Top Ten Power Cruisers in 2025

Our expert guide to the Top Ten Power Cruisers in 2025 focuses on big-capacity, US-style hot-rod machines that are currently available to buy, both new and used.

The term “power cruiser” has existed in the motorcycle world for several years, although the roots of these power-packed machines can be traced back much further to influential models such as the Yamaha V-MAX of the 1980s.

In the mid-2000s, the category experienced a resurgence, led by motorcycles like the Triumph Rocket III and Kawasaki Vulcan, which defined the long, low, feet-forward “ballistic missile” style that still characterises the segment today.

Power cruisers continue to thrive, with a wide variety of models now available from manufacturers such as Harley-Davidson, Ducati, Honda, and BMW. Despite their diversity, the underlying concept remains consistent: take a laid-back cruiser and add as much power and torque as the chassis, tyres and brakes can realistically handle.

So which ones stand out, and what should buyers look for? Below is our selection of Top Ten Power Cruisers in 2025 you can buy right now.

How to choose a power cruiser

Budget is a main consideration when choosing a power cruiser. While the most extreme models can cost more than £20,000, it is still possible to find good used examples of some bikes for under £5,000.

Weight is another important factor. Some power cruisers are undeniably huge machines, while others—such as the Ducati Diavel—combine substantial performance with relatively lighter weight and lower seat heights.

Riding style should also influence your decision. Some power cruisers prioritise image and short rides, offering limited comfort and handling, as seen with models like Harley-Davidson’s Breakout. Others, such as Triumph’s latest Rocket 3, are surprisingly capable all-rounders.

Top Ten Power Cruisers in 2025 – Top Rated

1. Triumph Rocket 3 Storm

The Triumph Rocket 3 Storm leads this list as one of the most impressive power cruisers ever produced. Reintroduced in 2019, this enormous inline triple features a 2,458cc engine, making it the largest-capacity production motorcycle engine currently available. Its sheer power, torque and road presence are matched by unexpectedly capable handling, cutting-edge electronics and high-end chassis components.

Available in both Roadster R and grand-touring GT forms, the Rocket 3 Storm offers slightly different ergonomics and specifications, with the GT adding a more relaxed riding position and a small touring screen. Both versions were updated with increased power for 2024. Regardless of configuration, it delivers an experience unlike anything else in motorcycling.

We described it as combining “the bonkers engine, surprisingly sharp handling and the sheer absurdity of the concept into an extremely appealing motorcycle.”

The Triumph Rocket 3 Storm stands out for its biggest engine in motorcycling, phenomenal performance, and sophisticated handling. However, it is a very large motorcycle with a correspondingly high price, and its practicality is questionable—though that is largely the point.

2. Ducati Diavel V4

The Ducati Diavel V4 arrived in 2023 as the V4-powered successor to the original V-twin Diavel and proved to be almost as revolutionary as the original 2011 model. Borrowing technology from Ducati’s Panigale superbike and Multistrada adventure platforms, the Diavel V4 delivers even greater performance, refinement and presence.

Its 166bhp V4 engine provides explosive straight-line acceleration, while a comprehensive electronics suite, high-quality TFT display and illuminated switchgear elevate overall sophistication. Despite its aggressive styling and wide 240-section rear tyre, the Diavel V4 handles with astonishing agility. Visually, it stands out thanks to features such as the four-exit exhaust, under-seat LED lighting and a design that would not look out of place in a science-fiction film.

Although it is expensive and not a traditional US-style cruiser, the Diavel V4 is a phenomenal power cruiser that offers unmatched capability and equipment.

3. Yamaha VMX1700 VMAX

Launched in 2008 as a modern homage to the original 1985 VMAX, the Yamaha VMX1700 remains one of the most iconic power cruisers ever built. Powered by a 1,679cc V4 producing an astonishing 197bhp, it delivers tyre-shredding acceleration and remains one of the most dramatic motorcycles ever sold.

Despite its extreme performance, the VMX1700 also benefited from improved handling, strong build quality and high-spec components. Although it has since been surpassed in refinement by newer models such as the Ducati Diavel V4, the VMAX remains highly desirable, and used prices reflect its iconic status.

4. Harley-Davidson Breakout

Few motorcycles embody the power cruiser concept more clearly than the Harley-Davidson Breakout. This drag-strip–inspired hot rod features Harley’s largest air-cooled V-twin engine, mounted in a long, low chassis with unmistakable styling and strong street presence.

Objectively, the Breakout offers modest power by modern standards, limited electronics, and a handling style that prioritises style over precision. However, its appeal lies in its authenticity, visual impact and the unmistakable Harley-Davidson character that competitors cannot replicate.

5. BMW K1600B

Up next, in the list of Top Ten Power Cruisers in 2025, we have BMW K1600B. BMW’s inclusion on this list demonstrates how loosely the term “power cruiser” can be applied. The K1600B, launched in 2016 as a bagger-style derivative of the K1600GTL tourer, combines laid-back cruiser aesthetics with a silky-smooth six-cylinder engine.

Producing around 160 bhp and 129 lb-ft of torque, the K1600B delivers effortless performance, exceptional smoothness, and impressive handling for its size. Packed with electronics and offering genuine usability, it is one of the most refined and comfortable motorcycles in this category.

6. Ducati XDiavel and 1260 Diavel S

Before the arrival of the Diavel V4, Ducati’s XDiavel and 1260 Diavel S represented the pinnacle of high-performance power cruisers. These models combined relatively low weight, around 160bhp, advanced electronics and Ducati’s renowned chassis expertise into a visually striking package.

The Diavel 1260 debuted in 2019 as a successor to the original Diavel 1200, while the XDiavel offered an even more laid-back, feet-forward interpretation. Both redefined expectations by blending cruiser aesthetics with superbike-level performance and technology.

7. Honda Gold Wing

Up next, in the list of Top Ten Power Cruisers in 2025, we have Honda Gold Wing. The bagger-style version of the Honda Gold Wing emerged shortly after the redesigned model launched in 2018. With the rear seat and top box removed, the Gold Wing took on a more muscular and purposeful appearance.

Also Read: Top Ten Attractive Honda Gold Wing Models

Powered by an exceptionally smooth 1,833cc flat-six engine and available with Honda’s DCT automatic transmission, the Gold Wing delivers effortless performance, supreme comfort and remarkable ease of use. While its image may divide opinions, its refinement and engineering excellence are undeniable.

8. Triumph Rocket III

When the original Triumph Rocket III launched in 2004, it shocked the motorcycling world. Featuring the largest production motorcycle engine of its time, the 2,294cc inline triple delivered immense power, torque and road presence.

Also Read: Top Ten Highly Popular Triumph Bikes in the world

Despite its size, it offered surprisingly competent handling and proved successful enough to spawn several variants before emissions regulations ended production in 2017. Today, it remains durable, reliable and relatively good value in the used market.

9. BMW R 18 Roctane

BMW’s R 18 cruiser range has had mixed success since its debut in 2020, but the Roctane represents the most performance-oriented version of the lineup. Introduced in 2023, it adopts a stripped-back, hot-rod-inspired design with taller bars, blacked-out finishes and revised wheel sizes.

Powered by BMW’s massive 1,802cc boxer twin, the Roctane offers strong torque, excellent build quality and a distinctive alternative to traditional American cruisers, although it lacks Harley-Davidson’s cultural appeal.

10. Indian Sport Chief

The Indian Sport Chief serves as a performance-focused evolution of the brand’s Chief cruiser. Introduced in 2023, it features upgraded brakes, inverted front forks, a small nose fairing and revised styling intended to deliver a more aggressive riding experience.

While it may not offer the outright performance or dynamic edge of some rivals, it remains an authentic American alternative with strong build quality and a distinctive character.

Top Ten Power Cruisers in 2025 – Top List