It’s impossible to describe the feeling of freedom as you ride your bike down the road, possibly into the sunset. Riding a motorcycle is something that everyone needs to experience at least once n their life.
But, getting your license is only part of the equation. The trickier part is deciding which type of bike you should be riding. Of course, you can simply go with looks and select the best-looking sports motorcycle in your budget. However, there is a lot more to choosing the right motorcycle than what it looks like.
Whether you’re chasing the latest KTM motorcycles from procycles.com.au or considering a Harley Davidson, you’re going to need to think about how you ride, where you ride, and which motorcycle is going to best suit your purposes.
Let’s take a look at cruisers and sports tourers:
The Cruiser
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The easiest way to describe a cruiser is to think of your classic Harley Davidson. These are the machines that were first created in the 1930s and are still going strong today. Of course, Harley isn’t the only manufacturer of cruisers, virtually every motorcycle manufacturer has at least one cruiser in its line-up.
A cruiser is typically longer than other styles of motorcycles. Your feet are extended in front of you, your hands will be elevated slightly and you’ll be either upright or leaning back slightly. The ai is a laid back style of riding.
Cruisers typically have a lot of torque, giving them plenty of power to get shifting but they won’t match sports bikes for top speeds. The cruise emphasizes an easy-riding experience and should shift virtually effortlessly through the gears.
It should be noted that because cruisers tend to be longer than other types of motorcycles, they generally have larger turning circles. Combine this with their low-ride height and you’ll note you can’t lean a cruiser around any corner in the same way you can a sports bike. In short, you’re not going to get your knee down on a cruiser.
Cruisers are generally great style statements. They can be used to travel large distances as the seating positioned is very relaxed. However, the majority of them will transmit every bump and pothole directly up your back. That can influence the enjoyment of riding longer distances.
You should also note that while cruisers can have almost any engine, the two-cylinder versions are powerful but you will feel the vibrations. That could also be an issue on longer runs.
The Sports Tourer
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In contrast, a sports tourer is a mix between a sports bike and the comfort of a long-distance motorcycle. In short, the sports tourer is built for distance riding.
These bikes are generally taller than other motorcycles, giving plenty of road clearance and helping you to feel comfortable. Sport tourers are covered with farings, just like sports bikes. These help to give the motorcycle a sleek look and improve the aerodynamics of the bike.
There is little doubt that this is the better option for comfort on long runs. However, it should be noted that sports tourers tend to be heavy bikes, which could make them challenging if you spend most of your time commuting to work and back. These types of bikes excel on the open road.
The seating position is less upright than the cruiser but not as bent-over as a sports bike. In short, it’s comfortable without being oversized. You’ll find it easy to add panniers to the bike and they’ll be a range of adjustments and accessories to make long-distance trips eve more pleasurable.
A sports tourer is designed to handle in almost the same way as a sports bike but without the strain on your neck and wrists. Of course, the bike is heavier than a sports bike and has less torque than a cruiser. But, there is little difference in its top-end speed versus the sports motorcycle.
Sports tourers also tend to use 4 cylinder engines which are smoother on long runs.
How To Choose
Both sports tourers and cruisers are excellent motorcycles. There isn’t a right or wrong choice, its what suits you best. That means you need to do your homework before you buy.
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Riding Style
Cruisers are laid-back while sports tourers are more upright. Both are comfortable but you’ll need to consider which you think is more comfortable for a long ride.
If you’ve not experienced the seating position on either of these bikes then the first thing you should do is test drive one of each. You may instantly realize there is only one type of motorcycle for you.
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The Look
Assuming you’re happy riding either style of motorcycle you need to start considering the look. The two styles of bike look very different. Take a look at both styles and see which one appeals to you the most. You may not see the bike while riding but you will have to look at it every time it’s parked up. That’s a lot more fun if you’ve chosen a style that you love.
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Comfort
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Sports tourers will generally be more comfortable for long-distance riding. That’s why you need to consider where you are likely to be riding and what sorts of distances you’ll be regularly covering.
Knowing this will help you to choose the bike that’s going to keep you smiling, from start to finish of your ride.
It’s a good idea to talk to your local dealer regarding the bikes on offer, they’ll arrange the test drives and help you make the best decision for you and your needs.
You will need to set your budget before you start looking. This will help you to focus on the available motorcycles. In general cruisers are likely to be more expensive than sports tourers. But, there are plenty of great pre-owned examples to look at, ensuring you can get the bike you really want.
Just remember, the decision is personal, it’s what suits you best not simply the style of motorcycle that all your friends have opted for.
