Cruiser - the secret to the cruiser type bike is in the styling and details. This is the chrome loaded bike that is frequently shown in bad boy motorcycle movies. The chopper falls in the cruiser category. The chopper bike is a customized cruiser that typically has a longer front fork (raked front end) and higher handlebars. The raked front end is an advantage in higher straight-line speeds, but can be awkward in slow curve speeds. Choppers are the ultimate in style, but lose some functionality for the cool looks.

Generally, on a cruiser bike, the rider sits in an upright position with the feet forward. The cruiser bike seat is lower than most bikes, and therefore has a more balanced center of gravity. These bikes are good for shorter riders because they can touch the ground with none or very little modification. Because crusiers are not as agile as other bikes, these may not be the best bikes to learn to ride on.

Crusier styles can be customized with leather, custom paint jobs, and most popular, chrome. Chrome accessories come in all styles and designs to dress your bike up to be personally yours. Chrome accessories also make great gifts for the cruiser rider in your life. The chrome you customize your bike with looks great but costs great as well. Make sure that as you add your chrome you increase your insurance coverage to account for all your purchases.

Many crusiers have a V-twin engine that produces a great rumbling engine sound. So besides the great looks that everyone sees, they can hear also hear the roaring engine. Cruisers have a lot of torque and in case I haven't said it enough, great looks. Examples of some cruisers are: Kawasaki 500 Vulcan LTD, Kawasaki 1500 Vulcan Classic, Honda Shadow Ace, Honda Rebel 250, Suzuki Boulevard M109R, Harley Davidson Softail, Yamaha V-Star, and Victory models. Almost all manufacturers offer a cruiser style bike in a frame size and power level for your riding style and experience and a price that fits within your budget.

Next week's article will discuss the "Sport Bike".

Until then, ride safe.

Nancy