Cornering While Riding a Cruiser

Cruiser motorcycles can be some of the most stylish and rewarding rides around, but they do require some unique riding skills. We here at Freedom Cycles want to help you enjoy your cruiser safely, so we’ve put together some tips for cornering on your cruiser, below. To learn more, or to see the cruisers we have for sale, contact our store in Grandview, Missouri, today!

Cruiser-Specific Challenges

Cornering on a motorcycle is already a skill that requires practice, but cruisers add a few extra kinks to the process. First, cruisers are typically bulkier than most motorcycles, so leaning with them isn’t always as easy—and because they can hit the ground easier, it’s also more dangerous. Footpegs, exhaust systems, and side stands can all dig into the ground if you lean too far, and that’s not even counting the lower ground clearance.

How to Counter Them

Two of the biggest factors in turning successfully with your cruiser are acceleration and braking. When you brake, your suspension lowers on its suspension, while accelerating lifts it up. With that in mind, try to finish braking before you enter the turn itself and avoid braking during the turn. Try to also accelerate into the turn to keep your bike off the ground.

If you feel or hear scraping, you’re leaning just a bit too far and should try to even out. Shifting to a lower gear can also help you tighten the angle while rolling off a little throttle.

If you have any questions about cornering, or you just want to see the cruisers we have available, contact us at Freedom Cycles. We proudly serve the people of Kansas City, Missouri, and Overland Park, Kansas—let us serve you today!