Harley-Davidson

According to the New York Times, Harley Davidson has more than one competitor on its hands, including Indian motorcycles. Yes, you read that right. As a symbol of classic Americana, Harley’s lightweight cruiser motorcycle is finally getting a run for its money.

If you’re hunting for bikes that look like Harleys, we will not lie: Harley Davidson produces the world’s most famous cruisers. But they’re not the only option out there. Let’s look at some of the top Harley Davidson competitors!

Japanese Cruise Motorcycle Alternatives

Can we be totally honest with you? With Japanese cruise motorcycle alternatives, you can’t go wrong with adding these bikes to your life:

• Honda Rebel 300 ABS
• Kawasaki Vulcan S
• Yamaha Star Bolt R

What’s not to love about the Honda Rebel 300 ABS? Even though Harley Davidson is known for its range of beginner-level bikes, there are actually tons of other cheaper options to consider too. In fact, if you’re new to the whole motorcycle thing, you can get your hands on Honda’s Rebel 500 model for just under $6,200.

Plus, the Honda Rebel 300 ABS is fantastic for bombing urban streets for two-wheel enthusiasts. And if you’re looking to save cash, try out the 300cc model for less than $5,000.

Moving on, the Kawasaki Vulcan S is a must-have for its versatility, power, and affordability. As if that’s not enough, there are three different versions to choose from, including the base, Café, and Sport models. The best part is that all of them are under $8,000, which isn’t too shabby for your average small cruiser.

But here’s the thing: if you’re looking for a bigger 900cc Vulcan model, then you will have to shell out more cash. Are you into more hipster, industrial-style motorcycles? If this sounds like you, then you might want to think about purchasing the Yamaha Star Bolt R.

At around $8,000, the Yamaha Star Bolt R isn’t exactly the most affordable model that you can buy. However, the Yamaha Star Bolt R and the R-Spec are way more powerful than your everyday cruiser motorcycle. That’s not all. 

With the R-Spec, you’ll automatically have so-called “piggyback rear suspension” that blows other bikes like the H-D Sportster Iron 883 out of the water!

More Affordable Harley Look Alike Motorcycles

Are you searching for more affordable Harley look-alike motorcycles? If you really want something that holds up to the history of Harley Davidson motorcycles, then you might want to add the following options to your wish list: 

• Triumph Bonneville Bobber
• Indian Scout Sixty
• Suzuki C90T

Here’s what we know for sure. Celebrated by motorcycle enthusiasts everywhere, the Triumph Bonneville Bobber takes the cake for its styling, value, and performance. As a convenient commuter bike, the Bobber has a 1,200cc engine that’s even more fierce than the Harley Evolution alternative.

On top of this, the Triumph Bonneville Bobber gets extra points for its two-up seats and a more comfortable riding seat. Even though it doesn’t necessarily fit into the regular cruiser category, the Bobber’s distinct British-style look is worth its hefty price tag of 11,500.

What’s the real deal about the Indian Scout Sixty? Besides the Triumph brand, Indian is one of the top competitors for Harley Davidson’s audience. And with the newly remodeled Indian Scout Sixty, Harley fans won’t even be able to spot a difference between the Scout and the Sportster 1200.

Some might even say that the Scout’s suspension and handling are even more efficient than Harley’s Sportster model. With only 1,000cc in its engine, the Indian Scout Sixty is more budget-friendly at under $9,000.

That’s not all. Let’s take a moment to talk about the Suzuki C90T. Although the sale of newer motorcycles has been flatlining for the last couple of years, the Suzuki C90T is still available for about $13,000. 

Is your jaw is on the floor because of that price tag? Join the club. However, it could be worth it if you’re ready to take on 1,450cc  of engine power. 

Best Midsize Cruiser Motorcycle Picks

Does the phrase “best midsize cruiser motorcycle picks” rev your engines? Take a look at a few of our best midsize cruiser motorcycle picks:

• Victory Octane
• Moto Guzzi MGX-21
• BMW K1600GTL

Now – let’s take a break from traditional Japanese cruisers and look at a European model. If you guessed that we’re talking about the Victory Octane, you’d be right. Believe it or not, the Victory Octane was the very last version to roll off of the production lines for this brand. 

In addition, the Octane has sharper lines and more defined creases than ever before. And the bullet cowl that comes with it is excellent for building up speed on the roads. How about the Moto Guzzi MGX-21?

Don’t be surprised if the sight of the Moto Guzzi MGX-21 stops you in your tracks, especially when you see its fine lines and carbon fiber. Not to mention its huge front wheel and firetruck red accents. Its side bags, turn signals, and mirrors will take your breath away, making you forget about all about Harley Davidsons.

Have no fear – we haven’t forgotten about the BMW K1600GTL. At around $23,200, this definitely doesn’t fall under the “affordable” category in any way, shape, or form. However, this make and model is ready to hit the highway with its saddlebags and windshield accessories.

With quality, elegance, and style to match, the BMW K1600GTL is the ultimate touring machine. Also, its standard six-cylinder inline engine is to die for. And that’s only if you can take your eyes off of its uniquely designed panels too.

Pro tip: for those who are trying to bike on a budget, there’s nothing wrong with picking up a used version of these models either. How can you beat that?

Harley Davidson Alternatives: Kawasaki Voyager

Here’s the deal. There are so many quality Harley Davidson motorcycle alternatives out there that we had to add one more to our list – the Kawasaki Voyager. If you’re not already familiar with this stylish cruiser, then allow us to enlighten you.

As a perfect substitute to average V-twin tourer motorcycles, the Kawasaki Voyager has a reliable performance that will impress you just as much. Also, it comes with all the amenities and comforts that you’d find in any rider that was built to take on long tours, including features like: 

• A gel seat
• Clearview tinted with vent windshield
• Chrome bar risers
• iPod connecter to the audio system
• Cobra Tri-Flo slip-on mufflers

Manufactured in colors like black and grey metallic, the Kawaski Voyager has a V-twin engine size of 1,700 ccs. Are you wondering how much it costs to take one of these out on the open road? If that’s the case, then we’ve got you covered.

Amazingly enough, it takes $11,000 to purchase a used Kawasaki Voyager. With a mid-size price to match, you can also add tons of extra components like an AM/FM radio, a cycle cover, and a fork loc. Bonus points for spending a few more bucks on life-saving anti-lock brakes and cruise control too.

If you’re looking to buy a brand-new Kawasaki Voyager, then you’ve come to the right place. For just over $16,000, you can bring one home with you. Prepare to make your friends and family members jealous when they see how much torque you have on your new bike.

And with a one-of-a-kind frame-mounted fairing, you’ll be steering in style with the wind at your back and the road at your feed. Plus, it comes with a headset with a built-in intercom as well, making communicating with your road buddies easier and ever. 

Did we mention that the new Kawasaki Voyager also comes with a three-year warranty? If that doesn’t send you running to the dealership already, we don’t know what will!

Save Money With Harley Davidson Competitors

Looking to save money with Harley Davidson competitors?

Your search is over. From the Honda Rebel 300 ABS and the Kawasaki Vulcan S to the Yamaha Star Bolt R and the Triumph Bonneville Bobber, we’ve got the scoop on the hottest Harley competitors on the market.

Searching for all the features that a Harley Davidson touring bike has?

Complete with all the amenities and comforts that you could ask for, it doesn’t hurt to consider adding the latest Kawasaki Voyager to your collection. And if that’s not the right stuff for you, then perhaps the Indian Scout Sixty or the Suzuki C90T will do the trick!

Want to learn more biker life tips? Check out our blog today!

Powerful, bold and beautiful, Harley Davidson motorcycles are among some of the most iconic bikes ever created. Over the past century, Harleys – as they are affectionately known by their passionate owners – have become synonymous with some of the most beautiful roads in America.

The bikes have played a core role in the development of motorcycle culture and the way of life that surrounds it during the 20th century and up to the present day. Much of this is to do the combination of timeless design and unbeatable performance.

In this article, we will look at some of the best Harley Davidson motorcycles ever created.

Whether you’re looking for a new machine to drive on some of the country’s best riding roads, or you just want to learn more about the history of this storied company, read on for a breakdown of some of the most famous Harley Davidson motorcycles ever created.

1. Harley Davidson Model 11F (1915)

Although not technically a motorcycle at this stage, the venerable Model 11F is fully deserving of its spot on this list.

Kitted out with an overhead valve V-Twin motor, the 11F featured a clutch and transmission system which made it one of the most advanced bikes of its time.

You could even purchase a more upmarket version (the 11J) which included electric lighting, seriously advanced in a time where large swathes of the world did not have electric lighting inside their homes yet.

With a powertrain that produced 11 HP, the Harley Davidson 11F had the power to spare compared to its competitors. The three-speed transmission meant that this Harley was highly adept at providing the rider with the power necessary for any situation it came across.

When looking at the innovative new models Harley Davidson plans to release in the future, it is important to remember that the company has always had its roots in innovation. 

2. Harley Davidson Fat Boy (1990)

In 1990, the design department at Harley Davidson changed the game with a new look that changed the way that the road-going public in America saw cruiser bikes.

A pair of beautiful ‘shotgun’ styled exhausts paired effortlessly with huge 16-inch disk wheels to produce the now-famous softail look for the very first time.

The impact of the design was huge. Until this point, hardtail bikes had been the dominant design language of the era. This applied not just to Harley Davidson, but to a range of other motorcycle companies too.

The two men who are most often credited for designing this iconic new are Willie G. Davidson and Louis Netz. Enthusiasts will tell you though that their work is largely derived from the work of numerous custom bikes coming out of Canada during that era.

3. Harley Davidson VRSCSE2 (2006)

Rather than its technical ability (which it has in spades), this V-Rod bike was loved by owners because of the huge number of color variations that it was available in.

This meant that the owners could truly have the bike of their dreams, right down to the color of paint that suited their personality.

4. Harley Davidson EL (1936)

The EL was the first bike to run the future classic Knucklehead V-Twin engine. The bike would eventually feature a displacement of 1000cc.

At the time, this meant mind-bending performance for the riders of this elegant bike.

When you consider the EL also featured a beautiful retro design that paid homage to the Art Deco school of design as well as its famous engine, there is no surprise that this bike makes into the list of the greatest Harley motorcycles.

It was motorcycles like the EL that helped Harley Davidson to emerge as one of the biggest motorcycle brands in the world.

5. Harley Davidson VRSC (2001)

For some riders, the conversation begins and ends with power. And this is why Harley Davidson produced the VRSC motorcycles.

The VRSC came as a response to the power rider bikes produced by rivals Ducati and Yamaha.

The fact that the V-Rod range of bikes was produced continuously between 2001 and 2017 goes to highlight just how popular this series was with the roadgoing public.

The VRSC range marks a shift for Harley Davidson, as it was their first mass-produced high power bike.

The Porsche designed liquid-cooled engine was capable of producing an eye-watering 125hp. Revving to 9,000RPM, needless to say, this bike has become an icon among enthusiasts.

6. Harley Davidson XL Sportster (1957)

The Sportster can trace its routes back to the Model K lightweight line of bikes. However, it is fair to say that this fabled line of bikes has now eclipsed these humble origins.

Many would argue that the Sportster is now almost as important as the Big Twins in the lexicon of iconic Harley Davidson machinery.

The original 883cc powertrain was eventually replaced with a 1,100cc and finally 1,200cc engine. Technical specifications aside, the iconic sleek looks of the Sportster mean it has endured in the memory of many motorcycle enthusiasts.

Many enthusiasts will look back on the Sportster line with fondness, as it was the bike which Harley used to derive a number of popular specialty machines.

The XLCR, for example, was based on the Speedster. That bike was cherished by cafe racers virtually from the moment that it became available.

The bike is now so beloved that even Lego creators have gotten in on the act, making their own models.

7. Harley Davidson FXRT (1983)

The FXRT separates itself from some of the other classic Milwaukee machines because of its ride height. Unlike its siblings such as the Low Rider and Wide Glide, FXRT bikes had a noticeably higher ride height.

It also possessed a stiffer frame and other modifications to its suspension which allowed the bike to cruise more comfortably at longer distances. Much to the relief of the riders who used it.

8. Harley Davidson Duo-Glide (1958)

The Duo-Glide represented a paradigm shift in the ride comfort of Harley motorcycles due to a new and innovative rear suspension system.

Up to this point, the only ‘suspension’ offered on Harley Davidson motorcycles was a saddle which had been sprung. In theory, this took the worst bumps out of the ride, but many contemporary riders at the time will probably disagree with that assessment.

The changes allowed the Harley Davidson to shift and become a true long-distance rider, as drivers could travel for mile upon mile in relative comfort.

The 1958 Duo-Glide arrived with a swingarm that featured coil-over shocks, which transformed the touring bike market forever.

9. Harley Davidson CVO Softail Convertible (2012)

There are three little letters in the name of this bike which change everything – CVO. You see, this moniker denotes the fact that the Custom Vehicle Operations department at Harley Davidson worked their magic on this very special bike.

You could call the Softail Convertible the Swiss army knife of motorcycling. The bike can be configured in numerous ways to allow the rider and passenger to adapt to the task at hand.

Whether you about to tour for an entire day, or prefer a two-up configuration, the CVO has it covered. 

To help it complete the job, the CVO is graced with the most powerful V-Twin engine that Harley Davidson currently produces. Needless to say, this thing will cruise comfortably at speed.

To top off an already fantastic package, the CVO comes glistening in chrome and possesses a striking paint job, as well as a premium sound system. It really does deserve the hype.

It is always worth reading about the history of the Harley-Davidson CVO motorcycles, as these are among some of the most special bikes available in the world today.

10. Harley Davidson FXB Sturgis

Despite being produced for only a couple of years starting in 1980, the ‘Sturgis is a firm favorite within the motorcycle community.

Whereas other bikes in this list are featured because of their unique and beautiful styling, the Sturgis wins its place due to a timelessly iconic design.

Initially released as a special edition of the FXS low-rider, the Sturgis became a fan favorite in its own right.

11. Harley Davidson FL Hydra-Glide

As bikers began to take to the roads again after World War II, they needed new machinery which could carry them along the way in comfort.

To help achieve this goal, Harley Davidson created a whole new category of motorcycle. This was known as the long-distance cruiser.

Firstly, they created a larger more durable chassis for the bike. This was aimed at improving the ride comfort and accommodating a larger engine.

Next, a twin overhead valve engine was mated to the chassis. When this was combined with a set of fatter tires, the Hydra-Glide formula was complete.

Riders of a certain generation would enjoy the Hydra-Glide for years, as it became their trusty companion as they motored around the United States.

12. Harley Davidson XR750

Much of the Harley Davidson mystique has come about because of the association of the bikes with racing prowess. In this regard, the XR750 series of bikes cannot be beaten.

Throughout the 20th century, the bike and its riders cruised to endless victories in events organized by the American Motorcyclist Association.

As a result, the bike has earned its place as one of the most iconic bikes to emerge from the Harley factory.

The impact these victories had on the company’s image (and sales sheet), really cannot be understated. For this reason, executives at the company cherish the XR750 just as much as the riders who cruised to victory on them time and again.

The Best Harley Davidson Motorcycles Belong in Motoring History

For over a century, Harley Davidson has been pushing the limits of motorcycles. Their innovations have pushed the limits of what was possible with current technology, leading to the creation of some truly iconic bikes.

Whether you prefer old classics like the Hydro-Glide or modern marvels such as the CVO Softail, the best Harley Davidson bikes all share their place in history as some of the best motorcycles ever created.

Which bike in the list is your favorite? Comment below with your thoughts on the best bikes.