motorcycle 101 guides

Top 10 Motorcycles with Cruise Control

Top 10 Motorcycles with Cruise Control

Many motorcycle manufacturers have been releasing their new bikes with cruise control. This feature allows you to relax your hands, reduce fatigue, set your vehicle at a desired speed, and maintain acceleration.

This article will discuss the top 10 motorcycles with cruise control.

1. What is Cruise Control on a Motorcycle?

Cruise control is a technological feature that allows riders to maintain a specific speed without needing to pull the throttle. All you need to do is press a button to activate cruise control and then leave the twist grip, the bike will continue to move to hold that specific speed.

Cruise control is designed to minimize human errors and improve comfort and safety on the road. Before cruise control, riders used throttle locks to maintain a specific speed. Throttle locks lock the throttle in position but do not control the engine. Meanwhile, the electric cruise control system receives the desired speed and matches it to the speedometer, while consuming the appropriate amount of fuel.

2. Top 10 Motorcycles with Cruise Control

2.1 Yamaha FJR1300

Yamaha FJR1300

Photo Credit: @ridermagazine

The Yamaha FJR1300 is a touring bike that is popular with new and experienced riders. The FJR1300’s1298 cc four-stroke, the fuel-injected engine can deliver a horsepower of 141 hp and can reach a top speed of 120 mph.

The Yamaha FJR1300’s cruise control is one of its simpler features and can easily adjust the desired speed. Its other features include traction control, lean angle-sensitive LED lighting, and ride-by-wire fuel injection. Additionally, you and your passenger can also adjust the seats for better riding comfort. The integrated luggage system has a quick-release system that makes traveling and packing easier.

Furthermore, the hidden compartment has a 12 V outlet, allowing you to plug and charge your electronics.

Engine 1298 cc, Liquid-Cooled, DOHC Inline Four-Cylinder; 16 Valves
Horsepower 141 hp
Torque 98.8 lb-ft
Fuel Capacity 25 L
Weight 264 kg
Seat Height 31.7 in
Key Features
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronically Controlled Suspension
  • Advanced Touring Traction Control
  • Quick-Release Luggage System

2.2 Yamaha MT-09 SP

Yamaha MT-09 SP

Photo Credit: @motorcyclenews

The Yamaha MT-09 SP is a super naked motorcycle powered by an 890 cc liquid-cooled CP3 engine. It has a top speed of 147.9 mph and produces a horsepower of 117 hp.

This bike features cruise control that ensures relaxed and easy riding. You are able to use cruise control if riding in the 4th gear or higher and riding at least 31 mph. You can increase or decrease the speed in increments of 1 mph. To cancel cruise control, you will have to apply the brakes or use the clutch or throttle.

The MT-09 SP has an innovative suspension system that allows you to adjust the front and rear suspension. This bike’s braking system includes two 298 mm front brake discs, a single rear 245 mm rear hydraulic disc, and an ABS system. Being lightweight, this bike is able to accelerate quickly and is easy to maneuver.

Engine 890 cc, Liquid-Cooled, DOHC Inline Three-Cylinder; 16 Valves
Horsepower 117 hp
Torque 69 lb-ft
Fuel Capacity 14 L
Weight 189 kg
Seat Height 32.5 in
Key Features
  • Cruise Control
  • Standard Dual-Zone ABS
  • Traction Control System
  • Adjustable Front and Rear Suspension

2.3 Yamaha Super Tenere

Yamaha Super Tenere

Photo Credit: @thecoolist

Super Tenere is a durable and long-distance adventure touring motorcycle produced by Yamaha. The 1199cc parallel twin engine of the Super Tenere is exceptionally compact and produces a horsepower of 110 hp.

The bike has suspensions suited for off-roading and steep inclines. It also has electronically controlled adjustable suspensions that allow you to ride on any terrain.

The Super Tenere’s cruise control helps make riding easier and more comfortable. While you probably won't use cruise control when riding on bumpy terrain, it will certainly be of help on paved roads.

The Yamaha Super Tenere’s other features include traction control, braking systems (ABS and UBS), an advanced fuel injection, an all-purpose drivetrain, electronic suspensions, and rider-friendly ergonomics.

Engine 1199 cc, Liquid-Cooled, Parallel Twin, DOHC; Eight Valves
Horsepower 110 hp
Torque 86 lb-ft
Fuel Capacity 23 L
Weight 265 kg
Seat Height 33.3-34.3 in
Key Features
  • Cruise Control
  • Dual-Zone ABS
  • Fully Controllable Electronic Suspension

2.4 Ducati XDiavel

Honda ST1300

Photo Credit: @Ducati

If you are looking for a performance cruiser with bold look, innovative design, and fully-loaded with modern features, the Ducati XDiavel is the best option. It is a lightweight sports cruiser for fast rides. The Ducati XDiavel is available in three different variants including the the Ducati XDiavel Nera (limited edition), S (Sports), and Dark. Along with the cruise control feature to ensure uniform acceleration without the need of twisting the throttle, this motorcycle comes with several modern rider-aids which makes it a luxurious motorcycle, starting at $21,495. The Ducati XDiavel comes with the Ducati Power Launch, TFT color display screen, riding modes, traction control, cornering ABS, and power modes.

The Ducati XDiavel Dark is powered by a Testastretta DVT 1,262 cc (77 cu in) liquid-cooled engine capable of a horsepower of 160 hp at 9,500 rpm and a torque of 127 Nm at 5,000 rpm. To ensure smooth gear shifitng and light clutch operation, it has a six speed transmission, a belt final drive, and a slipper wet multiplate clutch with hydraulic control. Despite being fitted with a powerful engine and several safety equipment, the Ducati XDiavel weighs only 545 lbs (247 kg).

The Ducati XDiavel has a compact fututistic design with a uniquely-designed headlamp, wide radiator in front of the engine, and sporty stainless steel mufflers.

Engine Testastretta DVT 1,262 cc (77 cu in) Liquid-Cooled Engine
Horsepower 160 hp at 9,500 rpm
Torque 127 Nm at 5,000 rpm
Fuel Capacity 4.8 gal
Wet Weight 545 lbs (247 kg)
Seat Height 29.7 in
Key Features
  • Cruise Control
  • Cornering ABS
  • Ducati Traction Control (DTC)
  • Riding Modes
  • Power Launch
  • 3.5 in TFT Color Display

2.5 Harley Davidson Sportster S

Harley Davidson Sportster S

Photo Credit: @motorcyclenews

Still in production since 1957, the Harley Davidson Sportster S is a cruiser powered by a 1250 cc Revolution Max engine capable of horsepower of 121 hp, a top speed of 143 mph, and a torque of 94 ft-lb.

This motorcycle offers an incredible combination of comfort and performance. It has precise handling and a surprising amount of maneuverability that generally isn’t seen in cruisers.

The Sportster S has a cruise control that would be most useful when traveling on open roads.

The Sportster S’s powerful engine is outfitted with a drag-torque slip control, traction control, cornering enhancement, and wheel lift mitigation.

Engine Revolution Max 1250T
Horsepower 121 hp
Torque 94 lb-ft
Fuel Capacity 11.8 L
Weight 228 kg
Seat Height 30.1 in
Key Features
  • Cruise Control
  • Revolution Max Engine
  • Selectable Rider Modes
  • Traction Control

2.6 Triumph Tiger Explorer 1200

Triumph Tiger Explorer 1200

Photo Credit: @motorcyclenews

The Triumph Tiger Explorer 1200 is an agile and maneuverable dual-sport adventure bike. Its 1215 cc liquid-cooled engine can produce a horsepower of 135 hp and a top speed of 137 mph.

One of the significant features of the Explorer is the electronic cruise control. You can reach the Tiger Explorer 1200’s cruise control in the switch cube with your right hand. You can only activate the cruise control when riding in 3rd gear at a speed between 19 to 100 mph. A light on the instrument panel will turn on when the cruise control is active. To increase or decrease the speed, you can use the +/- button on the switch. To disengage the cruise control, you need to use the clutch. The cruise control of the Explorer allows you to take your right hand off the bar and relax your muscles.

The Tiger Explorer 1200’s other features include traction control, switchable ABS, low-maintenance and durable shaft final drive, and adjustable rider ergonomics (screen, seat, and handlebar positions).

Engine 1215 cc, Liquid-Cooled, Three-Cylinder
Horsepower 135 hp
Torque 91 lb-ft
Fuel Capacity 20 L
Weight 244 kg
Seat Height 32.9 in
Key Features
  • Cruise Control
  • Adjustable Ergonomics
  • ABS

2.7 Honda Africa Twin CRF1100

Honda Africa Twin CRF1100

Photo Credit: @adventuremotorcycle

The Honda Africa Twin CRF1100 is one of the best adventure bikes that comes with cruise control. The parallel-twin engine can deliver a horsepower of 100.6 hp, suited for cruising on open roads.

You can get cruise control as a standard feature in CRF1100, you won’t have to pay extra for this feature. To use the Africa Twin CRF1100’s cruise control with a manual transmission, you must be riding at a speed between 31 to 100 mph and be in the 4th to 6th gear. If you want to use the cruise control with a dual-clutch transmission, your African Twin CRF1100 must be in the 3rd to 6th gear.

You can reach the cruise control switch with your right hand while riding. After the cruise control enters standby mode, you must accelerate to the desired speed and press the SET/- button on the cruise control. The SET icon light will be on to confirm the cruise control is active.

Engine 1084 cc, Liquid-Cooled, Parallel-Twin
Horsepower 100.6 hp
Torque 77.4 lb-ft
Fuel Capacity 34.5 L
Weight 227 kg
Seat Height 34.3 in
Key Features
  • Cruise Control
  • Traction Control
  • Optional Six-Speed Automatic DCT Transmission
  • LED Lights
  • ABS

2.8 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S

Photo Credit: @morebikes

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is one of the best adventure touring motorcycles due to its high-performance capabilities. Its 1301 cc V-twin engine produces a horsepower of 160 hp and a torque of 101 lb-ft.

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has an adaptive cruise control that helps you maintain a safe distance from the traffic ahead. The cruise control radar has five distance settings: very short, short, middle, long, and very long in sports and comfort modes.

To activate the adaptive cruise control, you need to ride at a speed between 19 to 93 mph and must be in 2nd gear. Once you engage the adaptive cruise control, it makes your journey more enjoyable by reducing the effort your bike takes over long distances.

Engine 1301 cc, Eight-Valve, V-Twin
Horsepower 160 hp
Torque 101 lb-ft
Fuel Capacity 23 L
Weight 245 kg
Seat Height 33.4 in
Key Features
  • Cruise Control
  • WP Semi-Active Suspension Technology
  • WP Steering Damper
  • MITAS Terra Force-R Tires

2.9 KTM 890 Adventure R

KTM 890 Adventure R

Photo Credit: @KTM

KTM extended its travel and adventure motorcycle range with the addition of the KTM 890 Adventure R, a spectacular off-roading and adventurous bike. The 889 cc parallel-twin engine is capable of a horsepower of 103 hp and a torque of 100 Nm. This vehicle also has a six-speed gearbox and modern electronics.

The KTM 890 Adventure R includes cruise control as an optional feature. The cruise control feature on the 890 Adventure Rhelps improve performance and comfort on long-distance trips. Once you activate the cruise control, your KTM 890 Adventure R’s electronic systems will manage fuel consumption and improve performance. The cruise control settings can be viewed on the TFT display screen.

The KTM 890 Adventure R’s other features include an ABS, traction control, and a TFT display screen.

Engine 889 cc, Two-Cylinder, Four-Stroke, Parallel Twin Engine
Horsepower 103 hp
Torque 100 Nm
Fuel Capacity 20 L
Weight 200 kg
Seat Height 880 mm / 34.6 in
Key Features
  • Optional Cruise Control
  • ABS
  • Traction Control
  • TFT Display

2.10 BMW R 1250 GS

BMW R1250GS Adventure

Photo Credit: @BMW

The BMW R 1250 GS is a premium adventure tourer powered by a 1,254 cc liquid/air-cooled flat twin engine able to deliver a horsepower of 136 hp at 7,750 rpm and a torque of 105 lb-ft at 6,250 rpm. The comfortable seating position and ergonomics make it easier to control this bike and offer better visibility.

The BMW R 1250 GS’s cruise control is an optional feature. If you want to install a cruise control feature, you can install a Premieum Package by BMW that includes a set of modern features, including cruise control, Ride Modes Pro, electronic suspension, heated grips, a quickshifter, Dynamic engine brake control, and much more. The premium package will cost you $3,245.

You can activate the cruise control if you are at least traveling 19 mph. This feature allows you to set and maintain your vehicle at the desired speed. However, you can increase the speed by pulling the throttle. The cruise control will be disengaged if you tap the brakes, pull on the clutch, or suddenly release the throttle.

Engine 1,254 cc Liquid/Air-Cooled, Four-Stroke, Flat Twin
Horsepower 136 hp
Torque 105 lb-ft
Fuel Capacity 5.2 gal
Weight 249 kg / 549 lbs
Seat Height 33.5-34.3 in
Key Features
  • Optional Cruise Control
  • TFT Display
  • Full-LED Headlight
  • DTC (Dynamic Traction Control)
  • ABS
  • HSC (Hill-start Control)
  • Three Ride Modes (Road, Rain, and Eco)

3. Last Words

If you’re a long-distance blaster, cruise control is very useful for you, it exempts you from an achy or sore wrist. It allows you to ride in a relaxed state during long journeys. So, if you’ve been wondering which motorcycles offer this feature, the bikes listed above are the real deal. There are a variety of aftermarket parts available at Viking Bags, including sissy bars, crash bars, fairings, seats, luggage racks, and handlebars.

Reading next

Broken Motorcycle Clutch Cables: Reasons & Solutions
10 Best Motorcycles with Fairings for Taller Riders

Leave a comment

All comments are moderated before being published.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.