Comfort over speed: top 4 cruiser motorcycles for long rides
Suzuki, Honda, Kawasaki and Harley-Davidson cruisers offer different takes on comfort for highway riding
If comfort matters more than speed on long rides, a cruiser motorcycle can be a good option. A low seat, relaxed riding position, forward-mounted foot controls and a long wheelbase make these bikes comfortable on the highway. Engine power delivery is also usually kept smooth. The low seat height and relaxed position reduce rider fatigue on long rides, while smooth engines and comfortable suspension make riding easier from city streets to highways. Cruiser motorcycles from Suzuki, Honda, Kawasaki and Harley-Davidson offer different options when it comes to comfort.
The Suzuki Boulevard C50 gets an 805cc fuel-injected V-Twin engine and a 5-speed gearbox. It has a seat height of 27.6 inches, forward floorboards and a hidden rear shock, all of which make for a comfortable ride. Its retro design, chrome finish and spoke wheels give it a classic look. Its C50T package also includes touring equipment such as a windshield, saddlebags and a passenger backrest.
The Honda Shadow Phantom comes with a 745cc liquid-cooled V-Twin engine, fuel injection and shaft final drive. Its seat height is 25.6 inches, making it easy to plant feet on the ground while stopped. A low centre of gravity and relatively light weight make the bike easy to handle in city traffic or while parking. The engine's low-end torque gives a smooth experience on long rides too.
The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic has a 903cc V-Twin engine, a 5-speed gearbox and a 26.8-inch seat height. It gets 41mm telescopic front forks and rear Uni-Trak suspension with a 64.8-inch wheelbase. Floorboards and belt final drive make the bike's cruising character even more evident. This setup is quite useful for maintaining a steady speed on highways.
The Harley-Davidson Heritage Classic has a Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine that produces 120 lb-ft of torque at 2,500rpm. A 26.3-inch seat, wide handlebar, floorboards, lockable saddlebags and a detachable windshield are useful on long trips. In Road mode, a lighter throttle response and better suspension help make riding easier even on rough roads.
