Do Motorcycles Have Cruise Control?

Older model motorcycles weren't made with cruise control because the technology wasn’t yet available, but there are many newer bikes, especially touring ones now fitted with it. Let’s learn more about cruise control on a motorcycle and why it’s a nice feature. 

How Does Cruise Control Work on a Motorcycle?

Before cruise control was an option, throttle locks were used as a workaround. These are mechanical devices fitted on the handle so a rider can lock the throttle at a desired position. While they’re not really “cruise control” since they don’t control the engine or road speed, the mechanism does allow you to rest your hand for a moment which can be nice. 

Actual cruise control allows you to set the speed of your bike without needing to throttle. You set a speed, take your hand off and enjoy the ride while your bike maintains the set speed for you. Electronic cruise control (ECC) has a control and computer unit which are connected to the bikes’ speedometer, fuel injection and throttle system. ECC reads the speed you entered, matches it with the speedometer and then manages the fuel supply to the engine to maintain the set speed. 

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) does the functions of ECC but also has radar sensors that detect vehicles in front of it. If you’re cruising on the freeway and there’s a vehicle in front of you the radar judges the distance to then maintain a set distance between you and vehicles in front of you. If the vehicle ahead accelerates/decelerates, the radar catches the data and maintains the set distance between the two vehicles.

Do I Really Need Cruise Control on my Motorcycle?

Not all riders are fans- some believe it’s dangerous as it takes away your focus, and others simply aren't used to having it. Ultimately it will come down to the type of riding and bike you have and your comfort level. If you’re looking to tour or frequently ride long distances then having cruise control could definitely make for a more comfortable ride, but it’s something that riders have gone without for a long time. 

While the technology is still relatively new to the motorcycle world, there are many newer bikes that come with cruise control. The Ducati XDiavel and Multistrada have this feature as well as Triumph’s Tiger, Rocket 3 and Bonneville Bobber, T120 and Speedmaster. We suspect that cruise control will become more readily available on more makes and models as the technology continues to improve. 

Aftermarket cruise control can potentially be installed on a bike, but you would need to have a system professionally assessed and installed. If you have a question for our service or sales department drop us a note, we’re here to help you get the most enjoyment out of life on two wheels!