Do Motorcycles Have Cruise Control? (Everything You Need to Know)

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Do Motorcycles Have Cruise Control?

Cruise control is a feature that automatically maintains a vehicle’s speed, allowing the driver to relax and enjoy the ride. It’s a popular feature on cars and trucks, but what about motorcycles? Do they have cruise control too?

The answer is: yes, some motorcycles do have cruise control. However, it’s not as common as it is on cars and trucks. This is because motorcycles are more maneuverable than cars and trucks, so they don’t need cruise control as much.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at motorcycle cruise control. We’ll discuss how it works, what benefits it offers, and what to look for if you’re considering buying a motorcycle with cruise control.

We’ll also answer some common questions about motorcycle cruise control, such as:

  • How does motorcycle cruise control work?
  • What are the benefits of motorcycle cruise control?
  • What are the drawbacks of motorcycle cruise control?
  • What should I look for if I’m considering buying a motorcycle with cruise control?

    Motorcycle Cruise Control Available? Year Introduced
    Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic Yes 2014
    BMW R1200RT Yes 2015
    Honda Gold Wing Tour Yes 2016

    History of Cruise Control on Motorcycles

    Cruise control is a feature that has been around for decades, but it wasn’t until recently that it became available on motorcycles. The first motorcycle with cruise control was the Honda Gold Wing, which was introduced in 1980. Cruise control on motorcycles has come a long way since then, and it is now a standard feature on many high-end models.

    There are a few reasons why cruise control is not as common on motorcycles as it is on cars. First, motorcycles are more maneuverable than cars, so it is easier to maintain a constant speed without cruise control. Second, motorcycles are often used for shorter trips, so cruise control is not as necessary. Finally, motorcycles are more expensive than cars, so manufacturers may be reluctant to add a feature that is not essential.

    Despite these reasons, cruise control is becoming more popular on motorcycles. This is because it can make long trips more comfortable and less tiring. Cruise control can also help to reduce fuel consumption.

    Here is a brief timeline of the history of cruise control on motorcycles:

    • 1980: Honda introduces the first motorcycle with cruise control, the Gold Wing.
    • 1985: BMW introduces cruise control on its K-series motorcycles.
    • 1990: Yamaha introduces cruise control on its FZR1000.
    • 1995: Suzuki introduces cruise control on its GSX-R1100.
    • 2000: Kawasaki introduces cruise control on its ZX-12R.
    • 2005: Triumph introduces cruise control on its Speed Triple.
    • 2010: Harley-Davidson introduces cruise control on its Touring models.
    • 2015: Indian Motorcycle introduces cruise control on its Chieftain and Roadmaster models.

    Today, cruise control is available on a wide variety of motorcycles, from entry-level models to high-end touring bikes. It is a convenient feature that can make long trips more enjoyable.

    How Cruise Control Works on Motorcycles

    Cruise control on motorcycles works in a similar way to cruise control on cars. A sensor on the motorcycle’s throttle measures the speed, and a computer adjusts the throttle to maintain the desired speed. Cruise control can be engaged and disengaged by a button on the handlebars.

    There are a few things to keep in mind when using cruise control on a motorcycle. First, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to be prepared to take over control of the motorcycle if necessary. Second, it is important to use cruise control only on long, straight roads where there is little traffic. Third, it is important to adjust the speed of the motorcycle before engaging cruise control.

    Here are the steps on how to use cruise control on a motorcycle:

    1. Make sure that the motorcycle is in gear and that the clutch is engaged.
    2. Press the cruise control button on the handlebars.
    3. The motorcycle will accelerate to the set speed.
    4. To adjust the speed, press the cruise control button up or down.
    5. To disengage cruise control, press the button again.

    Cruise control can be a helpful feature on long trips, but it is important to use it responsibly. By following these tips, you can safely enjoy the benefits of cruise control on your motorcycle.

    Advantages and Disadvantages of Cruise Control on Motorcycles

    Cruise control is a feature that is often found on cars, but it is not as common on motorcycles. There are a few reasons for this, but the main one is that motorcycles are more maneuverable than cars and do not need cruise control as much. However, there are some advantages to having cruise control on a motorcycle, and there are also some disadvantages.

    Advantages of Cruise Control on Motorcycles

    • Reduces rider fatigue. One of the biggest advantages of cruise control on a motorcycle is that it can help to reduce rider fatigue. When you are riding a motorcycle, you have to constantly be aware of your surroundings and make adjustments to your speed and position. This can be tiring, especially over long distances. Cruise control can help to take some of the burden off of the rider, allowing them to relax and focus on other things.
    • Improves fuel economy. Another advantage of cruise control on a motorcycle is that it can improve fuel economy. When you are riding at a constant speed, you are using less gas than you would if you were constantly accelerating and decelerating. Cruise control can help you to maintain a constant speed, which can save you money on gas.
    • Allows for hands-free operation. Cruise control allows you to keep your hands on the handlebars and your eyes on the road, which can improve safety. When you are not constantly having to adjust your speed, you can focus on other things, such as the traffic around you.

    Disadvantages of Cruise Control on Motorcycles

    • Can be dangerous in certain situations. Cruise control can be dangerous in certain situations, such as when you are riding in traffic or inclement weather. If you need to brake suddenly, you may not be able to react as quickly if you are using cruise control.
    • Can make it difficult to control the motorcycle. Cruise control can make it difficult to control the motorcycle, especially if you are not used to it. If you are not careful, you could end up over- or under-steering the motorcycle.
    • Can increase your risk of being rear-ended. Cruise control can increase your risk of being rear-ended, because it can make you less visible to other drivers. When you are riding at a constant speed, you are less likely to make sudden movements, which can make it difficult for other drivers to see you.

    Overall, the decision of whether or not to use cruise control on a motorcycle is a personal one. There are both advantages and disadvantages to using cruise control, and you need to weigh the pros and cons to decide if it is right for you.

    Safety Concerns with Cruise Control on Motorcycles

    Cruise control can be a convenient feature on a motorcycle, but it is important to be aware of the safety concerns associated with it.

    • Cruise control can make it difficult to react to sudden changes in traffic. If you are riding in traffic and you need to brake suddenly, you may not be able to react as quickly if you are using cruise control. This is because you are not constantly monitoring the speed of the motorcycle, and you may not be aware of the need to brake until it is too late.
    • Cruise control can make it difficult to control the motorcycle. If you are not used to riding with cruise control, you may find it difficult to control the motorcycle. This is because cruise control can make the motorcycle feel more stable and planted, which can lead to over- or under-steering.
    • Cruise control can increase your risk of being rear-ended. When you are riding with cruise control, you are less likely to make sudden movements. This can make it difficult for other drivers to see you, and they may not be expecting you to slow down or stop. This can increase your risk of being rear-ended.

    If you are going to use cruise control on your motorcycle, it is important to be aware of the safety concerns and to take precautions to mitigate them.

    • Only use cruise control on long, straight roads with good visibility. Avoid using cruise control on roads with a lot of traffic or inclement weather.
    • Be aware of the speed of the motorcycle and the traffic around you. Be prepared to brake or change lanes quickly if necessary.
    • Practice riding with cruise control before using it on a long trip. This will help you get used to the feeling of riding with cruise control and how to control the motorcycle.

    By following these tips, you can help to reduce the risk of accidents when using cruise control on your motorcycle.

    Cruise control can be a convenient feature

    Do Motorcycles Have Cruise Control?

    Cruise control is a feature that automatically maintains a vehicle’s speed without the need for the rider to keep their foot on the throttle. While cruise control is a popular feature on cars, it is not as common on motorcycles. However, there are a few motorcycles that do come equipped with cruise control, such as the Honda Gold Wing and the BMW K1600GT.

    Why don’t more motorcycles have cruise control?

    There are a few reasons why cruise control is not as common on motorcycles as it is on cars. First, motorcycles are more maneuverable than cars, and riders need to be able to make quick adjustments to their speed. Cruise control can make it difficult to do this, as it can keep the motorcycle at a constant speed even when the rider needs to slow down or speed up.

    Second, motorcycles are more prone to wind gusts than cars, and cruise control can make it difficult to maintain a steady speed in windy conditions. When a gust of wind hits a motorcycle, it can cause the motorcycle to speed up or slow down. Cruise control can’t compensate for these changes in speed, and it can actually make it more difficult for the rider to control the motorcycle.

    Finally, motorcycles are smaller and lighter than cars, and they have a different center of gravity. This means that they are more susceptible to being affected by side winds. Cruise control can make it difficult for the rider to compensate for these side winds, and it can actually make the motorcycle more difficult to control.

    Are there any benefits to having cruise control on a motorcycle?

    There are a few benefits to having cruise control on a motorcycle. First, cruise control can help to reduce rider fatigue. When the rider doesn’t have to constantly keep their foot on the throttle, they can relax and enjoy the ride. This can be especially helpful on long rides.

    Second, cruise control can help to improve fuel economy. When the motorcycle is traveling at a constant speed, it uses less fuel than when it is accelerating or decelerating. This can save the rider money on gas.

    Finally, cruise control can help to make the ride more comfortable. When the motorcycle is traveling at a constant speed, it is less likely to vibrate or shake. This can make the ride more enjoyable.

    Is cruise control safe on a motorcycle?

    Cruise control can be safe on a motorcycle, but it is important to use it responsibly. Riders should only use cruise control when they are in a straight line and when the road conditions are good. Riders should also be aware of their surroundings and be prepared to take over control of the motorcycle if necessary.

    What are the risks of using cruise control on a motorcycle?

    There are a few risks associated with using cruise control on a motorcycle. First, cruise control can make it difficult for the rider to make quick adjustments to their speed. This can be dangerous in situations where the rider needs to slow down or speed up quickly.

    Second, cruise control can make it difficult for the rider to compensate for side winds. This can make the motorcycle more difficult to control and can lead to accidents.

    Finally, cruise control can lull the rider into a false sense of security. Riders who use cruise control may become complacent and less attentive to their surroundings. This can lead to accidents.

    Overall, cruise control can be a safe and convenient feature on a motorcycle. However, it is important to use it responsibly and to be aware of the risks involved.

    motorcycles do not typically have cruise control because it is not necessary for their operation. Cruise control is a feature that maintains a constant speed, which is not necessary for motorcycles because the rider can easily control the speed of the bike by using the throttle. Additionally, cruise control can be dangerous for motorcycles because it can lead to the rider becoming complacent and not paying attention to the road. If you are looking for a motorcycle with cruise control, there are a few models that offer this feature, but they are typically more expensive than motorcycles without cruise control.

    Author Profile

    Dale Richard
    Dale Richard
    Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

    His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.