NEW DELHI: In its Union Budget for 2025-26, India has substantially reduced customs duties on premium motorcycles, cars, and smartphone components. This development appears advantageous for American companies such as Harley-Davidson, Tesla, and Apple, following remarks by US President Donald Trump describing New Delhi as a “tremendous tariff maker.”
Nonetheless, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that the adjustment of customs duties is aimed at promoting self-reliance within the Indian economy and is not a reaction to Trump’s tariff announcements.
“We are focusing on our own economy and aiming to fortify the foundations of the Indian economy to transform it into a manufacturing hub,” she asserted.
During her budget presentation on Saturday, Ms. Sitharaman disclosed a reduction in import duties for high-end motorcycles, with engine capacities up to 1,600cc imported as completely built-up (CBU) units, from 50 per cent to 40 per cent.
According to the Union Budget for 2025-26, the import duty on semi-knocked down (SKD) kits has decreased to 20 per cent from 25 per cent. Furthermore, completely knocked down (CKD) units will now incur a tax of 10 per cent, down from 15 per cent.
This shift is set to enhance the import of quintessentially American Harley-Davidson motorcycles into India, as the previous high tariffs have been a longstanding issue between India and the US.
Harley-Davidson began its journey in India in 2010, following the “mangoes for motorcycles” agreement established between India and the US in 2007. However, the American motorcycle manufacturer withdrew from the Indian market about ten years later, in September 2020, as part of broader downsizing efforts.
Nonetheless, a month later, Harley-Davidson re-entered the Indian market after Hero MotoCorp Ltd formed a non-equity partnership with the American brand to manufacture and distribute its motorcycles in India. Currently, Hero MotoCorp produces and sells the Harley-Davidson 440X, the smallest model in the brand’s lineup.
During his first term in office, Trump raised concerns regarding the 50 per cent import duty on Harley Davidson motorcycles, deeming it “unacceptable.”
Separately, Ms. Sitharaman announced that the tariff on luxury cars, including station wagons and racecars valued over $40,000, has been reduced from 125 per cent to 70 per cent. Additionally, the basic customs duties on lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles in India have been eliminated.
Most of the aforementioned EV manufacturers are already operational in India, developing vehicles tailored for the Indian market. However, this move could serve as a lure for American companies like Tesla, which is keenly observing the expanding Indian EV landscape.
In April 2024, Tesla CEO Elon Musk planned a visit to India to meet PM Modi, fueling speculation about potential investments in the country. However, he canceled the trip due to “very heavy Tesla obligations.”
In the 2025-26 budget, Ms. Sitharaman confirmed that customs duties on 28 items related to mobile phone battery production from countries such as the US and China have been waived. This initiative aims to lower the cost of mobile phones and accessories in India while bolstering local production, particularly as India progresses towards becoming the world’s second-largest mobile phone manufacturer.
Apple stands to gain significantly from these reductions in import taxes. A report from Reuters indicates that Apple secured a 23 per cent share of total revenue in 2024.
As US President Trump advocates for prioritizing domestic industry under his “America First” trade policy, India’s recent adjustments to import taxes are perceived as a strong signal to the American administration, seeking assurance against increased taxes or additional trade barriers directed at Indian goods.
Previously, Trump asserted that India imposes the highest tariffs on foreign items compared to major economies and threatened to enforce reciprocal tariffs on Indian products. He also warned of 100% tariffs on BRICS nations, including India, if they moved away from the US dollar.
Speculation arises that with the tax reductions on imports, India aims to capitalize on the US-China trade conflict and augment its own presence in global supply chains. Trump’s tariffs are becoming disruptive to global trade, creating uncertainty in the market. With the import tax reductions, India should be better positioned to navigate a potentially unpredictable year, as reported by Reuters.
Motorcycles consistently outperform cars in terms of power-to-weight ratios. Even the fastest supercars find it challenging to match the acceleration of some high-performance sports bikes. But what about the low-profile and comfortable cruiser motorcycles? Can they hold their own against the latest instantly responsive electric vehicles?
To satisfy our curiosity, we chose the new 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper as our benchmark, compiling a list of ten mass-produced cruiser motorcycles that are quicker than the electric vehicle. On paper, the Model Y Juniper accelerates from 0-62 MPH in 5.9 seconds and boasts a top speed of 124 MPH. This is quite average, even slightly slower than many current electric cars. Keep in mind, the Model Y is ultimately designed as a family vehicle.
For our reference, we’re focusing on the basic RWD single-motor Tesla. However, even the Long Range dual-motor AWD Model Y Juniper, which can achieve 0-60 in 4.3 seconds, is still outpaced by 90% of the cruisers we’ll discuss. With that setup clarified, let’s explore this vivid compilation, featuring urban-friendly cruisers from Honda, Kawasaki, and Harley-Davidson, alongside power cruisers from Triumph, Indian, and Ducati.
We have gathered this information from authoritative sources, including the manufacturers’ official websites. This list ranks cruisers from slowest to fastest based on 0–60 times. Please note that we have excluded baggers and touring cruisers (which include standard saddles and additional features). We aimed to incorporate at least one cruiser from each of the most well-known motorcycle brands available in 2025.
Related
10 Powerful Cruiser Motorcycles That Turn 10-Years-Old In 2025
Some of the fastest muscle cruisers on the used market are turning 10 this year
10
Kawasaki Vulcan S
0-60 MPH: ~5.1 Seconds
You might not know that this middleweight bike is actually Kawasaki’s most powerful cruiser at present. Featuring an engine derived from the Ninja 650, the Kawasaki Vulcan S can be deemed an economical power cruiser. Weighing in at under 500 pounds, the power-to-weight ratio of the Vulcan S is impressive.
Unlike typical cruisers that generate more torque than horsepower, and tend to peak at lower RPMs, this cruiser inherits traits from its sportier lineage. The peak torque of 46.3 LB-FT is achieved at 6,600 RPM. Priced under $7,500, this cruiser stands out as the most affordable option in this list with the ability to outperform the 2025 Tesla Model Y.
Specs And Price
Engine Configuration | Parallel-Twin; Liquid-Cooled |
Engine Displacement | 649cc |
Power | 60 HP |
Torque | 46.3 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-Speed |
Curb Weight | 498.3 LBS. |
Price | $7,399 |
9
BMW R 18
0-60 MPH: 4.96 Seconds
The standout quality of the BMW R 18 is its homage to classic architecture. Despite its substantial 761-pound weight, this cruiser is equipped with an air-oil-cooled boxer twin that allows it to achieve a remarkable 0-60 time of under 5 seconds. This impressive performance is largely attributed to its potent torque output of 116 pound-feet, with a whopping 90 percent delivered at low RPMs (1,500). Created as a rival to Harley-Davidson, BMW managed to infuse traditional motorcycling values into this cruiser in just five years. It also stands as the most affordable cruiser with over 100 lb-ft of torque currently available.
Specs And Price
Engine Configuration | Boxer-Twin; Air-Oil Cooled |
Engine Displacement | 1,802cc |
Power | 91 HP |
Torque | 116 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-Speed |
Curb Weight | 761 LBS. |
Price | $14,995* |
*Listed price for the 2024 model year
8
2025 Suzuki Boulevard M109R
0-60 MPH: <4 Seconds
In addition to being the most economical cruiser motorcycle with over 100 horsepower, the Suzuki Boulevard M109R boasts several remarkable features. Among these is its massive pistons, which are the largest in the motorcycle world, even outsize many automotive options. The classic design, coupled with a powerful 1,783cc V-Twin with a gleaming chrome finish, further elevates its exceptional character. Despite its considerable attributes, the M109R can attain 0-60 in under 4 seconds, benefiting from technologies derived from the Suzuki GSX series of sports bikes.
Specs And Price
Engine Configuration | V-Twin; Liquid-Cooled |
Engine Displacement | 1,783cc |
Power | 128 HP |
Torque | 118 LB-FT |
Transmission | 5-Speed |
Curb Weight | 764 LBS. |
Price | $15,799 |
Related
Here Are The Most Powerful Cruiser Bikes From All Popular Brands
The most powerful cruiser bike here packs the biggest production engine ever on a motorcycle.
7
Indian Scout Bobber
0-60 MPH: <4 Seconds
The Indian Scout family received notable updates for 2025, including enhancements to the Scout Bobber. It now features a larger engine that delivers increased power and torque while being lighter. Consequently, even with its relaxed look, the new Scout Bobber is a spirited performer and a very capable urban motorcycle. It not only surpasses the Tesla Model Y with a 0-60 time of under 4 seconds but also boasts a top speed of 128 mph.
Specs And Price
Engine Configuration | V-Twin; Liquid-Cooled |
Engine Displacement | 1,250cc |
Power | 105 HP |
Torque | 82 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-Speed |
Curb Weight | 542 LBS. |
Price | $12,999 |
6
Harley-Davidson Nightster
0-60 MPH: 3.92 seconds
The Harley-Davidson Nightster is a contemporary and lightweight V-Twin cruiser that redefines the long-standing Sportster lineup. Built primarily for urban riding, it features the smallest V-twin engine among Harley models, focusing on efficiency and agility. Weighing just 481 pounds, this motorcycle boasts an impressive 0-60 time of under 4 seconds, making it quicker than the dual-motor Tesla Model Y Juniper, which achieves 0-60 in 4.3 seconds. This makes the Nightster the most budget-friendly Harley-Davidson motorcycle currently available.
Specs And Price
Engine Configuration | V-Twin; Liquid-Cooled |
Engine Displacement | 975cc |
Power | 91 HP |
Torque | 72 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-Speed |
Curb Weight | 481 LBS. |
Price | $11,999* |
*Price is listed for the 2024 model year
5
Indian 101 Scout
0-60 MPH: <3.7 Seconds
The newest 101 Scout represents the latest and most potent model in the Indian Scout lineage, paying tribute to the iconic 1920s model. Using a tweaked version of the same 1,250cc engine found in the 105-horsepower Scout Bobber, this model cranks out 111 HP. The innovative 1250 SpeedPlus V-Twin engine operates at high RPMs, reaching peak power at 7,250 RPM and maximum torque at 6,300 RPM. Even though it stands as the heaviest American cruiser on this list, the Indian Scout 101 impressively dashes from 0 to 60 in less than 3.7 seconds, further emphasizing its sporty character.
Specs And Price
Engine Configuration | V-Twin; Liquid-Cooled |
Engine Displacement | 1,250cc |
Power | 111 HP |
Torque | 82 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-Speed |
Curb Weight | 549 LBS. |
Price | $16,999 |
4
Honda Rebel 1100
0-60 MPH: 3.4 Seconds
Boasting impressive versatility, the Honda Rebel 1100 features a variant of the parallel-twin engine utilized in the Africa Twin. The 1,083cc engine’s compact design helps maintain a curb weight of an impressive 487 pounds, accompanied by a short 59.8-inch wheelbase, making it adept at urban maneuvering.
It’s also efficient for a liter-class cruiser, averaging 48 MPG. Beyond practical attributes, the Honda Rebel 1100 is a fun ride, achieving 0-60 in under 3.5 seconds with a top speed of 128 MPH, outperforming the new Model Y Juniper in both categories. Furthermore, it is recognized as the most powerful cruiser motorcycle available under $10,000!
Specs And Price
Engine Configuration | Parallel-Twin; |
Engine Displacement | 1,083cc |
Power | 85.8 HP |
Torque | 72.3 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-Speed |
Curb Weight | 487 LBS. |
Price | $9,599 |
Related
10 American Cruisers More Powerful Than A Japanese Cruiser
After being pressured by metric options, modern American cruisers are finally getting more powerful than ever
3
Harley-Davidson Sportster S
0-60 MPH: 3.4 Seconds
The Harley-Davidson Sportster S packs a punch with 121 horsepower, making it a standout in Harley’s lineup of modern power cruisers. Equipped with a robust 1,252cc liquid-cooled V-Twin, this lightweight bike (502 pounds) leads the charge for performance in the cruiser category.
Impressively designed, the Sportster S includes sport bike-grade components such as variable valve timing and double overhead camshafts. The result? A motorcycle that zips from 0-60 in just 3.4 seconds with a remarkable top speed of 143 MPH, easily outpacing the Tesla Model Y Juniper!
Specs And Price
Engine Configuration | V-Twin; Liquid-Cooled |
Engine Displacement | 1,252cc |
Power | 121 HP |
Torque | 93 LB-FT |
Transmission | 6-Speed |
Curb Weight | 502 LBS. |
Price | $16,999* |
*Price is based on the 2024 model year
