Imagine cruising down an open highway, the engine humming smoothly, the road stretching endlessly ahead. Your hands relax slightly on the bars as your bike maintains steady speed. This is the beauty of motorcycle cruise control—a feature once exclusive to cars but now making its way onto two wheels. But is it worth it? Let’s dive into the world of motorcycle cruise control and see if it’s a game-changer for your rides.

What Is Motorcycle Cruise Control?

How Does Cruise Control Work in Modern Motorcycles?

Modern motorcycles with electronic cruise control use advanced technology to maintain a steady speed. The system is typically integrated with the bike’s ride-by-wire throttle, which electronically controls engine power without a direct mechanical connection to the throttle cable.

Here’s how it works:

1. Activation: The rider sets the desired speed using a handlebar-mounted control. Once activated, the system takes over throttle management.
2. Speed Regulation: Sensors monitor speed, engine load, and road conditions. The system makes small throttle adjustments to maintain a consistent speed, even when going uphill or downhill.
3. Braking & Manual Override: Cruise control disengages automatically when the rider applies the brakes, pulls the clutch, or rolls off the throttle. Some bikes also have a dedicated cancel button.
4. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Some high-end motorcycles, like the Ducati Multistrada V4 and BMW R 1300 GS, feature radar-based cruise control that adjusts speed dynamically based on the distance to vehicles ahead.

This technology allows for a smoother and safer riding experience, especially on long highway stretches.

Motorcycle cruise control is a system that maintains a constant speed without requiring the rider to twist the throttle continuously. It can be divided into two main types:

1. Electronic Cruise Control: Found on modern touring and adventure bikes, this system automatically adjusts throttle input to maintain speed. It often integrates with ride-by-wire technology for smooth operation. It provides a seamless riding experience, adjusting for inclines and declines without requiring manual corrections.

1. Throttle Locks: A mechanical device that holds the throttle in place, preventing it from rolling back. While not a true cruise control system, it helps reduce wrist strain on long rides. These devices are more affordable but require manual adjustments to maintain speed, especially on uneven terrain.

Pros and Cons of Motorcycle Cruise Control

Pros:

Reduced Fatigue – Long rides can cause strain in the hands and wrists, leading to discomfort. Cruise control allows you to relax your grip and ride more comfortably over extended distances.

More Comfortable Touring – Ideal for highway travel where maintaining a constant speed is beneficial. Riders can focus more on the scenery and navigation without the distraction of throttle management.

Better Fuel Efficiency – Keeping a steady throttle reduces unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to improved fuel economy over long distances.

Increased Focus on the Road – Allows riders to concentrate more on traffic, road conditions, and potential hazards rather than continuously adjusting the throttle.

Cons:

Not Ideal for City Riding – Cruise control works best on open roads and highways. In urban environments with frequent stops and speed adjustments, it can be more of a hassle than a benefit.

Potential Safety Risks – While cruise control can make riding more comfortable, it requires constant vigilance. Riders must be ready to disengage the system quickly in case of unexpected obstacles or emergencies.

Added Cost – Factory-installed cruise control is usually available only on premium motorcycles, while aftermarket solutions require extra investment and possible professional installation.

Which Motorcycles Come with Cruise Control?

Many touring and high-end motorcycles come equipped with electronic cruise control. This feature is commonly found on bikes designed for long-distance travel. Some popular models include:

• Harley-Davidson Road Glide – A classic American touring bike with built-in electronic cruise control for effortless highway cruising.
• BMW R 1250 RT – A sport-touring machine offering advanced cruise control integration for smooth and efficient long-distance travel.
• Honda Gold Wing – A luxury touring motorcycle equipped with a refined cruise control system, perfect for long-haul journeys.
• Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ – A sporty tourer featuring cruise control to enhance rider comfort on extended trips.
• Ducati Multistrada V4 – A high-performance adventure touring bike with adaptive cruise control for dynamic riding experiences.

Can You Add Cruise Control to Your Motorcycle?

Yes! If your bike doesn’t have factory-installed cruise control, there are aftermarket options available to improve your riding experience:

• Throttle Locks – These are affordable and easy to install. Brands like Kaoko, Go Cruise, and Atlas offer simple mechanical solutions to maintain throttle position.
• Electronic Cruise Control Kits – More advanced systems like MCCruise offer real cruise control functionality similar to factory-installed versions. These kits require professional installation and come at a higher cost but provide a seamless riding experience.

Is It Safe to Use Cruise Control on a Motorcycle for Long Distances?

Using cruise control on long rides can be safe when used correctly, but it requires awareness and proper conditions. On open highways with minimal traffic, cruise control can reduce fatigue and improve comfort. However, there are key factors to consider:

• Road Conditions: Cruise control is best used on straight, open highways with minimal elevation changes and traffic. Avoid using it in city traffic, curvy roads, or areas with frequent stop-and-go situations.
• Weather Conditions: Wet, icy, or gravel-covered roads can make cruise control risky, as sudden speed adjustments might not be possible in time to avoid hazards.
• Emergency Readiness: Riders should always keep their right hand near the throttle to quickly disengage cruise control if necessary. A sudden change in road conditions or traffic flow requires immediate manual control.
• Mental Engagement: While cruise control reduces physical strain, riders must stay mentally engaged. Never assume the system will handle everything—it’s an assistive feature, not an autopilot.

Is There a Perfect Speed for Riding Long Distances on a Motorcycle?

Finding the ideal speed for long-distance motorcycle riding depends on several factors, including comfort, fuel efficiency, and road conditions. While there is no universally perfect speed, most experienced riders agree that a range between 60-80 mph (100-130 km/h) is optimal for highway cruising.

• Comfort & Fatigue Reduction: Speeds above 80 mph can lead to excessive wind resistance and fatigue, while speeds below 60 mph might make long journeys unnecessarily slow.
• Fuel Efficiency: Most motorcycles achieve their best fuel economy within this range, helping to maximize distance per tank.
• Legal Considerations: Sticking within speed limits ensures both safety and compliance with local traffic laws.
• Road & Traffic Conditions: Adjusting speed according to terrain, weather, and traffic flow is essential for safe long-distance riding.

The best speed is one that allows you to remain comfortable, alert, and in control while enjoying the ride.

Is It True That Riding a Motorcycle at a Constant Speed for a Long Time Is Bad for the Engine?

Some riders worry that maintaining a constant speed for long periods could be harmful to a motorcycle’s engine. While it’s true that engines benefit from varied RPMs during break-in periods, modern engines are designed to handle sustained speeds without issues. However, prolonged constant-speed riding can have some downsides:

• Carbon Build-up: Running at a constant speed for too long can lead to carbon deposits in the combustion chamber, reducing efficiency over time.
• Cooling Considerations: Air-cooled engines rely on air movement for cooling, so consistent speeds at high temperatures may cause overheating in extreme conditions.
• Lubrication Variability: While oil circulation remains steady, varying RPMs can help ensure all engine components receive optimal lubrication.

So, if maintaining a constant speed can have potential drawbacks, why do we have cruise control? The key is balance—while cruise control keeps a steady speed, most riders naturally adjust throttle inputs due to traffic, terrain, and road conditions. Additionally, modern electronic cruise control systems can make micro-adjustments to prevent the engine from running at an overly static RPM for too long.

How to Use Cruise Control Safely

To make the most of cruise control while staying safe, follow these best practices:

• Only activate it on open highways with minimal traffic to avoid unexpected obstacles.
• Keep your right hand near the throttle for quick disengagement if sudden control is needed.
• Avoid using cruise control in wet or slippery conditions where traction may be compromised.
• Be prepared to manually adjust your speed in case of sudden changes in traffic or road conditions.
• Regularly check the system’s functionality to ensure it operates smoothly without unexpected lags or surges.

Final Thoughts: Is Cruise Control Worth It?

For long-distance riders, motorcycle cruise control can be a game-changer, reducing fatigue and enhancing comfort. It allows for a more relaxed riding experience, especially on long highway stretches. However, it’s not essential for everyone—riders who primarily navigate urban environments or enjoy full manual control of their throttle may not find it as beneficial.

If you love long rides and open roads, cruise control might just be the upgrade you never knew you needed. Whether factory-installed or added as an aftermarket option, it can transform your riding experience.