First Ride: 2025 Buell Super Cruiser – A Sportbike Soul in a Sleek Cruiser Body

Buell’s Super Cruiser comes in like a thunderclap: it is low, long, and incredibly fast. Our initial experience on a closed track showed that this is not the typical muscle-cruiser that chilling out would perform—the monster roars, leans, and brakes as sportbikes do.

Powertrain & Performance

Engine

At the very heart is a new 1190cc liquid-cooled V-twin specifically designed for both impressive horsepower and impressive shows. Results from internal tests and initial dyno runs suggest ~175 hp & ~100 ft-lb torque with a high rev limit (likely 10,000 rpm). Meaning: you can hear the revs; a push, wherever in the tach.

Drivetrain & Aids

• 6-speed gearbox, chain final drive
• Slipper clutch for smooth aggressive downshifts
• Ride-by-wire with multiple ride modes (expected)
• Launch/anti-wheelie logic to keep that surge tidy

On-Track Feel

Buell tells us that the sub-3.0s 0–60 and the ~160+ mph top end are possibilities. Throttle response is nearly telepathic, yet very clean; the mapping gives a delivery smooth as a cruiser, not jumpy. Rarely is there such a powerplant that is this much of a beast and this user-friendly.

Chassis, Suspension & Brakes

Frame & Geometry

A unique steel frame, with a low center of gravity and a long wheelbase (around 81.3 in). The bike’s length does not stop it from turning in easily and feeling like a rock on fast sweepers.

Suspension

• 45 mm USD fork, fully adjustable
• Piggyback rear shock, fully adjustable
• ~4.7 in travel at both ends (approx.)

The setup is aimed to balance the stability over big bumps with the solid support during hard braking and cornering.

Brakes

• Dual 320 mm front discs with radial monobloc calipers
• 240 mm rear disc
• ABS (cornering-aware) standard

Power and feel are outstanding; stopping distances are firmly in the “sport equipment” realm.

Styling & Ergonomics

Design

It looks like this one has the influence of Roland Sands, you should think that it is a hot-rod: huge 21-inch front / 18-inch rear wheel combo, fat rubber (approx. 130 front / 210 rear), a compact fairing, and aggressive stance. The black-and-gold scheme on our bike turned heads all session.

Rider Triangle

• Seat height: ~28.7 in
• Pegs: forward (about 6.8 in ahead vs. mid-mount)
• Bar: wide, slightly pulled back (~31.7 in width)

The posture strikes a balance between cruiser comfort and mild sport lean. The seat is firm yet supportive; the leverage at the bar makes for natural quick transitions.

Tech & Features

• 4.3-inch color TFT (modes and smartphone features to be finalized)
• Cornering ABS and traction control
• All-LED lighting (headlamp, tail, indicators)
• USB charge point and small under-seat cubby (prototype detail)
• Wind management via a compact, performance-styled mini-fairing

The final electronics suite is still being detailed, but the essentials for a modern performance cruiser are in place.

Price, Rivals & Takeaway

Price/Timing

• $25,900 (targeted MSRP)
• Launch targeted for Fall 2025

Cross-Shopping

This would be against Ducati XDiavel/Diavel V4, Triumph Rocket 3, and other high-end power-cruisers. Compared to other bikes in the segment, Buell’s output-per-pound target is higher.

Verdict (First Ride)

The Super Cruiser feels like a sportbike disguised as a cruiser: with a brutal drive, planted chassis, top-notch brakes, and surprisingly agile steering. If this initial prototype character retains its place in the final product, Buell will not be merely “back”—but kick the saloon doors off the hinges.

Bottom line: insane power, real chassis discipline, and bold style—all these come in a package that finally allows the muscle-cruiser lovers to ride the handles the way they have always wanted.

Bike n Rider Staff

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