Cruisers and bobbers
A low seat, feet-forward controls and an engine tuned for easy pulling power from low revs. Cruisers are relaxed on the open road and easy to hold up at a standstill, which suits new and shorter riders. Bobbers are the stripped-back, retro take on the same idea.
- Best for: relaxed riding, weekend runs, riders who want a low seat.
- Think about: they are often heavier than naked bikes, and lean less in corners.
Naked bikes
Upright, light and agile, with no fairing. Naked bikes are good all-rounders — easy in traffic, fun on a twisty road — and a common choice for riders who commute.
- Best for: commuting and all-round riding.
- Think about: seats are usually higher than a cruiser, and there is no wind protection.
Scooters and twist-and-go bikes
An automatic gearbox means no clutch and no gear changes — you twist the throttle and go. That takes a lot of the workload out of stop-start traffic and lets a new rider concentrate on the road. Twist-and-go is no longer only for scooters: some cruisers now use a CVT automatic too.
- Best for: city riding and riders who do not want to learn a manual gearbox.
- Think about: check how an automatic affects your licence in your state.
| Model | Seat height | Engine | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BENDA Chinchilla 350 CVT Neo | 690 mm | 343cc · 25 kW | 195kg | $10,990 ride-away |
Which should you choose?
Think about where you will ride most. Mostly highways and weekends: a cruiser. Mostly commuting: a naked bike or a twist-and-go. Then sit on one of each and book a test ride — how a bike feels to you matters more than any comparison.
Quick answers
Common questions.
Is a cruiser good for a beginner?
Yes. A low seat and easy, low-rev power make cruisers one of the most confidence-inspiring styles for a new rider, as long as you choose a LAMS approved model you can manage at walking pace.
Is a scooter or a motorcycle better for learning?
A scooter or twist-and-go motorcycle removes the clutch and gears, which many learners find easier in traffic. A manual motorcycle teaches clutch control, which you will need if you later ride a manual bike.
What is the difference between a cruiser and a bobber?
A bobber is a style of cruiser — stripped back, with a short rear guard and a solo seat for a retro look. Both share the low seat and relaxed riding position.
