2025 Cruiser Bike Guide Highlights Top Rides for Freedom

Imagine cruising down endless highways astride a powerful, characterful motorcycle, feeling the wind rush past as you embrace the freedom of the open road. With so many models available, choosing the right cruiser can be overwhelming. Fear not— Motorcycle News (MCN), the UK's authoritative motorcycle magazine, has curated the definitive list of 2025's top cruiser motorcycles to help you find your perfect ride.

For those craving raw power and distinctive style, the Ducati XDiavel V4 delivers. This Italian cruiser boasts an aggressive XL Bully stance, with quad exhaust pipes resembling heavy artillery ready to unleash its formidable performance. Powered by the V4 desmodromic engine from the Diavel V4, it produces a staggering 166 hp and 126 Nm of torque, ensuring adrenaline-pumping acceleration.

MCN's 2024 Cruiser of the Year, the Indian Scout 101, represents the pinnacle of American cruiser evolution. After three-and-a-half years of development, this model marks the Scout line's first major update in a decade. Retaining classic Scout styling, its lines are now sleeker and more contemporary.

Defying the stereotype that cruisers belong only on straight roads, the Sport Chief combines classic American styling with agile handling. Drawing from Indian's racing heritage, it offers exceptional maneuverability.

The Fat Bob's polarizing design is Harley's take on a streetfighter—bigger, heavier, and dripping with muscle. Designed for European riders who value both straight-line cruising and cornering prowess, it remains Harley's sportiest gasoline-powered model while retaining cruiser DNA like its 16-inch fat tires.

Positioned as the successor to the 883 Sportster, the Nightster splits opinions with its liquid-cooled Revolution Max 975T engine—a departure from Harley's air-cooled tradition. Lighter and more agile, it thrives in corners but faces stiff competition from the Indian Scout and Triumph Bobber.

With 180 hp and a record-breaking 225 Nm of torque, the Rocket 3 Storm redefines acceleration. Its distinctive exhaust note and surprising agility—despite a 320 kg weight—make it a standout. Available in sport (R) and touring (GT) variants.

In an era of downsized engines, BMW's 1802cc boxer-powered R18 is a bold statement. Delivering 89 hp and 158 Nm through exposed shaft drive, it channels the spirit of the R nineT. Though sparse on features like cruise control, its reverse gear aids maneuvering the 345 kg mass.

Based on the Rebel 500 but powered by Africa Twin's 1084cc parallel-twin, the CMX1100 offers a 270-degree crank soundtrack and Honda's DCT option. Comfortable and capable, it handles coastal roads and mountain twisties with equal ease.

Built on Enfield's 650 platform, the Super Meteor delivers big-bike experience at midweight pricing. Its 648cc engine provides ample torque, though braking could be sharper. MCN's Dan Sutherland praised it as the clear winner among mini-cruisers, offering full cruiser appeal without A2 compromises.

Lightweight and reliable thanks to its ER-6-derived engine, the Vulcan S blends traditional cruiser elements with modern minimalism. Its parallel-twin configuration and affordable price make it an attractive entry point.

New manufacturers are challenging established brands with innovative designs:

• Morbidelli C1002V: A 997cc V-twin Italian cruiser with 93.9 hp and KYB suspension (£9,499).
• Great Wall S2000: China's luxury tourer with a 1999cc flat-eight engine rivaling Honda's Gold Wing.
• Benda LFC700: A striking 676cc inline-four cruiser with Brembo brakes, slated for UK release.

MCN will test these newcomers in 2025 to crown the next Cruiser of the Year.