Should You Get A Cruiser Or Touring Motorcycle?
Deciding to get a motorcycle is exciting, but it can also be challenging. There are so many options on the market, how do you even know where to start?
An easy way to narrow the search is by model category. Motorcycles are broken down into categories based on their design and purpose. Many customers pair down the options to either a cruiser or touring motorcycle.
Keep reading to discover which category better suits your lifestyle. If you have any questions or want to shop cruisers and touring motorcycles for sale, chat with the friendly staff at Doc's Harley-Davidson. We've been in business since 1955 and our dealership is based in Kirkwood, Missouri. We also serve those in St. Louis and St. Charles, Missouri.
Understanding Cruiser Motorcycles
First up - the cruiser motorcycle. When someone pictures a generic motorcycle, they usually picture a type of cruiser. These all-purpose models are often spotted on television shows and in movies, especially by the leads and other cool characters.
Common aesthetic features of cruisers include:
- raked-out front forks
- higher footboards
- bulkier frame
Riders will adopt an upright and forward-leaning riding position, giving off an air of attitude. You will be hard to miss on the busy street!
The Cruiser Riding Experience
Cruiser motorcycles are built with easy handling in mind, offering perks such as highly responsive braking. This makes cruisers a popular beginner bike. Newbies can easily control these models and build their riding skills...rather than wrangle a difficult machine while also trying to learn the basics of riding.
But cruisers have plenty to offer more experienced riders as well. The performance potential lends itself well to exhilarating rides throughout the city, leaving the slowpokes in traffic far behind. Anyone interested in casual city riding can enjoy the power and speed offered with a cruiser.
Ownership Perk
One key advantage to owning a cruiser is that the model will be easy to customize. In fact, cruisers are the most commonly customized motorcycle category. Their large frame allows owners to add accessories without them sticking out as eyesores. The simple design can be easily tweaked to your liking. Owners can make adjustments to the motorcycle's appearance, performance, safety, comfort, and even fuel efficiency. If you want to enjoy a more personalized riding experience, then you want a cruiser motorcycle.
Understanding Touring Motorcycles
While cruiser motorcycles are built for city riding, touring motorcycles are built for long-distance rides. These models are crafted with endurance in mind - both for the motorcycle's engine and for the rider. You won't find superfluous accessories that only offer an aesthetic benefit. Instead, each aesthetic choice is made with touring trips in mind.
One key design feature found on touring motorcycles is their large amount of storage space. After all, long trips often require supplies. Maybe you are camping and need to bring along clothing and toiletries. Maybe you are commuting to work and need to bring along the related supplies. Touring motorcycles come with saddlebags, under the seat storage, top boxes, and other forms of storage. They may not always look stylish, but these accessories offer unbeatable functionality.
The Touring Motorcycle Riding Experience
When it comes to long-distance riding, rider comfort is key. No one wants to suffer through a road trip with aching muscles and joints! That's why touring motorcycles are made with ergonomic design, ensuring that the riding position is optimized for comfort. Hit the road for hours on end without needing to take breaks every hour.
Ownership Perks
Many touring motorcycles allow for two-up riding. Bring along a family member or friend to enjoy the journey. It's a great way to share your love of riding - and give them a thrilling experience! Touring motorcycles often come with design features to accommodate the extra weight without sacrificing performance, such as having a sturdier frame, improved suspension, and higher powered brakes.
Ready to shop touring motorcycles and cruisers for sale? Check out the selection at Doc's Harley-Davidson. If you are still unsure what model to pick, let our experts help. Tell us about your budget and riding lifestyle, then we can recommend the most compatible options. Our dealership is based in Kirkwood, Missouri, and we also proudly serve those in St. Louis and St. Charles.