Best motorcycle models of 2022: cruisers edition
The best motorcycle models of 2022 can be found in the cruisers compartment. Maybe we are a bit biased but, who cares? To be fair, cruiser motorcycles are simply perfect for any riding scenario: casual riding, commuting, road trips, you name it! A cruiser would be a great fit for every task you throw at it. The market is full of great cruiser motorcycles, however we picked the 6 best cruiser motorcycles of 2022 that you should consider. We’ve chosen these 6 best cruiser bikes based on five criteria: intended use, style, power, weight, and brand. Let’s dig in.
2022 Harley-Davidson Sportster S
In the research of the best motorcycle models of 2022, we took our time to appreciate the Sportster S. The motorcycle is equipped with the same Revolution Max 1250 engine that powers the Pan America but, this one is tuned down to 121 hp and 127 Nm of torque – torque kicks in slightly lower in the rev range. The engine is very different from what we are used to see on a Harley-Davidson, therefore – like what we experience with the Pan America – it does not have the signature H-D exhaust note. Do not get me wrong, it’s not an unpleasant note, I am only telling you in advance. The motor provides a nice riding experience and, considering that the bike weights just under 230 kg, it is shocking how fast the bike reaches certain speeds.
Sitting on the bike, it’s certainly comfy enough. The seat is nicely shaped and feels nice under your butt. Bars are an easy reach. The pegs, as you could expect on a cruiser a bit more forward than you might be used to, if you’re not a cruiser rider.
At first, turning corners takes a bit more effort but but once you get used to it, everything happens easily. It’s low-speed handling and maneuverability is surprisingly good.
2022 Indian Chief Bobber
We could not keep the Indian Chief Bobber out or our list of the best motorcycle models of 2022. The heart of the Chief Bobber Dark Horse is its 116-cubic-inch air- and oil-cooled Thunderstroke V-twin engine. Not only does the engine dominate the bike visually but it also dominates the riding experience thanks to an effortless, almost electric-bike-like torque (120 pound-feet at just 2,900 rpm).
The chassis features twin, non-adjustable telescopic forks up front and twin shocks out back. The geometry of the bike makes the rider feel every hit beyond the capability of the suspension directly on the tailbone, which is something I never look for. To be fair, it is the course with this style of bike, so I am not going to consider it as a con.
Braking is handled by a single 300-millimeter rotor and four-piston caliper up front and a 300-millimeter rotor and two-piston caliper out back. Antilock brakes are standard equipment.
The wet weight of the Chief Bobber Dark Horse is 694 pounds but, that’s a direct consequence of the materials used to produce and finish the motorcycle.
It costs a significant amount of bucks but, it delivers exactly what everyone expects from a cruiser.
2022 Honda Rebel 1100
While it’s true that the Rebel 300 and Rebel 500 are perfect for newer riders, the Rebel 1100 is a serious bike for serious bikers. That is why we decided to include it in our list of 2022 best motorcycle models cruiser edition.
The 1100 sports all the Rebel features we love: rideability, safety features, and smooth power delivery that characterizes the entire Rebel range of bikes.
Nothing changed since last year apart from a new color (Pearl Stallion Brown) and a price increase of $100. With an engine that delivers 86 hp and 72 lb-ft of torque (at 7000 and 4250 rpm, respectively), this motorcycle is fun for both seasoned bikers and relatively new ones.
The tech compartment offers selectable riding modes, cruise control, ABS, and even a USB charging port. Pretty cool, uh?
Ducati Diavel 1260 S
We thought about putting the Ducati Materico in our list of best motorcycle models, however, it was unveiled in 2019, so we opted for the Ducati Diavel 1260 S Black and Steel, which is inspired by the Materico.
The funny thing is that the name is Black and Steel but, yellow is widely spread on this latest version of the Ducati Diavel 1260 S: frame and lower part of the tail are attention-demanding yellow, and they are accented with an off-center yellow line down the fuel tank’s top and a broad yellow stripe across each wheel. You’ll also find yellow on the chin fairing, a slot on the seat, and the name Diavel on the tank. Everything else is a sort of matte black and silver to make it look mean!
2022 Kawasaki Vulcan S
The Kawasaki Vulcan S is not the average cruiser that is why it made our best motorcycle models list. Its parallel twin engine (based on the engine equipped on the Ninja 650 and Versys 650), and its urban looks will ensure that it is always noticed wherever you decide to take it. What makes it really special is its weight: compared to other cruisers, the Kawasaki Vulcan S has a significant weight advantage thanks to its compact engine and chassis design. Weighing in at just 228 kg wet, you can feel how light it is as soon as you lift it off of the side stand.
2022 Triumph Rocket 3R 221 Special Edition
Two special-edition bikes from Triumph in our best motorcycle models list? Definitely yes! The Rocket 3 R 221 and Rocket 3 GT 221 have just joined the family of special-edition models unveiled by Triumph for the 2022 model year. As with most of Triumph’s recent special editions, the distinguishing qualities on these models come down to paint, graphics, and details. If you are interested in one of these, hurry up because they are available for one year only.
Here is our selection of best motorcycle models for 2022: cruiser edition. They are all great looking and offer incredible packages. Which one you like the most?
Let us know in the comment.
