What is the difference in a Cruiser and a Touring Bike? Been eading reviews in Bike Magazines of some of the new touring bikes... most are Mid size Metric Cruisers in my opinion. I know something like a Harley Electroglide or a Honda Goldwing is considered a Touring BIke. I would think a Roadstar is a cruiser. What determines which label is used...... size? Storage? Weight? What???
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To me, the difference is factory storage and accessories...the wing and EG have lots of storage space from the showroom, as well as radios, cruise, cushy seats, etc....you can put that on the roadstar, but for the most part, they don't come that way.

The magazines can be confusing about this. According to some articles if a bike has a windshield and bags it make a bike a touring machine. If thats true you can make a scooter a touring bike.

I rode a roadstar silverado for a little over 3 years and it is a great bike, but I wouldn't consider it a touring bike after now owning a venture, which is a true touring bike.

The difference to me is the ride. The venture offers more wind protection and a smoother ride. With air shocks and a drive train geared for highway speeds. 4 and 5 gears are considered overdrive so maintaning highway speeds with true cruise control is less stressful on the bike and riders. A true touring bike is made for all day riding with more rider and passenger comfort in mind.

You can add some of these features to a cruiser and make it more of a touring bike, but it will never have the ride of a true touring bike.

To me they are 2 different bikes. You have to ride both to truly understand the difference. Its a matter of personal preference and riding style.

While you can ride a Roadstar all day you will be more tired afterwards.