Sporty Cruisers...noob question?

[ital916]

G'day all cruiser riders.

As a noob who is absorbing lots of bike information and compiling a very very long list of bikes to test ride once i get my full lol...I have always liked the nimbler of bikes and seeing many of todays cruisers thought "that's not me". This though changed a bit after I started riding as i came accross what is called a "bobber" *is that right*. Basically it was a cruiser with tires that could tip in, no drag exhaust bars so it could corner without scraping and low "dragger handle bars". It was simple, cut to the max and to the point. Anyway this got me thinking as to if there are any factory made sports cruisers, where you get the laid back riding, with the aggressive corner carving ability. The bike i saw was wicked hot....and i'm not one to deny that some cruisers just get the blood pumping, and it was cornering *you gotta love discovery channel aye*. Anyway, a lot of people have said cruisers can't corner...This can't be true lol.

Thanks for reading

ride safe

Drider

[Hitcher]

So what's your "noob question"?

[ital916]

Are there any sporty cruisers, sounds stupid, kinda a paradox since sporty and cruiser don't really go together. The bobber i saw made me think though.

P.S no offense to cruiser riders, if my wording comes off wrong.

[Hitcher]

The genre of "sporty cruisers" is extensive. Not all "cruiser" type bikes are ape-hangered, gutless chrome draggers.

[spookytooth]

instead of worrying about what the bikes "classed"as Just find one you like the look of and how it rides and stuff what anyone else thinks of it :)

[smoky]

The genre of "sporty cruisers" is extensive. Not all "cruiser" type bikes are ape-hangered, gutless chrome draggers.

You just making a comment, or run out of time answering his question - or just couldn't think of one?

[SlashWylde]

Here's a couple from the Kawasaki stable. The Vulcan 1600 Mean Streak and the Vulcan 900 Custom, respectively.

[GSVR]

Here's a couple from the Kawasaki stable. The Vulcan 1600 Mean Streak and the Vulcan 900 Custom, respectively.

Definate parts draggers.

I'm interested in what people consider to be a cruiser. Is it a look or a bike that can get from a very long A to B in comfort?

[SlashWylde]

Also, the HD 2008 Sportster XL1200N

[SlashWylde]

Definate parts draggers.

I'm interested in what people consider to be a cruiser. Is it a look or a bike that can get from a very long A to B in comfort?

By design a cruiser is implicitly going to be a 'parts dragger', because the frame, pegs and exhaust are typically lower to the ground than for a sports bike, and the cornering clearances are less.

As a rough rule of thumb, I'd consider a cruiser to be any bike where your ankles sit further forward than your knees when your feet are on the pegs. Cruisers also typically have a more 'classic' look about them than other classes of bike.

One can get from A to B in comfort on a cruiser if it's designed for it, say a touring machine with a big soft seat and wind screen. However it it's a hard tail vintage cruiser your bum's gonna be sore after a while. Comfort over long distances doesn't define what a cruiser is.

[Ixion]

Definate parts draggers.

I'm interested in what people consider to be a cruiser. Is it a look or a bike that can get from a very long A to B in comfort?

That's a tourer, by definition. One of the defining characteristics of a crusier is a very small fuel tank, which rules them out for long A to B.

I reckon bikes like the GSX1400 , CB1300 , SV1000 should be deemed sports crusiers. And the Harley Sportsters and similar.

Crusisers is , IMHO, a bike designed for shortish trips, in a mode where speed per se , especially through corners, is not a major consideration. Characterised by small fuel range (cos they're designed for short trips), lowish ground clearance (cos cornerering isn't a major must have, and low weight makes for easy riding), comfortable seats, and some luggage capacity, though not as much as a tourer. Engines that don't produce large power , but are easy to ride (eg twist twist and go in top gear, don't have to gear change all the time )

[GSVR]

True crusiers a definately not my dream bike then.

You can't go far without running out of gas and can't enjoy the twistys which are probably out of the bikes range anyway.

[Edbear]

As has been pointed out, cruisers are by their design, not corner carvers. Some are better than others, but all will have much lower cornering limits than sports bikes or standards.

The so-called "muscle-cruisers" are fun, such as the M50, M109R, Mean Streak, etc. and are better than, say my C50T. However, cruising is a whole different ball game from sports bikes and having had experience with a "sports" bike, a "standard" and now the cruiser, I can say I prefer the C50T to any other bike I've ridden, but I'd still want an M109R in my garage as a hot rod, great fun!

It's all down to what makes you grin after a ride, and what you want a bike to do. On our last ride with my mate on his Bandit 1200S, both two-up, we had the easier time of it at the mostly legal speeds we were doing and the twisty nature of the roads meant lower average speeds. John couldn't use his 120hp and my 50 or so hp was ample for hills and overtaking and the ride position for me and the Missus was comfy and relaxed.

Just as long as you don't get a cruiser thinking you'll keep up with a sports bike around the Coro. Even a 250 will beat an M109R around there... However me and the Missus have been around the Coro on the C50T and enjoyed it immensly! Better to see the scenery!

[SlashWylde]

True crusiers a definately not my dream bike then.

You can't go far without running out of gas and can't enjoy the twistys which are probably out of the bikes range anyway.

Ooohhh, I wouldn't say that. My VN800 (see profile pic) has a 15L tank. Around town I get 270km out of it till dry. On th open road (touring) I get 330kms out of those 15L.

She's very comfortable to ride in any situation; town, open road or loose-metal country roads.

I can have a blast carving it up on twisties, and my favourite ride is the Kaiaua loop. She's quick for a 250kg bike and can run happily up to 180kph. Just ask Zapf Gremlin or Draco.

[ital916]

That's a tourer, by definition. One of the defining characteristics of a crusier is a very small fuel tank, which rules them out for long A to B.

I reckon bikes like the GSX1400 , CB1300 , SV1000 should be deemed sports crusiers. And the Harley Sportsters and similar.

Crusisers is , IMHO, a bike designed for shortish trips, in a mode where speed per se , especially through corners, is not a major consideration. Characterised by small fuel range (cos they're designed for short trips), lowish ground clearance (cos cornerering isn't a major must have, and low weight makes for easy riding), comfortable seats, and some luggage capacity, though not as much as a tourer. Engines that don't produce large power , but are easy to ride (eg twist twist and go in top gear, don't have to gear change all the time )

I see. I don't see why a cruiser can't be modified so the some of the parts don't drag lol Pegs i guess always will. Hmmm very interesting, i think i need to go test ride a cruiser now. lol Always keen for a new experience. When you say there are cruiser engines that don't produce much power but are easy to ride, does this mean lots of torque but no top end?? I totally though cruisers were for long distance too.

[The Lone Rider]

I totally thought cruisers were for long distance too.

They are, some people just don't want to take the time to stop, even if for petrol. And I have to say.. screw doing long trips on a sports bike. Not for me!

SV1000 and all that is in no way a cruiser.

And a lot of cruisers pull some mean power. You just have to consider they are usually geared different and tend to be much heavier.

[HenryDorsetCase]

G'day all cruiser riders.

As a noob who is absorbing lots of bike information and compiling a very very long list of bikes to test ride once i get my full lol...I have always liked the nimbler of bikes and seeing many of todays cruisers thought "that's not me". This though changed a bit after I started riding as i came accross what is called a "bobber" *is that right*. Basically it was a cruiser with tires that could tip in, no drag exhaust bars so it could corner without scraping and low "dragger handle bars". It was simple, cut to the max and to the point. Anyway this got me thinking as to if there are any factory made sports cruisers, where you get the laid back riding, with the aggressive corner carving ability. The bike i saw was wicked hot....and i'm not one to deny that some cruisers just get the blood pumping, and it was cornering *you gotta love discovery channel aye*. Anyway, a lot of people have said cruisers can't corner...This can't be true lol.

Thanks for reading

ride safe

Drider


a bobber is a pretty specific genre. Plus I reckon much more suitable as a riding bike (rather than a chopper). I would love one. They are damn cool, no question.

see some very cool ones here (http://www.kiwi-indian.com/Kiwi%20Bobber.htm)

or here (http://www.suckerpunchsallys.com/)

[Hitcher]

Here's another one

<img src="http://www.mgcn.nl/dameijer/images/stories/bellagio-1.jpg">

And they look amazing in the flesh.

[johnnyflash]

Just as there are various styles of sporty so there is of cruisers, Muscle Cruiser, Classic Cruiser, Classic Tourer Cruiser, Sport Cruiser, all have slight variations in handling & comfort, you can have just as much fun in the twisties on a Classic Cruiser Tourer than a sporty, true you might not be doing 160kph going through a 85kph rated corner but rather 120kph, but the feel / thrill is still just as real, you are leaning twice the weight at the time, and the thrust coming out can also be mindblowing, if you are new to cruisers and their weight (300-500kg dry), its unfortunatley not something you will really be able to see just test riding, its something that only comes when you learn to handle the bike/weight/limits, and your lines need to be perfect everytime. as for the lean angle, whilst the boards may scrape way earlier than a sporty, thats only the warning sign, on most these boards are hinged and will go a lot further before you really bottom like you would with a peg,
As for touring, let me assure you long trips with only 14-16 litres of fuel on a cruiser tourer is just brilliant, comfortable and relaxed. yep I might fill up twice akl to wgtn, but so what, Im usually in need of a refresher stop anyhow and would have stopped even if on a sporty. :-) in fact on the sporty I would have stopped more often as the back/wrists/neck would be screaming after 100kms ....GET OFF !! the bones aint as forgiving now as they were at 20 :-) I cant tell you how many times Ive ridden with sporties on a shortish trip (200kms) and seen em all with leg cramps, arm and shoulder problems.. quite hillarious watching them all kick legs out to try for some circulation and sitting sdeways on the bike to relax one arm at a time
:msn-wink:

[MotoKuzzi]

Moto Guzzi California, good clearances, good power, seating position maybe a liitle bit too upright for tall people on longer trips but good for around town.

[ital916]

Just as there are various styles of sporty so there is of cruisers, Muscle Cruiser, Classic Cruiser, Classic Tourer Cruiser, Sport Cruiser, all have slight variations in handling & comfort, you can have just as much fun in the twisties on a Classic Cruiser Tourer than a sporty, true you might not be doing 160kph going through a 85kph rated corner but rather 120kph, but the feel / thrill is still just as real, you are leaning twice the weight at the time, and the thrust coming out can also be mindblowing, if you are new to cruisers and their weight (300-500kg dry), its unfortunatley not something you will really be able to see just test riding, its something that only comes when you learn to handle the bike/weight/limits, and your lines need to be perfect everytime. as for the lean angle, whilst the boards may scrape way earlier than a sporty, thats only the warning sign, on ost these boards are hinged and will go a lot further before you really bottom like you would with a peg,
As for touring, let me assure you long trips with only 14 litres of fuel on a cruiser tourer is just brilliant, comfortable and relaxed. yep I might fill up twice akl to wgtn, but so what, Im usually in need of a refresher stop anyhow and would have stopped even if on a sporty. :-)

Awesome. thanks johnny. I'll have to do some research and check out the different types of cruisers eh. Didn't realise there was such a huge sub-category in the genre. Muscle cruisers sound cool, sporty cruisers too. The moto guzzi's look fantastic. Saw a custom one in a thread while back, really blew me away. Matt black sex on wheels eh.

[johnnyflash]

Awesome. thanks johnny. I'll have to do some research and check out the different types of cruisers eh. Didn't realise there was such a huge sub-category in the genre. Muscle cruisers sound cool, sporty cruisers too. The moto guzzi's look fantastic. Saw a custom one in a thread while back, really blew me away. Matt black sex on wheels eh.

Most manufacturers from Harley, Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki all make a variation of cruisers you just need to compare some of the following
Honda Goldwings to VTX1800, quite a difference in style and handling
Harley Ultra Classic Electra to Nightster " "
Suzuki Boulevard C90T (classic Tourer) to M109R (muscle) to S83 (sport) to M50 (muscle) " "
to list but a few.. :-)

[Pwalo]

The only Sporty Cruisers that I can think of are the Yamaha MT01 and the various Buell models.

No sure if that's what you're looking for?

[jrandom]

GSX1400!

GSX1400!

(Sorry. Y'all knew I was going to come in here and say that, didn't you.)

<img src="http://i30.tinypic.com/os5y6x.jpg"/>

<img src="http://i29.tinypic.com/fberer.jpg"/>

:banana:

Give me a yell when you have your full, Drider87. Betty's a slut, and I'm all about spreading the GSX1400 gospel.

[Toaster]

True crusiers a definately not my dream bike then.

You can't go far without running out of gas and can't enjoy the twistys which are probably out of the bikes range anyway.

Really? I wouldn't consider 300+kms on a tank of gas "can't go far".

[martybabe]

Muscle cruisers, how hard can it be.a cruiser that hoons stops and corners.

my mother could design one.

Stop selling us short Hdyamukiondasaki:bleh:

[ital916]

GSX1400!

Give me a yell when you have your full, Drider87. Betty's a slut, and I'm all about spreading the GSX1400 gospel.

Lol I have a looong time before my full, just planning well ahead. Plus i love talkin bikes.

[Toaster]

Lol I have a looong time before my full, just planning well ahead. Plus i love talkin bikes.

The GSX1400 is no cruiser. Nor are the SV or the CB. They are what many would call street bikes or cheaper sports bikes. Super sports are the street version of race bikes like the GSXRs, R1s etc.

Johnnyflash put up a good list of some common cruisers in an earlier post too.

[jrandom]

The GSX1400 is no cruiser. Nor are the SV or the CB. They are what many would call street bikes or cheaper sports bikes.

'Muscle bikes'.

GSX1400, CB1300, ZRX1200R.

The SV's a sportbike, though. Without a fairing, it's a 'naked', like the Z1000 or the Hornet.

I do so love classifying things.

:sherlock:

[Toaster]

'Muscle bikes'.

GSX1400, CB1300, ZRX1200R.

The SV's a sportbike, though. Without a fairing, it's a 'naked', like the Z1000 or the Hornet.

I do so love classifying things.

:sherlock:

Just looking on the suzuki website:
http://www.suzuki.co.nz/motorcycles/motorcycles.html
They refer to the (very general) category as sport/road bikes which is about as wide a classification as calling an aircraft carrier a "boat".

The SV1000 is certainly similar also to the Firestorm 1000F. Semi naked v-twin and quite cheap for what you get - not too overpowering either.

Seems Suzuki have adopted that "muscle" phrase onto the M cruisers M109R and M50. Having looked at the GSX1400 for a mate, I thought it was quite a good bike for the money.

[GSVR]

'Muscle bikes'.

GSX1400, CB1300, ZRX1200R.

The SV's a sportbike, though. Without a fairing, it's a 'naked', like the Z1000 or the Hornet.

I do so love classifying things.

:sherlock:

I'd classify you as a Rocket III running on 2 (nothing personal just thought it sounded funny)

[limbimtimwim]

<img src="http://www.mcnews.com.au/testing/HD/street-rod/yellow_rhs_shed_700p.jpg">

But it has evaporated from the catalogue, so I guess I was the only person who thought it was good.

[Jiminy]

Here are a few 'meaty' 'cruisers' that you might want to consider:

Honda Magna V4
Kawasaki Eliminator 900/1000cc
Honda X4 (or is it a cruiser?)

The Yamaha VMax (which doesn't look like a cruiser me think, and apparently doesn't like corners) and the Victory Hammer S (which I have never seen other than on pictures and is probably not available in NZ) might also fit the bill. Well, they'll sure fit a large bill ;)

Of all of those, I have only tested the Eliminator. With its in-line engine and its peculiar look, it doesn't feel like a true cruiser, and I found its handling very heavy, but damn I liked that bike. I just wasn't ready for it yet.

Hope it helps. Good luck in your search.

[Ixion]

I suspect the definition isn't really a physical thing. it's how the riders, in general, look upon them. Sprotsbikes, the question is "how fast does it go". Crusiers, "What's it look like". Tourers , "How far can you go in a day".

But, they all overlap, and morph into one another.

It's not like a straight line continuum , either. More like a pyramid , with the extreme examples at each corner : sprots bikes; tourers; crusiers; and dirtbikes. And within the three dimensional space of the pyramid, every bike (except scooters) fits Every bike has some characteristics of the "pure" types, some are more "mixed" or "general purpose" than others.

(We really need to include scooters, but that brings us into four dimensional space, and my quantum-fu is weak)

[Big Dave]

But it has evaporated from the catalogue, so I guess I was the only person who thought it was good.


:cool: Cool pic - Can I spot a location or what.

[Waylander]

That's a tourer, by definition. One of the defining characteristics of a crusier is a very small fuel tank, which rules them out for long A to B.

I reckon bikes like the GSX1400 , CB1300 , SV1000 should be deemed sports crusiers. And the Harley Sportsters and similar.

Crusisers is , IMHO, a bike designed for shortish trips, in a mode where speed per se , especially through corners, is not a major consideration. Characterised by small fuel range (cos they're designed for short trips), lowish ground clearance (cos cornerering isn't a major must have, and low weight makes for easy riding), comfortable seats, and some luggage capacity, though not as much as a tourer. Engines that don't produce large power , but are easy to ride (eg twist twist and go in top gear, don't have to gear change all the time )
Have you even ridden a cruiser in the last ten years?


Muscle cruisers, how hard can it be.a cruiser that hoons stops and corners.

my mother could design one.

Stop selling us short Hdyamukiondasaki:bleh:
Se the quote below.


Here are a few 'meaty' 'cruisers' that you might want to consider:

Honda Magna V4
Kawasaki Eliminator 900/1000cc
Honda X4 (or is it a cruiser?)

The Yamaha VMax (which doesn't look like a cruiser me think, and apparently doesn't like corners) and the Victory Hammer S (which I have never seen other than on pictures and is probably not available in NZ) might also fit the bill. Well, they'll sure fit a large bill ;)

Of all of those, I have only tested the Eliminator. With its in-line engine and its peculiar look, it doesn't feel like a true cruiser, and I found its handling very heavy, but damn I liked that bike. I just wasn't ready for it yet.

Hope it helps. Good luck in your search.
The Vmax corners better than just about all cruisers mate. It's handling only sucks when you compare it to a sportbike or tourer.

[limbimtimwim]

I suspect the definition isn't really a physical thing. it's how the riders, in general, look upon them. Sprotsbikes, the question is "how fast does it go".Around corners.

That's important.

[Hitcher]

(We really need to include scooters, but that brings us into four dimensional space, and my quantum-fu is weak)

I spotted your new ride the other day. Interesting...

<img src="http://www.biz-at-seoul.com/JAPAN/CAR/IXION/TOTAL/NEW-EF-SONATA-01.jpg">

[Jiminy]

The Vmax corners better than just about all cruisers mate. It's handling only sucks when you compare it to a sportbike or tourer.

Thanks, Waylander, I'll trust you as I haven't tried Mr Max myself. There's a new version around the corner, isn't it?

I might add the Hyosung GV 650 to the list, it's apparently fairly 'sporty' for a cruiser. Has anyone tried it? There's a modified version called 'Trend Killer' that looks kinda cool. Is there a 1000cc version due soon?

[The Lone Rider]

Thanks, Waylander, I'll trust you as I haven't tried Mr Max myself. There's a new version around the corner, isn't it?

I might add the Hyosung GV 650 to the list, it's apparently fairly 'sporty' for a cruiser. Has anyone tried it? There's a modified version called 'Trend Killer' that looks kinda cool. Is there a 1000cc version due soon?

Theres something about those GV650 that just don't look right to me. I think it has something to do with the way the rear wheel sits in the fender. Something doesnt look right to me though

Horray to you for mentioning the mighty v4 magna

[ukusa]

I reckon bikes like the GSX1400 , CB1300 , SV1000 should be deemed sports crusiers. And the Harley Sportsters and similar.

The above bikes don't cut the mustard as cruisers, I've had a quick scan through the posts, and no-one has mentioned forward mounted foot controls, surely a prerequisite of all cruisers. A so called "sporty" cruiser can only really be a personal judgement of how an individual thinks a cruiser handles for them.
Check out the wikipedia page on Cruisers (Motorcycles) which states " The riding position on a cruiser places the feet forward and the hands up, with the spine erect or leaning back slightly, which many find to be more comfortable for long-distance riding".

[johnnyflash]

The above bikes don't cut the mustard as cruisers, I've had a quick scan through the posts, and no-one has mentioned forward mounted foot controls, surely a prerequisite of all cruisers. A so called "sporty" cruiser can only really be a personal judgement of how an individual thinks a cruiser handles for them.
Check out the wikipedia page on Cruisers (Motorcycles) which states " The riding position on a cruiser places the feet forward and the hands up, with the spine erect or leaning back slightly, which many find to be more comfortable for long-distance riding".

true, anything with foot behind knee is not a 'cruiser' style in my book either :-)

[Ixion]

That is interesting. I have raised that point before, (it being the thing I find most disconcerting about crusiers); and been told that not all crusiers have a foot-forward configuration.

So, for instance, the Virago 750 ? Which does not have forward controls (well, the one I am familiar with does not). Is that then not a crusier?

[ital916]

The harley davidson night rod come with centre-controls. Which i reckon is awesome, i think it also has forward ones too?? The night rod special ranks in my top three of most gorgeous and badass motorcycles ever...mmm yummy :drool::drool::drool::drool:

[The Lone Rider]

That is interesting. I have raised that point before, (it being the thing I find most disconcerting about crusiers); and been told that not all crusiers have a foot-forward configuration.

So, for instance, the Virago 750 ? Which does not have forward controls (well, the one I am familiar with does not). Is that then not a crusier?

You are right.

If all cruisers came with forward controls you'd only have very tall people on them

And forward controls wouldn't be a common aftermarket part bought for the bikes.

I for one have owned three cruisers, all with mid controls. But on my mighty v4, I shall be getting forward controls as soon as the bank account permits!

[johnnyflash]

good point, though even though some cruisers may not have forward control, the pegs on most are placed so the leg is more than 90 degree rather than the much further back sporty that sits closer to 45 degree. I suppose as someone earlier pointed out with a wiki definition, its the fact that cruisers tend to sit in a less cramped position, straightish back, legs not bent hard back.. :-)

[Hitcher]

Defining genres of bikes has become increasingly difficult as established conventions disappear. This discussion has proven that for crusiers.

Scroters are similar, particularly looking at some of the concept bikes with CVT. Some people believe that a bike with a frame-mounted engine isn't a scroter, immediately eliminating the Burgman, Majesty, Silverwing and many more.

And what's the difference between an FRJ1300, Blackbird and a Bandit? Are they the same "class" of bike?

And what about those wonderful odd-balls like the B-King or V-Max?

At the end of the day it's a bit like arguing that The Eagles are a country band. Or that Norah Jones is a jazz singer. You say tomayto, I say tomarto.

[MVnut]

Are there any sporty cruisers, sounds stupid, kinda a paradox since sporty and cruiser don't really go together. The bobber i saw made me think though.

P.S no offense to cruiser riders, if my wording comes off wrong.

Not on my planet

[Ixion]

good point, though even though some cruisers may not have forward control, the pegs on most are placed so the leg is more than 90 degree rather than the much further back sporty that sits closer to 45 degree. I suppose as someone earlier pointed out with a wiki definition, its the fact that cruisers tend to sit in a less cramped position, straightish back, legs not bent hard back.. :-)


That is a tourer riding position.

[ital916]

SO that means the terms, "cruisers" and "sportsbikes" etc refer only to the way they are styled as a cruiser can be ridden hard like a sports bike with non forward control and tourers can be used as a sports. Cruisers used for long distance with a tourer position are tourers? Confuzling innit lol

[Ixion]

I think you must accpet that few bikes are "purely" one thing or another. It is a seamless continuum. But some things are incompatible. The raked steering head characteristic of a cruisier is incompatible with the steep rake of a sprotsbike.

So rather than saying a bike "is a crusier" or "is a sprotsbike" etc one should say it is "strongly crusierish" or "moderately sprotsbikeish"

[johnnyflash]

That is a tourer riding position.

nope, I would say thats a Cruiser riding position, a tourer is more a statement about its baggage accessories, ie, any bike could be set up for 'TOURING' ie with panniers, racks, screen etc etc. plenty of people tour worldwide with a Dakar, wouldnt call it a cruiser though, :-) gets worse doesnt it :rolleyes: but a general headings, a Cruiser or a Sporty is simple enough for most people (bikers or not) to say its this or that, besides which the manufacturers seem to classify them pretty well.

[Ixion]

Well, you could equally say that any bike could be set up as a crusier, with forward controls, high bars and chrome etc.

A tourer definately demands an upright sitting position. As well as luggage, weather protection, long range, good lights, good brakes and preferably no chain drive.

To be sure , one can tour on any bike. But equally, one could cruise on any bike.

And the tourer category long preceeded the invention of the crusier.

[mudthug]

Cruiser is mainly distinguished by its long wheelbase (stretch look) upright seating and low to the ground , ie Fatboy,Kawasaki classic, indian chief,Yamaha warrior, triumph america, Honda shadow etc

Tourers are characterised mainly by wind protection for the rider and ability to carry luggage in form of panniers or top box mounted at the rear, large capacity fuel tanks , ie electra glide, honda goldwing, BMW k1200LT

just my 2 cents

[Waylander]

Anybody know how much rice costs in China?

[The Lone Rider]

Or if you are a complete novice to bikes a few things you might hear are:

"Hey, your bike looks like the ones I see on tv racing"

or

"Hey, your bike looks like a Harley."

The underlying meaning shows!

[outlawtorn]

instead of worrying about what the bikes "classed"as Just find one you like the look of and how it rides and stuff what anyone else thinks of it :)

What he said, fuck em all, ride what YOU want!

[Ixion]

But I like 'em all! Touriers, crusiers (Except the ones with y' legs stuck out like a woman giving birth. can't get used to that) , sprotsbikes, chookchasers, they're all good. Each in their own way.

Except of course, that nothing quite matches a two smoker. Which I guess is really the problem with crusiers. No two strokes.

[ital916]

lol Yeah i agree with ride what you want, but it's still fun having a good ol debate, even about something like bike classifications. Oh and I believe its the price of fish in chine lol

[ukusa]

how bout this;
Cruiser = low seat, lean back, forward controls
Touring = tall seat, upright, mid controls
Sport = med seat, lean forward, rear controls
mix & match these & you get ........... a mongrel:wacko:

maybe this could be a new catagory:cool:

[Ixion]

What about chook chasers. And sprotsbikes can have high seats, my SV is the highest of my bikes.

[Toaster]

how bout this;
Cruiser = low seat, lean back, forward controls
Touring = tall seat, upright, mid controls
Sport = med seat, lean forward, rear controls
mix & match these & you get ........... a mongrel:wacko:

maybe this could be a new catagory:cool:

Good summary.

Panniers can be fitted to any of those. But certainly, as Johnny said, capacity of said luggage is usually more akin to Tourers and the need for it.

[damo]

http://www.polarisindustries.com/en-us/Victory/2008Navigation/Vegas/Vegas/

muscle type cruiser... I can't go past the Vegas or Hammer by Victory.

word is there is a dealership opening up in NZ very very soon.

my bike of choice would be the Night Rod Special, or the Vegas 8-Ball with a Ness Front Wheel and swept pipes

[mudthug]

It is an amazing era that we live in where the motorcycle industry can cater for all walks of life from the mild mannered accountant to the hardcore bad arse biker to the speed demon adrenaline junkie and of course your average joe blow there is such a vast range to choose from, catering for every need and whim. We have come a long way from Gottlieb Daimler's 1885 single cylinder Bone Crusher. I say pick the one that suits you,who gives a shit what you call it and fuck everyone else !!!!!!!! :niceone:

[lefty]

Ooohhh, I wouldn't say that. My VN800 (see profile pic) has a 15L tank. Around town I get 270km out of it till dry. On th open road (touring) I get 330kms out of those 15L.

She's very comfortable to ride in any situation; town, open road or loose-metal country roads.

I can have a blast carving it up on twisties, and my favourite ride is the Kaiaua loop. She's quick for a 250kg bike and can run happily up to 180kph. Just ask Zapf Gremlin or Draco.

I checked out your profile pick of your bike, pro pic of ya bike.
I am picking up a Green VN900 Custom from Mt Eden Motorcycles tomorrow, Saturday morning.
My old bike was a CB1300S.
I have ridden with mates with the Vulcan and unless I really push the Honda hard there is no real speed difference while on the open road.
Yes the Honda is more suited to touring, with the screen but fuel range is better on the Vulcan. Honda 300k Vulcan 350k.
Cornering wise the Vulcan isn't too shabby either.
That guy who posted the two kawasaki pics was onto it.

[Grizzo]

Check out the Moto Guzzi Griso. I reckon thats a fine mix.

[Lord Derosso]

I checked out your profile pick of your bike, pro pic of ya bike.
I am picking up a Green VN900 Custom from Mt Eden Motorcycles tomorrow, Saturday morning.
My old bike was a CB1300S.
I have ridden with mates with the Vulcan and unless I really push the Honda hard there is no real speed difference while on the open road.
Yes the Honda is more suited to touring, with the screen but fuel range is better on the Vulcan. Honda 300k Vulcan 350k.
Cornering wise the Vulcan isn't too shabby either.
That guy who posted the two kawasaki pics was onto it.

I just got my new bike, a Kawie VN800, yesterday but had a fully faired Katana 600 over a year ago and I have to admit I have already managed to get the Vulcan to corner pretty well. The problem with the Katana was it was affected by the wind while the VN has a windscreen and I am sitting so low and comfortable, I can just add down pressure to one of the wide bars to get around tight corners.The bike is beauifully balanced which of course is part of the advantage of having a bike with a big V machine, low centre of gravity effect. Of course, The Rimatuka gorge is going to be something esle, but everyone knows this which is why bikers love that ride. I am really enjoying the VN and for a 800cc its got heaps of power beyond legal speeds and goes really well. I quess its the old story, what do you consider real motorcycling? Getting there as fast as you can, or sitting back and enjoying the time you are actually on the bike. Isnt that what riding should really be about? Getting away from the rush of modern stressful life? Of course I have had my speed machines too. As for the VN800, the petrol tank is huge and I brought the bike mainly for long distance travel in comfort, in my older age. Its nice to sit on and I can keep my back straight and legs forward. Just a problem remembering where the bloody pegs are while taking off after having the Katana 600. Whatever you get, enjoy and you can always trade it in after a while. You will no doubt go through the fast stage and get to enjoy the slow long haul stage sometime.

[Flip]

how bout this;
Cruiser = low seat, lean back, forward controls
Touring = tall seat, upright, mid controls
Sport = med seat, lean forward, rear controls
mix & match these & you get ........... a mongrel:wacko:

maybe this could be a new catagory:cool:

Whats my Road King then? It has a low seat, lean back and forward controls, but it also has a big ass screen, full luggage, heated bars and cruse control. Me I see myself as a tourer and thats what I do on the Road King. If I was doing the round the bays sunday pub run and thats where my riding was you could say I was into cruising. Ok I'm no sports bike rider not any more. Does motorcycle form and function have to be the same. I would hate to think that just because we own a 'X' brand or style of bike we cannot be an 'X' 'Y' or even a 'Z' type of rider.

[rogson]

Sporty cruisers? Yep, there is one very suited to NZ conditions.......the Magna 750 (92?+ model).

Brilliant Honda V4 engine (will out-perform cruiser V-twins double the capacity) in a lightish package with chassis that looks/feels cruiser but can handle the NZ twisties and bumps.

Downsides are; chain drive and smallish fuel tank, but not as ridiculously small as some cruisers.......and they can't be bought new (discontinued) and there are not many in NZ (why?).

[XF650]

Hey Rogson - Isn't a VX800 a "sporty cruiser" ?

[rogson]

Hey Rogson - Isn't a VX800 a "sporty cruiser" ?

Horses for courses I guess but IMO the VX800 is more a cruisey sportster.

[Cross Rider]

Whats my Road King then? It has a low seat, lean back and forward controls, but it also has a big ass screen, full luggage, heated bars and cruse control. Me I see myself as a tourer and thats what I do on the Road King. If I was doing the round the bays sunday pub run and thats where my riding was you could say I was into cruising. Ok I'm no sports bike rider not any more. Does motorcycle form and function have to be the same. I would hate to think that just because we own a 'X' brand or style of bike we cannot be an 'X' 'Y' or even a 'Z' type of rider.

Interesting point, it has to come down to how you feel about the style you ride prehaps more than the bike you ride. Had a v-rod and it made me feel more sports rider then a vn1500 which had me cruising more than sporting. Now have a classic rocket and I can be either depending on the mood of the day.

[1 Free Man]

instead of worrying about what the bikes "classed"as Just find one you like the look of and how it rides and stuff what anyone else thinks of it :)
Well said Spooky. At the end of the day it's what pushes your buttons that counts.

[GrayWolf]

G'day all cruiser riders.

As a noob who is absorbing lots of bike information and compiling a very very long list of bikes to test ride once i get my full lol...I have always liked the nimbler of bikes and seeing many of todays cruisers thought "that's not me". This though changed a bit after I started riding as i came accross what is called a "bobber" *is that right*. Basically it was a cruiser with tires that could tip in, no drag exhaust bars so it could corner without scraping and low "dragger handle bars". It was simple, cut to the max and to the point. Anyway this got me thinking as to if there are any factory made sports cruisers, where you get the laid back riding, with the aggressive corner carving ability. The bike i saw was wicked hot....and i'm not one to deny that some cruisers just get the blood pumping, and it was cornering *you gotta love discovery channel aye*. Anyway, a lot of people have said cruisers can't corner...This can't be true lol.

Thanks for reading

ride safe

Drider

++
Hi Drider,
before venturing back into 4pot land, I rode big twins for 20+ years, XV1100, R100GS, Guzzi SP, Guzzi California 1100, VN1500C.
I disposed :2guns: of the Cali coz 'er indooors' found it too hard suspension wise. Should have replaced her, which happened a few yrs later anyway.
There was an English bike Mag did a 'real' road test with a CB1000 and an injected Cali in the mid 90's. Road riding the CB couldnt outdo the Cali until the road was empty. If you want a sporty cruiser? Throw a leg over a Cali, they go well, stop well and go round corners. The biggest problems most have with Guzzi's is 1) the gearbox, it isnt a sweet little toe nudge to change gear, Guzzi's are SOLID, HEFTY motors, the gearbox is built the same. Requires a 'hooft'. 2) The linked braking system is the other oddity, the rear brake is the main brake, operates 1 front disk and the rear with a splitter valve. Honda did simliar years afterwards. Front brake lever operates the other front disc. Trust me the pulll up strong and straight squatting rather than diving onto the front wheel.

[GrayWolf]

But I like 'em all! Touriers, crusiers (Except the ones with y' legs stuck out like a woman giving birth. can't get used to that) , sprotsbikes, chookchasers, they're all good. Each in their own way.

Except of course, that nothing quite matches a two smoker. Which I guess is really the problem with crusiers. No two strokes.

Wrong Ixion............ Jawa/Cz did a chopper/cruiser version of the 350 twin 2T they produced........ So I believe did the Russian Jupiter 350 have a 'custom version'.

[kickin back]

sporty cruiser Suziki Intruder VS 750, S50,83s chopper style quick and agile for cruisers but small tanks

[Big Dave]

I don't remember if I responded to this before or not - here's now thing-king.

It depends what your definition of sporty is.

The fastest cruiser by some margin is the Rocket III. In competent hands (not noob) it makes a reasonably quick sports bike too. Doesn't go into corners real fast, but it sure hauls out of them and the brakes are so good you can wash off speed late.

Next rung are the M109 series Suzukis which also have enough corner exiting schtonk to ride with a bunch of Bandit 1200s quite comfortably. Same scenario, right hands...etc etc. VTX1800 Honda too

The best handling I've tested so far are the Yamaha 900 Star and the Bonneville America. The Victory 8 Ball is also very easy to chuck around within the limits of the cornering clearances.

Vulcan and Honda Shadow are the same. Nice handling bikes, but lean angles are the 'impediment' - if you call it that.

One of the nicest Coromandel loops I've ever done was on a Harley Fat Boy.

It's like driving a big Ol Muscle car. Get it right and it's a joy, mess up and it's ugly. Kissing the footboards on the deck ever so gently requires riding skills that are a lot less potentially fatal than going flat maggott on a sprots bike to get your jollies.

If you are thinking about getting a cruiser that you can really flog - get a more suitable bike - you just grind away hard parts otherwise.

[MadDuck]

I don't remember if I responded to this before or not

...actually I have had one of the young lads at work ask me what I reckon would be a good crusier for a starter bike. He really isnt interested in sports bikes and I have little knowledge of cruisers to be honest.

One big problem he is 6'6 (yeah yeah I know I just about reach his elbows)....can you suggest something for him to perhaps consider?

Thanks

[Big Dave]

...actually I have had one of the young lads at work ask me what I reckon would be a good crusier for a starter bike. He really isnt interested in sports bikes and I have little knowledge of cruisers to be honest.

One big problem he is 6'6 (yeah yeah I know I just about reach his elbows)....can you suggest something for him to perhaps consider?

Thanks

He's limited to a 250 though isn't he?

[MadDuck]

He's limited to a 250 though isn't he?

Well I did suggest he may be able to get an exemption due to his ridiculous height but for a big fella hes kind of shy about being different and all that I think. As for me I know I am short and have no issues with it :wari:

[Big Dave]

Well I did suggest he may be able to get an exemption due to his ridiculous height but for a big fella hes kind of shy about being different and all that I think. As for me I know I am short and have no issues with it :wari:

250 Trail bike. I can ride one comfortably, usually not a catastrophe if it falls over for a beginner, and a lot more fun than a 250 cruiser. Add another bike to it when full lic.

Any male who worries about being too tall needs gangster slapping.

[peasea]

250 Trail bike. I can ride one comfortably, usually not a catastrophe if it falls over for a beginner, and a lot more fun than a 250 cruiser. Add another bike to it when full lic.

Any male who worries about being too tall needs gangster slapping.

Is that when they whack your pee-pee so hard your testicles fly backward with enough velocity to imbed themselves up your anus?

[Big Dave]

Is that when they whack your pee-pee so hard your testicles fly backward with enough velocity to imbed themselves up your anus?

No.


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[peasea]

I feel better for viewing that, thanks.

Ahh, the days of old when Bogie wasn't something that fell out of your nose.

[MadDuck]

Yeah well that friggin helps. Thanks so much

[Big Dave]

That's the best option for a very tall beginner. Seriously.

There was a stretch on here a while ago asking about special dispensation cause he was 2mtrs.

Didn't get it.

I told him the same thing. Motard it.

Something with a 17" saddle height is not the best way to go.

[Big Dave]

PS - It's a metaphor - if he is having self-consciousness issues about being 'too tall' I would be happy to point out to the young man that he is in fact a big winner in the gene pool lottery.

[ital916]

PS - It's a metaphor - if he is having self-consciousness issues about being 'too tall' I would be happy to point out to the young man that he is in fact a big winner in the the gene pool lottery.

I was in the marua liquor store buying some grog the other day when all of a sudden I heard the sound of a motorcycle and darkness befell the land. The sun so vibrant and bright was now hidden from view.

I stumbled outside and lo and behold there was a klr650 parked on the pavement and mounted upon it a giant. I thought to myself, "that is one big mofo on a very nice bike.....must be big dave". It was big dave.

I went to say hi but with ipod blaring and a focused stare, Big D walked on by. I with my bottle of grog ans super spicy barbeque pork fried rice, now shunned drove away...thinking, "my that was a very nice bike".

[Big Dave]

I park it anywhere hey. I really like it. Ipod stare is accurate. My appologies - Next time wave :-)

[ital916]

I park it anywhere hey. I really like it. Ipod stare is accurate. My appologies - Next time wave :-)

If I waved you still wouldnt see me lol.

It was a nice bike, I oggled over it for a min...mmmmm.

Wonder what its like compared to a dr650....I like dr650s...mmmmm......bikes.......

[pritch]

Next time wave :-)

Oh God! Not another waving thread. :whistle:

[MadDuck]

My appologies - Next time wave :-)

Every time turns into a waving thing :innocent:

[NOWOOL]

if you want to corner on a sportsbike then get a suzuki M50. it'll do the best of both worlds. Mind you, the cornering speeds you are comparing are dangerous.....if its too fast on a cruiser, then a pebble can put you in the ditch on a sportsbike. if you want to go fast then buy a fast car: they corner much better than a motorcycle with more room for mistake.

Bikes are more about what feels comfortable to you and fits your personality.