I don't think Yammie still entirely gets why people like to ride cruisers. You can talk all day about price-to-performance, how cruisers are boring and slow or how archaic cruiser technology still is. All that is mostly irrelevant, though. People like cruisers because of the ability to CRUISE admiring the scenery, the surroundings and the feel of the bike. On a sport bike you ride aggressively and are hyper-focused on the road with less regard to the landscape surrounding you. Different uses. That's the real reason.
While I agree with you somewhat, you can't argue that the weight to power to price ratio is really poor for cruisers as a whole and I think THAT is Papa Yam's biggest gripe.
@@bhouse92101 I think the whole idea of cruisers is that you're not supposed to go all-out fast. Rather, you can rev the throttle and go through all the gears without accelerating to the moon. Whilst admiring the world around you at a slower pace and enjoy the sound of the motor. That's how I feel about the thing.
Absolutely. I have recently moved on from cruisers (for now) but there's nothing like hopping on and going to get lost in the country for a few hours. Plus they just look cooler than any other type of bike--that's actually an objective fact =)
@@Rambo454 so what bike do you have? I'm assuming that since you are all about "enjoying the scenery" and the thrill of "race me to the next stop light" isn't what you're all about, that you must have a smooth as butter 250cc V-Twin that enables you to just mosey on down the road to enjoy all that lush scenery?🤣😂😆
I bought a C50 as my first "real" bike and paid $3000 for it. It has been flawless. 10k miles later and it still perfect. I could sell it today for what i paid for it. Its just a great, simple cruiser to ride around with the wife and enjoy some wind. Best part? I dont feel obligated to join any groups or wear a freaking Harley uniform.
For any beginner, I HIGHLY recommend a used bike right off the bat. Sure, I know folks who bought full dressers for their first bikes, but I would say that is not the greatest idea. Save yourself a ton of money and depreciation and look for any of the Big 4 Japanese makes & models like the ones covered in this video. They run forever and are bullet proof. Unless you have a Triumph, Royal Enfield, Ducatti, or Boneville dealer right near your house where you can get parts and repairs done, stick with the Japanese bikes.
@@callielathrop6669 I have the same bike (Spirit though not the Aero). I both love and hate her, but man can she take a beating of neglect. My dad gave it to me some years back and it had been sitting for a long time. Took me a little time and sweat, but I got it back up and running recently. Ease of most maintenance, and not bank breaking cost on parts. Partzilla is your friend when it comes to drawings on the parts and finding some of the more not so easy to come by parts. Love the shaft drive as you do not have to worry about chain stretch. Only real complaint is the low end torque which causes my back tire to spin every now and then on take off when the road is wet.
Got an 07 shadow 750 aero for 3k at the start of september. Only had 7300 miles.... now it's got 8.5k.... absolutely no regrets.... probably gonna throw a mustang seat on it next season and ride till the wheels fall off.
Passed my MSF 2 days ago, bought a Royal Enfield Hunter 350. I absolutely love it. Its slow for sure, and i cant use it on the interstates, but its perfect for back roads, and i love the Clutch, its very forgiving and i havent stalled it once yet. Ive also only hit 3rd gear so far but still 😅
Nothing wrong with that man. A bike should be bought for the type of riding you do. If you’re a backroad cruiser, a small displacement bike is the best thing to ride
New rider here too, and got a RE Classic 350, a little tall for me, but love the looks! and is perfect for my commute to work :D now I'm looking at the Super Meteor 650 :D
Just picked up my RE Super Meteor 650 in Astral Black here in Australia 2 days ago, had to go 500km to the closest dealership, rode around Southern coast in Winter rain to get first 500kms on it and dropped it back in for first service the next day, rode it back home yesterday and have over 1000km on it in the first 2 days. Impressive bike, very comfortable aside from rear shocks that will need some adjustment, great usable low down power, great lights, highly recommended so far.
Rode a Suzuki Boulevard C50 as my first bike. Never gave me a single problem. Being a big guy, I eventually upgraded to a 2019 Suzuki Boulevard C90 Boss Edition (1400+ cc) and it too has been all over the place and never had a single problem.
I got a 3 yr old used Vulcan 900, 10 yrs ago. Runs great, super fun and comfy and ride it still today with zero issues. I love it and get compliments on it often, which honestly totally surprises me every time but it looks new still. I have 2 other bikes but I dont think I'll ever sell it. It's worth today, what I paid for it 10 yrs ago and when buddys come over, I always have a bike for them to ride too.
I had a Honda monkey for about 3 months, and I went to my Harley dealership and they did try and tell me I could go straight to the Street Bob. I rode the monkey for a year and then bought a 2023 Indian Scout Rouge and it felt like a rocket compared to the monkey. A few people tried telling me not to get a bike with a 100 horsepwer but i knew i could handle it. The power and the handling were easy to get used to. and I love the scout. I couldn't be happier.
I'm 36 and am just now beginning to understand why people ride motorcycles. Sport bikes never interested me. Cruisers look to provide what I'm looking for: chill riding as I sit comfortably and enjoy.
I’m 21 and got bit by the bug. I wanted a sport bike when I was 16/17 but my plans fell through. Now that I have an adult job, I can afford a bike! But I’ve gained a few Kilos and thought a fat guy on a Ninja 400 was weird, so I decided a cruiser was for me. I got an Indian Scout 60 and can recommend it to anyone!
I just turned 36 and caught the bug as well! 👏🏼🙌🏼 I obsessively watch these kind of videos on TH-cam and think about how awesome it would feel (and how cool I'd look 😎) to ride a motorcycle.
Great list, Yammie. Only knit-pick is that one of your Suzuki Boulevards (the first silver one, at 11:33) is not a C50. It's an S50, the successor to the Intruder line. The C50 is based on the Volusia line. Honest mistake, no harm, no foul. I only know the difference because I have the C50 and my son in law has the S50. Comparable on paper, but they are very different in character! The S50 has a similar displacement engine, but revs much faster and is almost 200 lbs lighter. It's much quicker than my C50. Both are excellent bikes, and I'm very happy with my C50. Low and slow works just fine for me!
Sweet. My bike got listed first! Honda Shadow Spirit, close enough. Great, except the seat is only good for two hours, then an hour at a shot; so bought a Mustang touring seat. I love it.
I bought a 3rd gen magna because I wanted a fun cruiser and something for my girl to learn on. 500lbs carried low, and below 4-5krpm very manageable power for a beginner, but when you run that 750cc V4 out to 10k rpm it makes a phenomenal noise and over 85hp and nearly 70ftlbs of torque. You can buy them for less than 3k all day, Honda reliability, and comfort. I love this little thing
Thanks for a cruiser video. Yes we are out here on your channel and not Harley crazy. As a former Triumph owner and now a Honda Shadow owner it was nice to hear nice words about this segment of the market. Thanks again.
I bought a 2006 s40, and I've had nothing but a fantastic time with it. No issues and its been great as a daily with the saddlebags and for beach days!
+1 to the Shadow. It's light for a Cruiser and a lot of the models have a single crank pin to sound like Harley's, but are also sorta underpowered as a result (at least the 750s). I've never felt like I'm not in control of it and can do the MSF 20' box on it. Handles great.
My wife has a Rebel 500 in her stable. We bought it used with low miles. It has the V&H pipe, Arrow exhaust and drag bars. It's the most fun little bike I have ridden and turns heads believe it or not. I would agree that it's a great beginner bike and experienced rider bike for what it's worth.
This is a pretty good list. The thing I realized while making a cruisers comparison video of my own was that this that one category of motorcycles that defies the engine size to horsepower conventions of sports or street naked bikes. A 1000cc cruiser could also make a decent beginner bike just as well as a 500cc Honda Rebel. And that is the beauty of cruising. Good stuff Yammy!
I like to nominate the Suzuki S40 Boulevard. It's lighter than your picks, very low seat, great reliability, and belt drive! It's a super torque monster with an easy clutch. I bought my 2015 with 525 miles on it for dirt cheap. It holds a line in the turns surprisingly well.
I just recently got my first bike, a Sportster 883. For context, I'm a 16 year old female at 5'8 with NO riding experience. Riding isn't as hard as I thought it would be
Only the Rebel 500 (and Royal Enfield when it’s released) can be ridden on a Learners and RE (Restricted capacity open license) in Australia. Every other bike you would have to pass the Unrestricted course and licence to be legally allowed to ride
The Vulcan 900 was the bike I chose after being away from riding for a decade (kids). Kept it for just a couple years due to it winding/buzzing too high at highway speeds, but it was a solid choice for this returning rider, no regrets. I’m riding naked bikes these days, but remember that VN900 fondly.
@@andersonlarios7257 Yeah, it doesn't have that overdrive that it needs to not be screaming at 60+ mph (though mine was a '08, so perhaps they've addressed that gearing issue to some degree by now). But off-highway and as an all-around midweight cruiser, it was tough to beat, especially at its price point.
My '06 Suzuki C50 has same issue. My '03 Volusia 800 (older version of C50) was the same. This is a common complaint of these bikes (feels like they NEED 6th gear), but the bikes are fine on the highway if you can get over the sound, lol. I wanted a VN900 this time, but read it had the same issue so ended up going with what I already knew since I got a good deal.
Does the Vulcan have a tach? My shadow 750 didn’t but they will do highway for hours! Use hood oil, change within internal, the noise and buzzing is the engine 2k away from redline going 75-80mph. Bike is fine, it’s all in your head
Oh the shadow twice in one week. I don't consider myself a beginner anymore. Been on many bikes for the last 11 years but currently i enjoy the slow cruiser style of my 2016 Aero 😂
Great job as usual, both informative and entertaining. I have never owned one but I would nominate the Yamaha Bolt for the list the next time you do it. Old school air cooled V-twin with plenty of omph and Yamaha reliability. It is mid-pack in price and it is not intimidating to new old rider. Keep the vids coming Yammie!
Over here in the UK, learners must start out on a bike of no more than 11Kw, which usually means 125cc. I've just started learning (at the ago of 60!!!!) and I bought a 2000 Yamaha Virago 125, which is absolutely brilliant!
It's cool that you have just started riding at the age of 60. I'm shocked with how little power you can have on your learners in the UK. A couple years ago we decided to smarten up a little and expand our learners down here in australia to allow a lot, but not all, bikes of 660cc or less, to be learner legal, as long as their power to weight isn't too high. Ie no Kr1 2 stroke, even tho it's only 250cc. How long do you guys have to stay on your learners with such restrictions?
@@MrToranaGuy Strictly speaking, until we feel confident enough to take a test and move on to something bigger. For someone who had been riding on private land for a few months/years, this could be a matter of weeks. We can ride on "L" plates for two years, then we have to either take a test, or another CBT to renew it for another two years.
I just got a hold of the Kawasaki 2024 eliminator 450 abs se. To be honest I have been riding only a few months prior to that was 20+ years so a 451cc engine is more than I currently need. When I went in my back and leg was hurting from my sportsbike I am a retired Marine and not as nimble as I once was so I gravitated to a more cruiser style for comfort, I will have to say I have put 330miles since Oct31st Just going where I need I have ridden it in pouring rain and hot Texas weather and the thing does not skip a beat, I was amused to find out what the engine was based from. All in all I hope to one day have my bike lamb blasted for how trashy it might be haha! Even if it was Still out does my craptastic liefan.
Just picked up by 2015 Honda Shadow Phantom about a month ago based off this video. I'd never ridden a motorcycle prior, just some dirt experience. a month later of commuting 50-75 miles a day on it, and I have to say I'm happy and content. The power is enough to keep you engaged, but not enough to instantly kill yourself. The handling is enough to handle the curvy 55mph roads of my commute, and the ride itself is comfortable. This could be an "all bikes" sort of thing, but the amount of compliments I get on it is insane. If you're a 24 year old with a blown motor in your daily commuter and gotta make it through the summer, give the Shadow 750 a try. I haven't died yet!
went in for the shadow phantom, came home with a rebel 1100 dct. first motorcycle. love it. even gets whispered compliments from hog riders. no complaints except the seat
I bought a 2012 honda shadow spirit for my first bike 4 years ago. I figured I would upgrade at some point but I just love this bike so much...I just keep riding it.
M109 1800vtwin was my first bike...I dont recomend it as a first bike but it was AWESOME!!!! (I was 35yrs old so a little maturerer(?) than a 20 year old) and had never ridden before passing my test.) Had a few bikes now but this is still my fav!
If you're gonna get a used Suzi cruiser as a beginner then grab a marauder. Lighter, lower, more nimble and quicker. A real treat for the ladies or monopods like me.
I plan on getting another cruiser bike, a Shadow Phantom. Fuel injected, liquid cooled, shaft driven… maintenance = nah. I used to ride a V-Star 650. 49 mpg and fast enough for me. If I had more power I’d use it and do dumb things. Like Ricky Bobby, I want to go fast. To keep myself alive, I buy slow things and drive them hard.
My first bike is the Vulcan 900. Very happy with it. I've convinced my gf to take the class and she's looking at a Vulcan S or a Rebel 500. She likes the cruiser and standard looks
There's no way. I literally have been watching you for 10 months waiting to get a bike and I finally pulled on the 2022 Honda shadow aero and I couldn't be happier, plus it almost matches my dad's 2001 bmw r 1200 😭💙. Thanks for all the great advice yammie, BTW I didn't see this video until hours after riding my new toy around with pop
BMW not has newer can made any good bike, and today all cars have cheap blink blink models worst engine fast rust body and lot blink blink interior and cheap worst WV tehchnic parts.
Honorable mention - 86 Suzuki Intruder 700. This is what I learned on and think it's an excellent bike with just the right amount of power and they look amazing.
Sinnis Hoodlum. 125cc air cooled thumper, 300 pounds, tops out at 70mph, 81mpg (stated). 3 grand. Not sure if they're available in the US. The Lexmoto Michigan is essentially the same bike, just a little different in styling.
I just bought my first bike, happens to be a 2001 Shadow 750. It's a bit heavier than I thought it would be but my short @$$ can flat-foot sitting on it so it's a bonus.
I definitely loved the Honda Shadow Spirit you mentioned in the prev. video. It is very sad that it isn’t sold neither sold in India in the past. If i am a beginner and just passed the riding test and got my license the first thing i would do is grab a Honda Shadow Spirit. I love it looks and riding ergo. ❤ And in black paint it stole my heart. 🥹 I wish Honda could sell it in India.
What's really impressive about the Scout is the incredibly low centre of mass. The Scout Bobber is 40lbs heavier than my 750 Shadow, but it feels about 200lbs lighter. This may throw off some Cruiser enthusiasts who like a bike that FEELS like a heavy bike, that feels like you're throwing 800lbs of Harley around. But the Scout is a sport cruiser. It's basically what the Nighster was supposed to be: a higher revving, better cornering, liquid cooled, higher horsepower, sport-cruiser. Except the Scout actually looks cool.
I got a Honda Shadow 750 aero because i messed my back up and sitting on a 600 gsx for every day ride dosnt sound pleasant.. i do miss it though :( but Absoluty love my shadow none the less, just happy to ride again.
Just bought my first bike a couple months ago! It’s a 2004 Yamaha v-Star 1100. It’s a tad heavy but I wanted a cruiser that I’d be satisfied with for more than a year or two (fingers crossed)
Love my 2010 Phantom. Have a pair of cobra pipes and intake. I like how it looks, I like how cheap it was ($3,000), and most importantly I like to ride it :). Cant recommend it enough for a simple cruiser.
I just came back to riding after about 6 years off and lots of physical therapy (not related to riding). I came back into a used C50 because of the price point. I'll point something out here where the C50 probably shines just a little bit more than everyone else on the list. Specifically, it can handle a much taller rider. Now I'm 6'7" so I'm at the edge of its capacity, and I'll probably even be throwing on some kickback risers soon. But without either aftermarket handlebars or risers, many of these bikes just will not handle someone over about 6'1"/6'2" without some issue.
I wish this would come up more! So many of the bikes I look at are bragging about their low seat height! It's like a race to the bottom, presently we'll just sit directly on the frame I suppose? I almost wish they could come in Small, Medium and Large! I think there are at least a dozen motorcycles that I could and would buy but they're just too small!
@@leonardpearlman4017 I am on the other end of the scale I bought a BMW and it was just to damn high for me an old K100RT...loved everything about it except for that I went to the dealer and sat on Every bike in the place New... Used and customer bikes in for service...They were ALL TO HIGH...Sold it!
Good point...one of the main reasons I chose a '06 C50 after already owning a Volusia 800 almost 20 years ago. I still had to add 4" risers to make it more comfortable, and looking at adding forward controls or highway bars to be able to stretch out a bit more...the other bikes would take even more effort to make comfortable. I'm 6'
My grandfather worked for Raytheon where they developed, tested and produced magnetron tubes. They tested them, back then, in an open area with no warnings about radiation. He died of cancer as many of his coworkers did as well.
I probably would have added the W800 onto this list, although it was nice to see it on the "Overlooked Beginner Motorcycle" list. To me it has the Bonneville vibe and aesthetic, but at a lower cost.
another one that should have been on the list that i highly recommend is the "V STAR 650". Only downside is the rear drum breaks, i prefer disc breaks.
I still have my 2000 VStar Classic. Can't get anything for it, insurance is like $21/year at this point, might as well keep it forever. But they didn't make the list (and shouldn't have) because they're no longer in production.
My first bike was a Yamaha Vstar 650. You can get em used for dirt cheap, like 3k max and when you’re ready to get a bigger bike just sell it to some newbie who wants to learn to ride or trade it in.
Had one. Shaft drive. Smooth. Nice for a gentle cruise, but good enough for commuting, too. Ok, I know. Sounds like a promo, but I enjoyed it. And yes, it went to a beginner who treasured it, and then passed it on to another beginner.
cruiser/touring? I rode 12k miles last year and never left 1.5 hours from my house, this includes a trip to Charlotte, NC where I lived out of the saddle bags for a week. (Yamaha 08 RSV.) I just want to tow my trailer full of tools and supplies to jobsites, get groceries at the Food Lion or Sam's club at nearby Hickory. It is a replacement for my F250 until I need the F250 (4k miles last year) A sportier bike just will not do everything I want. I am thinking about going to a softail for versatility of easy on-off luggage, still tow my trailer everyday, and weigh less, and keep the rain off. I have had 20+ motorcycles this and the 1982 silverwing interstate have been my most flexable. (I did 5 hour trips often on the GL500 Silverwing)
If you can control yourself, the Nightster and Rebel 1100 have ride modes that actually make them beginner friendly, so do the Triumphs, For an older rider that is willing to grow into a bike and keep it, that is the way to go.
The Nightster is far too expensive. Let's just say that at the out-the-door price at the Harley dealer you would have a lot of alternatives. The Rebel 1100 is sad. It has that front end instability which is why Honda decided to limit it to 100 mph, and the styling is gruesome. One might call the styling 'industrial', but I think that would be being kind.
@@feloniousmonk3049 So you don't deny that as it comes from the dealership the Rebel 1100 has a front-end instability issue. It shouldn't matter what tire you put on the front of your brand new motorcycle. That type of design flaw is unacceptable.
Got the Yamaha Stryker for 8k as my first bike, about 1300cc i believe. Love this one man, it is a lil slow though, topped mine out at around 110mph on google maps (bikes speedo is about 10 over what im actually doing). Would definitely recommend for other beginners from my limited experience lol
As a younger guy (27yo) who wants to get a cruiser as my first self-owned bike the reason is honestly that they just hit the right balance of speed, stability and comfort for me. I'm not a thrill seeker by any means and if anything get pretty anxious when driving even a car at high speeds, so a bike that's not too fast, stable on the road and easy to mount and dismount is exactly the experience i'm looking for. Plus they look cool as fuck.
For my first Cruiser, which I still have, I went with the Honda Shadow 1100. I was considering a Vulcan 900 but was turned off from it because of the heavier weight. I wanted something lighter weight and easier to maneuver and ride overall. My Shadow 1100 is lighter and better on the Interstate vs the Vulcan 900. I wish Honda had carried on the 1100 past the 2007 year mark, but I get what they were doing at the time. Putting their focus more on the at the time newly developed 1300cc engine.
i was away from biking for about 7 years and deseeded to get back into it so i went for my first cruiser so from a GSXR and a 7 year gap in ridding i went for a Kawasaki vn 900 and its amazing im so happy with it i love it. its so comfortable not too heavy low maintains and it just crushers the miles
As a Vulcan S owner, I like it exactly because it's not totally a cruiser. It's a Ninja 650 with forward controls and that exactly why I love it; cruiser comfort, sport bike handling/performance.
I took the moto training course and bought a 03 Electra Glide Standard. I won’t deny the first day it was tough because it’s heavily and has a lot of power.(I never really expected going from training on a 400cc to a 1449cc being that big of a difference but there is lol.) Luckily I reminded myself to just be relaxed and by the next day I rode it pretty dang good. Yeah some of my turns were a bit wide but after a bit of practice I got the hang of it. I’d stall it at least once a day but after a week I had no issue. Note: I’m 5’11, 280lbs so for me I felt comfortable enough purchasing a bike like that. I would not recommend someone small riding something like that. You will get hurt
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I don't think Yammie still entirely gets why people like to ride cruisers. You can talk all day about price-to-performance, how cruisers are boring and slow or how archaic cruiser technology still is.
All that is mostly irrelevant, though. People like cruisers because of the ability to CRUISE admiring the scenery, the surroundings and the feel of the bike. On a sport bike you ride aggressively and are hyper-focused on the road with less regard to the landscape surrounding you. Different uses. That's the real reason.
My cruiser is just as fast as a sports bike, at the legal speed limit.
While I agree with you somewhat, you can't argue that the weight to power to price ratio is really poor for cruisers as a whole and I think THAT is Papa Yam's biggest gripe.
@@bhouse92101 I think the whole idea of cruisers is that you're not supposed to go all-out fast. Rather, you can rev the throttle and go through all the gears without accelerating to the moon. Whilst admiring the world around you at a slower pace and enjoy the sound of the motor. That's how I feel about the thing.
Absolutely. I have recently moved on from cruisers (for now) but there's nothing like hopping on and going to get lost in the country for a few hours. Plus they just look cooler than any other type of bike--that's actually an objective fact =)
@@Rambo454 so what bike do you have? I'm assuming that since you are all about "enjoying the scenery" and the thrill of "race me to the next stop light" isn't what you're all about, that you must have a smooth as butter 250cc V-Twin that enables you to just mosey on down the road to enjoy all that lush scenery?🤣😂😆
I bought a C50 as my first "real" bike and paid $3000 for it. It has been flawless. 10k miles later and it still perfect. I could sell it today for what i paid for it. Its just a great, simple cruiser to ride around with the wife and enjoy some wind. Best part? I dont feel obligated to join any groups or wear a freaking Harley uniform.
Same. First year with my C50 and love it.
Got a M1500 and love it.
It’s a REEEEEAAAAALLLLLLLL baiiihk
Suzuki mother effer!
Same here, 3 weeks ago and loving it! C50 for the win.
I'm 62 years old just bought a 2008 Fatboy and rode around the neighborhood and practiced in parking lots and couldn't be happier.
You're probably the only person I know who bought a Fatboy. I honestly thought they were just there to fill in space at the dealer.
A Fatboy??!! Sir, you are a KING amongst men! 👏🏼🙏🏼
A Fatboy??!! Sir, you are a KING amongst men! 👏🏼🙏🏼
I am almost 80 yrs old. I have a 2009 Black Cherry Yamaha Star 250 with 17/38 final drive. All an old man (or new beginner) needs .....
For any beginner, I HIGHLY recommend a used bike right off the bat. Sure, I know folks who bought full dressers for their first bikes, but I would say that is not the greatest idea. Save yourself a ton of money and depreciation and look for any of the Big 4 Japanese makes & models like the ones covered in this video. They run forever and are bullet proof. Unless you have a Triumph, Royal Enfield, Ducatti, or Boneville dealer right near your house where you can get parts and repairs done, stick with the Japanese bikes.
I agree..I'm new I got a 1997 honda shadow...I dumped it 2nd ride..but it's powerful enough..and...it's nice
@@callielathrop6669 I have the same bike (Spirit though not the Aero). I both love and hate her, but man can she take a beating of neglect. My dad gave it to me some years back and it had been sitting for a long time. Took me a little time and sweat, but I got it back up and running recently. Ease of most maintenance, and not bank breaking cost on parts. Partzilla is your friend when it comes to drawings on the parts and finding some of the more not so easy to come by parts.
Love the shaft drive as you do not have to worry about chain stretch.
Only real complaint is the low end torque which causes my back tire to spin every now and then on take off when the road is wet.
Rebels and vulcans are being sold at basically MSRP used where I am lol
Strayan mate?@@quitegrim5901
Got an 07 shadow 750 aero for 3k at the start of september. Only had 7300 miles.... now it's got 8.5k.... absolutely no regrets.... probably gonna throw a mustang seat on it next season and ride till the wheels fall off.
Passed my MSF 2 days ago, bought a Royal Enfield Hunter 350. I absolutely love it. Its slow for sure, and i cant use it on the interstates, but its perfect for back roads, and i love the Clutch, its very forgiving and i havent stalled it once yet. Ive also only hit 3rd gear so far but still 😅
I had a honda cbr 300r and it wasn't too bad on the interstate. I could ride 70-80 with no shake or anything like that.
Nothing wrong with that man. A bike should be bought for the type of riding you do. If you’re a backroad cruiser, a small displacement bike is the best thing to ride
@jwhite2901 very true. I ride a Roadstar 1700, but there are days I'd kill for a 300-500cc cruiser.
New rider here too, and got a RE Classic 350, a little tall for me, but love the looks! and is perfect for my commute to work :D now I'm looking at the Super Meteor 650 :D
I too have a hunter 350
Just picked up my RE Super Meteor 650 in Astral Black here in Australia 2 days ago, had to go 500km to the closest dealership, rode around Southern coast in Winter rain to get first 500kms on it and dropped it back in for first service the next day, rode it back home yesterday and have over 1000km on it in the first 2 days.
Impressive bike, very comfortable aside from rear shocks that will need some adjustment, great usable low down power, great lights, highly recommended so far.
Great, I have just booked mine Celestial blue, waiting for it
boy, you must really love that Super Meteor, I am hoping we get the shotgun 650 here in mexico!
@@pablogabrielarenas3546 You will love it mate, its a ripper!
I am looking forward the RE Meteor 650! But i just bought the classic 350, I will have to wait a little to get the SM 650
Rode a Suzuki Boulevard C50 as my first bike. Never gave me a single problem. Being a big guy, I eventually upgraded to a 2019 Suzuki Boulevard C90 Boss Edition (1400+ cc) and it too has been all over the place and never had a single problem.
I got a 3 yr old used Vulcan 900, 10 yrs ago. Runs great, super fun and comfy and ride it still today with zero issues. I love it and get compliments on it often, which honestly totally surprises me every time but it looks new still. I have 2 other bikes but I dont think I'll ever sell it. It's worth today, what I paid for it 10 yrs ago and when buddys come over, I always have a bike for them to ride too.
I had a Honda monkey for about 3 months, and I went to my Harley dealership and they did try and tell me I could go straight to the Street Bob. I rode the monkey for a year and then bought a 2023 Indian Scout Rouge and it felt like a rocket compared to the monkey. A few people tried telling me not to get a bike with a 100 horsepwer but i knew i could handle it. The power and the handling were easy to get used to. and I love the scout. I couldn't be happier.
My first bike was Honda Shadow VT100C from '88 . That was an awesome bike. 7 years of really close relationship. Still miss my Piggy.
Vt1100c2 was my first (and current) 2 years ago.
LOVE this thing!
I'm 36 and am just now beginning to understand why people ride motorcycles. Sport bikes never interested me. Cruisers look to provide what I'm looking for: chill riding as I sit comfortably and enjoy.
I’m 21 and got bit by the bug. I wanted a sport bike when I was 16/17 but my plans fell through. Now that I have an adult job, I can afford a bike! But I’ve gained a few Kilos and thought a fat guy on a Ninja 400 was weird, so I decided a cruiser was for me. I got an Indian Scout 60 and can recommend it to anyone!
I’m 19 and have no interest in sporty bikes all I want is a cruiser so ur not alone being younger and wanting to cruise lol
I just turned 36 and caught the bug as well! 👏🏼🙌🏼 I obsessively watch these kind of videos on TH-cam and think about how awesome it would feel (and how cool I'd look 😎) to ride a motorcycle.
Great list, Yammie. Only knit-pick is that one of your Suzuki Boulevards (the first silver one, at 11:33) is not a C50. It's an S50, the successor to the Intruder line. The C50 is based on the Volusia line. Honest mistake, no harm, no foul. I only know the difference because I have the C50 and my son in law has the S50. Comparable on paper, but they are very different in character! The S50 has a similar displacement engine, but revs much faster and is almost 200 lbs lighter. It's much quicker than my C50. Both are excellent bikes, and I'm very happy with my C50. Low and slow works just fine for me!
My Scout 60 is my first "real" bike. No complaints absolutely love it.
Sweet. My bike got listed first! Honda Shadow Spirit, close enough. Great, except the seat is only good for two hours, then an hour at a shot; so bought a Mustang touring seat. I love it.
I bought a 3rd gen magna because I wanted a fun cruiser and something for my girl to learn on. 500lbs carried low, and below 4-5krpm very manageable power for a beginner, but when you run that 750cc V4 out to 10k rpm it makes a phenomenal noise and over 85hp and nearly 70ftlbs of torque.
You can buy them for less than 3k all day, Honda reliability, and comfort.
I love this little thing
Thanks for a cruiser video. Yes we are out here on your channel and not Harley crazy. As a former Triumph owner and now a Honda Shadow owner it was nice to hear nice words about this segment of the market. Thanks again.
I bought a 2006 s40, and I've had nothing but a fantastic time with it. No issues and its been great as a daily with the saddlebags and for beach days!
+1 to the Shadow. It's light for a Cruiser and a lot of the models have a single crank pin to sound like Harley's, but are also sorta underpowered as a result (at least the 750s). I've never felt like I'm not in control of it and can do the MSF 20' box on it. Handles great.
My shadow sabre was my first bike, and i can't thinknof one i would prefer over it.
I love your clever “inserts”. They add fun to the content, which is thorough and informative.
I’m 25 and my first bike was a 2019 Street Bob and less than a yr I put 10k miles on it. It’s such a great reliable bike with plenty of power.
My wife has a Rebel 500 in her stable. We bought it used with low miles. It has the V&H pipe, Arrow exhaust and drag bars. It's the most fun little bike I have ridden and turns heads believe it or not. I would agree that it's a great beginner bike and experienced rider bike for what it's worth.
This is a pretty good list. The thing I realized while making a cruisers comparison video of my own was that this that one category of motorcycles that defies the engine size to horsepower conventions of sports or street naked bikes. A 1000cc cruiser could also make a decent beginner bike just as well as a 500cc Honda Rebel. And that is the beauty of cruising. Good stuff Yammy!
I bought an 03 suzuki c50 for my first bike and it was a great decision. I did some basic maintenance and it has been great
I got an older Honda shadow a few weeks ago for my first bike and it has been awesome!
I like to nominate the Suzuki S40 Boulevard. It's lighter than your picks, very low seat, great reliability, and belt drive! It's a super torque monster with an easy clutch. I bought my 2015 with 525 miles on it for dirt cheap. It holds a line in the turns surprisingly well.
I just recently got my first bike, a Sportster 883. For context, I'm a 16 year old female at 5'8 with NO riding experience. Riding isn't as hard as I thought it would be
Only the Rebel 500 (and Royal Enfield when it’s released) can be ridden on a Learners and RE (Restricted capacity open license) in Australia.
Every other bike you would have to pass the Unrestricted course and licence to be legally allowed to ride
I’ve just bought a 2007 M50, like the C50, but slightly more aggressive styling, and old enough to not be trying to look like a tiny M109. I love it!
I have long considered 900-1000cc @50hp/50ftlb the sweet spot for a bike. Love my 2015 950 vstar.
My first bike was a 2000 brand new Vulcan 800 Classic. Great bike! Still have it besides my Indian Springfield 2019.
I’m surprised you didn’t mention the Yamaha Bolt. It’s my first bike and I’m loving it.
The Vulcan 900 was the bike I chose after being away from riding for a decade (kids). Kept it for just a couple years due to it winding/buzzing too high at highway speeds, but it was a solid choice for this returning rider, no regrets. I’m riding naked bikes these days, but remember that VN900 fondly.
Vulcan 900 is wat i bought as my first bike last month. Im loving it
Vulcan 900 is what I got last week! Loving it! I got on the freeway for the first time over the weekend - I know what you mean lol
@@andersonlarios7257 Yeah, it doesn't have that overdrive that it needs to not be screaming at 60+ mph (though mine was a '08, so perhaps they've addressed that gearing issue to some degree by now). But off-highway and as an all-around midweight cruiser, it was tough to beat, especially at its price point.
My '06 Suzuki C50 has same issue. My '03 Volusia 800 (older version of C50) was the same. This is a common complaint of these bikes (feels like they NEED 6th gear), but the bikes are fine on the highway if you can get over the sound, lol. I wanted a VN900 this time, but read it had the same issue so ended up going with what I already knew since I got a good deal.
Does the Vulcan have a tach? My shadow 750 didn’t but they will do highway for hours! Use hood oil, change within internal, the noise and buzzing is the engine 2k away from redline going 75-80mph. Bike is fine, it’s all in your head
Oh the shadow twice in one week. I don't consider myself a beginner anymore. Been on many bikes for the last 11 years but currently i enjoy the slow cruiser style of my 2016 Aero 😂
Can't go wrong with the Honda Shadow 750 cc it is the bike I ride and I am 70 years old and it's a good beginner bike also
Passed the MSF a couple weeks back in the rain…. Bought a Royal Enfield Himalayan and it is awesome!
Every bike is awesome.
I’m 17 6ft,4in and heavy set i work at a Harley dealership and for me i’ve always loved Harleys there is just something about them I love them all
Great job as usual, both informative and entertaining. I have never owned one but I would nominate the Yamaha Bolt for the list the next time you do it. Old school air cooled V-twin with plenty of omph and Yamaha reliability. It is mid-pack in price and it is not intimidating to new old rider. Keep the vids coming Yammie!
Over here in the UK, learners must start out on a bike of no more than 11Kw, which usually means 125cc. I've just started learning (at the ago of 60!!!!) and I bought a 2000 Yamaha Virago 125, which is absolutely brilliant!
It's cool that you have just started riding at the age of 60. I'm shocked with how little power you can have on your learners in the UK. A couple years ago we decided to smarten up a little and expand our learners down here in australia to allow a lot, but not all, bikes of 660cc or less, to be learner legal, as long as their power to weight isn't too high. Ie no Kr1 2 stroke, even tho it's only 250cc.
How long do you guys have to stay on your learners with such restrictions?
@@MrToranaGuy Strictly speaking, until we feel confident enough to take a test and move on to something bigger. For someone who had been riding on private land for a few months/years, this could be a matter of weeks. We can ride on "L" plates for two years, then we have to either take a test, or another CBT to renew it for another two years.
Gotta love governments that act like your parents.
I just got a hold of the Kawasaki 2024 eliminator 450 abs se. To be honest I have been riding only a few months prior to that was 20+ years so a 451cc engine is more than I currently need. When I went in my back and leg was hurting from my sportsbike I am a retired Marine and not as nimble as I once was so I gravitated to a more cruiser style for comfort, I will have to say I have put 330miles since Oct31st Just going where I need I have ridden it in pouring rain and hot Texas weather and the thing does not skip a beat, I was amused to find out what the engine was based from. All in all I hope to one day have my bike lamb blasted for how trashy it might be haha! Even if it was Still out does my craptastic liefan.
Never thought Yammie Nube would show cruiser love.
Just picked up by 2015 Honda Shadow Phantom about a month ago based off this video. I'd never ridden a motorcycle prior, just some dirt experience. a month later of commuting 50-75 miles a day on it, and I have to say I'm happy and content. The power is enough to keep you engaged, but not enough to instantly kill yourself. The handling is enough to handle the curvy 55mph roads of my commute, and the ride itself is comfortable. This could be an "all bikes" sort of thing, but the amount of compliments I get on it is insane. If you're a 24 year old with a blown motor in your daily commuter and gotta make it through the summer, give the Shadow 750 a try. I haven't died yet!
went in for the shadow phantom, came home with a rebel 1100 dct. first motorcycle. love it. even gets whispered compliments from hog riders. no complaints except the seat
Lol, I did the opposite
A guy at work pulled up next to my shadow with one of those. Damn good looking bike.
I have a 2000 Shadow ACE, it is a great beginner cruiser.
I bought a 2012 honda shadow spirit for my first bike 4 years ago. I figured I would upgrade at some point but I just love this bike so much...I just keep riding it.
I plan on going all Honda. My beginner is a rebel 300, next I want a shadow, then a fury. I plan on continuing to buy new and keep all 3.
I love this plan!
M109 1800vtwin was my first bike...I dont recomend it as a first bike but it was AWESOME!!!! (I was 35yrs old so a little maturerer(?) than a 20 year old) and had never ridden before passing my test.) Had a few bikes now but this is still my fav!
If you're gonna get a used Suzi cruiser as a beginner then grab a marauder. Lighter, lower, more nimble and quicker. A real treat for the ladies or monopods like me.
I plan on getting another cruiser bike, a Shadow Phantom. Fuel injected, liquid cooled, shaft driven… maintenance = nah. I used to ride a V-Star 650. 49 mpg and fast enough for me. If I had more power I’d use it and do dumb things. Like Ricky Bobby, I want to go fast. To keep myself alive, I buy slow things and drive them hard.
My first bike is the Vulcan 900. Very happy with it. I've convinced my gf to take the class and she's looking at a Vulcan S or a Rebel 500. She likes the cruiser and standard looks
There's no way. I literally have been watching you for 10 months waiting to get a bike and I finally pulled on the 2022 Honda shadow aero and I couldn't be happier, plus it almost matches my dad's 2001 bmw r 1200 😭💙. Thanks for all the great advice yammie, BTW I didn't see this video until hours after riding my new toy around with pop
Hey man, mind telling how much you paid for it?
BMW not has newer can made any good bike, and today all cars have cheap blink blink models worst engine fast rust body and lot blink blink interior and cheap worst WV tehchnic parts.
I'm brand new to motorcycling. Last week, I bought a 2023 Honda Fury. I love it.
Honorable mention - 86 Suzuki Intruder 700. This is what I learned on and think it's an excellent bike with just the right amount of power and they look amazing.
Sinnis Hoodlum. 125cc air cooled thumper, 300 pounds, tops out at 70mph, 81mpg (stated). 3 grand. Not sure if they're available in the US. The Lexmoto Michigan is essentially the same bike, just a little different in styling.
I’m 21 and just bought a 1996 Shadow 1100. It’s my first bike and I love it so far.
I just bought my first bike, happens to be a 2001 Shadow 750. It's a bit heavier than I thought it would be but my short @$$ can flat-foot sitting on it so it's a bonus.
I definitely loved the Honda Shadow Spirit you mentioned in the prev. video. It is very sad that it isn’t sold neither sold in India in the past. If i am a beginner and just passed the riding test and got my license the first thing i would do is grab a Honda Shadow Spirit. I love it looks and riding ergo. ❤ And in black paint it stole my heart. 🥹 I wish Honda could sell it in India.
What's really impressive about the Scout is the incredibly low centre of mass. The Scout Bobber is 40lbs heavier than my 750 Shadow, but it feels about 200lbs lighter.
This may throw off some Cruiser enthusiasts who like a bike that FEELS like a heavy bike, that feels like you're throwing 800lbs of Harley around. But the Scout is a sport cruiser.
It's basically what the Nighster was supposed to be: a higher revving, better cornering, liquid cooled, higher horsepower, sport-cruiser. Except the Scout actually looks cool.
Hey man. I always love the classical music in ALL your videos. Especially the Bach!
Picture at 7:28 is not the RE Super Meteor 650 but the RE Classic 350.
I got a Honda Shadow 750 aero because i messed my back up and sitting on a 600 gsx for every day ride dosnt sound pleasant.. i do miss it though :( but Absoluty love my shadow none the less, just happy to ride again.
Just got my Vulcan 900 Classic last week. Love it so far. Defiantly still getting used to muscling it around, but it's nice.
My first bike was an 02 Shadow ACE
I started with a rebel 500 to hear it has the same power as an iron 883 blows my mind.
2006 1100 vstar. Cherry apple red with silver flames is a great started bike. It's a pretty Bike too. I love mines.
Been riding for decades and love the VLX shadow.
I bought an 09 sportster 1200 and so far it’s been great
Honda magna baby! Got a clean one for 1900 absolutely love it
Just bought my first bike a couple months ago! It’s a 2004 Yamaha v-Star 1100. It’s a tad heavy but I wanted a cruiser that I’d be satisfied with for more than a year or two (fingers crossed)
Ive had an 09, xvs950 from new. The 1100 was a great model. You should be very happy with it.. 👍
Love my 2010 Phantom. Have a pair of cobra pipes and intake. I like how it looks, I like how cheap it was ($3,000), and most importantly I like to ride it :). Cant recommend it enough for a simple cruiser.
I just came back to riding after about 6 years off and lots of physical therapy (not related to riding). I came back into a used C50 because of the price point. I'll point something out here where the C50 probably shines just a little bit more than everyone else on the list. Specifically, it can handle a much taller rider. Now I'm 6'7" so I'm at the edge of its capacity, and I'll probably even be throwing on some kickback risers soon. But without either aftermarket handlebars or risers, many of these bikes just will not handle someone over about 6'1"/6'2" without some issue.
I wish this would come up more! So many of the bikes I look at are bragging about their low seat height! It's like a race to the bottom, presently we'll just sit directly on the frame I suppose? I almost wish they could come in Small, Medium and Large! I think there are at least a dozen motorcycles that I could and would buy but they're just too small!
@@leonardpearlman4017 I am on the other end of the scale I bought a BMW and it was just to damn high for me an old K100RT...loved everything about it except for that I went to the dealer and sat on Every bike in the place New... Used and customer bikes in for service...They were ALL TO HIGH...Sold it!
Good point...one of the main reasons I chose a '06 C50 after already owning a Volusia 800 almost 20 years ago. I still had to add 4" risers to make it more comfortable, and looking at adding forward controls or highway bars to be able to stretch out a bit more...the other bikes would take even more effort to make comfortable. I'm 6'
I like the water cooled, shaft driven V-twin rumble my metric cruiser makes.
My grandfather worked for Raytheon where they developed, tested and produced magnetron tubes. They tested them, back then, in an open area with no warnings about radiation. He died of cancer as many of his coworkers did as well.
I get your guys vibe now. We talk shit about everything here. I like it
I probably would have added the W800 onto this list, although it was nice to see it on the "Overlooked Beginner Motorcycle" list.
To me it has the Bonneville vibe and aesthetic, but at a lower cost.
Also has some fuel issues. Buddy of mine is literally trading in his for a 1100 rebel as we speak haha
What fuel issues?
I think Honda set the the course for the future of cruiser bikes. The Honda rebel is a fantastic bike and they’re being sold like hot cakes.
another one that should have been on the list that i highly recommend is the "V STAR 650". Only downside is the rear drum breaks, i prefer disc breaks.
I still have my 2000 VStar Classic. Can't get anything for it, insurance is like $21/year at this point, might as well keep it forever.
But they didn't make the list (and shouldn't have) because they're no longer in production.
cant believe you skipped the boss hoss 454 with its easy to use semi automatic transmission AND reverse.
Got myself a kawasaki 2001 vulcan 800 classic. Solid bike.
My first bike was a Yamaha Vstar 650. You can get em used for dirt cheap, like 3k max and when you’re ready to get a bigger bike just sell it to some newbie who wants to learn to ride or trade it in.
Had one. Shaft drive. Smooth. Nice for a gentle cruise, but good enough for commuting, too. Ok, I know. Sounds like a promo, but I enjoyed it. And yes, it went to a beginner who treasured it, and then passed it on to another beginner.
cruiser/touring? I rode 12k miles last year and never left 1.5 hours from my house, this includes a trip to Charlotte, NC where I lived out of the saddle bags for a week. (Yamaha 08 RSV.) I just want to tow my trailer full of tools and supplies to jobsites, get groceries at the Food Lion or Sam's club at nearby Hickory. It is a replacement for my F250 until I need the F250 (4k miles last year) A sportier bike just will not do everything I want. I am thinking about going to a softail for versatility of easy on-off luggage, still tow my trailer everyday, and weigh less, and keep the rain off. I have had 20+ motorcycles this and the 1982 silverwing interstate have been my most flexable. (I did 5 hour trips often on the GL500 Silverwing)
My C50T is here to stay! Like you said, it runs like crazy!
I ride two V4 cruisers. A third gen Honda Magna and a CTX 1300A. The CTX looks like a sport tourer but rides like a cruiser and handles very well.
I have a 2001 Suzuki VL800, which is essentially a C50 before they changed over to that naming scheme. It runs immaculately.
I've always liked the Honda Shadow. Surprised but glad they are still making it. It's been around for a good while. It it ain't broke, don'tt fix it!
If you can control yourself, the Nightster and Rebel 1100 have ride modes that actually make them beginner friendly, so do the Triumphs, For an older rider that is willing to grow into a bike and keep it, that is the way to go.
The Nightster is far too expensive. Let's just say that at the out-the-door price at the Harley dealer you would have a lot of alternatives. The Rebel 1100 is sad. It has that front end instability which is why Honda decided to limit it to 100 mph, and the styling is gruesome. One might call the styling 'industrial', but I think that would be being kind.
@@martymcfly1776 The 100 mph wobble is fixed by changing the brand of tire to Metzler. Well known on TH-cam.
@@feloniousmonk3049 So you don't deny that as it comes from the dealership the Rebel 1100 has a front-end instability issue. It shouldn't matter what tire you put on the front of your brand new motorcycle. That type of design flaw is unacceptable.
I ride the aero and my son rides the phantom. We also have a very old Suzuki Boulevard c 50. that doesn't run, and I might just give it away
Got the Yamaha Stryker for 8k as my first bike, about 1300cc i believe. Love this one man, it is a lil slow though, topped mine out at around 110mph on google maps (bikes speedo is about 10 over what im actually doing). Would definitely recommend for other beginners from my limited experience lol
110 really? That's it? I really thought the Stryker would be faster.
lots of good information, appreciate your sense of humor and candor..
As a younger guy (27yo) who wants to get a cruiser as my first self-owned bike the reason is honestly that they just hit the right balance of speed, stability and comfort for me. I'm not a thrill seeker by any means and if anything get pretty anxious when driving even a car at high speeds, so a bike that's not too fast, stable on the road and easy to mount and dismount is exactly the experience i'm looking for.
Plus they look cool as fuck.
The Vulcan 900 is a great dependable middleweight cruiser. Not too big not too small.
The only changes i want from Suzuki would be a six speed overdrive transmission..
Waiting for the Kawasaki Eliminator to come out and start owning this class 😀Rebel 500 is a great bike too seems like.
For my first Cruiser, which I still have, I went with the Honda Shadow 1100. I was considering a Vulcan 900 but was turned off from it because of the heavier weight. I wanted something lighter weight and easier to maneuver and ride overall. My Shadow 1100 is lighter and better on the Interstate vs the Vulcan 900. I wish Honda had carried on the 1100 past the 2007 year mark, but I get what they were doing at the time. Putting their focus more on the at the time newly developed 1300cc engine.
i was away from biking for about 7 years and deseeded to get back into it so i went for my first cruiser so from a GSXR and a 7 year gap in ridding i went for a Kawasaki vn 900 and its amazing im so happy with it i love it. its so comfortable not too heavy low maintains and it just crushers the miles
As a Vulcan S owner, I like it exactly because it's not totally a cruiser. It's a Ninja 650 with forward controls and that exactly why I love it; cruiser comfort, sport bike handling/performance.
I owner a Suzuki Blvd....I loved that bike as it was comfortable and easy to ride!
I took the moto training course and bought a 03 Electra Glide Standard. I won’t deny the first day it was tough because it’s heavily and has a lot of power.(I never really expected going from training on a 400cc to a 1449cc being that big of a difference but there is lol.) Luckily I reminded myself to just be relaxed and by the next day I rode it pretty dang good. Yeah some of my turns were a bit wide but after a bit of practice I got the hang of it. I’d stall it at least once a day but after a week I had no issue.
Note: I’m 5’11, 280lbs so for me I felt comfortable enough purchasing a bike like that. I would not recommend someone small riding something like that. You will get hurt
How many times have you dropped it?
@@joelglanton6531 out of the 8 months. Only twice