Touring vs Cruising

At first glance, touring bikes and cruisers are relatively similar. Big and powerful, both of these bikes can tear down the road and look great while doing it. In terms of specialized use, cruisers and touring bikes are much different. A rider looking for an afternoon ride through town faces different struggles than one planning for a long-distance trip.

Here at St. Charles Harley-Davidson®, we want every customer who walks through our doors to experience the same passion we have for our bikes. So we’ve put together this quick guide for those figuring what their dream motorcycle really looks like. When you’re ready to take a look at a great selection of Harley® bikes, head to St. Charles Harley-Davidson® in St. Charles, Missouri, near St. Louis and Columbia.

Cruisers

Big on style and power, these bikes never fail to make an impression. Air-cooled engines and a classic look make for the defining American motorcycle experience. You just have to make sure comfort is less important to you than aesthetics.

On the topic of looks, a cruiser is the best choice for a rider looking to customize or modify a Harley®. Handlebars and the front fork can be extended, and a variety of finishes give distinct feels between bikes of the same model.

These bikes are meant to be ridden, though, and even a stylish cruiser will give you all the power you expect from a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. Their capacity for high speeds and quick acceleration will leave anyone doubting your hot ride’s style in the dust. The thunderous sound of a classic air-cooled engine is unmistakable, and modern high-tech equivalents offer up more power than ever before.

Touring Bikes

For riders who want to experience the joy of a motorcycle on the open road — heading from one location to the next and searching for adventure — a touring bike is the practical choice. These bikes are designed for rideability, offering a more comfortable ride for longer trips so you don’t get sore in the saddle. Don’t think you have to sacrifice all the freedom of a cruiser, though. Harley® touring bikes are still powerful and stylish in their own right.

Touring bikes are built with the assumption you’ll be riding for extended periods of time. Soft seats, air deflectors and high windshields, and precise details in body design and suspension all come together to make these motorcycles as comfortable as they can be.

And when you do want to hop on your bike and take a longer trip, you’ll probably have to bring a few extra things with you. Touring bikes provide extra storage space, whether it’s a top box or large underseat storage. Saddlebags and luggage racks can be added to make even more room for your cargo. No number of saddlebags and inventive storage space will make room for a passenger, but fortunately touring bikes are big and powerful enough to support an additional person without affecting performance!

Though similar, touring bikes and cruisers offer specialized use for riders who want practical vehicles as well as those interested in pure power and style. Whatever your preference, stop by St. Charles Harley-Davidson® in St. Charles, Missouri, and check out our stock of new and pre-owned motorcycles. We’re proud to serve the St. Louis area, including Columbia and St. Peters, Missouri. Whether you need service, gear, or just want to browse and talk shop, our friendly and experienced staff is here for all your Harley® needs. Come in today!