Harley-Davidson made its mark in cruisers and still owns a large share of the US cruiser market. But lately, they’ve started to move away from cruisers, branching into new territories. This is great news for people who like a bit of variety, as other brands are stepping in to fill the gaps that Harley-Davidson is leaving in their lineup. So, if you’re looking for a cruiser and a Harley isn’t going to give you what you want, check out the bikes below.
Honda Rebel 1100
The Rebel has long been a favourite with cruiser fans, and the 2024 Rebel 1100 model provides an accessible motorbike for all riders but doesn’t hold back on the power. A large appeal is that it’s simply fun to ride; it can take a slow amble as you take in the view, give you the power needed on the motorway, and give you the manoeuvrability to take on winding country roads without fear. As it sits quite low on the road, it’s more nimble and feels lighter than you would expect. It’s also incredibly good value for money – but they’ve kept the price down by using parts from less expensive bikes, so the build quality is a bit lower than expected. The seat can also be uncomfortable for some on longer journeys.
Suzuki Boulevard M109R
If you want something with a truckload of power, then the Suzuki Boulevard M109R has you covered. It has a 1783 V-twin engine and is designed for acceleration and smoothly delivered top-end power. It’s been around since the 2000s and still sells well amongst the cruiser set. The main drawback that people report is the shaft drive – it limits what type of customisation can be done to the back end of the bike, but it also contributes to a jerking tendency at low speeds.
Triumph Bonneville Bobber
The 2024 model combines the heritage of the Bonneville series with the sleek bobber design, resulting in a stunning retro bike. As it still has a 1200cc high torque engine, it’s very appealing to any rider who wants an older aesthetic without sacrificing modern power. The Triumph Bonneville Bobber is also surprisingly easy to customise. The suspension has non-adjustable forks, and it can be quite a firm ride over sharper bumps, though you’re unlikely to feel this except on very bad roads – in most cases, the bike has a great ride. One main downside to this bike is that it won’t take a pillion. So think again if you’re looking for a bike you can take on holiday with your partner.
Indian Chief
Indian are the biggest competitor for Harley-Davidson in the cruiser market – or at least people usually have a side on the argument of which is better. The Indian Chief series is their big, powerful cruiser option. They have touring models with panniers and windshields for extra comfort, and they can be rigged out to have a pillion. There are a few different options in the series, and while the Chief and Super Chief have a lot of fans, the Indian Sport Chief is less liked as it’s simply hard to combine a cruiser with a sports bike. Some people have reported poor quality parts in the series, too.
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