The American cruiser bike is a symbol of freedom and power, embodying the spirit of the open road. With engines roaring and chrome gleaming, these bikes offer a blend of classic design and modern performance. In this article, we’ll explore ten American cruiser bikes that boast over 100 horsepower, each delivering a unique riding experience that’s as powerful as it is iconic.
Harley-Davidson Breakout 117
The Harley-Davidson Breakout 117 is a true testament to American engineering and design. With its Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin engine, this Softail model is not just about looks; it’s about performance. The Breakout 117 boasts 101 HP and 123 lb-ft of torque, making it a powerhouse on the open road. Its low-profile design, scooped seat, and forward controls, coupled with a long rake and a skinny front tire, make it a stylish contender for any quarter-mile challenge. It’s a bike that proves it can be both “show” and “go.”
| Specs | Harley-Davidson Breakout 117 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Milwaukee-Eight 117 |
| Displacement | 117 cu in |
| Max Power | 101 HP |
| Max Torque | 123 lb-ft |
| Fuel Capacity | 5 gal |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
Harley-Davidson Low Rider S
Next up is the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S, a motorcycle that has captured the hearts of both traditionalists and newcomers to the brand. Equipped with the same Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, the Low Rider S pushes out 103 HP. It’s a stripped-down, blacked-out machine that’s one of the fastest Softails to date. The Low Rider S is not just about speed; it’s about the freedom of the open road, with enough power to make every ride exhilarating.
| Specs | Harley-Davidson Low Rider S |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Milwaukee-Eight 117 |
| Displacement | 117 cu in |
| Max Power | 103 HP |
| Max Torque | 125 lb.-ft. |
| Fuel Capacity |
4.993 gal
|
| Transmission | 6-speed |
Indian Challenger Dark Horse
The Indian Challenger Dark Horse stands out with its PowerPlus engine, delivering a robust 122 HP and 128 lb-ft of torque. This bike is designed for long rides with its comfortable seating and advanced ride technology, yet it doesn’t compromise on power. The Dark Horse is a modern cruiser with classic touches, making it a standout choice for those who want the best of both worlds.
| Specs | Indian Challenger Dark Horse |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | PowerPlus |
| Displacement | 108 cu in (1768 cc) |
| Max Power | 122 HP |
| Max Torque | 128 lb-ft |
| Fuel Capacity | 6 gal (22.7 L) |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Seat Height | 26.5 in (672 mm) |
| Weight | 840 lbs (381 kg) |
| Bore x Stroke | 4.251 in x 3.799 in (108 mm x 96.5 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 |
Buell Hammerhead 1190
The Buell Hammerhead 1190 is an American-made performance cruiser that’s as aggressive in looks as it is in power. With a 1190cc V-Twin engine, it produces an impressive 185 HP. The Hammerhead 1190 is not just about straight-line speed; it’s engineered for handling and agility, making it a unique offering in the cruiser segment.
| Specs | Buell Hammerhead 1190 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 72° V-Twin, Liquid Cooled |
| Displacement | 1190cc |
| Max Power | 185 HP |
| Peak Torque | 101.6 ft-lbs |
| Seat Height | 32.5 in (826 mm) |
| Weight (Wet, no fuel) | 419 lbs (190 kg) |
| Bore x Stroke | 4.17 in. x 2.66in. (106 x 67.5 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 13.4 : 1 |
Victory Hammer S
The Victory Hammer S is a standout with its muscular build and impressive performance. The 106 cubic inch Freedom V-Twin engine churns out 113 HP, making it a force to be reckoned with on the highway. The bike’s aggressive styling, complete with a fat 250mm rear tire, is matched by its powerful acceleration and smooth handling, offering a thrilling ride.
| Specs | Victory Hammer S |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Freedom 106/6 V-Twin |
| Displacement | 106 cu in (1731 cc) |
| Max Power | 113 HP |
| Peak Torque | 110 ft-lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.5 gal (17 L) |
| Transmission | 6-speed overdrive |
| Seat Height | 26.5 in (673 mm) |
| Weight (Dry) | 672 lbs (305 kg) |
| Bore x Stroke | 3.97 in x 4.26 in (101 mm x 108 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 |
Moto Guzzi MGX-21
The Moto Guzzi MGX-21 is an Italian masterpiece with an American cruiser spirit. Known as the ‘Flying Fortress,’ this bike is powered by a 1380cc V-twin engine that delivers 96 HP and 89 ft-lbs of torque. Its distinctive design, carbon fiber bodywork, and advanced electronics make it a unique choice for those looking for style and substance.
| Specs | Moto Guzzi MGX-21 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 90° V-twin engine, 4-stroke |
| Displacement | 1380 cc |
| Max Power | 96 HP |
| Peak Torque | 89 ft-lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 5.4 gal (20.5 L) |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Seat Height | 29.1 in (740 mm) |
| Weight (Wet) | 752 lbs (341 kg) |
| Bore x Stroke | 4.0 in x 3.2 in (104 x 81.2 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 |
Harley-Davidson Road King Classic
The Harley-Davidson Road King Classic is a timeless cruiser that combines classic design with modern performance. The 103 cubic inch Evolution engine delivers 109 HP, making it a smooth and powerful ride. The Road King Classic is perfect for those who appreciate the classic look with the reliability of today’s technology.
| Specs | Harley-Davidson Road King Classic |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Evolution 103 |
| Displacement | 103 cu in (1678 cc) |
| Max Power | 109 HP |
| Peak Torque | 102 ft-lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.5 gal (17 L) |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Seat Height | 28 in (710 mm) |
| Weight (Dry) | 673 lbs (305 kg) |
| Bore x Stroke | 3.97 in x 4.26 in (101 mm x 108 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 |
Boss Hoss Limited Super Sport Big Block Bike
The Boss Hoss Limited Super Sport Big Block Bike is a behemoth of power and presence. With its massive 6200 cc V8 engine, it delivers an earth-shattering 445 HP and 603.4 Nm of torque. This bike is not just about raw power; it’s about the experience of riding a legend. The Boss Hoss is designed for those who want to make a statement on the road.
| Specs | Boss Hoss Limited Super Sport Big Block Bike |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | V8, four-stroke |
| Displacement | 6200.0 cc (378.32 cubic inches) |
| Max Power | 445.0 HP |
| Peak Torque | 603.4 Nm |
| Fuel Capacity | 32.17 litres (8.50 US gallons) |
| Seat Height | 26.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 106.0 inches |
| Overall Width | 28.0 inches |
| Wheelbase | 80.0 inches |
Buell Super Cruiser
The Buell Super Cruiser is a modern classic that combines the best of American design with European engineering. Its ET-V2 engine produces a robust 175 HP and 101.6 ft-lbs of torque, making it a thrilling ride on any road. The Super Cruiser is built for those who seek performance without compromise.
| Specs | Buell Super Cruiser |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | ET-V2: 72° V-Twin, Liquid Cooled, Four-stroke |
| Displacement | 1190cc |
| Max Power | 175 hp |
| Peak Torque | 101.6 ft-lbs |
Confederate X132 Hellcat
The Confederate X132 Hellcat is a tribute to American muscle with its V2 engine that churns out 132 HP and 196.6 Nm of torque. This bike is all about the thrill of acceleration and the roar of the engine, making it a favorite among those who love the sound and feel of a powerful cruiser.
| Specs | Confederate X132 Hellcat |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | V2, four-stroke |
| Displacement | 2163.2 cc (132.00 cubic inches) |
| Max Power | 132.0 HP |
| Peak Torque | 196.6 Nm |