Some aerodynamic buffeting at speed led us to experiment during long hours on the highway, as we studied the flow of air around the rider to determine the origins of the bothersome turbulence we felt at helmet level. The air rushing over the windshield flows just above the helmet of a 5-foot-7 rider. We also discovered that a secondary air stream flowing under the fairing hits the top of the rider’s thighs and climbs up his or her body.

This upward flow can is even strong enough to lift the rider’s arms. I believe that this secondary air stream is the source of the turbulence felt around the helmet. We ran out of time and budget to find accessories that would reduce or eliminate this air flow, like some of the Harley-Davidson components do. This is a solvable issue, I am sure.

It sure looks a lot like an American cruiser-tourer. Buyers on this side of the Atlantic love the style and the ride, forcing manufacturers to build similar machines and create their own lifestyle around them. (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Moto123.com)

In a nutshell, the Stratoliner certainly came across as a premium touring bike. Passing is simply a matter of giving a small flick of the wrist. The top-notch handling transforms twisting and undulating side roads into an adult’s amusement park. The generous ground clearance and solid frame enable more than respectable lean angles, and the potent engine delivers astounding corner exits. The slightest hill becomes an excuse to floor it. This obedient mount features precise steering, solid brakes and generous torque that make city jaunts as enjoyable as long-distance country cruising.

Its main drawback lies in the less-than-ideal ergonomics for short and medium-sized people. With my 5-foot-7 frame, the handlebars, rear brake pedal and shifter were too far away and made it more difficult to operate the bike. Gotta get me the right accessory saddle to fix this – again, time and budget!!!

With its excellent engine, generous performance, exquisite style and a level of refinement worthy of the Art Deco era, the Stratoliner raises the bar in the custom cruiser class

Plus
Performance
Handling
Style

Less
Poor ergonomics for shorter, stockier riders with stock saddle
Saddlebag locking mechanism
Turbulence at high speeds