Cruiser vs. Sport Bike: Which One Is Right for You?

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Are you a daily commuter looking to stop on a dime or a long hauler who dreams of exploring the open road? Are you more of a muscle head or a speed freak? These are just some of the questions you might ask yourself as you choose between a cruiser and a sport bike, the two motorcycle categories dominating today's market. They’re built for different riding styles with important distinctions that can leave you with a bad case of buyer’s remorse if you choose the wrong one. Use this cruiser vs. sport bike comparison guide to find the right motorcycle based on your comfort level and where you plan to ride.

What Is a Cruiser Motorcycle?

From the vagabonds of Easy Rider to Harley-Davidson, cruisers — affectionately known as hogs — are a classic style of motorcycle built for long-distance riding and comfortable cruising. They come with powerful engines for more torque at low speeds to help you accelerate quickly from rest. 

The seat is lower with raised handlebars, and the footpegs are further back for a more relaxed riding stance. You can sit as you would in a chair to help you easily rack up hundreds of miles a day without breaking your back. Cruisers are perfect for transporting passengers and taking in the sights. 

Beginners and those with sensitive joints/muscles tend to prefer this style of riding. You don’t have to worry about aggressive leaning or hanging off the side of the bike when taking turns. 

Cruisers also come with more customization opportunities, giving you the freedom to deck out your bike to your heart’s content. Tack on cup holders, a sidecar or rear storage for a more luxurious ride. Motorcycle & Powersports News reports cruisers are the most viewed type of motorcycle, with a 27 percent market share, followed by touring bikes at 23 percent. 

What Is a Sport Bike?

A sport bike is a much leaner, minimalist type of motorcycle built for higher speeds, faster cornering and superior maneuverability. They reduce unnecessary weight and feature an aerodynamic design to help you go as fast as possible, with some models reaching 200 to 300 mph. The brakes come reinforced for shorter stop times. 

You need to lean forward when riding a sport bike. The handlebars are lower with upfront footpegs and a higher, often slanted, seat. The position may strike you as unnatural as your center of balance shifts. Keep your back straight and your core engaged instead of supporting yourself with your arms. 

Sport bikes are lean and mean, with minimal plates and furnishings. You can choose the color or go with a naked sport bike to highlight the machine's inner workings, but your customization options end there. Learn about all the different types of motorcycles to sharpen your knowledge. 

Cruiser vs. Sport Bike: Factors to Consider

Keep these variables in mind when comparing makes and models:

Experience/Comfort Level

If you’ve never owned a motorcycle, make sure you feel comfortable in the sport bike position. Your back or arms could get sore if you’re not used to supporting your weight in this way. Build up your core strength to prepare for regular riding. 

New to riding altogether? Start with a cruiser to make every trip a breeze. 

Motorcycle Gear

Choosing between a cruiser and a sport bike will also determine your wardrobe for the occasion. You should always wear a helmet, gloves, long pants and long sleeves when riding, but if you have a need for speed, it’s best to wear a full-face motorcycle helmet to protect your face from debris. 

Cruisers prefer to wear a half-face helmet with goggles, especially at low speeds. Regardless of which option you choose, pair your gear with motorcycle helmet communication to talk hands-free to up to 15 riders at a time. The device automatically connects when in range, forming a direct line with you and every member of the group for seamless coordination. 

Riding Style and Environment 

Where and how you ride is perhaps the most important factor of all. If you hit the race track, you should ride a sportbike. Both options are well-suited to inner-city living and daily commutes, but a sport bike will get you there in less time and help you avoid accidents on the way.

Both are also well-suited to the highway, but you will be thankful that you bought a cruiser if you plan on riding for more than an hour at a time; otherwise, you might end up with a sore keester. 

Remember these buying tips to find a motorcycle that helps you get where you want to go. Considering a touring motorcycle instead? Learn about cruiser vs. touring motorcycles to refine your search.