Cruise Control

Cruise control is an electronic system that keeps the motorcycle at a speed chosen by the rider without the throttle having to be held open. It is set with buttons on the handlebar switchgear and is cancelled by braking, pulling the clutch or rolling the throttle closed.

Most modern systems work through ride-by-wire throttle control and are common on touring, adventure and sports-touring bikes. Adaptive cruise control, available on some newer models, uses a front radar to slow down and speed up automatically to keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.

Cruise control reduces hand and wrist fatigue on long motorway stretches. Don't use it in heavy traffic, on wet or slippery roads or on twisty roads, and keep your hand near the throttle and brake. Simple mechanical throttle locks are a cheaper alternative on older bikes, but check local rules.