Not too long ago, referring to any cruiser as a “performance cruiser” would have seemed contradictory. However, the landscape has changed significantly, offering a variety of high-performance choices. In this category, torque has typically taken precedence over horsepower, but it’s refreshing to see that this is no longer the case.
It’s important to emphasize that these bikes come with a hefty price tag. While acquiring a robust cruiser may be possible, it certainly won’t be affordable. If you’re working within a budget, exploring used options might be advantageous. However, for those who are financially unrestrained, considering one of these incredibly fast cruiser motorcycles is a worthy endeavor.
To provide you with the most accurate and current information, this article is informed by diverse manufacturer websites, including Triumph and Harley-Davidson, along with other reliable sources. The motorcycles featured in this article are evaluated based on horsepower.
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10
Harley-Davidson Low Rider S
Power: 103 Horsepower
Equipped with a 117 cubic inch V-twin, the performance remains commendable, yet the riding experience deviates slightly from the more powerful bikes on this list. Thanks to its more comfortable mid-controls, this motorcycle provides a relaxed ride for those lengthy journeys. Presently, it stands as the most powerful air-cooled Harley-Davidson within the cruiser range. For enhanced power, aftermarket options are your best bet.
Specifications
MSRP | $19,999 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, air-cooled |
Displacement | 1917cc |
Max Torque | 125 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-speed |
Weight | 679 lbs |
9
Indian 101 Scout
Power: 111 Horsepower
Although technically categorized as a 2025 model, it has been available for much of the year. The 101 Scout delivers more power than any other motorcycle in the cruiser lineup, and indeed the Scout range. It owes its prowess to its modern liquid-cooled Speedplus V-twin, which is finely tuned to outperform other bikes in the series. This model also boasts sporty adjustable suspension, a quarter fairing, and robust Brembo brakes at the front.
Specifications
MSRP | $16,999 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, liquid-cooled |
Displacement | 1250cc |
Max Torque | 82 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-speed |
Weight | 549 lbs |
8
Evoke 6061-GT
Power: 121 Horsepower
While it’s challenging to pronounce further details until it undergoes rigorous real-world testing, the specifications are impressive. Its price aligns comparably with other high-performance cruisers on this list and, if anything, it outperforms numerous other motorcycles. With a claimed range surpassing 400 miles, there’s minimal concern regarding range anxiety.
Specifications
MSRP | $24,995 |
Motor | Permanent magnet, multi-wound synchronous motor, liquid cooled |
Battery Capacity | 29.8 kWh |
Max Torque | 152 LB-FT |
Transmission | Automatic (direct drive) |
Weight | 705 lbs |
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7
Harley-Davidson Sportster S
Power: 121 Horsepower
The only downside to the Sportster S is its potential as an even better pure naked bike. The Bronx was tantalizingly close to being realized, though Harley seems to have backed away at the last minute. Ultimately, the Sportster S positions the Sportster legacy for the future, but it might not attract a wide audience. Most cruiser enthusiasts will likely lean towards the equally compelling Nightster range, while those seeking an American-made naked bike may consider Indian’s offerings.
Specifications
MSRP | $16,999 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, liquid-cooled |
Displacement | 1250cc |
Max Torque | 93 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-speed |
Weight | 502 lbs |
6
Arch KRGT-1
Power: 122 Horsepower*
This motorcycle is an impressive one-off creation. Arch customizes every bike for the individual buyer, encouraging owner involvement in the build process. Naturally, this level of customization comes at a cost, and while the company provides a base price, any modifications or personalization requests will increase that cost. Regardless, the investment pays off once you fire up that 2,032cc V-twin.
Specifications
MSRP | $85,000 (and up) |
Engine Type | V-Twin, air-cooled |
Displacement | 2032cc |
Max Torque | 115 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-speed |
Weight | 596 lbs (dry) |
5
Arch 1S
Power: 122 Horsepower*
Although the KRGT-1 is undeniably a cruiser, understandable reservations about its inclusion may exist. In numerous respects, it bears a striking resemblance to a sport-naked bike, apart from the formidable air-cooled V-twin. Additionally, it’s worth clarifying that torque measurements are provided at the wheel, while power output estimation is at the crank, with the actual wheel horsepower being 94. The figure we mentioned was Arch’s initial estimate intended to ensure a more accurate comparison with other motorcycles on this list.
Specifications
MSRP | $128,000 (and up) |
Engine Type | V-Twin, air-cooled |
Displacement | 2032cc |
Max Torque | 115 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-speed |
Weight | 563 lbs (dry) |
4
Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S.
Power: 128 Horsepower
Technically, last year’s B.O.S.S. is still listed on the website and is certainly still available. We appreciate the blacked-out finish against the blue backdrop and think – at least in terms of style – this model stands out compared to the standard M109R. It reigns as the most powerful Japanese metric cruiser available and is also the most budget-friendly option on this exotic list.
Specifications
MSRP | $15,599 |
Engine Type | V-Twin, liquid-cooled |
Displacement | 1783cc |
Max Torque | 118 LB-FT |
Transmission | 5-speed |
Weight | 764 lbs |
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3
Ducati XDiavel Nera*
Power: 152 Horsepower
It’s worth noting that, unlike the previously mentioned B.O.S.S., it isn’t found on Ducati’s official website. Nevertheless, it likely still occupies space in various dealership inventories, and with a bit of luck, you might score a solid deal on one. Yet, being a Ducati, perhaps that’s wishful thinking. Speculation exists that the XDiavel may return as a V4 one day, likely in a limited edition, similar to the Nera.
Specifications
MSRP | $29,795 |
Engine Type | L-Twin, liquid-cooled |
Displacement | 1262cc |
Max Torque | 93 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-speed |
Weight | 514 lbs (no fuel) |
2
Ducati Diavel V4
Power: 168 Horsepower
Much like the Arch 1S, the Diavel V4 embraces sportiness within its sports cruiser classification. Fueled by an aggressive V4 engine, it stands out as one of the most extreme high-performance cruisers in this curated list. While it may not claim the highest power, we have reasons to believe it would dominate the others here, including the considerably heavier XDiavel.
Specifications
MSRP | $27,195 |
Engine Type | V4, liquid-cooled |
Displacement | 1158cc |
Max Torque | 93 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-speed |
Weight | 492 lbs (no fuel) |
1
Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R
Power: 180 Horsepower
While it’s true that the Rocket may not lap a track quicker than the Ducati V4, on the open roads, that distinction becomes less significant. This motorcycle exudes presence and is unapologetic about its dedication to a colossal three-cylinder engine. In terms of torque, it’s only the Evoke that comes close, and it happens to be electric!
Specifications
MSRP | $24,995 |
Engine Type | Inline-3, liquid-cooled |
Displacement | 2458cc |
Max Torque | 166 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-speed |
Weight | 699 lbs |