I’m a cruiser guy.
I think.
I don’t actually know because I’ve never been on a cruiser. But I definitely like their look and the not-worried-about-getting-there-first attitude they exude. I don’t want to take corners at butt-clenching speed. The appeal of motorcycling to me is the freedom to wander, and as Howlin’ Wolf sang: I’m built for comfort, not for speed.
The only cruisers I can find in the below-500cc range are those provided by AJS and Hyosung. I only just found out about AJS this weekend and have had little success in finding reviews of their bikes beyond the usual racist/pointless laments that they are manufactured in China.
More information can be found about South Korean manufacturer Hyosung – most of it positive or neutral. And I’ve found forums in both the United States and Australia singing the praises of the GV250 (also known as the Aquila or Mirage). It’s the right look, the right size and the right price. I want it.
Maybe.
What causes concern for me is Hyosung’s poor UK infrastructure. Go to its (substandard) website, do a search for dealers, and you get a list featuring some dealers who have gone bust or whose websites make no mention of Hyosung. I sent a query about dealers more than a month ago and still have not heard back. The closest Hyosung dealer I can find is GV Bikes (2) in Taunton – some 84 miles away.
All this makes me nervous. I worry I’d find myself in the wilderness in terms of servicing and repair. So, although I love the look I’d probably choose something else.
(2) Nice website from 1999, fellas.