13 Of The Best Used Cruiser Motorcycles Under $3,000

Cruiser motorcycles have always held a special place in the market thanks to their laid-back riding style, distinctive designs, and the prestige tied to the brands behind them. Some of today's best new cruisers come from manufacturers like Harley-Davidson, Indian Motorcycle, Yamaha, Honda, and Kawasaki. Each offers models that blend modern engineering with timeless styling. Flagship and popular bikes like Harley-Davidson's Road Glide or Indian's Challenger come packed with the most cutting-edge technologies. We're talking touchscreen infotainment systems, rider-assist electronics, premium suspension setups, and powerful big-displacement V-twins. All of these factors drive their prices well into the tens of thousands, sometimes even topping $25,000 or more.

At the same time, not every cruiser has to break the bank. Many bikes, particularly older or more modestly equipped models, can be found at a fraction of the price on the used market. This is partly due to natural depreciation and also because cruisers, while durable, often get cycled through multiple owners who prefer upgrading to larger or newer models. That's why you'll often find solid, reliable cruiser motorcycles for excellent bargains dipping under the $3,000 mark. These bikes might lack modern electronics, but they still deliver the classic cruiser experience of comfortable ergonomics, V-twin rumble, and unmistakable style. With that in mind, let's dive into our list of the best used cruisers under $3,000 that should definitely be worth your consideration.

First up on our list is the Kawasaki Vulcan 500/500 LTD. It's one of the most approachable cruisers you can find on the used market and features classic styling with a surprisingly versatile engine. It hit the scene in 1990 and was continuously refined through the early 2000s. The lightweight cruiser borrows its liquid-cooled parallel twin from the legendary Ninja 500 sport bike, giving it a unique edge in the cruiser category. That engine choice means it revs higher and feels livelier than the typical V-twin, while still delivering smooth, usable torque for everyday riding. Weighing in at just over 430 pounds wet, the Vulcan 500 is easy to manage for newer riders, yet still has enough power to handle highway speeds comfortably. 

Its low seat height and relaxed ergonomics make it especially confidence-inspiring for beginners or those with shorter inseams. The 500 LTD trim adds chrome accents and extra cruiser flair, helping it compete aesthetically with larger machines. On today's used market, the Vulcan 500 or 500 LTD is a bargain, often selling for about $1,500 in solid condition, depending on the year. Riders love it for its reliability, cheap maintenance, and the way it bridges the gap between beginner bike and long-term daily cruiser.

The Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Drifter is one of those cruisers that grabs attention the moment you see it. Introduced in 1999, Kawasaki paid homage to the classic Indian motorcycles of the 1940s, with sweeping valanced fenders, a low-slung stance, and retro touches that set it apart from the chrome-heavy designs of its competitors. Underneath that nostalgic styling, however, is the heart of a modern cruiser. There's a liquid-cooled 1470cc V-twin engine delivering smooth, reliable power for highway cruising and weekend escapes. 

It's big, comfortable, and surprisingly refined, with top-of-the-line engineering ensuring durability and dependable performance. What makes the Drifter particularly appealing today is how undervalued it remains in the used market. Clean examples from the early 2000s can list for around $1,600, making it one of the best bargains for riders looking for classic looks without the collector price tag. Its blend of style and comfort makes it a perfect fit for riders who appreciate vintage flair but still want the peace of mind of modern reliability.

The Suzuki Boulevard S40, formerly known as the LS650 Savage, has carved out a niche for riders who want a lightweight cruiser with big-bike character over the years. It was launched in the 1980s and rebranded into the Boulevard lineup in 2006. The S40 is powered by a unique 652cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine. It's kind of an unusual choice in the cruiser world. That thumper design delivers lots of low-end torque, making the bike feel punchier off the line than its displacement might suggest. 

Paired with its featherweight build of just over 380 pounds, the S40 is still remarkably easy to handle. Its low 27-inch seat height and simple, classic styling add to its approachability, making it a favorite among beginner riders and those who want to have a fuss-free cruiser experience. While it's not one of the biggest cruiser motorcycles ever made, the S40 is more than capable of highway speeds, and its reputation for reliability means it can be counted on for years. Best of all, clean used examples from as recent as 2013 regularly sell for about $1,899, making it one of the most affordable cruisers on the market.

Kawasaki's Vulcan 900 Custom is a standout in the mid-size cruiser segment with bold styling and everyday usability. It arrived in 2006 as part of Kawasaki's Vulcan family and aimed to bring riders a big-bike attitude with a more approachable package. Its heart is a 903cc liquid-cooled V-twin, which delivers smooth, tractable power perfect for long highway stretches or relaxed city cruising. Experienced riders have praised its balance — it's strong enough to handle touring with ease, yet still light and nimble compared to heavyweight cruisers. Still, what really sets the Vulcan 900 Custom apart is its factory styling. There's a 21-inch front wheel, stretched-out rake, low-slung stance, and plenty of blacked-out accents. 

It offers a custom chopper vibe without the hassle of aftermarket modifications. The low seat height and relaxed ergonomics make it a comfortable fit for a wide range of riders, while the belt drive keeps maintenance simple and quiet. On the used market, examples from 2012 can be found for about $1,999, making it one of the best-value cruisers in its class. It's an easy pick for this list.

The Yamaha Virago 250 is a classic entry-level cruiser that's managed to hold its appeal for decades thanks to its approachable design and trademark reliability. It had its run starting in the 1980s as the Route 66 before its name change through the 1990s and mid-2000s, when the V Star 250 succeeded it. The Virago 250 was Yamaha's answer to riders looking for a true cruiser feel without the bulk or intimidation of larger machines. While it isn't the most powerful cruiser motorcycle with a 249cc air-cooled V-twin, it has enough pep for city riding and short highway trips, all while sipping fuel with a high level of efficiency. Weighing in at just over 300 pounds, the Virago 250 is also exceptionally light and nimble, making it one of the easiest bikes for new riders to handle. 

Its low 27-inch seat height adds to its confidence-inspiring nature, while the simple, classic cruiser styling makes it look like a scaled-down version of Yamaha's bigger Virago siblings. Longtime owners praise its durability and low maintenance costs. This bike can really help beginners build confidence without feeling underpowered. On today's used market, you can regularly find the Virago 250 in solid condition for $2,000. It's a solid bet to last a lifetime.

The Harley-Davidson XL883 Hugger is often referred to simply as the "883 Hugger." It was Harley's way of making the legendary Sportster lineup more accessible to a wider range of riders. It was a late 80s introduction, like some on this list, and was essentially an XL883 Sportster reworked with a lower seat height and revised suspension to give shorter or less experienced riders more confidence without losing the bike's signature Harley character. Powered by an 883cc Evolution V-twin, it delivers that unmistakable Harley rumble and a solid spread of low-end torque perfect for cruising city streets or back roads. The Hugger's design is classic Sportster. That means it's stripped-down, minimalist, and tough-looking, making it an appealing option for riders who want either a simple cruiser or a starting point for customization. 

With fewer frills and a focus on accessibility, the XL883 Hugger retains Harley's DNA at a fraction of the cost of the company's larger models. On today's used market, the Hugger is frequently found for about $2,195, making it one of the most affordable ways into Harley ownership. It's best suited for riders who want the Harley experience without committing to heavyweight cruisers. At least, not yet.

It's safe to say that the Honda Rebel 250 is one of the most iconic beginner cruisers of all time, earning a reputation as the go-to entry bike for new riders and commuters alike. Since the 1980s, it's been produced in various forms. The Rebel 250 became a staple in motorcycle safety courses across the United States, thanks to its approachable design. Its 234cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth, predictable power that makes it un-intimidating for first-timers while still providing enough grunt for relaxed cruising and even short highway stretches. At just under 330 pounds with a low 26.6-inch seat height, the Rebel is extremely easy to maneuver, making it ideal for smaller riders or those looking to build confidence. 

The Rebel 250's styling leans classic cruiser, with simple lines, chrome accents, and a minimalist vibe that appeals to those who prefer function over flash. It's one of the five most reliable Honda motorcycles you can buy, has fuel efficiency that often exceeds 60+ mpg, and offers low maintenance costs. Best of all, the used market is full of Rebels, and clean examples are routinely available for $2,499. That unbeatable mix of affordability, user-friendliness, and timeless style makes it a perennial favorite and easy addition.

The Suzuki Marauder 800 is a bit of an underdog in the cruiser world. But that's exactly what makes it have such a great value on the used market. Starting its adventure in the late 1990s and continuing into the early 2000s, the Marauder 800 shared much of its makeup with Suzuki's reliable Intruder line, pairing a 805cc liquid-cooled V-twin with classic cruiser ergonomics. What stood out was its slightly sportier edge. Suzuki gave the Marauder a more aggressive look with drag-style handlebars, cast alloy wheels, and a stance that split the difference between traditional cruiser comfort and street bike attitude. On the road, that V-twin delivers smooth torque that's perfect for city riding and relaxed highway cruising, while its lighter weight (around 500 pounds) makes it easier to handle than some of the bulkier 1000cc+ machines of its era. 

It's reliable, has strong mid-range performance, and features styling that still looks sharp today. Because it never achieved the same name recognition as Harley's Sportsters or Honda's Shadows, the Marauder tends to fly under the radar for about $2,550. That affordability, combined with its mix of cruiser comfort and sporty flair, makes it an excellent choice for riders seeking value without sacrificing character.

One of the cruisers on our list that strikes the perfect balance between classic styling and everyday practicality is the Honda Shadow Aero 750. It's such a strong contender on the used market. It was introduced in the early 2000s and brought retro-inspired looks to Honda's Shadow lineup with full fenders, sweeping lines, and just the right amount of chrome. Beneath the vintage aesthetic is a 745cc liquid-cooled V-twin, tuned for low and mid-range torque that makes relaxed highway cruising awesome. Honda paired it with a smooth five-speed transmission and a reliable shaft drive, an upgrade over chain-driven rivals that cuts down on maintenance while maintaining silky power delivery. 

Riders often praise the Aero for its comfort, thanks to a low 25.9-inch seat height, roomy ergonomics, and a ride quality that's friendly to both new and seasoned motorcyclists. Weighing in at just over 500 pounds, it feels planted but not overwhelming, making it approachable without sacrificing stability on the open road. On today's used market, clean Aero 750s can often be found for about $2,900, especially from the mid-2000s era.

The Yamaha V-Star 950 Tourer is a cruiser that offers big-bike presence and comfort in an accessible package, making it great value in the used market. The Tourer first arrived in 2009 and was designed as the fully equipped variant of the V-Star 950, offering factory add-ons like a tall windscreen, leather-wrapped saddlebags, and a passenger backrest. These extras give it immediate long-distance touring capability right out of the box, without requiring aftermarket spending. Power comes from a 942cc air-cooled V-twin, tuned to deliver smooth torque and reliable performance across city streets and open highways alike. 

A combination of a low 26.6-inch seat height, neutral ergonomics, and stable handling makes it approachable for a wide variety of riders while still offering the size and feel of a mid-weight touring cruiser. Styling leans classic with modern touches — swept fenders, plenty of chrome, and Yamaha's trademark fit and finish. Well-kept V-Star 950 Tourer models can also be found for about $2,900, which is an exceptional bargain. It's an excellent choice for riders who want a ready-to-ride cruiser with touring chops at an entry-level price.

Riders have long celebrated the Yamaha V-Star 650 Classic as one of the most comfortable and versatile mid-size cruisers on the market. It came as part of Yamaha's V-Star lineup and was built to deliver the timeless cruiser look in an easy-to-ride package. With its 649cc air-cooled V-twin, it produces a smooth and manageable flow of power, ideal for both first-time riders and seasoned motorcyclists who want a reliable daily cruiser. Its five-speed transmission and shaft drive make for low-maintenance ownership while still offering plenty of torque for highway riding. True to its "Classic" name, the bike features wide fenders, wire-spoke wheels, generous chrome, and a deeply padded saddle that add to its old-school cruiser charm. 

The low 27.4-inch seat height makes it accessible for nearly any rider, while its overall weight of just over 500 pounds provides stability without being unwieldy. It's durable, comfortable, and fuel-efficient, with riders claiming many examples lasted well beyond 50,000 miles with proper care. On today's used market, the V-Star 650 Classic is readily available for about $2,900, depending on the year. This makes it one of the best bargains in the cruiser world.

The Honda Shadow Spirit 750 is a versatile mid-size cruiser. It has classic styling and dependable performance, making it a longtime favorite. It was first offered to riders as part of Honda's Shadow lineup in 2001. The Spirit gave riders a slightly sportier alternative to the Shadow Aero, with a leaner profile, a sleeker tank design, and in some trims, a more stripped-down look that appealed to younger or first-time cruiser buyers. Its power comes from a 745cc liquid-cooled V-twin, known for its smooth delivery and bulletproof reliability, paired with a five-speed transmission and shaft drive that cuts down on maintenance. At just under 550 pounds with a seat height of around 25.7 inches, the Shadow Spirit 750 is approachable for riders of varying skill levels while still having enough presence to feel substantial on the highway. 

Its ergonomics offer a relaxed, upright posture, making it well-suited for commuting or long weekend rides. The Shadow Spirit 750 is a true balance of comfort, power, and Honda's trademark durability, which means many examples on the used market still run strong even after decades. Best of all, solid used models regularly list for just barely under $3,000, fitting a budget while still giving riders a reliable cruiser.

The Honda Shadow VLX Deluxe (also known as the VT600C) is one of the most popular entry-level cruisers ever made, and that's part of the reason it's last on our list. Produced from the late 1980s until 2007, the VLX Deluxe carved out a reputation as a stylish, comfortable, and dependable cruiser that didn't overwhelm beginners but still offered plenty of personality for seasoned riders. It comes with a 583cc liquid-cooled V-twin, paired with a smooth four-speed transmission. While the four gears may seem limited by today's standards, the motor delivers enough low-end torque for city and highway riding. The Deluxe trim added extra chrome touches and polished details that gave the bike a more upscale look compared to the standard Shadow VLX, helping it stand out in Honda's lineup. 

Some riders also appreciate its low 27-inch seat height, making it very approachable, along with a comfortable riding position that encourages all-day use. At around 439 pounds dry, it strikes a good balance between lightweight maneuverability and cruiser stability. On the used market, the Shadow VLX Deluxe often appears at just about $3,000, making it one of the best-value choices for riders seeking a reliable cruiser with classic lines, low maintenance needs, and Honda's bulletproof engineering.

To build our list of the best used cruiser motorcycles under $3,000, we focused on models with strong reputations for reliability, availability, and affordability on today's used market. We reviewed resale listings, enthusiast forums, and brand histories to identify cruisers that consistently show up in good condition within this price range. Priority was given to bikes that offer approachable performance while still delivering the comfort and styling seasoned cruiser fans expect. We excluded rare or hard-to-find models and concentrated on motorcycles you can realistically buy today without stretching past the $3,000 budget.