Check Out What We Think Are The Top 10 Cruiser Motorcycles Under 1000cc's of 2023 - Includes Reviews

Top 10 Best Cruisers Under 1000cc's of 2023

We can all imagine gorgeous motorcycle rides around boulevards in the cool evening air, rpm kept low as you idly change up the transmission to take in a less hazy view of the world around you.

Although we can credit Harley-Davidson for that, the company doesn't own the cruiser motorbike genre exclusively. In reality, you can purchase a variety of low-slung cruisers between 125cc and 1000cc for anywhere between $4,000 to $14,000.

#10 - Keeway Superlight 125

This not so widely known Chinese brand—which is a part of the Qianjiang empire, which also includes Benelli—has gained a devoted following in the UK, largely because of the Superlight 125.

The Superlight 125 LTD condenses all of the typical cruiser characteristics—low-slung riding position, chunky bodywork, and splashes of chrome against a matte paint finish—into a small package. It is undoubtedly impactful, though not particularly sophisticated, and we haven't seen wheel trims like that since thieves started stealing them from Vauxhall Novas.

Although having a meager 9.38bhp on tap, the Superlight is reasonably fuel-efficient because to its big fuel tank and light weight. Even better, the Superlight costs the same to purchase as it does to operate, at $3,000 for the base LTD.

If you hold out a bit longer, Keeway will be undergoing a significant brand makeover and will soon be launching numerous new products, including a new cruiser lineup that includes a 1200cc behemoth under the name MBP in some European markets.

#9 - Hyosung Aquila GV300S

Due to the combined power of Hyundai and Kia, South Korea may have followed Japan and taken the lead in the automotive sector, but when it comes to two-wheeled vehicles, only Hyosung is offered in this country.

The company hasn't been active in recent years, but it presently offers two iterations of the Hyosung Aquila cruiser for sale in GV125 and GV300S configurations.

It has a stylish appearance and a mood reminiscent of the Harley-Davidson Nightster, which may provide some consolation if the huge price difference of $12,000 between the Harley-Davidson and the Hyosung, which costs $5,300, is what draws you in.

The 29bhp V-Twin 300cc engine pootles rather than roars around on the road, and the quality and finish are undoubtedly more in keeping with the price tag, but as a curiosity in the $300 range, it has some appeal. But, the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is actually considerably better and more affordable.

#8 - Sinnis Outlaw 125

How about the more retro-flavoured Sinnis Outlaw 125 if the Keeway Superlight is a little too "Poundland" for you?

With its Yamaha XSR-inspired body and squat shape, the Outlaw stands out from Sinnis' other options, the Terrain and GPX, in the competitive 125cc learner-legal market. It is an alternate option to the Superlight.

At a little under $3,600, the Outlaw is worth a look for people who want to stand out without going overboard. It won't get you anywhere quickly, and it looks more fun than it is.

#7 - Benelli 502C

Some claim Italian, others claim Chinese... Whatever your opinion of Benelli's current image, there is no doubting that the brand has recently gained some notoriety abroad.

Benelli, one of the few Italian companies that have endured into the twenty-first century, is thriving thanks to funding from Qianjiang Motors and has carved out a fine niche for itself in part because to some clever badge engineering with its Chinese paymasters.

One of them is the Benelli 502C, a cruiser version of the 502 S naked that is a cheap, nonthreatening beast and another Italian pony that is smaller than the Ducati Diavel.

Despite being capable with attractive looks, the Honda CMX 500 Rebel feels more professionally put together than the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and lacks the romance of the former.

The 502 C is a substantial motorcycle given its size and horsepower, weighing in at over 200kg.

#6 - Moto Guzzi V9

Although we're pushing the boundaries of what should be permitted in this situation, the Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber almost qualifies as a cruiser.

The V9 looks excellent in an understated way, feels well-assembled, and is comfortable enough for those lengthy European journeys—basically what Moto Guzzi is about, which is a unique variant on those offered by its Italian competitors.

If you purchase it with Centenario trim, you'll appreciate the matte silver and house green color scheme and the premium tanned brown trim. Just be ready to shell out an additional $700.

#5 - Royal Enfield Meteor 350

Salutations to the Royal Enfield Meteor 350, the top-selling 126-to-1000cc motorcycle in the UK!

While the Indian brand has long had a devoted fanbase on these shores, Royal Enfield's Meteor 350 has served as a talisman since its introduction in 2021.

It is simple to understand why the Meteor 350, which starts at $4,200, has been such a hit thanks to its classically handsome styling, straightforward running gear, effortlessly easy riding experience, and even some nifty kit, like the Tripper navigation that casts your phone's map app directly onto your dials.

#4 - Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650

The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 demonstrates how far the Indian company has come in recent years, despite the fact that its name sounds like a glam rock Eurovision band.

The Super Meteor 650 naturally brings both the Interceptor/Continental GT 650 twins and the smaller Meteor 350 together to make one really alluring offering.

As usual, Royal Enfield has nailed the understated retro appearance, which is supplemented by a number of customization possibilities. The leisurely 47bhp engine, while recognizable, perfectly complements the Super Meteor 650.

The Super Meteor 650 is maybe the most alluring feature since it feels like a genuine quality product and a demonstration of what the once-outdated brand is confident in achieving in the face of fierce competition.

It costs $8,100, which is more than what we've come to expect from Royal Enfield, but it's more valuable than ever.

#3 - Honda CMX 500 Rebel

When Honda introduced the Rebel, it pulled off a slight trick by initially testing the waters at the mid-to-low end of the cruiser market.

Because of its performance as an outlier in the mid-range market and even within the Honda lineup, it now has a bigger 1100cc sibling to aspire to.

The Honda CMX 500 Rebel, however, is a welcome well-engineered, well-built, and well-thought-out alternative for purchasers and is far from being overshadowed.

Those who entered the Honda shop looking for a CB500F may find themselves getting seduced by something more, shall we say, rebellious, especially if you add an accomplished riding experience and a competitive $7,500 price tag.

#2 - Kawasaki Vulcan S

Kawasaki has persisted with its legendary Vulcan S over the years, whereas Suzuki and Yamaha don't import their cruiser alternatives from the United States to the UK.

Despite being somewhat of a forgotten member of the Kawasaki family, the company has kept the model current and relaunched it as a cool, sporty alternative to its nearby rivals.

Although it doesn't have a particularly stunning appearance, it is understatedly attractive and more modern than its closest competitors. It also has all of Kawasaki's well-known quality and has some punch from its 61bhp 649cc engine.

At $9,000, it is only somewhat more expensive and superior to the Super Meteor 650 in terms of equipment and power.

#1 - Harley-Davidson Nightster

Consider Harley-Davidson while picturing a cruiser motorcycle. In many ways, it is the law.

Certainly, the Emperor of Cruisers has a plethora of alternatives in its lineup for those who prefer it low, sluggish, and noisy, but it is currently rebuilding the lineup with more contemporary options after Euro5 restrictions made most of its less sophisticated entry level models obsolete.

The Harley-Davidson Nightster, the company's first model to feature the 975cc condensed version of their new Revolution Max engine layout, is one of these.

The Nightster, which was inspired by the 1260cc Sportster S, is more basic in some ways but still looks the part, especially with the ostentatious-looking Revolution Max engine casing protruding from it. It also feels lighter and more maneuverable than anything from big Harley-Davidson should ever really be.

It feels upscale and is well-equipped, which would be excellent if we were discussing a motorcycle with a four figure price tag. Instead, it is by far the most costly option here at $16,700.  If you're truly ready to spend that much on a Harley-Davidson, spend a little extra to get the more powerful Sportster S.