Cruiser (motorcycle)

Main article: Types of motorcycles

The Harley-Davidson Softail Heritage Classic

BMW R1200C Cruiser

Cruiser is the term for motorcycles that mimic the design style of American machines from the 1930s to the early 1960s, including those made by Harley-Davidson, Indian, Excelsior and Henderson. The market for models evocative of the early cruisers has grown to embrace 60 percent of the U.S. market,^{[citation needed]} such that a number of motorcycle manufacturers including BMW, Honda, Moto Guzzi, Star, Suzuki, Triumph and Victory have currently or have had important models evocative of the American cruiser.

The Moto Guzzi California Jackal

Victory Hammer Eight-Ball

The riding position on a cruiser usually, but not always, places the feet forward and the hands up, with the spine erect or leaning back slightly. Many "power cruisers" and Japanese cruisers of the 1980s have featured more neutral riding positions.

Many cruising motorcycles have limited performance and turning ability due to a low-slung design. Riders who enjoy cornering at higher speeds may need to customize to enhance lean angle, or start with a performance "power cruiser".^[1]

Cruisers are often custom motorcycle projects that result in a bike modified to suit the owner's ideals, and as such are a source of pride and accomplishment.

See also

• Outline of motorcycles and motorcycling
• Chopper (motorcycle)
• Bobber (motorcycle)

Notes

1. ^ Stuart, Ben. "5 New Middleweight Cruiser Motorcycles: Comparison Test", Popular Mechanics, July 1, 2008, accessed April 20, 2011.