Can't compare cruisers and sport bikes. Much different rides and also different riders. Cruisers mean just that......cruising. I learned to ride on a Sportster. Didn't know any better until I rode a Ninja. There is no doubt a quarter litre bike is much easier to learn on, and certainly in my opinion a fun ride. The Sportster was like riding with a blank up my keester and really didn't like the higher revs or speeds. Came into it's own at 80k, vibrated at 110k, smoothed out at 130 but cannot push it past that as it felt like the bike wanted to split in half. Certainly cornered differently. Just like cars, people choose what they like, want, and is an expression of their personality. Same with bike choices. Right on for anyone who rides!!