On the Road Hot or cold, the Cyclone s engine lights off almost instantly. In warm weather, the choke can be reduced to half and the bike ridden away in about the time it takes to put on a jacket, helmet and gloves. At idle, the bike shakes like a spark plug wire has fallen off, especially on choke. Once underway, though, the shaking smoothes out, and the pleasing and roarty exhaust note takes over. The bike can cruise comfortably at all legal speeds, and vibration doesn t become objectionable on the road.
Acceleration is strong and immediate, thanks to the midrange grunt.
Engine mods have shifted the powerband above the Sportsters, so the bike will lope and buck at very low rpm. As redline rpm is reached, the ignition timing is retarded, which gives ample indication it s time to shift, without an abrupt power chop. The rear brake doesn t grab very hard, but that s probably good, since the short wheelbase and forward weight bias can unload the back end during hard stops. The Cyclone feels solid and surefooted on the road and likes to carve corners. Handling is light and very sporty for a machine with an engine this heavy.