Cruiser

A cruiser is a motorcycle built for relaxed, unhurried riding rather than sport or long-distance touring. Typical features are a low seat, a laid-back riding position with feet forward or in the middle, wide pulled-back handlebars, a long wheelbase and a torquey engine, very often a V-twin. Styling is usually classic, with plenty of chrome or blacked-out parts.

The style is closely linked to American brands such as Harley-Davidson and Indian, but Japanese and European makers also offer cruisers, from small 125–500 cc models to big power cruisers.

The low seat makes cruisers easy to handle at a standstill and popular with beginners and shorter riders. The trade-offs are limited ground clearance in corners, less suspension travel and often a heavy weight. Footboards, a screen and saddlebags can turn a cruiser into a comfortable tourer.