picking a cruiser displacement question

suzuki2000

suzuki2000

Well-known member
how big of a cruiser does the average person need? So many of the v twin cruisers have such large displacements.
Is it necessary to have 1300, 1500, 1800 cc's of displacement?
What do you realistically need to be able to ride the highway at 120 +/- and also enjoy some back roads.
I have a 600 sport(ish) bike now and it is plently enough to get me into speeds that would get me into trouble. i've ridden my wifes new 650 and I know this isn't quite as big as i would probably be happy enough with, but how big is right? 1100?
 
I have an 1100 Virago, (the 750 Virago doesn't feel much different performance wise).
At 120+ the Virago feels a bit busy making me want an extra gear over 115 (4000 rpm).
The larger displacement engines can turn slower as they have much more torque.
That's what makes them comfortable to ride longer distances, the vibrations don't wear you out.

I'm very happy with the 1100 at speeds below 115 and most of my riding is on secondary roads.
 
Remember you 600 is half the weight and built for speed.

A dump truck has a 10L engines with 300+HP and doesn't go very fast lol. :D
 
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It really does depend on the motorcycle itself. Some big bore machines have large displacements for 2 up riding and having luggage.

I'd look for what style of cruiser you are drawn to first. How often you plan to two up or tour. Soft luggage or something attached. Full fairing, or windscreen or nothing at all.

A lot of newer basic cruisers are starting at 1300 cc's and go up from there.
 
Do you specifically want a cruiser rather than perhaps a Sport Tourer like the VFRs??
The latter might be a nicer transition.
 
bought a Honda VTX 1800R. Incredible grunt at any speed, but VERY comfortable, especially on the hiway. smaller v twins tend to buzz and vibrate. This bike doesn't at any speed.Don't really need 1800cc, but it sure feels great...
 
1100cc is fine for almost all situations, had no problem keeping up with traffic at 120km/h on I70, at 3000m elevation, with heavy touring luggage and a windscreen. However, the bike is far slower than a 6500cc naked inline 4 that I had before, if you are used to pass slower cars in no time then you will feel the difference, but it is still quicker than most cars out there. 650cc inline four: 70hp at 200kg, 1100cc v-twin: 60hp at 300kg.
 
suzuki2000 said:
how big of a cruiser does the average person need? So many of the v twin cruisers have such large displacements.
Is it necessary to have 1300, 1500, 1800 cc's of displacement?
What do you realistically need to be able to ride the highway at 120 +/- and also enjoy some back roads.
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A sport-tourer or standard/naked bike will likely be a better fit.
 
I had a Magna VF750C. It was faster than most litre cruisers due the nature of its VFR derived engine.
Displacement is not everything. There's fuel maps, gearing, RPM, compression, etc.

But I agree with Brian. To enjoy highways at higher speed and some twisties while still being comfortable - touring bike is the way to go. They're designed for it.
 
Can a VRod be set up adequately as decent cruiser with some sportiness along with some possible touring use? ( yes I know this may be a lot to ask :D)
Not a big fan of the traditional HD, but I find these an appealing option
 
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What do you realistically need to be able to ride the highway at 120 +/- and also enjoy some back roads.
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Yup intermediates are the ticket and there are more and more being offered.

Even the Burgman 650 will do both of those effortlessly

Recently, my Son and a group of my friends were following me and we had to get back quickly, since the sun was going down and the temperature was dropping rapidly and we didn't want to freeze to death! I led the group for about 30 miles at an average 100 mph, with no problems at all. The BMW RT that my Son was on has an accurized speedometer and verified this cruising speed. Several roll-ons from that speed showed that a nearly new BMW R1200C and a jetted new Volusia 800, were left in the dust by the Burgman, by at least 5-10 mph. My RT 1000 and my bud's new BMW K1200Lt were not even breathing hard!

To sum up, the Burger can kick some serious butt!
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as will the new BMW 650 intermediates both dual sport and CVT and will be much more fun in the twisties than a big cruiser.

Depends on whether two up is frequent tho. Then a litre+ would offer more ooomph.
Still the lighter machines are more fun in my view and don't give up anything except in the very top end.
 
suzuki2000 said:
Can a VRod be set up adequately as decent cruiser with some sportiness along with some possible touring use? ( yes I know this may be a lot to ask :D)
Not a big fan of the traditional HD, but I find these an appealing option
Click to expand...

You can boogie and tour on the V-Rod and it can be a lot of fun. Now in terms of adding a passenger, I'm not too sure. Fine for heading out for dinner and a show but, a run down the 401 wouldn't be much fun for either of you. It does depend on the passenger as well. The smaller the better. I'd say 30 to 60 minutes would be tollerable. I've seen a few Rods with a small back rest and touring seat that makes for a little more comfort.
 
suzuki2000 said:
Can a VRod be set up adequately as decent cruiser with some sportiness along with some possible touring use? ( yes I know this may be a lot to ask :D)
Not a big fan of the traditional HD, but I find these an appealing option
Click to expand...

I haven't ridden one personally, but the wife has. She complained that it wasn't the most comfortable riding position - bars that really make you reach + forward controls = clamshell riding style. But like any HD, they can always be modded to be whatever you want if you have enough $$$$$$$.
 
The new Harleys are good and improved.
Like people saying that HDs over heat, depends where you ride it, and which model you get.
There's a function where the front piston shuts off when you're on idle/stuck in traffic.
6 speed transmission too. 883 is basically an entry level, but under powered, if you ride in the city alot, then 883 would be great. If you're a touring guy, street glide.

A 750 Shadow is okay, a somewhat middle-weight cruiser. Reliable and basic oil changes and it will last, gas and go.
Problem is it needs an extra gear. Mine goes to 165ish.
Too bad Honda doesn't make 1000cc bikes and 1100cc's.

Another option is a 800cc-900cc, I believe Suzuki makes..


A Vrod is unique because it's the only HD with a radiator. But you're looking at alot of $$$.

If you want something with speed and looks like that, try the M109r from Suzuki.
 
Price points for HD are right in line with competitors now. I'd look at the used market and there are a lot of very clean and well taken care of V-Rods and other models that already have a lot of accessories that you don't have to pay for.

I don't know why I thought 2 up was a factor for the OP but, the V-Rod is a very nice machine and depending on the year and model, there are various riding positions. Mid or forward controls. Bar height and reach is pretty much the same unless modded by someone else. It can get spendy if new bars are considered as new cables are likely required.

I'd call a dealer about a test ride.

IMO - The new Dyna Switchback is a perfect choice. Cruise and tour.


I'm a bit bias.
 
nakkers said:
Price points for HD are right in line with competitors now. I'd look at the used market and there are a lot of very clean and well taken care of V-Rods and other models that already have a lot of accessories that you don't have to pay for.

I don't know why I thought 2 up was a factor for the OP but, the V-Rod is a very nice machine and depending on the year and model, there are various riding positions. Mid or forward controls. Bar height and reach is pretty much the same unless modded by someone else. It can get spendy if new bars are considered as new cables are likely required.

I'd call a dealer about a test ride.

IMO - The new Dyna Switchback is a perfect choice. Cruise and tour.


I'm a bit bias.
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Yeah the new Switchback is pretty nice.
HD has upped their technology, and the new CVO line is badass. I would pick the CVO RK any day if I had the money.

The problem is parts for HD is overpriced IMO. LOL
Couple buddies I know are in pain leaving their ride at the HD stealership for fixing.
 
Camer said:
Around 1300 to 1600 is good
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Based on what? My Sister and brother inlaw (both are larger than I think is healthy) travel on a 800cc v twin cruiser. Assuming the poster travels solo most of the time a 650 - 800 should be completely adequate.
 
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