What cruiser-style bike is the best bargain?
I'm not an expert, but I've been looking hard at the Kona AfricaBike. It's sturdier (and heavier) than conventional cruisers, but has upright seating, a built-in lock, Shimano gears and, interestingly, a kickstand. Reviews say it's "unbreakable." The bike is designed for healthcare workers in Africa, allowing them to see many more patients than if they were on foot. Best part: for every 2 AfricaBikes sold, Kona donates one back to Africa.
15 Answers
I have a 2001 Kawasaki Vulcan 750, which they unfortunately don't make any more, but still have the Vulcan line going. They are fairly cheap to buy, have a shaft drive instead of a chain so you have less maintenance cost there. Also, they are water cooled so you don't really have to worry about overheating on a hot summer day. Also, the 750cc engine is big enough that you can go on the highway if you have to. Its no Harley, but if you are just looking to ride around for fun you can't beat it.
I'm gonna assume you're looking for the kind of bike you pedal? If so, I can recommend the Electra brand. They run on the pricey side but are well built and popular with the Hollywood crowd.
If you're referring to a pedal bike, I have no idea. But I humbly submit that the Triumph America and Speedmaster are a lot of cruiser-style bike for the money. Used examples in really good shape with loads of accessories can be had for $4-$7k depending on year ('02-present). Forget the old nightmares of leaky Triumphs with electrical problems. These bikes are virtually trouble free and often last well past 100k miles without any major repairs. There is a robust support community online at BonnevilleAmerica.com
I have to agree with Keith P. I have a 2005 Honda Shadow 750 that I commute 55 miles each way with during the summer. It gets the job done and when I bought it 2 years ago it was something like $4500. The newer models have a shaft drive similar the the Vulcans. It seems anything under 700cc doesn't really have enough power on the highways.
Again not sure what you are referring to, bicycle or motorbike. If its a motorbike your interested in, a Triumph would be the best in terms of $/quality. There are some Harleys also which can be had for a pretty decent deal, but I find Triumphs belong to more of a exclusive crowd, which makes them that much cooler. The Speedmaster is a good choice, although more of a modern classic opposed to a cruiser and lacks a bit on power, the T-Bird would be the best overall cruiser, with lots of power (1500cc I believe) and the looks to go with it. And like was said above, almost an unlimited amount of accessories to make it your own, because that's the best part of owning a motorbike, besides the riding part.
$/quality = v-star.
http://www.starmotorcycles.com/star/products/modelhome/617/0/home.aspx
These bikes are totally affordable and basically bulletproof as far as maintaining. And they are beautiful.
I bought the 950 tourer last summer after getting my license, and took it on a 10 trip to Nova Scotia (from CT). I'm always getting compliments on it - people ask me how much I paid for it, and I ask them to guess - they say 20,000 - i like them know it cost me about 9,000.
Definitely a great value for a beautiful classic looking cruiser.
HD's have the name, but they certainly aren't bulletproof. If you're looking for a bike to ride 20 miles a week on get the HD so you can spend 3,000 a year on matching jackets and gloves, if you want a good, affordable, lasting bike that you can RIDE - go with a v-star.
You have to check out Bowery Lane Bicycles Best bargain and all locally made.