2014 Cruiser, Retro and Touring Buyer’s Guide

The cruiser, despite the predictions of some naysayers, is alive and well, thank you. Manufacturers ranging from Boss Hoss to Yamaha continue to produce motorcycles with a low seat height, a stretched wheelbase, fat rear tire and wide handlebar, and our Cruisers, Retros and Touring Bikes Buyer’s Guide has never been more full of—well, you decide.

The retro theme is also chugging along quite strongly, and there are some surprising additions to the theme this year.

The touring category is steaming along well, too, as manufacturers understand that touring riders like, above all else, to ride.  Amenities like Bluetooth connectivity and ABS brakes are becoming commonplace and sophisticated electronic ride controls are entering the market, making bikes smarter, more convenient, and safer.

There are new models from a number of manufacturers here, big and small, cruiser, retro, and tourer, and engines have never been more powerful, frames more well-designed, rear tires fatter, and seats lower. If what spins your crank is a motorcycle that speaks to your inner outlaw, or to your outer traveller, turn the page. Happy hunting.

Cruisers

Boss Hoss BHC-3 / BHC-9	The LS300 Standard and Super Sport models of the Boss Hoss use a 295 hp, 4.8 litre Chevy V-8 engine, but for more boom you can get the 445 hp, 6.2 litre Corvette engine in an LS445 Standard or Super Sport model. Transmission is a 2-speed semi-auto with reverse. Four body styles are available for the Trike: ’57 Chev, ’32 Coupe, Sierra Truck, and Gangsta, all with the Chevy or the Corvette engine. Bikes and Trikes with the LS300 engine start at $55,000 and with the LS445 engine start at $65,000.
Base price	$55,000–$65,000
Engine	Liquid-cooled V-8
Displacement	4,807/6,200 cc
Transmission	Two-/four-speed semi-automatic
Final drive	Belt/shaft
Seat height	635/737 mm
Fuel capacity	32 l
Dry weight	483–680 kg

Harley-Davidson Sportster SuperLow / 1200 Custom	The Sportster SuperLow and Custom 1200 get price increases and a number of improvements in 2014. Like every other 2014 Sportster, the $9,489 SuperLow and $12,209 Custom 1200 get bigger brakes with optional ($900) ABS for 2014, improved and more intuitive hand controls, a sexier and greener exhaust system, an optional ($450) hands-free security system, and — surprise! — a tach and a gear indicator (the trip-meter switch activates the tach). Extra colours are extra dollars.
Base price	$9,489/$12,209
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	883/1,202 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	695/710 mm
Fuel capacity	17 l
Curb weight	255/265 kg

Harley-Davidson Street Bob / Wide Glide / Fat Bob	The $15,279 Street Bob is a barebones bobber with ape hangers. It comes in basic black with a range of colour options, and through the factory customization program, more choices for everything from engine configuration to wheel, handlebar, and footpeg options. The $18,059 Wide Glide has a 21-inch front wheel and a sissy bar, and a flame-painted tank is optional, as are a Smart Security System and ABS. The $17,949 Fat Bob has slash-cut shotgun exhaust, fat tires on black aluminum rims, and diagonal tank graphics.
Base price	$15,279–$18,059
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,690 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	680 mm
Fuel capacity	17.8 l
Curb weight	305/310 kg

Harley-Davidson Super Glide Custom	The Super Glide Custom features slammed low rear suspension that’s adjustable, a pullback handlebar and mid-mount foot controls, tank-mounted gauges with plenty of chrome and a polished tank medallion. Black powder-coated heads and cylinders are highlighted by machined cooling fin tips and chromed rocker covers. Paint options include Mysterious Red, Silver Pearl, and Vivid Black. A custom wheel option ups the price by $530, and a six-speed Cruise Drive transmission keeps engine speeds low on the highway.
Base price	$15,509
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,690 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	710 mm
Fuel capacity	18.9 l
Curb weight	310 kg

Harley-Davidson Breakout	The Breakout is a fat-tired, long-and-low cruiser with dragstrip flair. Like other Softail models, its rear suspension is cleverly hidden but engineered for a smooth ride. Hard Candy Chrome Flake, Morocco Gold Pearl, Amber Whiskey and Vivid Black are on the painter’s palette, and a low bucket seat with pillion complements the low-cut stretched-out look. A cloisonné-and-chrome style tank medallion, a wide fork and chopped fender over a 21-inch wheel, and that big 103 cu. in. engine make a visual statement.
Base price	$21,129
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,690 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	660 mm
Fuel capacity	18.9 l
Curb weight	322 kg

Harley-Davidson Fat Boy / Fat Boy Lo	Shotgun mufflers, wide tires, and an FL-style fork provide the husky look that gives the Fat Boy its name. Like all Softails, the rear shocks are hidden for a vintage hardtail look. The seat has been slimmed for an easier reach to the ground, and the pillion is detachable for a solo effect. The Fat Boy has silver 17-inch disc wheels, while the Fat Boy Lo has blacked-out wheels and exhaust headers, and a lower seat. The Fat Boy has chrome headlight and fork sliders, while the Lo gets the black treatment.
Base price	$19,989/$20,219
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,690 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	690/670 mm
Fuel capacity	18.9 l
Curb weight	330 kg

Harley-Davidson Softail Deluxe / Softail Slim	The Softail line is renowned for its vintage hardtail look, but each model struts its own style. The Softail Deluxe brings a vintage look to the streets with pullback handlebar, stretched fenders, tombstone taillight, a chromed luggage rack, and whitewall rubber. The $18,179 Softail Slim is bare bones, with a lower seat, retro handlebar, cut down rear fender, and a blacked-out round air cleaner cover. Both are powered by the mightly Twin Cam 103 that feeds power through a Six-Speed Cruise Drive transmission.
Base price	$20,669/$18,179
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,690 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	670/650 mm
Fuel capacity	18.9 l
Curb weight	330/318 kg

Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic	The Heritage Softail Classic is the dresser of the Softail family, with a big windscreen, studded leather saddlebags, passenger backrest and chrome light bar with passing lights. The black-and-chrome-finished engine breathes through staggered shorty mufflers, and the large, tank-mounted speedo displays gear and rpm. Like other Softails, brakes are a single front disc with four-piston caliper and rear disc with two-piston caliper. ABS is standard and Smart Security is optional, as are chromed spokes and fat whitewalls.
Base price	$20,969
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,690 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	690 mm
Fuel capacity	18.9 l
Curb weight	341 kg

Harley-Davidson Night Rod Special / V-Rod Muscle	If the look and power of a drag bike spins your crank, the $18,579 Night Rod Special is your ride. With forward-mount foot controls, low rise handlebar, and shotgun exhaust, the blacked-out Night Rod feels good and looks evil. The V-Rod Muscle is stripped to the sinews and features abbreviated fenders, LED tail and turn lights, and dual straight-shot pipes. An inverted fork and 240-section rear tire are common to both, and that liquid-cooled engine, claimed for 125 hp, is one of the best in motorcycling.
Base price	$18,579/$18,119
Engine	Liquid-cooled 60-degree V-Twin
Displacement	1,247 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	675/705 mm
Fuel capacity	18.9 l
Curb weight	302/307 kg

Harley-Davidson Custom Vehicle Operations	CVO Harleys are loaded with parts from the accessory catalogue and feature custom paint. Four models are available: the $30,669 Breakout, $32,489 Road King, $33,049 Softail Deluxe, and the $44,409 Limited. ABS, Smart Security, and Cruise Control are standard items and the Breakout is the only one without bags or Brembos (but the Softail Deluxe can be stripped of its luggage and windscreen). The Road King and Limited have single-handed opening bags, and the Breakout has a low, raked fork and chopped fenders.
Base price	$30,669–$44,409
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,802 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	655–740 mm
Fuel capacity	18.9–22.7 l
Curb weight	330–430 kg

Honda CTX700N	A cruiser for people who don’t like cruisers, the new CTX700N is a black muscle bike with the long-stroke parallel twin engine from the NC700, which is designed for low rpm performance and fuel economy. A low CG, 17-inch wheels, ABS brakes, 41 mm fork and Pro-Link rear suspension deliver a creditable ride quality, while the look proves that black really is the new black in 2014. Seat height is a low 719 mm. A T version ($8,999) is equipped with a full fairing and windshield.
Base price	$8,499
Engine	Liquid-cooled parallel twin
Displacement	670 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Chain
Seat height	719 mm
Fuel capacity	12 l
Curb weight	219 kg

Honda VT750 Aero / Phantom / Fury / Stateline	The 745 cc Aero has plenty of chrome, deep fenders, a low, plush seat, and a foot-forward riding position. The Phantom is all black, has bobbed fenders, and a stripped, muscular look. Both feature a 41 mm fork and staggered exhaust. The 1,312 cc Fury and Stateline lean heavily on the chopper aesthete, with a high, raked front end and 21-inch front wheel for the Fury and a more subtle look on the Stateline, which bears loads of chrome, spoked wheels, a low seat, and valenced fenders. Both have ABS and combined brakes.
Base price	$TBA
Engine	Liquid-cooled 52-degree V-twin
Displacement	745/1,312 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	660–680 mm
Fuel capacity	12.8–16.5 l
Curb weight	249–311 kg

Honda Valkyrie F6C / Gold Wing F6B	Based on the flat-six 1,832 cc Gold Wing, the Valkyrie and F6B are low down, lightened, and meaner looking street cruisers. The Valkyrie is new for 2014 and the lightest of the Gold Wing wild bunch, with a light aluminum frame and subframe, and a slightly raked front end. The F6B retains the Wing’s frame structures and is a touring-capable power cruiser with hard bags, antidive front suspension and combined brakes. Both have ABS and both benefit from reduced weight with that big six cylinder engine.
Base price	$TBA
Engine	Liquid-cooled flat 6
Displacement	1,832 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	734/725 mm
Fuel capacity	23 l
Curb weight	341/385 kg

Indian Chief Classic / Chief Vintage / Chieftain	All new for 2014, Polaris-owned Indian Motorcycle introduces the Indian Chief lineup. All three models are powered by the Thunder Stroke 111 engine, which cranks out an impressive 119.2 ft-lbs of torque (claimed). With valanced fenders and covered in chrome, the Classic is the base model. Add $2,400 for the Vintage and get detachable windshield and leather saddlebags. The $25,599 Chieftain features fork-mounted fairing with electric windshield, remote locking hard saddlebags and Bluetooth connectivity. All three have ABS.
Base price	$20,999–$25,599
Engine	Air-cooled 49° V-twin
Displacement	1,811 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	660 mm
Fuel capacity	20.8 l
Dry weight	370–385 kg

Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic / Classic LT / Custom SE	The Vulcan 900 is Kawasaki’s line of low-cost mid-range cruiser with belt drive and single-shock rear suspension. The Classic is minimalist cruiser with a wide handlebar, comfy seat, and staggered exhaust. The $9,599 Custom SE gets a slimmer front end, a disc rear wheel and dark grey or flamed green paint, and the $10,499 Classic LT is a touring model with passenger backrest, leather bags and a high windscreen. Power is by a 903 cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected V-twin and stopping is by single disc front and back.
Base price	$8,999–$10,499
Engine	Liquid-cooled 55-degree V-twin
Displacement	903 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	680/685 mm
Fuel capacity	20 l
Curb weight	277–298 kg

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad ABS / Nomad ABS SE	A nomad is a wanderer, and the 1,700 cc Vulcan Nomad line is perfectly named. Powered by a liquid-cooled eight-valve V-twin with a slightly undersquare bore and stroke that feeds a six-speed plus overdrive transmission, the Nomad is capable of crossing the continent at the whim of its rider. ABS brakes, hard bags, a wide, comfortable seat, footboards, and a passenger backrest are standard, and the $19,199 SE version is tarted up with black fork and other body parts, and ebony-and-pearl-white paint.
Base price	$18,899/$19,199
Engine	Liquid-cooled 50-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,700 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	730 mm
Fuel capacity	20 l
Curb weight	378 kg

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero / Vaquero ABS SE	A vaquero is a cowpoke, and Kawasaki gave this Vulcan 1700 model the handle because it’s rowdier than its wandering cousin — but just as ready for the big drive. Wide seat, chopped front bodywork, sculpted hard bags, and low attitude label the Vaquero as a bagger, and advanced ABS brakes, cruise control, and iPod compatibility bring it home in style. The SE model gets candy burnt orange paint with flames, and the standard model is all metallic spark black. That 1,700 cc engine is all muscle, pardner.
Base price	$19,199/$20,699
Engine	Liquid-cooled 50-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,700 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	730 mm
Fuel capacity	20 l
Curb weight	379/382 kg

Moto Guzzi California 1400 Custom / California 1400 Touring	Hand-built in Italy, the California 1400 is a power cruiser with exceptional handling and a big, lusty engine that drives gobs of torque through a shaft to the 200 mm wide rear tire. That transverse V-twin is powerful, and an oversquare bore and stroke invite higher revs. The 46 mm fork with radially mounted Brembos ensure well-controlled handling, and a dished seat, wide handlebar, and footboards add to comfort. The Touring model gets a bigger dual seat, hard bags, rear seat rail, windscreen, and driving lights.
Base price	$15,490/$18,490
Engine	Air-cooled 90 degree V-twin
Displacement	1,380 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	740 mm
Fuel capacity	20.5 l
Curb weight	337 kg

Suzuki Boulevard S40 / C50 B.O.S.S. / C50SE / C50T / M50	Suzuki’s $6,199 S40 is propelled by a 650 cc air-cooled single and has a low seat height. The Boulevard C50 series is powered by an 805 cc V-twin with shaft drive. The $8,999 B.O.S.S. is given the dark treatment, while the $10,399 SE is fitted with an adjustable windshield, pivoting passenger backrest and leather saddlebags, and the $10,499 T gets that plus two-tone paint. The M50 is a muscle-bike variant with a hard-tail look. The fuel-injected, liquid-cooled 805 cc engine is designed to produce life-altering torque.
Base price	$6,199–$10,499
Engine	Liquid-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	652/805 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt/Shaft
Seat height	700 mm
Fuel capacity	10/15.5 l
Curb weight	173–295 kg

Suzuki Boulevard M90 / C90T	The M90 Boulevard power cruiser has a hardtail look without the buckboard ride, achieved by tucking the rear shock out of sight. The passenger seat can be replaced with a tail cover for a solo look. The C90T is a touring variant with integrated hard bags, a large, fixed windscreen, blacked-out finish, hardtail look, 17-in front and 200 mm 16-inch rear tire, and a seat that accommodates riders of all sizes. The 1,462 cc engine is a long-stroke design for impressive torque throughout the rev range.
Base price	$11,399/$13,999
Engine	Liquid-cooled 54-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,462 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	716/720 mm
Fuel capacity	18 l
Curb weight	328/363 kg

Suzuki M109R / M109RZ B.O.S.S.	The M109R is a power cruiser with a 1,783 CC V-twin, shaft drive, inverted 46 mm fork, and cast aluminum 18-inch wheels with a 240-section rear tire, the widest ever mounted on a Suzuki. The DOHC, engine is tuned for maximum torque from idle to redline. An inverted 46 mm fork, cast aluminum swingarm, and radially mounted brakes give it handling authority. The $16,499 RZ B.O.S.S. sports a blacked-out look with two-tone paint and striped rims. The dual exhaust is chromed on the RZ and blacked-out on the B.O.S.S.
Base price	$15,999/$16,499
Engine	Liquid-cooled 54-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,783 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	705 mm
Fuel capacity	19.5 l
Curb weight	347 kg

Triumph America / America LT	The America combines the classic Triumph twin look with an American-style long chassis, pulled back handlebar and forward foot controls. EFI is standard on all Triumphs. The $10,499 America LT adds enhanced touring capabilities to the platform with detachable windshield, passenger backrest and “showerproof” leather saddlebags. The $9,299 Speedmaster is a variation of the America, but gets blacked out five-spoke alloy wheels, a streamlined two-up seat and a drag-style handlebar mounted on tall risers.
Base price	$9,299/$10,499
Engine	Air-cooled parallel twin
Displacement	865 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Chain
Seat height	690 mm
Fuel capacity	19.3 l
Curb weight	250/270 kg

Triumph Rocket III Roadster	The Rocket III Roadster sports a beastly 2,294 cc inline triple that produces oodles of power (a claimed 148 PS at 5,750 rpm) – not enough to shoot you into space, but it’ll propel you down the highway at an impressive clip. Styling tends towards big, brutish and aggressive, from its humped tank and blacked out engine components to its five-spoke alloy wheels and beefy 240/50 rear tire. Twin rear shocks are adjustable for preload. ABS comes standard.
Base price	$16,799
Engine	Liquid-cooled inline triple
Displacement	2,294 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	750 mm
Fuel capacity	24 l
Curb weight	367 kg

Triumph Thunderbird / Thunderbird Commander / Thunderbird LT / Thunderbird Storm	The parallel twin configuration of the Thunderbird’s 1,597 cc engine distinguishes it from its V-twin competition. Powerplants in the Storm and the new Commander, and LT models have displacement increased to 1,699 cc for even more grunt. The Commander features distinctive twin headlights and footboards, while the LT has your touring needs covered with a windshield and saddlebags, and footboards for rider and passenger. The Storm ($16,499) is dressed in black. All four Thunderbirds have ABS.
Base price	$14,999/$TBA/$16,499
Engine	Liquid-cooled parallel twin
Displacement	1,597/1,699 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	700 mm
Fuel capacity	22 l
Wet weight	339 kg

Ural Tourist / Patrol / Retro / Gear Up / Gaucho Rambler	The sidecar-equipped Urals were reverse engineered in Russia from 1930s BMW R71s and are powered by a 40-hp air-cooled flat twin. The Retro has a telescopic fork, and along with the Tourist has revised final-drive gearing for better highway cruising. The Patrol and Gear Up have leading-axle front suspension and an engageable sidecar drive, as does the Gaucho Rambler, which was created with the help of Pendleton Woolen Mills. New EFI models will be available in 2014.
Base price	TBA
Engine	Air-cooled flat twin
Displacement	749 cc
Transmission	Four-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	670/750 mm
Fuel capacity	19/21 l
Dry weight	250–345 kg

Victory Hammer 8-Ball	All Victory motorcycles are powered by the torque-rich Freedom 106/6 1,731 cc engine. The Hammer 8-Ball is pure muscle, with stout, muscular frame, beefy 250 mm rear tire and aggressive lines. A removable cowl covers the passenger seat. The blacked-out engine, handlebar, frame, dual exhausts and bullet-shaped headlight accentuate the 8-ball’s aggressive styling. An inverted 43 mm fork leads the way, and 300 mm floating discs with four-piston front and two-piston rear caliper bring things to a stop.
Base price	$15,999
Engine	Air-cooled 50-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,731 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	660 mm
Fuel capacity	17 l
Dry weight	305 kg

Victory High-Ball	The High Ball is Victory’s entry into the old-school Bobber niche, as evidenced by the adjustable ape hanger, new round headlight, laced 16-inch wheels carrying Metzeler whitewall tires, and short front fender. At the front is a conventional 43 mm fork and under the tail section is a preload-adjustable monoshock. The High Ball is a rider-only machine and features many blacked-out pieces and a seat height of only 635 mm, the lowest of any Victory model. And it’s a bargain: the price has dropped $800.
Base price	$14,999
Engine	Air-cooled 50-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,731 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	635 mm
Fuel capacity	17 l
Dry weight	300 kg

Victory Vegas 8-Ball / Judge / Boardwalk / Jackpot	The progressively styled $13,999 Vegas 8-Ball is distinctive with its raised spine, flowing curves and 21-inch front hoop. Variations are the sport-inspired $15,599 Judge which has a new two-piece (removable rear) seat, pullback handlebar and pushed-back pegs, red paint option, and LED lighting; the $16,699 Boardwalk with its full fenders, two-tone paint, whitewall tires and laced wheels, and the $17,799 Jackpot with new red-and-black paint, tank graphics, cast wheels, 250 mm rear tire, and a deeply cut price.
Base price	$13,999–$17,799
Engine	Air-cooled 50-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,731 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	640–658 mm
Fuel capacity	17/17.8 l
Dry weight	290–307 kg

Yamaha V-Star 250	The V-Star 250 is unchanged for 2014, and it remains in Yamaha’s lineup with no increase in price. Although its air-cooled engine is rudimentary in specification and still uses a carburetor, it’s a very torquey quarter-litre entry-level twin, and Yamaha assures it’s “the real McCoy!” This little cruiser offers convenient features like washable air filter and a low seat for an assured stance. It’s compact, low maintenance and user-friendly, making it a great bike for a novice rider. The V-Star 250 comes in red or white.
Base price	$4,499
Engine	Air-cooled 60° V-twin
Displacement	249 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Chain
Seat height	685 mm
Fuel capacity	9.5 l
Curb weight	147 kg

Yamaha V-Star 650 Custom / Classic	The $6,999 V-Star 650 Custom features a 649 cc V-twin tuned for low and midrange power and mated to a five-speed transmission. It has a narrow front tire and abbreviated fenders, echoing the styling of Honda’s venerable Rebel models with a minimalistic look. The $7,499 V-Star 650 Classic is about 14 kilos heavier, features a wider front tire, valanced fenders, longer wheelbase, slighter higher seat height, and floorboards for classic highway cruising.
Base price	$6,999/$7,499
Engine	Air-cooled 70° V-twin
Displacement	649 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	695/710 mm
Fuel capacity	16 l
Curb weight	233/247 kg

Yamaha V-Star 950 / 950 Tourer	The V-Star 950 fills the gap between Yamaha’s lightweight and large-displacement cruisers. Its low seat height, belt drive and classic styling are inviting to new riders, but with the extra displacement the 950 won’t be as easily outgrown as other entry-level machines. A single-pin crankshaft, tank-mounted instrument panel and heel-and-toe shifter enhance the 950’s appeal. The $10,099 Tourer model comes with windshield, locking saddlebags and passenger backrest.
Base price	$9,899/$10,999
Engine	Air-cooled 60° V-twin
Displacement	942 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	675 mm
Fuel capacity	17 l
Curb weight	278/298 kg

Yamaha V-Star 1300	The V-Star 1300 features belt drive and a liquid-cooled engine, while most of Yamaha’s other Star models are air-cooled. A double-cradle steel frame and long wheelbase offer spacious ergonomics, as well as a low seat height. It is suspended by a 41 mm KYB fork with 130 mm of travel and a Monocross shock with nine-position preload adjustability. Yamaha’s extensive accessories catalog allows buyers to tailor the V-Star 1300 to suit their personal taste.
Base price	$11,999
Engine	Liquid-cooled 60° V-twin
Displacement	1,304 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	690 mm
Fuel capacity	18.5 l
Curb weight	303 kg

Yamaha Stryker	Yamaha threw its hat into the loud-and-proud cruiser ring in 2011 with the Stryker. It’s powered by the V-Star 1300’s fuel-injected V-twin engine, complete with chromed cooling fins in homage to cruisers’ air-cooled roots, though they’re not necessary given the Stryker is liquid-cooled. Dual shotgun-style exhausts and faux hardtail rear end complete the its aggressive stance. The Stryker is available in three colour combinations, the sharpest of which is a Matte Metallic Gray finish with blacked out, chrome-tipped exhaust.
Base price	$12,599
Engine	Liquid-cooled 60° V-twin
Displacement	1,304 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	670 mm
Fuel capacity	15 l
Curb weight	293 kg

Yamaha XV1900 Raider / Raider S	American-made boutique customs are the inspiration for the XV1900, with a low, raked chassis, long fork and narrow front wheel. Handling, however, isn’t excessively compromised on a bike with a 40-degree rake because of offset triple clamps that lighten steering effort. Black rims and accents are favoured on the Raider, while the $16,499 Raider S features brushed aluminum wheel accents and chrome highlights – apparently the S is for Shiny. The Raider comes in red, the Raider S in blue.
Base price	$15,999/$16,499
Engine	Air-cooled 48° V-twin
Displacement	1,854 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	695 mm
Fuel capacity	16 l
Curb weight	331 kg

Yamaha Roadliner S	The Roadliner S features an air-cooled 1,854 cc pushrod V-twin. Twin counterbalancers reduce vibration. It’s a stripped-down, retro-styled cruiser with pulled back bars, swooping fenders and a headlight that wouldn’t look out of place on a 19th-century steam train. It’s equipped with fuel injection and an aluminum swingarm and frame. Yamaha’s accessory catalog offers an extensive supply of accouterments to create a truly personalized machine. The Roadliner S is available in Purplish Metallic Blue.
Base price	$15,999
Engine	Air-cooled 48° V-twin
Displacement	1,854 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	705 mm
Fuel capacity	17 l
Curb weight	340 kg

Yamaha VMAX	The VMAX underwent a complete redesign in 2009 after 22 years virtually unchanged, resulting in a bigger, meaner and far more technologically advanced machine than its predecessor. Longevity and distinctive styling has made the VMAX an iconic model in Yamaha’s lineup. The “thunderous” 1,679 cc V-4 engine pumps out a claimed 123 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm, and transmits that power to the 18-inch wheels via a slipper clutch and shaft drive. The beefy 52 mm cartridge fork and Monocross, single-shock rear suspension are both fully adjustable, and ABS is standard.
Base price	$22,999
Engine	Liquid-cooled 65-degree V-4
Displacement	1,679 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	775 mm
Fuel capacity	15 l
Curb weight	310 kg

Retro

BMW R Nine T	The R nineT is BMW’s most serious attempt yet at a retrobike. Gone is BMW’s usual telelever fork and in its place is a traditional (from the S1000RR superbike, no less) telescopic fork. Brakes are ferocious radial-mount Brembos, but the most compelling aspect of the bike is its attention to detail. The aluminum tank has bare-metal details and the dual seat (and its supporting metal sub frame) can be removed for a clean solo-seat look. The wiring harness, too, is ready for your homemade head and taillight.
Base price	$16,200
Engine	Air-cooled flat twin
Displacement	1,170 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	785 mm
Fuel capacity	17 l
Curb weight	222 kg

Harley-Davidson Iron 883 / Forty-Eight / Seventy-Two	The $9,659 Iron 883 is a blacked-out retro and one of the few bikes today sporting fork gators. This Sporty has a black low-rise handlebar, solo seat, cast aluminum wheels, shorty fenders, and staggered mufflers. The $12,329 Forty-Eight has an old-school peanut gas tank and beefy, bobber-style Michelin tires, while the new $12,439 Seventy-Two makes a splash with “hard candy” paint, whitewall tires and laced rims. All Sportsters receive improved brakes with optional ABS, and Smart Security is available.
Base price	$9,659–$12,439
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-Twin
Displacement	883/1,200 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Chain
Seat height	735/710 mm
Fuel capacity	7.9/12.5 l
Curb weight	255 kg

Royal Enfield Bullet 500 / Classic 500 / Continental GT	Royal Enfield, the world’s oldest continuously running motorcycle maker, builds fuel-injected 500s that look like yesterday’s good times and have kick and electric starting. The $6,895 Bullet 500 gets hand-painted pinstriping and a dual seat, while the $7,395 Classic has a range of colour and chrome treatments and a solo saddle. The big news is the Continental, with a 535 cc engine, Brembo stopper, and other goodies. They don’t entirely make them like they used to, and there’s a 2-year/10,000 km warranty to prove it.
Base price	$6,895/$7,395/$TBA
Engine	Air-cooled single
Displacement	499/535 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Chain
Seat height	762/800 mm
Fuel capacity	14.5/13.5 l
Curb weight	184–190 kg

Triumph Bonneville / Bonneville T100	The Bonneville series receives price increases for 2014. The air-cooled twin has a 360-degree crankshaft and fuel injection for smooth power delivery, with throttle bodies styled as carburetors to retain the classic Bonneville aesthetic. The two-tone $10,499 T100 has a slightly longer wheelbase, spoked wheels, chromed engine covers and peashooter mufflers. Wheel sizes are 17 inches front and rear for the standard Bonneville, while the T100 sports a larger 19-inch front rim. A blacked out version of the T100 is available for $9,999.
Base price	$9,999–$10,499
Engine	Air-cooled parallel twin
Displacement	865 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Chain
Seat height	740/775 mm
Fuel capacity	16 l
Curb weight	225 kg

Triumph Thruxton	The Thruxton has a silhouette evocative of home-built 1960s café racers, but with modern amenities like adjustable suspension, aluminum rims, floating front disc brakes and fuel injection. The Thruxton gets a $300 price increase for 2014, adding a sharp café racer-style fly screen in the process. Enhancing its looks are a short front mudguard, seat cowl, upswept chrome mufflers and tubular handlebar that allows a sporting yet comfortable posture. Comes in Phantom Black or Brooklands Green.
Base price	$10,299
Engine	Air-cooled parallel twin
Displacement	865 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Chain
Seat height	820 mm
Fuel capacity	16 l
Curb weight	230 kg

Triumph Scrambler	The Scrambler receives a $300 price increase for 2014. This bike is styled to resemble off-road machines of the 1960s, with high pipes and semi-knobby tires. Its 865 cc parallel twin uses a 270-degree crankpin layout for a more muscular sound and feel. The flat seat and high, wide handlebar provide an accommodating riding position. High dual chromed exhaust pipes are fit with distinctive TR6C Trophy Special-inspired heat shields. To enhance the off-road look, available accessories include a headlight grille and brushed alloy skid plate.
Base price	$10,299
Engine	Air-cooled parallel twin
Displacement	865 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Chain
Seat height	825 mm
Fuel capacity	16 l
Curb weight	230 kg

Yamaha Bolt / Bolt R-Spec	Brand new for 2014, Yamaha introduces the Bolt and Bolt R-Spec. The back to basics design is undeniably Harley Sportster-esque. Employing clean, simple styling, the Bolt features a blacked-out engine and low-slung exhaust with “raw metal” highlights. Slim and low, with an engine that produces solid low- and mid-range torque, it’s a solid mid-displacement cruiser. Go with the R-Spec and you’ll get upgraded rear suspension in the form of dual remote reservoir gas shocks – for all the good they’ll do you.
Base price	$8,999/$9,199
Engine	Air-cooled 60° V-twin
Displacement	942 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	690 mm
Fuel capacity	12 l
Curb weight	247/247.5 kg

Yamaha Road Star S	The Road Star S remains unchanged for 2014, still evoking Harley’s Fat Boy with its thick tires, valanced fenders, low and wide handlebar and floorboards. A long-stroke, pushrod, air-cooled 1,670 cc V-twin offers plenty of torque for relaxed cruising. A single 40 mm throttle body feeds the electronic fuel injection and a belt drive adds convenience and ease of maintenance. Staggered shotgun exhausts, adjustable heel-and-toe shifter, and plenty of chrome complete the Road Star’s classic appeal. Only available in Dark Metallic Violet.
Base price	$13,999
Engine	Air-cooled 48° V-twin
Displacement	1,670 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	710 mm
Fuel capacity	18 l
Curb weight	337 kg

Touring

BMW K1600GT / GTL / GTL Exclusive	BMW Motorrad refined and re-powered the touring category with its $24,800 K1600GT and $30,150 K1600GTL, powered by a very smooth flat-six that develops a claimed 160 hp, and ABS brakes are standard on every BMW motorcycle. Electronic suspension adjustment is available for the GTL, and the new $33,350 Exclusive gets 3-layer paint, “Hill Start Control,” satellite radio and more. The K1600 line injects a strong dose of sporting ability into touring motorcycles, and that six cylinder engine snarls when you let it loose.
Base price	$24,550–$33,350
Engine	Liquid-cooled inline six
Displacement	1,649 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	750–830 mm
Fuel capacity	24/26.5 l
Curb weight	332–360 kg

Harley-Davidson Road King	The Twin Cam 103 engine gives new authority to Harley-Davidson’s Road King. The V-twin engine has black powder-coated heads, machined cooling fin tips and chromed rocker covers. Restyled following Project Rushmore, a comprehensive road test analysis, the Road King has new tank-mounted gauges with tach and gear indicator, custom chrome seven-spoke wheels and whitewall tires, and cut back front fender. Easy-open saddlebags, a detachable windscreen, full-length footboards, and a new seat keep the Road King on top.
Base price	$20,839
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,690 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	715 mm
Fuel capacity	22.7 l
Curb weight	371 kg

Harley-Davidson Street Glide / Street Glide Special	The Street Glide is a touring bagger with Batwing fairing, footboards, comfy seat, and hard bags. The new High Output Twin Cam 103 improves power for low rpm and highway passing performance. A new radio puts out more volume and keeps the sound clean, and brighter lights including LED lamps, stiffer fork, linked Brembo brakes with antilock, a 19-inch front wheel, and air adjustable suspension improve the ride quality. The Special Custom has all that plus a Jukebox entertainment system and standard ABS.
Base price	$23,289/$25,669
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,690 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	695 mm
Fuel capacity	22.7 l
Curb weight	372/371 kg

Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic / Ultra Limited	The Electra Glide Ultra Classic is a full-size touring rig with a big, comfortable Road King seat with new back- and arm rest, newly developed fairing with windscreen, entertainment system, footboards, linked Brembo brakes, LED lights, and a wide handlebar. Cruise control and ABS brakes are standard, and a Cruise Drive transmission lowers engine speed on the highway. The Ultra Limited has forsaken the Electra Glide name but taken on heated grips, a premium sound system with voice activation for music, phone, and GPS.
Base price	$26,529/$29,529
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,690 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	740/745 mm
Fuel capacity	22.7 l
Curb weight	413 kg

Harley-Davidson Switchback	As its name suggests, the Switchback is designed to convert from cruiser to touring bike with standard detachable windscreen and hard bags that are lockable. A deeply contoured two-up seat and full-length rider footboards ensure long-distance comfort, and cartridge fork, adjustable cigar tube rear shocks, lightweight frame, and standard ABS Brembo brakes provide exceptional prowess on the pavement. Several tasty colour options are available, and a 2-into-1 exhaust keeps the look clean.
Base price	$19,429
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,690 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	695 mm
Fuel capacity	17.8 l
Curb weight	330 kg

Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra	The Tri Glide Ultra runs on a 16-inch front tire with 15-inch car tires in the rear. A trunk provides 126 litres of storage and a new Tour-Pak luggage carrier boosts that that to 190 litres. Cruise control, parking brake, and ABS are standard, as is the electric reverse gear. An audio system with front and rear speakers, touch screen colour display and voice recognition, and new fairing and windscreen designs increase comfort on the road. The frame is engineered for three wheels, and the brakes are linked rear to front.
Base price	$37,929
Engine	Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,690 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Chain
Seat height	720 mm
Fuel capacity	22.7 l
Curb weight	560 kg

Honda CTX1300T	The new touring cruiser from Honda is powered by an engine taken from the much-loved ST1300 and tuned for low-end torque and relaxed highway cruising. An under-seat fuel tank keeps the weight low. Five-stage heated grips and a stereo system are standard, and Bluetooth enables headset use. A short windscreen, staggered exhaust, low seat height, and hard bags make the CTX1300T a fine road compansion, and that longitudinally mounted V4 has all the smooth grunt you’d want for a trip to the store or the other side of the country.
Base price	$TBA
Engine	Liquid-cooled V4
Displacement	1,261 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	735 mm
Fuel capacity	19.5 l
Curb weight	338 kg

Honda Gold Wing	The GL1800 is powered by a fuel-injected flat six with five-speed transmission and electric reverse. The Wing’s seat may be the best in motorcycling, and with an aluminum frame, 45 mm fork, aluminum swingarm, ABS combined brakes and anti-dive fork, it’s not short on sporty character. The GL 1800AD has the only airbag in motorcycling, and both get such niceties as cruise control, heated seats and grips and a hot-air foot-warming system, audio system with iPod connectivity, and a satellite navi system.
Base price	$TBA
Engine	Liquid-cooled flat six
Displacement	1,832 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	740 mm
Fuel capacity	25 l
Curb weight	423/423 kg

Moto Guzzi Norge GT 8V	The transversely mounted V-twin engine in Moto Guzzi’s Norge supertourer is fuel injected and has revised cam profiles and timing which, in conjunction with the larger muffler, are said to reduce noise. The fairing, electronically-controlled windscreen, panniers, saddle, ABS and onboard computer assure a comfortable touring ride, and progressive springs reside in the 45 mm fork. The Norge is considerably lighter than most other touring bikes, and is built to handle twisty roads and cover long distances in comfort.
Base price	$16,990
Engine	Air-cooled 90-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,151 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	810 mm
Fuel capacity	23 l
Dry weight	257 kg

Triumph Rocket III Touring	The Rocket III Touring employs the same 2,294 cc inline triple as its Roadster cousin, though detuned to improve low-end performance (peak power is a claimed 106 PS at 6,000 rpm). The Touring model features more chrome accents and is even heavier than the Roadster, thanks to added touring amenities such as an abbreviated “look-over” windshield, quick-release passenger backrest/luggage rack and hard saddlebags. Smaller rear tire dimensions (180/70 on the Touring vs 240/50 on the Roadster) make for more agile handling. ABS comes standard.
Base price	$18,999
Engine	Liquid-cooled inline triple
Displacement	2,294 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Shaft
Seat height	730 mm
Fuel capacity	22.3 l
Curb weight	395 kg

Victory Cross Country	The Cross Country family includes five models. The Cross Country ($21,099) is your basic bagger, while the Ness Cross Country ($25,499) is heavily customized, and the new Cross Country 8-Ball ($19,999) features a stripped bagger look and gloss black paint. The Cross Country Tour ($24,749) is a fully equipped touring variant, and the 15th Anniversary Tour Limited Edition ($32,999) is as loaded with special features as its price would suggest. Victory motorcycles are motivated by the Freedom 106/6 V-twin, a proven powerhouse.
Base price	$19,799–$32,999
Engine	Air-cooled 50-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,731 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	667 mm
Fuel capacity	22 l
Dry weight	339–384 kg

Victory Cross Roads	The $19,999 Cross Roads Classic is an old-school bagger with laced wheels, driving lights, soft saddlebags, quick-release windshield, chrome fender bumpers, two-tone paint, and ABS brakes. The new Cross Roads 8-Ball is Victory’s lowest price bargain. It loses the ABS brakes but gains gloss black paint and black fork, hard weather-proof luggage with 79 litres of storage, and a no-fairing wind-in-your-face attitude. Like most other Victory motorcycles, Cross Roads models have an inverted 43 mm fork.
Base price	$17,799/$19,999
Engine	Air-cooled 50-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,731 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	667 mm
Fuel capacity	22 l
Dry weight	329/350 kg

Victory Vision Tour	The Vision Tour takes the concept of flowing lines and aerodynamic efficiency to a new level for motorcycles. Nothing else looks like it. With thickly padded, individually heated seats, heated grips, push-button height-adjustable windscreen, loads of lockable storage, long floorboards, cruise control and linked ABS brakes, it’s a tour de force on the long road. The Vision’s fixed full fairing has an integrated audio system with speakers in front and behind, and its ready for your iPod or CB set and helmet communicators.
Base price	$22,999–$24,199
Engine	Air-cooled 50-degree V-twin
Displacement	1,731 cc
Transmission	Six-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	673 mm
Fuel capacity	22.7 l
Dry weight	394 kg

Yamaha Road Star Silverado S	The Road Star Silverado S combines a cruiser’s low-end muscle with a rigid aluminum frame and high quality suspension components for surefooted low-slung touring. It has a 43 mm fork and a rear shock (preload adjustable) that is tucked under the tank to create a hardtail-like look. Brakes include two monobloc radial-mount, four-piston calipers squeezing 298 mm discs up front. Adjustable “police-style” windshield and 35-litre hard saddlebags are standard. Paint scheme is a mouthful: Dark Metallic Bluish Gray.
Base price	$15,499
Engine	Air-cooled 48° V-twin
Displacement	1,670 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	710 mm
Fuel capacity	18 l
Curb weight	351 kg

Yamaha Stratoliner S / Stratoliner Deluxe	The Stratoliner S and Stratoliner Deluxe both use an air-cooled 1,854 cc pushrod V-twin and aluminum frame. The engine is rigidly mounted, but twin counterbalancers reduce vibration. The hardtail look is achieved by concealing the rear shock and mounting the rear brake caliper under the swingarm. The Stratoliner S comes with a windscreen, passenger backrest and semi-hard reinforced leather saddlebags. The Stratoliner Deluxe has a fork-mounted fairing, hard saddlebags and an iPod/iPhone-ready audio system.
Base price	$18,999/$19,999
Engine	Air-cooled 48° V-twin
Displacement	1,854 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	705 mm
Fuel capacity	17 l
Curb weight	370/369 kg

Yamaha V-Star 1300 Tourer / V-Star 1300 Deluxe	The V-Star 1300 Tourer and 1300 Deluxe are back for 2014, both employing a liquid-cooled engine, while most of Yamaha’s other cruisers are air-cooled. A double-cradle steel frame and long wheelbase offer spacious ergonomics and low seat height. The Tourer’s amenities include a windshield, leather covered hard saddlebags and passenger backrest. Fork out the extra dough for the Deluxe and get a nose fairing, iPod/iPhone-ready audio system and a Garmin Zkmo 665 GPS navigation system.
Base price	$13,499/$14,499
Engine	Liquid-cooled 60° V-twin
Displacement	1,304 cc
Transmission	Five-speed
Final drive	Belt
Seat height	690 mm
Fuel capacity	18.5 l
Curb weight	323/331 kg