Do Motorcycles Have Cruise Control? The Surprising Answer

Short Answer

Cruise control is not a standard feature on most motorcycles, but it is available on some high-end touring bikes and can be installed as an aftermarket accessory. While not as common as on cars, cruise control on motorcycles can be useful for long-distance touring, reducing rider fatigue and allowing for a more relaxed ride. However, it is important to note that using cruise control on a motorcycle requires extra attention and caution due to the increased risk of accidents.

Do Motorcycles Have Cruise Control?

Cruise control is a feature commonly found in cars that allows drivers to maintain a steady speed without having to keep their foot on the accelerator. This feature can be especially useful on long drives and can reduce driver fatigue. However, cruise control is not as common on motorcycles as it is on cars, and not all motorcycles come equipped with this feature.

While some motorcycles are designed for speed, maneuverability, and agility, others are built for long-distance touring, and cruise control can be a valuable feature for riders who want to reduce the strain on their hands and wrists during extended trips. As a result, some high-end touring motorcycles and some aftermarket companies offer cruise control as an optional accessory, which can be installed on a variety of motorcycle models.

Here are a few examples of motorcycle brands and their cruise control availability:

BMW and Harley-Davidson are known for producing high-end touring motorcycles that come equipped with cruise control as a standard or optional feature. In contrast, Honda, Kawasaki, and Suzuki primarily focus on producing sport and standard motorcycles, which do not typically come with cruise control. However, it’s important to note that some aftermarket companies offer universal cruise control systems that can be installed on a variety of motorcycle models.

In conclusion, while cruise control is not a standard feature on most motorcycles, it can be a valuable option for riders who are looking to reduce fatigue and enjoy a more relaxed ride.

Availability of Cruise Control in Motorcycles

Cruise control is a feature commonly found in cars, but not as prevalent in motorcycles. The feature allows drivers to maintain a constant speed without having to keep their foot on the accelerator, which can be especially useful for long-distance trips. However, cruise control can be a tricky feature to use on a motorcycle, as it requires the rider to maintain a constant position on the bike, and can be dangerous in certain situations such as high winds, rain, or heavy traffic.

Here are some examples of motorcycle brands and their availability of cruise control:

As seen in the chart, not all motorcycle manufacturers offer cruise control as a standard feature. BMW and Harley-Davidson, both well-known for producing touring bikes, offer cruise control on select models. BMW, for example, offers cruise control on its K1600 series bikes, while Harley-Davidson offers it on its touring line, such as the Electra Glide and Road Glide.

Honda, Kawasaki, and Suzuki, which primarily produce sportbikes and standard motorcycles, do not offer any models with cruise control as a standard feature. However, it is important to note that some aftermarket companies offer universal cruise control systems that can be installed on a variety of motorcycle models.

Yamaha, on the other hand, offers cruise control on select models, usually its touring and sport-touring bikes, such as the FJR1300 and the Star Venture. Yamaha’s cruise control system, called “Cruise Control Assist,” is an electronic throttle control system that maintains the rider’s desired speed by adjusting the throttle.

In conclusion, while cruise control is not a standard feature on most motorcycles, it is available on some high-end touring bikes and can be installed as an aftermarket accessory. It is important for riders to carefully consider the potential risks and limitations of using cruise control on a motorcycle and to exercise caution and good judgment when using it on the road.

Types of Cruise Control Available for Motorcycles

Cruise control is a feature that allows riders to maintain a constant speed without having to constantly adjust the throttle. There are two main types of cruise control available for motorcycles: electronic and mechanical.

Here is a chart comparing electronic and mechanical cruise control:

Electronic Cruise Control:

Electronic cruise control systems use electronic sensors to measure the motorcycle’s speed and adjust the throttle accordingly. These systems are more precise and customizable than mechanical cruise control, as they can be adjusted to maintain the rider’s desired speed with greater accuracy. Electronic cruise control can also be integrated into the motorcycle’s onboard computer system, allowing riders to monitor and adjust their cruising speed and other settings. Electronic cruise control is commonly found on high-end touring bikes from manufacturers such as BMW and Harley-Davidson.

However, electronic cruise control systems are typically more expensive than mechanical cruise control and may require professional installation. They are also more complex, which can make them more difficult to troubleshoot and repair in the event of a malfunction.

Mechanical Cruise Control:

Mechanical cruise control, on the other hand, uses a simple throttle lock to maintain the rider’s desired speed. This system is more affordable than electronic cruise control and can be installed by the rider with basic tools. Mechanical cruise control is a popular aftermarket accessory for motorcycles.

However, mechanical cruise control is less precise and customizable than electronic cruise control, and can be difficult to adjust while riding. In addition, the rider must be careful when using mechanical cruise control, as the throttle lock can cause the bike to continue accelerating even if the rider tries to reduce speed.

In conclusion, the choice of which type of cruise control to use on a motorcycle ultimately depends on the rider’s preferences and budget. Electronic cruise control offers more advanced features and greater precision, but comes at a higher cost and may require professional installation. Mechanical cruise control is a simpler and more affordable option, but lacks the precision and customization of electronic cruise control. It is important for riders to carefully consider the potential risks and limitations of using cruise control on a motorcycle and to exercise caution and good judgment when using it on the road.

Pros and Cons of Using Cruise Control on Motorcycles

Cruise control is a feature that can be a useful addition to a motorcycle, especially for long-distance trips. However, like any feature, there are both advantages and disadvantages to using it. This section will discuss the pros and cons of using cruise control on motorcycles.

Here is a chart comparing the pros and cons of using cruise control on motorcycles:

Pros:

One of the main advantages of using cruise control on a motorcycle is that it reduces rider fatigue during long-distance rides. Cruise control allows the rider to maintain a steady speed without having to constantly adjust the throttle, reducing strain on the hands and wrists. This can help riders stay alert and focused during long rides.

Another advantage of cruise control is that it provides a more relaxed ride. Riders can set their desired speed and focus on other aspects of riding, such as road conditions and traffic. This can be especially helpful on highways or other long, straight stretches of road.

Cruise control also provides more precise and consistent speed control. This can be especially useful on highways where maintaining a constant speed is important for safety and fuel efficiency.

Cons:

One of the main disadvantages of using cruise control on a motorcycle is that it can be dangerous in certain situations. For example, in high winds, rain, or heavy traffic, cruise control can reduce the rider’s ability to quickly react to changing conditions. Additionally, it can be difficult to disengage quickly in emergency situations, which can increase the risk of accidents.

Another potential disadvantage of cruise control is that it can lead to complacency and reduced attention. Riders who rely too heavily on cruise control may be less alert and more prone to accidents. It is important for riders to remain vigilant and focused, even when using cruise control.

In conclusion, while cruise control can be a valuable feature for motorcycle riders, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks and limitations before using it on the road. Riders should weigh the pros and cons and use good judgment when deciding whether to use cruise control on their motorcycle. They should also be aware of the situations in which it may not be safe to use it and be prepared to disengage it quickly in emergency situations.

Safety Tips for Using Cruise Control on Motorcycles

While cruise control can be a useful feature for motorcycle riders, it is important to use it safely and responsibly to reduce the risk of accidents. This section will discuss some safety tips for using cruise control on motorcycles.

Here is a chart with safety tips for using cruise control on motorcycles:

Using cruise control on a motorcycle can be helpful for maintaining a steady speed during long-distance rides, but it should only be used in certain situations. Riders should only use cruise control on highways or other long, straight stretches of road where maintaining a constant speed is important and where there are few or no curves or obstacles. They should not use cruise control in heavy traffic or in adverse weather conditions such as rain, high winds, or snow. Using cruise control in these situations can reduce the rider’s ability to quickly react to changing conditions.

Riders should be prepared to disengage cruise control quickly in emergency situations. This may include situations where there is sudden traffic congestion or when the rider needs to slow down quickly to avoid an obstacle. Riders should remain alert and focused even when using cruise control. They should not rely too heavily on the feature and should be prepared to adjust their speed and riding style as necessary.

Before using cruise control, riders should ensure that their motorcycle is in good condition and that all systems are functioning properly, including the throttle, brakes, and tires. This will help ensure that the motorcycle is safe and reliable while using cruise control.

In conclusion, by following these safety tips, riders can use cruise control on their motorcycle safely and effectively, reducing the risk of accidents and enjoying a more comfortable and relaxed ride.

FAQ: Do Motorcycles Have Cruise Control?

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about whether motorcycles have cruise control:

In conclusion, while not all motorcycles have cruise control, it can be a useful feature for long-distance rides. There are two types of cruise control available for motorcycles, electronic and mechanical, and riders should use it safely and responsibly, following safety guidelines and being prepared to disengage the feature quickly in emergency situations. The future of cruise control on motorcycles looks bright, with advances in technology leading to more advanced and customizable systems for riders.

Expert Opinions

Cruise control on motorcycles is a relatively new feature, and opinions on its usefulness and safety vary among experts in the motorcycle industry. In this section, we will explore some expert opinions on whether motorcycles have cruise control.

Expert opinions on whether motorcycles have cruise control vary, with some experts emphasizing the usefulness of this feature for long-distance riders and others emphasizing the importance of using it safely and responsibly. Riders should consider their own needs and preferences and follow proper safety guidelines when using cruise control on their motorcycles.

Conclusion and Future of Cruise Control on Motorcycles

Cruise control is a feature that can be a valuable addition to a motorcycle, but it is important for riders to use it safely and responsibly. This section will summarize the main points of this article and discuss the future of cruise control on motorcycles.

Cruise control is available on some motorcycles and can be useful for long-distance rides. There are two types of cruise control available for motorcycles, electronic and mechanical. Electronic cruise control is the more common type, and it works by regulating the motorcycle’s throttle electronically. Mechanical cruise control is less common and works by physically holding the throttle in place.

Using cruise control can have both pros and cons. On the positive side, cruise control can reduce rider fatigue during long-distance rides, provide a more relaxed ride, and offer more precise and consistent speed control. On the negative side, cruise control can be dangerous in certain situations such as high winds, rain, or heavy traffic, can be difficult to disengage quickly in emergency situations, and can lead to complacency and reduced attention, which can increase the risk of accidents if not used properly.

To use cruise control safely, riders should follow certain safety tips. These tips include using cruise control only on highways or other long, straight stretches of road, avoiding using it in heavy traffic or in adverse weather conditions, being prepared to disengage it quickly in emergency situations, remaining alert and focused, and ensuring that the motorcycle is in good condition.

The future of cruise control on motorcycles looks promising. Advances in technology may lead to more advanced and customizable cruise control systems, increasing safety and convenience for riders. For example, some manufacturers are already developing adaptive cruise control systems that can automatically adjust the motorcycle’s speed based on traffic conditions.

In conclusion, while cruise control can be a valuable feature for motorcycle riders, it is important to use it safely and responsibly. By following proper safety guidelines and staying alert and focused, riders can enjoy a more comfortable and relaxed ride. With advances in technology, the future of cruise control on motorcycles looks bright, offering even more advanced and customizable systems for riders.