kg (582 lb)
• Transmission Type: semi-automatic transmission
• Gas Tank Capacity: 25 L (5.5 imp gal; 6.6 US gal)
• Engine Type: 1,298cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline 4-cylinder; 16 valves
• Seat Height: 805 mm (31.7 in)

The Yamaha FJR1300AE is our top pick for a high-performance sport cruiser.

This motorcycle has a 1,298cc inline-four engine and a six-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch.

Another plus is the smooth, trouble-free transmission (it uses a shaft drive). As long as you don't take it to the track, the shaft drive will never go out of style.

The modern design and rider-centric design make this motorcycle a top choice in the cruiser market.

You won't feel pain or numbness in your hands when riding this motorcycle. Some riders may find it uncomfortable to ride this cruiser because their knees are bent too much. But from what I have experienced, raising the seat height slightly can solve this problem.

Compared with other brands of cruiser motorcycles, it is not inferior at all.

If you are looking for long-distance riding comfort and want a high-performance cruiser at the same time, choosing the Yamaha FJR1300AE is a good idea.

Conclusion: Best Cruiser Motorcycles 2024

• 2024 Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114
• Indian Chief Dark Horse
• BMW R 18 Roctane
• Kawasaki Vulcan S
• Honda Rebel 1100
• Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster
• Yamaha Sport Touring FJR1300AE

Cruiser Motorcycles Pros and Cons

Pros of Cruiser Motorcycles

• Comfortable Riding Position: The low seat height and forward footpegs provide a relaxed, comfortable ride.
• Stylish Design: Cruisers have a classic, timeless look that appeals to many riders.
• Good for Long Rides: Designed for long-distance travel with a focus on comfort.
• Easy to Handle: Generally, cruisers have a low center of gravity, making them easier to handle, especially at low speeds.
• Torque-Rich Engines: Strong low-end torque makes for smooth and powerful acceleration.
• Customization: Many options for customization, allowing riders to personalize their bikes.

Cons of Cruiser Motorcycles

• Weight: Cruisers are often heavier, which can be challenging for some riders to maneuver.
• Limited Performance: Not designed for high-speed performance or aggressive riding styles.
• Fuel Efficiency: Larger engines can result in lower fuel efficiency compared to other motorcycle types.
• Ground Clearance: Low ground clearance can be a disadvantage on rough or uneven roads.
• Less Agile: Heavier weight and relaxed geometry can make them less agile in tight corners.
• Cost: High-quality cruisers can be expensive, especially when considering potential customization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cruiser bikes good for long rides?

Yes, cruiser bikes are great for long rides. They offer a comfortable seating position with a low seat height and easy-to-reach handlebars, which helps reduce fatigue.

Cruisers have larger engines that provide smooth power for highway cruising. Cruiser motorcycles focus on comfort and style, making them perfect for long-distance travel. Many riders choose cruisers for road trips because of their relaxed riding position and stable handling.

Overall, if you’re planning a long ride, a cruiser bike can provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Are cruiser motorcycles still popular?

Yes, cruiser motorcycles remain popular. They attract riders who enjoy a classic, relaxed riding experience.

Brands like Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle continue to see strong sales. They are still pushing out many cruiser motorcycle models specifically designed for comfort and style.

Besides, cruisers appeal to both new and experienced riders for their easy handling and timeless look. The trend of customizing cruisers also keeps them in demand.

It is true that many other motorcycle types are also rising. But cruisers retain a loyal following, making them a staple in the motorcycle community.

Rodney L Herron

Rodney L is a technical writer and product consultant with over a decade of experience in the motor industry. Rodney is a fan of performance machines that run fast and loud and an expert in all things custom. His numerous articles and write-ups are available at our knowledge base. Whether it’s something wrong with your motorcycle or you are building a custom bike, you can trust Rodney’s experience.