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Cycling Cruises

Why opting for a cruise is a smart choice

A Santana Adventures bike cruise uses a chartered ship to provide better cycling through multiple regions with luxurious flexibility. On any day you can ride long, short, or not at all.

If you opt not to ride you can stay aboard for the scenic morning cruise or join Sergio for a guided tour by bus. Either way the ship spends late afternoons docked at a fascinating port before traveling up to 150 miles overnight to reach our following day’s adventure.

Imagine the convenience, security, and comfort of returning to the same 5-star resort after each day’s ride, and the excitement of exploring an entirely new region the following day.

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The 12 Best Cruiser Bikes

For traversing state parks or taking a spin down the boardwalk..

In this article

• Best overall
• Best electric
• Best contemporary
• Best rust-resistant
• Best customizable
• Best for the bar crawl
• Best for island time

Spring cycling season is approaching, and the most fun way to enjoy it is on the wide, comfy seat of a cruiser bike. With their coaster brakes and wide handlebars, beach cruisers are intuitive and enjoyable to ride — designed for leisure more than for commuting. Ideal for farmer’s-market trips and bar crawls, they suit casual or anxious cyclists who don’t want or need to invest in high-maintenance hybrid bikes. Nostalgic in look, they come in endless colors and customization options — but if you don’t love a retro aesthetic, many newer brands tone down the ’50s schtick and add modern conveniences like handbrakes, gears, and pedal assist . (If you’re skeptical that a cruiser could, for example, get someone around New York City, consider that 20,000 of them are currently doing just that as part of the Citi Bike program.) Below, find the best cruiser bikes, according to veterans of boardwalks and beach resorts across the country as well as a few inland enthusiasts. While you’re here, I’ve also written guides to the best bicycle helmets for kids and adults .

What we’re looking for

Beach-cruiser bike frames are typically made from either steel or aluminum, the latter being lighter and more durable, albeit pricier. The difference between the two is weight, says Lee Oldak, owner of Amagansett Beach and Bicycle Company , and the fact that aluminum won’t rust quite as quickly. Whatever they’re made from, the best cruiser bikes have a stretched-out, step-through geometry that allows the rider to assume an upright position, or even lean back as they pedal. “Which is a lot more comfortable for your knees and allows you to touch the ground more easily,” says Chelsea Kulp of Long Beach Island’s Shore Brake Cyclery . She adds that riders who haven’t been on a bike for a long time will feel more confident on cruisers.

A poorly designed cruiser bike will have a cramped frame and cheap parts that rust and rattle. For that reason, the experts I spoke with suggested avoiding mass-produced cruisers from brands like Huffy, which Kulp says have a smaller frame that will provide a less relaxed ride. They’re somewhat disposable, being only “meant to last 30 or 40 miles in their entire lifespan.” Rockaway Beach Cycles co-owner Marjorie Grassini agrees: “Those are the ones people end up putting the most money into. They could have had a beautiful, brand-new bike for the same price.”

Classic beach cruisers are single-speed. While this might mean some occasional huffing and puffing, the trade-off is basically never having to service the bike or think much while riding it. Even so, most manufacturers will now allow you to upgrade their cruisers to either three-speed or seven-speed gear systems. Several experts suggested that a few gears are worth the investment if you don’t live in a totally flat area. “People are not keen on going for a single speed unless they’re really quite young,” says Rocky Wood of Bike Palm Springs . “Three to seven gears go a long way, there’s less resistance, and you can cover more ground. It’s a nice plus.” What you choose will ultimately depend on your lifestyle and budget.

Another trademark of beach cruisers is coaster brakes, which require pedaling backwards to stop. Whether or not you’re down to coast is “definitely a generational thing,” according to Wood. “It comes down to how you learned to ride a bike and whether you grew up with a coaster brake — those people tend to stick to that style.” He personally finds it much safer to have two hand brakes on his cruisers, and most of the cruiser bikes recommended here do offer coaster brakes as standard, with hand brakes available as an upgrade. If you’re looking for anything more advanced, a cruiser might not be for you. And keep in mind that the more moving parts a bike has, the more maintenance and know-how is required — which doesn’t necessarily fit into the beach-bum lifestyle. “Some hybrid bikes will have hydraulic brakes, but typically not cruisers, which are oriented towards people not maintaining them,” Kulp explains.

Best cruiser bike overall

Frame: Aluminum | Gears: Seven-speed | Brakes: Hand brakes

Californian brand Electra kicked off a beach-cruiser movement in the late 1990s when it started manufacturing fat-tire bikes that resembled vintage Schwinns. “They came out with these beautiful bikes, beautifully engineered and painted really nice,” recalls Brad K. Evans, founder of  Bike City Mag  and the weekly bar-crawl ride Denver Cruisers, who became a “cruiser guy” during this era. Oldak explains that the Townie is beloved for its clever foot-forward design that’s easily spotted all over the Hamptons. “Typically on a bike you’d have the seat up far enough that there’s only a slight bend in your legs, and you can’t quite touch the ground,” he says. “On the Townie, the seat is positioned behind the pedals so when you’re resting, your feet are flat on the ground.” More of a contemporary cruiser, Townies come with seven-speed Shimano shift gears, as well as pull brakes on both handlebars. I tried one out at my local bike store and found it was as comfortable to ride as it was cute to look at. Compared to a heavier steel frame, the aluminum fork was lightweight yet sturdy and made the bike feel surprisingly nimble. These quintessentially SoCal bikes are the best overall choice for anyone serious about adopting the (extremely unserious) beach-cruiser lifestyle. (Which might explain why they’re the No. 1 selling cruisers at Amagansett Beach and Bicycle and available to guests at both the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach and Hyatt Regency Newport Beach.)

Best less-expensive cruiser bike

Frame: Steel | Gears: Single-, three-, seven-, and 21- speed | Brakes: Coaster brake

Sixthreezero’s Instagram-ready cruisers are relatively affordable and come recommended by Hayley Shaw, co-owner of Newport Beach Bike Rentals . The store’s entire fleet is made up of these cheap and cheerful cruisers, which look great in vacation photos (hers is teal blue). They “have a fabulous crank,” she says of the bikes, meaning you can go farther. Though not as high-end as Electra cruisers, Shaw’s rental bikes have held up well to daily use on flat (yet sometimes rather sandy) bike paths: “Our first fleet lasted about three years. No maintenance , just some oil on the chain, fill up the tires , and wipe her down.” She adds that the bikes, which can be customized up to 21-speed, are surprisingly rust-resistant.

Best electric cruiser bike

Frame: Steel | Gears: Seven-speed | Brakes: Hand brakes

If you have bad knees or plan on biking off-boardwalk, a pedal-assisted cruiser bike might help. Alix Umen, co-owner of the Starlite Motel in Kerhonkson, New York, fell in love with Retrospec’s Beaumont electric cruiser while on a beach vacation — so she ended up purchasing a fleet for guests to use when exploring state parks and swimming holes. The bike’s battery is discreet, and its aesthetic is still “modern retro” enough to match the motel’s lovingly restored rooms. Plus, the pedal assist comes in handy on rail trails and back roads. Umen was a newbie to electric bikes and says Retrospec’s ones are great for beginners. “There’s not much to it, and the batteries charge in a couple of hours. I’m totally obsessed with them now.” She notes that the bikes have luggage racks that make it easy to haul a suitcase — or packed picnic — around.

Best colorful cruiser bike

Frame: Steel | Gears: Single-speed | Brakes: Coaster brake

Several experts mentioned Retrospec’s relatively affordable nonelectric cruiser bikes. They’re a best seller at Rockaway Beach Cycles, as well as the stars of the store’s rental fleet. Grassini explains that customers are immediately drawn to the brand’s vintage styling and enjoy customizing their rides with baskets , banana seats , and other accessories. “We get people who come in here and fall in love with the color of a bike,” she adds. “Especially one customer who buys everything red — we call him Mr. Red.”

Best fat tyre cruiser bike

Frame: Aluminum | Gears: Single-speed | Brakes: Coaster brake

Retrospec’s attractive beach cruisers are also beloved at Beachside Bike Rental in Redondo Beach, where owner Isaac Huerta says that their good looks always draw in customers. Aesthetics aside, “they’re super comfortable, especially as the seats are wide and cushioned.” He prefers the brand’s upgraded Chatham Plus bike to the entry-level model above, as it comes with wider tires and a lightweight aluminum frame as opposed to heavy steel. He also points out the bike does have stainless-steel spokes, which will hold up best against rust, and praises its no-slip grips and unusually solid kickstand. “The price is great for a very reliable bike,” he says. One note: Huerta has observed that some of Retrospec’s women’s cruiser bikes (notably in the pink colorway) lack a quick-release clamp on their seat posts. This means that you’ll need an Allen key to adjust the seat up and down, which is an inconvenience few riders will want to put up with. Luckily, he says, these quick-release clamps are affordable and easy to install yourself.

Best retro cruiser bike

If you really want to lean into — or rather, lean back into — a vintage aesthetic, Tuesday’s bikes are the cruisers of choice at Bike Palm Springs , where they feature in photos backdropped by retro motels and pools once swum in by Frank Sinatra. “A lot of influencers have reached out to us because of the style of the bikes,” Wood says, adding that he’s noticed that the cruisers are mostly for tourists coming to explore architecture and see the sights. Still, when it comes to any bike, looks aren’t everything — and he’s found that the Tuesdays can withstand “a good amount of wear and tear,” as well as that punishing desert heat.

Best contemporary cruiser bike

Californian brand Linus goes slightly more minimalist with its European-style Dutchi cruisers. While these bikes still have that sloping, step-through frame, their tubes are thinner and sleeker than those of other cruisers. The colors are a little more Pantone. “People see them and just want to ride,” says Matt Wright, general manager of the Skyview Los Alamos , Hotel Ynez Solvang , and the Granada Hotel in San Luis Obispo . Linus bikes are available to rent for guests who want to pedal their way around wine country at all three resorts, where they’re a hit. “People immediately start taking pictures before they go down the hill,” Wright adds. Speaking of hills, these cruisers can be upgraded to three-speed for added efficiency.

Best rust-resistant cruiser bike

Frame: Aluminum | Gears: Three-speed | Brakes: Coaster and hand brake

Constructed from ultralight aluminum with sealed bearings to fend off salty air, the Priority Coast is a preppy cruiser that brings to mind coastal New England. You’ll find a fleet of these three-speed bikes at the White Elephant hotel in Nantucket’s historic downtown, where they’re beloved by staff and guests alike. “They don’t have a chain, they have a belt — so they’re just very easy to maintain with not a lot of parts,” explains the hotel’s managing director Bettina Landt. “I’ve never seen any of them rust, and rust is one of our biggest enemies on the island.” She says guests love the nostalgia of pedaling the bikes around cobbled beach paths at their own pace: “It’s not for the avid biker, necessarily, it’s more that leisurely cruise.”

Best customizable cruiser bike

Frame: Aluminum | Gears: Three- and seven- speed | Brakes: Coaster and hand brake

Vivelo’s La Donna is deliberately eye-catching. Think Miami’s Wynwood Walls but in bike form. Fully customizable, from the fork to the rims, these rainbow-hued bikes are handcrafted in the Florida capital’s art district by a small and dedicated team. Hudson Yards–based influencer Diana Ossers received hers as a gift from her husband, who customized it in her favorite colors and even had the company engrave their anniversary date on the bike’s frame. She says that her cruiser sparks constant compliments and conversations when she takes it down the West Side Highway or pedals to the flower market. “It’s an attention bike. Everyone looks at you.”

Best cruiser bike for the boardwalk

Frame: Steel | Gears: Single speed | Brakes: Coaster brake

During a two-year stint living in Venice Beach, lifestyle blogger Kat Jamieson couldn’t help but notice that all the locals were getting around “on these amazing Solé cruiser bikes,” which feature a Dutch-style step-through frame that’s a little more subtle in its retro stylings. She picked one up for herself to explore her new neighborhood, often encountering the company’s founders (a group of “down-to-earth Californian guys”) when pedaling around. “I was looking for a neutral color, a beach cruiser I could ride on the boardwalk at night and to the beach during the day,” she says. “The style, the quality, the price was right.” Jamieson has since moved to Connecticut, and her Solé bike came too — she recently purchased one for her husband too.

Best cruiser bike for the bar crawl

Evans has quite the collection of single-speed bikes, but he says his favorite is this “old-school” cruiser. He’ll take his out on Thursday-night social rides in Denver, and loves the bike for its combination of functionality and classic, slightly rockabilly good looks. “It’s super retro [with] the arched dual crossbar,” he says. “It’s affordable, really sturdy, and easy to ride — feels like an old bike, but it’s brand-new.” In his past life as a bike-shop owner, he says he sold hundreds of Huntington cruisers “because they’re so slick and cheap.” You can expect your Huntington Beach bike to last a while, and should any maintenance or repairs eventually be required, Evans adds that the cost of parts is reasonable.

Best cruiser bike for island time

Frame: Steel frame | Gears: Single speed | Brakes: Coaster brake

If you’re taking your beach cruiser to, well, the beach, Sun bikes was a brand mentioned by all the boardwalk experts we spoke with. “They’re built for a salt environment,” says Kulp of the “very traditional-style cruiser.” Sun’s cruisers are “really, really well-built bikes,” agrees Rocio Cabas of Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals and Tours on Governors Island. “They just last.” Sun-cruiser bikes are popular in Key West, where Eaton Bikes owner Chris Wild says they are the “mainstay” of his sales. “They come in gear options and lots of colors, a lot of which look and feel very tropical,” he says. “We sold three just today.”

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Our experts

• Rocio Cabas, manager, Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals and Tours • Brad K. Evans, founder, Denver Rides and Bike City Mag • Marjorie Grassini, co-owner, Rockaway Beach Cycles • Isaac Huerta, owner, Beachside Bike Rental Redondo Beach • Kat Jamieson, lifestyle blogger and influencer • Chelsea Kulp, co-owner, Shore Brake Cyclery • Bettina Landt, managing director, White Elephant Nantucket • Lee Oldak, owner, Amagansett Beach and Bicycle Company • Diana Ossers, lifestyle blogger and influencer • Hayley Shaw, co-owner, Newport Beach Bike Rentals • Alix Umen, co-owner, Starlite Motel • Chris Wild, owner, Eaton Bikes • Rocky Wood, owner, Bike Palm Springs • Matt Wright, general manager, Skyview Los Alamos , Hotel Ynez Solvang , Granada Hotel San Luis Obispo

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What Is a Cruiser Bike?

An Introduction to Cruiser Bikes

If you’ve been on the beachfront and seen cyclists cruising along on bicycles that look like the one above, then chances are you’ve seen a cruiser bike!

In this short guide, I’ll teach you everything there is to know about cruiser bikes and answer all of your questions including what is a cruiser bike? what are the benefits of riding a cruiser bike? and who are cruiser bikes suitable for?

Ready to become a cruiser bike expert? Let’s get into it.

What is a Cruiser Bike?

A cruiser bike, often referred to as a beach cruiser, is a popular style of bike designed specifically for recreational and comfortable cycling. One of the notable features that defines a cruiser bike, causing it to stand out against other bikes, is the relaxed riding position the frame’s geometry provides.

Elements contributing to cruisers increased comfort include a low extra-large saddle, wide raised handlebars and a long wheelbase.

The wide and durable balloon-style tyres cruiser bikes use also make for a more stable and enjoyable ride.

Cruiser bikes maintain a fairly simple design that does not require any complex parts or equipment. They boast strong frames, a pleasant aesthetic, and most utilize a single-speed drivetrain with a coaster brake.

Over the years as cruisers have reemerged, the range available has expanded with some cruisers now featuring brake levers and gear systems.

What Is a Cruiser Bike Used For?

Cruiser bikes are designed to be used solely for recreational cycling. As their nickname “beach cruiser” suggests, the cruiser bike is noteworthy as an excellent option to ride along the beach.

Their durable and balanced nature can withstand the unsteady surfaces of beautiful sandy beaches and trails, provided that the ground is relatively flat and without many large hills.

The terrains of beach boardwalks, sidewalks, and paved roads are also optimal for cruisers. Cruiser bikes are used for easy and short-distance daily commuting and leisurely cruising.

If you like cycling at a slow pace and soaking up the sun, a cruiser would serve you well.

Recap - What Is a Cruiser Bike?

A cruiser bike, also referred to as a motobike or a beach cruiser is a bicycle that promotes an upright riding position thanks to the geometry of its frame.

Cruiser bikes utilise wide, flared handlebars, fat ‘balloon tyres’, single-speed drivetrains, large padded saddles and coaster brakes. Combined, these features make riding a cruiser a comfortable, stress-free experience.

The History of Cruiser Bikes

Cruiser bikes have been around for decades and made their first appearance in the 1930s, during the Great Depression era of the United States.

Frank W. Schwinn was one of the pioneers who helped shape the cruiser bikes we ride today. Schwinn was inspired to create a bicycle that was more durable and affordable than existing bikes on the market, this would allow him to open up a new portion of the market and compete with industry competitors.

Due to the economic downfall of the Great Depression, the early Schwinn cruisers were a success and became a popular choice for individuals that required cheap, yet efficient transportation methods. 

Throughout their tortuous lifetime in the biking world, the cruiser bike’s popularity has fluctuated significantly. The 1950s decade was perhaps one of the most renowned eras for the cruiser bike’s popularity[1].

As more competitor bike companies manufactured the cruiser model, these stylish bikes were developed to be more and more adept for beach riding. This contributed to their popularity as a staple for tourists and beach enthusiasts alike.

How Have Cruiser Bikes Progressed Over the Years?

Although there was a decline in usage in the 1960s after more lightweight bikes reached and became more popular within the marketplace ranks, cruiser bikes have been steadily resurfacing in popularity since the 1970s [2].

In the present day, inexperienced cyclists immediately find cruisers enjoyable, due to their ease of use and lack of complex parts. Many older cyclists return to cruiser bikes to reminisce of the stylish bicycles from their childhood and to enjoy the more relaxed riding position they offer!

Cruiser Bike Anatomy & Components

The frame of a cruiser bike is instantly recognisable due to its sloping, curved tubes which make it comparable to a classic 50’s Schwinn bicycle.

Unlike most bikes which use a triangular frame, most cruisers have a curved top tube which travels downwards from the head tube and joins the top or middle of the seat tube, which is often shorter than normal.

The short seat tube means the saddle is low down compared to the handlebars, which seats the rider a comfortable, upright position when cycling. 

Some cruiser bikes also feature an additional tube which normally runs along from the middle of the seat tube to the headtube. This provides extra strength for the frame, and increases the usable lifespan of the bike. 

Until recently steel was the most commonly used material to build cruiser bike frames with, which is why old classic cruisers are exceptionally heavy!

More recently, aluminium-framed cruisers have entered the market and have become increasingly popular due to their lower cost and decreased weight. 

Another distinguishing feature of a cruiser bike is its wheels and tyres.

The tyres a cruiser bike uses are often referred to as “balloon tyres”, due to their large round profile when inflated. These tyres are normally 2.125″ wide or in some cases 1.9″. 

The thicker tyres used by cruiser bikes provide a smooth and comfortable ride and soften the impact of any lumps and bumps you ride over. 

In the 1970’s cruiser bikes were used by daring cyclists to descend down the canyons and ridges of California. They chose cruisers as their weapon of choice because their large balloon tyres helped to cushion the impact of lumps and jumps on the way down hillsides.

The riders were unaware at the time, but this movement was one of the early footsteps towards the development of mountain bikes. 

Whilst daredevils of the past have taken cruisers onto extreme terrain, I would advise against this.

Another reason why cruisers were chosen for this type of riding, is that at the time they could be bought second hand for peanuts! This meant when they eventually broke from being beaten around, it wasn’t a substantial loss for the rider. Clever.

The wheels a cruiser uses can drastically vary in appearance, some cruiser wheels can be found with 140 spokes per wheel! This provides a stylish finish and super strong wheels. Whilst others use a more modest 36 spokes. 

Also, because most cruiser bikes use coaster brakes, the majority of wheels you find on these bikes don’t have a braking surface.

The long flared handlebars a cruiser bike uses are one of the main reasons why these bikes are so comfortable.

The stem of a cruiser bike lifts the handlebars higher than on the majority of other bicycles. This elevated position provides a better posture for the rider, decreasing strain on the spine and upper body.

The handlebars of a cruiser bike are totally different from what you’d find on a BMX , gravel or mountain bike.

These bikes are used for competitive cycling disciplines which means their handlebars provide more precise steering and better aerodynamics, whereas cruiser bike’s bars are solely built for comfort and a relaxed riding position.

The upright riding position that these handlebars provide helps to make cruiser bikes a feasible option for less confident and elderly cyclists!

As we’ve already covered, cruiser bikes traditionally use a different braking system to most other bicycles. The majority of bike breaks are operated by a hand lever, which is attached to the handlebars.

However, most cruisers don’t feature brake leavers and instead use a component called a coaster brake.

Coaster brakes are a special type of rear hub which allows the wheels of a bike to roll freely, without the pedals turning. Hence the word “coaster”. When a rider pedals backwards the coaster brakes are activated causing the bike to come to a stop.

Coaster brakes tend to be single speed, but some internally geared hubs feature a coaster brake.

Unlike other brake types, coaster breaks work well in all weather conditions and require less maintenance than other brakes.

If you’ve never ridden a bike with coaster breaks before, make sure you practice before hitting the road! It won’t be long before you’ve mastered them and you’ll be safer whilst riding.

Most cruiser bikes use a single speed gear system, similar to what you’d find on some fixed-gear and BMX bikes.

This means whilst riding the majority of cruiser bikes, you won’t have access to a range of gears. 

Whilst this may sound like an inconvenience, you don’t need to maintain a single speed gear system as much as a multi-speed system. Furthermore, one set gear ratio works perfectly for bikes designed to be ridden on flat roads and paths.

Where cruiser bikes have become more popular, they can also be found with multi-speed gearing. 

The popular bike brand SixThreeZero produce a variety of cruiser bikes, which are available with 1,3,7 or 21 gears! 

Who Should Use a Cruiser Bike?

Ultimately, cruiser bikes are suitable for any cyclist looking to enjoy a slower-paced, comfortable, enjoyable bike ride!

If you’re a cyclist that likes to roll around town and enjoy the sights or roll along the beachfront, a cruiser bike will be a great choice!

Their extra padded saddles and wider flared handlebars make cruisers suitable for those who are looking to promote good posture and core strength.

Due to their relaxed riding position cruiser bikes are also suitable for older riders or those with injuries which cause discomfort with traditional upright cycling.

Smaller cruiser bikes are also available for younger children, make sure they wear a helmet!

Who Shouldn't Use a Cruiser Bike?

While nearly anyone embarking on a relaxing ride would enjoy a cruiser bike, they are not the ideal bike for every type of cyclist.

Cruiser bikes are not suitable for long-distance cyclists looking for a bike to take them on an intense ride.

Whilst they’re quite durable, cruiser bikes do not perform optimally on undulating terrain due to the majority of them having one gear. Without multiple gear setting options, challenging uphill rides can become very tiresome and the geometry of a cruiser simply isn’t designed for hill climbs or descents.

Any competitive cyclist looking for an effective workout is best left with a more versatile bike such as a road bike or gravel bike .

Whilst cruiser bikes might offer individuals light exercise benefits, their design is mainly for enjoyment and not as suitable for intense exercise or competitive sport!

Different Types of Cruiser Bike

Whilst cruiser bikes are typically very similar, there are several different cruiser sub-types available. 

The main difference between the types of cruiser listed below is their frame geometry. A difference in frame shape and size changes the feel and comfort of a bike whilst riding, so picking the right one is important!

Classic/Beach Cruiser Bikes

Classic/Beach Cruisers are the most common type of cruiser bike. The classic cruiser sits its rider in an upright position with the saddle being positioned above the pedals.

Classic cruisers bikes have a similar geometry to hybrid bicycles but provide thicker ‘balloon tyres’ for increased comfort. 

If you want to commute to work on your cruiser a classic cruiser is your best bet. These offer more space than other cruiser variants for pannier racks and bikebags.

Low Rider Cruiser Bikes

Like other cruiser sub-types, low rider cruisers take inspiration from early Schwinn Stingray bicycles. Their frames hover just above the ground, which means the saddle is normally positioned very low down, hence the name!

These bikes accentuate the features of a cruiser bike and are built for looks and comfort. On a low rider, the saddle (often banana shape) is situated between the wheels rather than above (as with classic cruisers), this means the pedals are positioned in front of the rider similar to a recumbent bike.

Low rider cruiser bikes are similar to stretch cruisers but provide slightly less clearance beneath the crank arms. 

The majority of low riders also use long, vertically rising handlebars which are similar to the bars a chopper uses. Low rider bars can range from 9″ to 25″ in height, shorter bars being suitable for smaller framed bicycles.

Whilst this is still a cruiser bike, some riders may find the riding position less comfortable than a classic beach cruiser. 

Stretch Cruiser Bikes

Stretch cruisers are very similar in geometry to low rider cruisers, which can often lead people to get confused between the two.

The main difference between the two is the exaggerated length of a stretch cruiser. These bikes have a longer wheelbase which provides increased stability when handling corners and sharp turns.

The stretched frame leads to a slight increase in handlebar reach which, demanding a more flexible rider than a classic cruiser.

Chopper Cruiser Bikes

Chopper cruisers imitate the design of chopper motorcycle and are therefore a popular choice amongst children who are aspiring motorcyclists. 

Chopper cruisers sometimes feature ape hanger handlebars which elevate the rider’s arms much higher than with stretch and low ride cruisers.

The saddle of a chopper cruiser bicycle is often found above or just in front of the rear wheel, which means a rider’s legs will reach forwards rather than downwards with a classic cruiser. 

What's the Difference Between Men's and Women's Cruiser Bikes?

As with the majority of men’s and women’s bicycles, the main difference you’ll find with gender orientated cruiser bikes is the frame geometry.

Typically women’s cruiser bikes have a lower top tube, whilst some have none at all. This lower top tube provides a ‘step-through’ frame, which was traditionally designed to allow women to wear a longer skirt or dress whilst cycling.

The removal or reduction in height of the top tube does impact the overall strength of the frame on a women’s bike, but it also makes them slightly more comfortable to ride as you won’t have to lift your leg as high to mount the saddle.

Men’s cruiser bikes tend to have a top tube which slopes upwards from the top/middle of the seat-tube towards the top of the headtube. This increases the strength of the frame, but makes mounting the bike slightly more difficult.

Whilst bike frames are traditionally gender orientated, riders can choose to ride either. A ‘step-through’ frame is very practical for less athletic and less flexible cyclists.

Cruiser Bike vs Hybrid Bike

Whilst cruiser bikes and hybrid bikes do have some similarities, there are several factors which makes these bikes suitable for completely different cycling disciplines.

As I’ve established, the majority of cruiser bicycles use a single speed gear system, which means tackling hills on cruisers can be challenging.

Hybird bikes tend to have multi speed gear systems which traditionally offer 7 to 27 (sometimes more) speeds. This makes them more suitable for a variety of cycling pursuits and more capable of reaching a higher speed.

Because cruisers tend to be heavier, they’re only really suitable for flat ground, where as a hybrid takes the majority of its inspiration from road and mountain bikes, so is capable of tackling a much wider range of terrains

If you commute to work by bike, a hybrid will probably be the more suitable choice, regardless of the route you take. Hybrids have decent off-roading capabilities thanks to their strong frames and tyres with increased tread, but can also cope well on the tarmac too!

What Competitions/Events are Cruiser Bikes Used In?

Perhaps one of the most unique aspects of a cruiser bike is that it is not used in any competitive landscape.

The only place you’d race a cruiser is along the beachfront with your friends. Whilst you could eventually build up a reasonable speed, the overall design doesn’t work well for racing or stunts.

If you enjoy cycling at a leisurely pace along flat roads or bike paths, then a cruiser will serve you well. Otherwise, if you’re looking for speed and adrenaline, a BMX or a gravel bike will be a better choice! 

Benefits of Cruiser Bikes

The popularity of the cruiser bike is easily understood, as they offer many benefits to their riders.

Cruiser bikes are a subtype of comfort bikes. With a single-gear option, you won’t have to fiddle around with gears and they and won’t require advanced maintenance.

When used as designed, on flatter terrain, riders do not have to worry about exerting a significant cardiovascular output.

Cruiser bikes can be picked up at a very reasonable price thanks to their reduced number of components. This will also save you money in the long run as having a cruiser bike serviced will normally be cheaper than your average conventional bicycle!

Riders of cruiser bikes often choose to customise their ride with colourful components such as handlebar streamers. This gives your cruiser bike unique style and personality, which would also help to make it easier to find if your bike were stolen !

Risks Associated with Cruiser Bikes

Fortunately, cruiser bikes do not come with a long list of risks as they are relatively safe bikes suited for all ages and fitness levels.

Because these bikes are so sturdy, they tend to be heavier and slightly bulky, this means you won’t normally be travelling at high speeds, reducing the risks of injury if an accident occurred.

One hazard that cruiser bikes pose is the challenge of coaster brakes. Coaster brakes require the rider to pedal backward to stop the bike, a design many riders may be unfamiliar with if they are already accustomed to other bike styles.

To prevent this being an issue, make sure you learn to use the coaster break before taking your cruiser bike onto busy roads or paths.

Otherwise, adding a break leaver to your cruiser can be a good additional safety feature.

Whilst these bikes could be used to commute, they are hard to accelerate on so bear this in mind and don’t put yourself into challenging situations when mixing with traffic!

Environmental Impact of Using a Cruiser Bike

Riding a cruiser bike helps alleviate traffic in densely populated cities, which in turn reduces smog production and reliance on fossil fuels.

If your commute does not include steep hills or uneven terrain, a cruiser bike can be an excellent alternative to a motorized vehicle.

The ability to add a basket or saddlebag storage to a cruiser bike allows riders to carry belongings, even further promoting its use as a mode of transportation.

Does A Cruiser Bike Require Anything to Keep Functioning?

One of the benefits of cruiser bikes is that they do not generally require a great deal of maintenance.

These bikes need little beyond regular maintenance, such as oiling the chain and replacing the tyres when the tread has worn down.

As I already covered, if you don’t know how to maintain a bike yourself, a local bike shop will be happy to assist for a reasonable price!

Does the Cruiser Bike Require a Special Area to be Ridden?

Cruiser bikes are simple bikes, not meant for rough or challenging terrain. To properly enjoy a cruiser bike, you’ll want to stick to the flattest, smoothest trails.

Beach riding, boardwalks, pavement, or flat dirt roads are most accessible to cruiser bikes.

What to Wear When Riding a Cruiser Bike

Considering cruiser bikes are primarily found on beaches and simple riding commutes, the clothing options are open to interpretation.

Any loose-fitting and comfortable clothing you would already be wearing on a beachy vacation or weekend outing will suffice.

Otherwise, if you’re commuting on a cruiser, wear whatever you fancy!

I always advise the use of a helmet, especially if you choose to ride a cruiser bike model with coasting brakes and a single-gear. 

What Accessories are Recommended When Using a Cruiser Bike?

The brilliant thing about cruiser bikes is that they have many exciting options for accessories and added features.

Many people are familiar with a beach cruiser’s iconic image adorned with a straw basket and handlebar streamers. Decorations are commonly added to give cruiser bikes a beachy aesthetic.

A few of the popular cruiser bike accessories include a bell, basket and handlebar grips. Commuters have been known to add saddlebags to carry belongings or groceries.

Gears are a more complex accessory but can be installed on a cruiser bike if desired. This feature will allow for adjustments in effort and resistance, permitting the rider to travel up hills or uneven terrain more easily.

Installation by a professional is typically recommended as gear systems are a complex component.

A cruiser cyclist can easily add front or rear hand brakes to their bike for additional safety and ease of use.

These supplemental brakes involve a hand lever on the handlebar, which controls a calliper on the tyre, causing it to slow down. Hand brakes can be installed by the bike owner or with the help of a professional.

Conclusion - What Is a Cruiser Bike?

So there you have it, a complete guide to cruiser bikes. Hopefully, I’ve answered all of your cruiser related questions, but if not feel free to leave a comment below!

You should now understand who cruiser bikes are suitable for and the benefits they offer for their riders. 

If you’re considering buying a new cruiser bike, don’t forget to get yourself a good quality bike lock to go with it!

If you’re on a tighter budget I’ve reviewed the best budget bike locks here.

Thanks for reading, as always, lock it or lose it!

Ciao for now

[1] https://www.schwinnbikes.com/pages/about [2] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-08-15/the-california-beach-cruiser-built-a-bike-movement

Author of This Post:

James Grear (Lead Editor)

Understanding how devastating it is to have a bike stolen, I've researched & immersed myself in the world of bicycle security since 2013.

I then built BikeLockWiki in 2019 to share everything I'd learned with the worldwide cycling community so that cyclists can improve their bike security skills and make informed decisions when purchasing new products and services.

Learn More about Me & BikeLockWiki here .

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4 responses.

Very good information about cruiser bikes covered everything required to know the difference .

Thanks for your feedback. I’m glad you found this information helpful!

My hubby just got me this bike on Monday, 13th June and I absolutely fell in love it with. It is classic and I love the upright sit posture.

Awesome! Glad you’re enjoying it. What make is it?

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1-24 of 331 results for "Complete Cruiser Bikes"

Schwinn Destiny and Baywood Beach Cruiser Bike, for Adult Men Women Boys Girls Ages 8 and Up, Single Speed Drivetrain, Rear Rack Ready, 24 or 26 Inch Wheels Options

• Rated 4+ stars
• Purchased often
• Returned infrequently

sixthreezero Around The Block Women's Beach Cruiser Bike

YITAHOME 24 & 26 Inch Beach Cruiser Bike for Women, 1 & 7 Speed Commute Bike for Adults, Womens Bicycle with Adjustable Seat, Multiple Color

More results.

Huffy Cruiser Bike, Fairmont or Woodhaven Model, 20/24/26 Inch Sizes, Perfect for Casual Rides, Ergonomic Upright Design, Fenders Prevent Spray, Rear Rack and Basket Available, Simple Coaster Brakes

Schwinn Sanctuary 7 Comfort Beach Cruiser Bike for Adult Women Men, 7-Speed Drivetrain in Retro-Styled Steel Step-Through or Step-Over Frame, 26-Inch Wheels, With Front & Rear Fenders, Rear Cargo Rack

Schwinn Gammon Cruiser Bike, For Men and Women, Single Speed, 26-Inch Wheels, Retro-Styled Frame, Rear Coaster Brake, Black

Viribus Womens Bike, 7 Speed Bike for Adults Women 24 26 inch with Ratten Basket & Rack, Beach Cruiser Bike for Women, Womens Bicycle for Commuting, Step Through City Bikes for Women Adults Ladies

Schwinn Huron Beach Cruiser Bike for Adult Men & Women, 1/3/7-Speed Options, 26-Inch Wheels, 17 or 18-Inch Step-Over Steel Frame, Full Front & Rear Fenders, Vintage Inspired Classic Cruiser Handlebar

26-Inch Beach Cruiser Bike Wheels Single-Speed Coaster Brakewith Rear Basket, Recommended Height 5'3" to 6'2", Suitable for Men, Women, and Teens

Kulana Hiku Cruiser Beach Bike, Men and Women, Boys and Girls, 24 or 26-Inch Wheels, Single-Speed, Stylish Steel Step-Thru or Step-Over Frame, Suggested Rider Height 4'8" to 6'2" Tall

Viribus Beach Cruiser Bike for Women, Womens Bike 24 26 inch, Cruiser Bike with Basket 1 Speed, Bicycle Bike for Short Women, Step Through Bike, Commuting Bike, Adult Bicycles for Women

ACEGER 24 26 Inch Women Beach Cruiser Bike, Single Speed and 7 Speed, Adult Hybrid Bike Commuter Bicycle, Hi-Ten Steel Frame with Adjustable Handlebar and Saddle, Multiple Colors

Schwinn Perla Adult Beach Cruiser Bike, Men and Women, 18-Inch Step-Through Steel Frame, 26-Inch Wheels, 7-Speed Twist Shifters, Rear Rack, Front and Rear Fenders

Huffy Beach Cruiser Bike

sixthreezero Around The Block Men Beach Cruiser Bike, 1/3/7/21 Speed Bicycles, 26"/24" Wheels, Multiple Colors

26 Inch Beach Cruiser Bike for Women, Hybrid Cruiser Bike with 7 Speed, Adjustable Seat, Lightweight Women Beach Cruiser Bike with Anti-Skid Tires, V-Brakes, Multi Colors

Beach Cruiser Bike for Women, 24 Inch Bikes for Women, 7 Speed Complete Cruiser Bikes Womens Bicycle for Adults, Dual V-Brake and Adjustable Seat

Firmstrong Urban Lady Beach Cruiser Bicycle

sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women's Beach Cruiser Bike, Step-Through Touring Hybrid Bicycle

WEIZE Beach Cruiser Bike, 26 inch Commuter Bicycle for Adult Men and Women, 7-Speed/High-Carbon Steel/Front & Rear Fenders, Comfortable City Bikes with Rear Rack or Basket, Ergonomic Upright Design

Schwinn Mikko Beach Cruiser Bike for Adult Men and Women, 1/3/7-Speed Twist Shifter Options, 26-Inch Wheels, 17-Inch Steel Frames, Full Front & Rear Fenders, Vintage Inspired Classic Cruiser Handlebar

ACEGER 26 Inch Women Beach Cruiser Bike, Single Speed and 7 Speed, Adult Hybrid Bike Commuter Bicycle, Hi-Ten Steel Frame with Adjustable Handlebar and Saddle, Multiple Colors

Tracer Taha Hybrid Beach Cruiser 7 Speed Steel Frame Men's Bicycle with 26 Inch Whitewall Tires, Wide Grip, and Soft Tower Seat, Matte Grey

Salty Dog Gravity Aluminum Beach Cruiser Single Speed Bicycle (White, Ladies)

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15 Best Cruiser Bikes to Hit the Road in Style

Wander through our list of the 15 best cruiser bikes to find your perfect ride and hit the road in style.

Key Takeaways

• Comfort and style are paramount in cruiser bikes, offering relaxed seating, stylish designs, and classic features.
• Durability and performance are crucial, with sturdy frames, smooth gear shifting, quality tires, and reliability.
• Consider factors like assembly ease, safety features, frame materials, wheel size, brake systems, and speed options.
• Additional features like baskets, electric bike upgrades, and premium components enhance the cruiser biking experience.

26” Beach Cruiser Bike for Men & Women, 7-Speed Cruiser Bicycle

• 【Desirable Bicycle Dimension】 Our cruiser bike has a size: 73”L*26”W*40”H, equipped with 26” wheels and adjustable bike seat, which is suitable for adults of all height. The existence of the rear frame allows you to carry more things. Riding a beach bike like this is sure to turn

• Versatile 7-speed drivetrain for various riding experiences
• Dual V-brakes provide safety during adventures
• Adjustable seat suitable for all adults
• Assembly required, although 85% is already done

sixthreezero EVRYjourney Womens Bike

• Step-through aluminum city frame 7-speed hybrid touring, urban commuting, and cruiser bike with matching full fenders, and 26" wheels
• Shimano 7-speed External Derailleur with front and rear handbrakes Alloys for wide range of riding from leisure to long distance commutes
• Brown synthetic leather comfy saddle and grips with
• Comfortable soft foam seat
• Attractive color scheme with mint green and brown accents
• Solid construction with ample storage options and multiple gears
• Assembly can be challenging

Kulana Hiku Cruiser Beach Bike for Men, Women, Boys, and Girls

• Classic beach cruiser, 18-inch steel step-over frame and fork offers a smooth ride, recommended for riders between 5'4" to 6'2" in height
• Single-speed drivetrain offers simplified riding and easy maintenance
• Classic swept-back handlebars allow for a comfortable upright riding position, while the cruiser spring seat helps to cushion
• Sturdy 18-inch steel frame and fork for a smooth ride.
• Comfortable upright riding position with swept-back handlebars and a cruiser spring seat.
• Rear coaster brake for intuitive stopping and front and rear fenders for added style and cleanliness.
• Some users reported issues with packaging and missing parts.

Ktaxon Women's Beach Cruiser Bike with Premium Derailleur & High-Carbon Steel Frame (Pink)

• 【PROFESSIONAL 7-SPEED SHIFTING SYSTEM】The TZ500 derailleur and RS35-7R shift lever allow you to switch gears with smoothness. The powerful V brakes provide a more sensitive braking response to ensure your safety.
• 【COMFORTABLE RIDING EXPERIENCE】Made of faux leather, our widened seat can be loaded evenly while riding, which is
• Professional 7-speed shifting system for smooth rides
• Widened faux leather seat for added comfort
• Adjustable seat suitable for various age groups
• Minor issues reported with gear settings

sixthreezero Around The Block Womens Beach Cruiser Bike

• Classic, curvy women's beach cruiser bicycle with 17-inch durable steel frame; ideal for casual, comfortable riding around the neighborhood
• Upright riding style keeps your back and shoulders comfortable; dual-spring saddle and wide cruiser handlebar with foam grips
• Single-speed bike great for cruising on flat terrain; pedal-backwards coaster brakes
• Comfortable upright riding style
• Sturdy steel frame construction
• Rear rack for accessories
• Limited to flat terrain due to single-speed design

Retrospec Cane Woven Rectangular Toto Basket with Leather Straps

• Our Toto baskets are woven with durable cane to stay strong day in and day out
• Rectangular shape influenced by the century-old Nantucket Lightship baskets
• Adjustable authentic leather straps with brass buckles attach basket to front handlebars without tools
• Vintage-inspired design adds a unique aesthetic appeal to your bike.
• Adjustable leather straps with brass buckles for easy handlebar attachment.
• Wide opening suitable for carrying various items like shopping bags and textbooks.
• Some users have reported concerns about durability, including sagging and tearing.

Schwinn Destiny & Baywood Beach Cruiser Bike for Adults and Youth

• 24-inch wheels ideal for riders 4’8” to 5’6 tall and ages 8 and up, comes with limited lifetime for as long as you own the bike
• Steel cruiser bike frame with classic cruiser handlebar for comfort and style, perfect for riding to school or around the park with
• Stylish design with a choice of 24 or 26-inch wheels.
• Steel frame and single-speed drivetrains for durability and ease of use.
• Rear rack for cargo adds functionality to the bike.
• Some assembly required, tools not included.

Hyper Adult Beach Cruiser Bike Men 26 Inch (Black)

• VINTAGE CRUISER BIKE WITH A COMFORTABLE RIDE. The Hyper Commute features a 26 inch sturdy steel frame and fork with a black finish, lightweight alloy wheels, wheel guards, perfect for cruising your favorite spot.
• CRUISE CITY STREETS COLLEGE CAMPUSES OR BEACHES ON OUR COMPLETE CRUISER BIKES. The Hyper
• Sturdy steel vintage frame for durability
• Oversize comfort seat and wide swept-back handlebars for a relaxed riding experience
• Lightweight alloy wheels for enhanced maneuverability
• Some concerns about loose frame and durability after use

Sixthreezero Men's Beach Cruiser Bike, Matte Black

• BEACH CRUISER BIKE FOR MEN: Versatile men's touring hybrid commuter bicycle with a sleek 19 inch steel frame; perfect for cruise, leisure, commute, and casual to up-tempo rides across multiple types of terrain; can hold riders up to 300 lbs, fits riders from 5 to 6 feet tall
• Durable steel frame and stylish design
• Comfortable upright riding style with dual-spring saddle
• Easy-to-use pedal-backwards coaster brakes
• Limited to one speed

Schwinn Huron Adult Beach Cruiser Bike

• Cruiser bicycle is perfect for leisurely neighborhood rides, at the beach, or through town, with a frame designed to accommodate riders 5'4" to 6'2" in height
• Single-speed drivetrain beach hybrid cruiser bikes that are perfect for flat and easygoing trail rides, with front and rear fenders to provide
• Durable steel frame in a vintage cruiser style.
• Comfortable upright riding position with cruiser handlebar and padded saddle.
• Intuitive rear coaster brake for confident stopping.
• Some users may encounter assembly issues and quality control problems.

Viribus Women's Cruiser Bike with Basket, 24" 26" Beach Cruiser for Short Women

• GET OUT THERE! This women’s bike by Viribus is the perfect way to travel in style and safety; it has a combination of a retro look inspired by comfort bikes and modern features, making it a unique beach & city cruiser bicycle that stands out from the crowd.
• Stylish retro design with modern features.
• Durable carbon steel frame with premium rubber tires for strong traction.
• Custom comfort features for an enjoyable ride experience.
• Limited to a single-speed ATA cassette.

Huffy Fairmont

• Ideal for ages 13 and up and a minimum rider height of 5 feet; Huffy's exclusive Perfect Fit frame makes this the most comfortable bike you'll ever ride
• This design delivers more comfort and that means more fun and a better ride; it places the seat farther back,
• Huffy's exclusive Perfect Fit Frame for tailored comfort.
• Dual density Kraton grips for a secure hold.
• Generously padded seat with dual springs for added comfort.
• Some customers reported minor defects.

Elevate Electric Bike for Adults (48V E-Bike)

• ✅ THE ULTIMATE RIDING EXPERIENCE – The Cabo is the ultimate electric bike for adults who want the perfect blend of fun and style. Experience beautiful sunny days like never before while cruising along the beach shore on your new Cabo electric bike. Get across town like never
• Suitable for various terrains including concrete, asphalt, gravel, grass, sand, and dirt.
• Long-range battery offering up to 60 miles per charge with pedal assist.
• Premium features such as rear rack, disc brakes, LED lights, and fat tires for a comfortable ride.
• Assembly may require additional tools and effort due to the bike's weight.

Schwinn Sanctuary 7 Comfort Beach Cruiser Bike, 26-Inch, 7-Speed, Retro-Styled Frame

• Charming vintage 18- inch steel-frame cruiser bicycle, 26-inch wheels that fit riders 5'4" to 6'2" tall, ideal for leisurely neighborhood rides
• Rear cargo rack conveniently holds all your essentials while full fenders ensure a clean and mud-free ride
• Optimal performance, 7-speed twist shifter providing you with all the
• Retro-styled frame with a 7-speed drivetrain for versatile riding options.
• Features front and rear fenders, rear cargo rack, and padded cruiser saddle for added convenience and comfort.
• Lightweight aluminum alloy rims enhance performance while maintaining the classic look.
• Some assembly required, which may require additional tools and time.

Deenkk 26 Inch Beach Cruiser Bike with Shimano 7-Speed Twist Shifters

• ELEGANT WOMENS CRUISE BIKE: Fresh and lovely bright body colors, cleverly contrasting black wheels and white rims, perfect combination of three bright body colors, beautiful and elegant. Good-looking beach bike suitable for outdoor, vacation, seaside, park cycling.The assembled dimensions is 66.5*45.7"(LxH), suitable for women with height 5-6.2 feet.
• Upgraded safety features for enhanced security.
• Smooth riding experience with the 7-speed shifter.
• Easy installation process with 80% pre-assembly.
• Front brakes and tires may require attention.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Cruiser Bikes

Key Selection Factors

Comfort and style, durability and performance, assembly process tips, safety features overview, price comparison guide, user experience insights, maintenance recommendations, frequently asked questions, are cruiser bikes suitable for long-distance rides or just short trips around town?, how difficult is it to assemble a cruiser bike upon delivery?, can cruiser bikes accommodate accessories like child seats or cargo racks?, are cruiser bikes suitable for different terrains, such as hills or rough roads?, are there any specific maintenance requirements for cruiser bikes compared to other types of bicycles?.

Olivia’s writing is not only informative but also inspiring. She has a knack for telling stories that capture the essence of cycling and the joy it brings to people’s lives. Her writing has been praised by readers and industry experts alike for its clarity, depth, and authenticity.

In addition to her writing, Olivia is also an avid cyclist. She enjoys exploring new trails and routes and has participated in several cycling events and races. Her first-hand experience with cycling gives her a unique perspective on the sport, reflected in her writing.

Overall, Olivia is a talented writer passionate about cycling and dedicated to producing high-quality content for FlatironBike. Her contributions to the magazine have helped make it a go-to source for cycling enthusiasts worldwide.

Related Posts:

15 Best Electric Bicycles for Effortless and Eco-Friendly Commuting

15 Best Comfort Bikes for a Smooth and Enjoyable Ride

Olivia's writing is not only informative but also inspiring. She has a knack for telling stories that capture the essence of cycling and the joy it brings to people's lives. Her writing has been praised by readers and industry experts alike for its clarity, depth, and authenticity. In addition to her writing, Olivia is also an avid cyclist. She enjoys exploring new trails and routes and has participated in several cycling events and races. Her first-hand experience with cycling gives her a unique perspective on the sport, reflected in her writing. Overall, Olivia is a talented writer passionate about cycling and dedicated to producing high-quality content for FlatironBike. Her contributions to the magazine have helped make it a go-to source for cycling enthusiasts worldwide.

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Ktaxon 48v ebike conversion kit review.

Pros and Cons

What we liked.

• Unmatched Motor Kit: The 48V 1000W brushless motor is powerful and efficient, providing a smooth and noiseless ride.
• Strong Durability: The aluminum alloy rim and high carbon steel spoke offer great durability and stability, supporting a heavy weight up to 220 lbs.
• LCD Display: The LCD screen provides all the essential information you need, such as battery power, speed, mileage, mode, and error codes, making troubleshooting easier.
• Safe & Reliable: The power cut-off brake handle ensures your safety by immediately disconnecting the power supply when the brake signal is detected by the controller.
• Easy Installation: The kit comes with all the necessary components, instructions, and videos, making it easy for you to install it on most 26 bikes with 3.93 front dropout spacing.

What Can Be Improved

• No Reviews Available: Unfortunately, I couldn’t find any reviews for this specific product, which makes it difficult to gauge other users’ experiences.
• Battery Not Included: It’s important to note that the kit does not include a battery, so you’ll need to purchase that separately.

Quick Verdict

Unboxing – what’s inside.

• 2 Custom Handles
• LCD Display Panel
• Controller Bag
• Control Hardware
• Pedal Assist Sensor

Specifications

• Style: Front
• Suspension Type: Front, Dual
• Frame Material: Aluminum
• Wheel Size: 26 Inches
• Color: Black
• Brand: Ktaxon
• Age Range (Description): Adult
• Bike Type: Electric Bike
• Date First Available: March 28, 2023
• Hand Orientation: Right

Features – What We Found

Efficient and noiseless running, durable and lightweight aluminum alloy frame, convenient lcd display, enhanced safety measures, suitable for most bikes with easy installation, our score: 73.0.

Zane rides her bike because she loves it, but also because she is mindful of the need to leave a better world for her children.

PEXMOR Electric Bike Conversion Kit Review

• Powerful brushless motor: The 48V 1000W brushless hub motor offers a great boost to your bike’s performance. It runs efficiently and quietly, allowing you to reach a maximum speed of 36 mph.
• Pedal Assist System (PAS): The PAS offers 4 riding modes, including throttle, presets, PAS, and manual. This allows for customizable riding options and reduces fatigue during long trips.
• Upgrade 3 Modes Controller: The controller works under both Hall effect and non-Hall effect, ensuring a longer life for your electric bicycle. The sine wave controller provides high efficiency and low noise.
• Safe and durable construction: The brake levers cut power and brakes while riding, ensuring safety. The CE certification guarantees both safety and quality. The aluminum alloy frame is stable and can hold up to 220 lbs.
• Easy to control and install: The LCD display provides convenient access to riding information, while the twist throttle enables fast and simple speed control. The provided installation tools and detailed instructions make assembly a breeze.
• Lack of clear instructions: Some users have reported confusion regarding the proper way to mount the electric wheel on the front fork. Clearer instructions could help avoid this issue.
• Customer support responsiveness: A few customers have experienced delays or lack of response from customer support when facing technical difficulties. Improved communication could enhance the overall user experience.
• Tool Kit: This included all the necessary tools for installing and assembling the conversion kit onto my bike.
• Electric Bike Conversion Kit Components: The main highlight of the box was the 26-inch front/rear wheel with an ebike hub motor. The aluminum frame and mountain bike design gave it a sturdy and rugged look.
• 3-Mode Controller : The kit came with a 48V 1000W 3-mode controller , allowing me to choose different power settings based on my preferences.
• PAS/LCD Display/Twist Throttle: The kit also included a PAS (Pedal Assist System) , LCD display for monitoring speed and battery life, and a twist throttle for easy acceleration.
• Brand: PEXMOR
• Manufacturer: PEXMOR
• Brake Style: Coaster
• Size: 26 inches
• Suspension Type: Rear, Front
• Wheel Size: 26 inches
• Bike Type: Electric Bike, Commuting Bike, Mountain Bike
• Date First Available: February 13, 2023

Documentation

Powerful brushless motor, pedal assist system (pas), upgrade 3 modes controller, safe & durable, easy to control & install, scores and review, our score: 81.0, aw electric bike conversion kit 48v 1000w review.

• Powerful Brushless Motor: The 48V 1000W brushless and gearless hub motor provides efficient and noiseless running. It easily converted my regular bicycle into an electric bike and reached a maximum speed of 45 KM/H (27.95 mile/h).
• Durable & Convenient: The aluminum alloy frame ensures durability and stability, supporting weights up to 220 Lbs. The drive system without moving chains or gears reduces friction, and the thumb throttle with 3 indicators displays battery status to avoid sudden battery depletion.
• Great Compatibility: This kit fits 26 bicycle frames with 3 15/16 front dropout spacing and is compatible with both universal disc brakes and V brakes. It’s perfect for bicycle assembly and modification.
• Easy to Assemble: The kit includes all necessary components for installation, and the instructions are easy to follow. You can either install it yourself or get assistance from a bicycle store.
• Safe & Environmentally-Friendly: The hand brakes automatically shut off the motor to save energy and prevent overheating. The kit is CE certificated for quality and safety assurance, and its battery-powered design is environmentally friendly.
• Loudness: Some users have reported that the kit can be a bit loud, which may affect their riding experience.
• Battery Monitor: The battery monitor has been criticized for being subpar and not providing accurate readings.
• 26 Front/Rear Wheel – This wheel is designed for easy installation onto a regular bicycle frame, turning it into an electric bike.
• Dual Mode Controller – The kit includes a controller that allows for two modes of operation: pedal assist and throttle. This provides flexibility in controlling the speed and power of the electric motor.
• Thumb Throttle – The thumb throttle enables easy acceleration and control of the electric bike.
• Ebike Wheel Kit – This kit contains all the necessary components and hardware required for the conversion, making the installation process hassle-free.
• Cycling Hub Conversion Kit – The hub conversion kit allows the electric motor to be seamlessly integrated into the wheel, providing a smooth and efficient ride.
• Manufacturer: AW
• Brake Style: Disc
• Suspension Type: Front
• Maximum Weight Recommendation: 220 Pounds
• Special Feature: Aluminum Frame, Electric
• Voltage: 48 Volts
• Item Weight: 23.5 Pounds
• Package Weight: 13.4 Kilograms
• Date First Available: May 3, 2018
• Country of Origin: China

Durable & Convenient

Great compatibility, easy to assemble, safe & environmentally-friendly, our review and score, our score: 83.0.

Affiliate disclaimer

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

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We are a passionate team driven by the belief that cycling is a fantastic and accessible way to stay active while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. Our mission is to share our love for cycling with as many people as possible. We provide a welcoming environment for individuals of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to come together and ride bikes. With Ralf’s visionary leadership, Zane’s expertise in cycling adventures, and Olivia’s dedication to community building, we strive to create a vibrant space where everyone can experience the joy of cycling. Through group rides, workshops, and inclusive events, we inspire and empower individuals to embrace an active lifestyle. Join us in our quest to pedal together, embrace the joy of cycling, and foster connections that last a lifetime.

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The 9 Best Beach Cruisers for Leisurely Rides and Laid-Back Style

Modern-day spins that take the classic bike to a whole new level.

Doll up your next ride. Check our picks for the best bike lights , saddle bags , and bike jerseys .

The Best Beach Cruisers

• Best Overall: Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Brighton 7-Speed Cruiser
• Best with a Rack: SixThreeZero EVRYjourney 7-Speed
• Best Value: Schwinn Mikko
• Best E-Cruiser: Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser
• Best Rustproof: Priority Bicycles Coast

What to Consider

How we selected, our full beach cruiser reviews, what is a beach cruiser bike.

To some, a cruiser is just a singlespeed bicycle with balloon tires, a comfy saddle, a coaster brake, and a wide, sweeping handlebar. You’re not constricted by Lycra or expected to keep pace when you’re on one. There’s a good chance you’re wearing flip-flops—and maybe even a bathing suit. Hopefully, you’re near a beach but you certainly don’t have to be.

A leisurely cruise downtown to grab lunch can be as pleasant as an early-morning roll on a boardwalk . But not every beach cruiser settles for simplicity. Most modern-day models take it to the next level or beyond (with more gears, bigger wheels, cleaner belt drives, internal gearing, mounts for racks, or even motors). Knowing how and where you want to use your new cruiser bike will help you determine what else, if anything, you want from it.

Do I Need More Than One Gear on My Beach Cruiser?

That depends.

For riding the length of a boardwalk or ambling along Main Street, one gear is all you need—and it frees up a hand to hold a soft-serve twist. Singlespeed bikes are cheaper, cut weight, and are, overall, easy to use. They require less maintenance as they have fewer moving parts, but they only go about as fast as you can pedal. Be careful of hills, though, as that one speed also means you’ll have to pedal harder to climb.

But if your rides are a little more challenging than the flat, coastal roads around your favorite seaside town, consider a beach cruiser with multiple gears. Multi-speed bikes can accelerate much faster than single-geared ones and offer a much smoother ride.

Electric Cruisers and E-Assist

Even though the idea of the beach cruiser is to take it easy, there’s nothing wrong with speeding up. Pedal-assist e-bikes can do wonders for your downtime by letting you get to the beach faster, and often without breaking a sweat. Most e-cruisers are class 1, which means they stop helping you pedal once you reach 20 mph, but some go as high as 28 mph (class 3).

We at Bicycling have ridden as many bikes as we can get our hands on to find the best beach cruisers available. For this story’s latest update, we added context for which bikes our testers have spent time on—the Priority Bicycles Coast Beach Cruiser , iZip Simi Step Thru Beach Cruiser , and Specialized Roll Low-Entry Beach Cruiser —linking out to full reviews where we have them. We also added testing notes for the Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser , a bike deputy test editor Tara Seplavy rode and evaluated in the last year. We haven’t tested the other bikes but carefully chose them with Seplavy’s help based on specs and and her context from ride testing the other models.

We know from experience what makes a beach cruiser desirable, so we’ve based our list on value, quality of parts (most of which have been tested separately), user reviews, comfort, our positive experience with brands, and overall aesthetics. We recommend these nine beach cruisers for laid-back rides—no matter where you are.

Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Brighton 7-Speed Beach Cruiser

We got our hands on this bike and everyone who hopped on to take it for a spin shared the same first impression: “This is the most comfortable bike I’ve ever been on.” Its super relaxed geometry lets the rider—even one of our testers with particularly long arms and legs—stretch out to avoid bending their elbows or knees when cruising at momentum. Add to that the cushy seat, soft grips, barefoot-friendly pedals, and smooth-rolling balloon tires, and we’re lucky we didn’t doze off mid-ride.

But this bike’s relaxed attitude doesn’t discount it as a capable utilitarian ride. Front and rear-carrier braze-ons let you outfit it with racks and bags to carry essentials to the beach or grab a six-pack and sandwiches on the way home. You also get a bottle -cage mount and internally routed cables. Choose from six refreshing colors (with matching fenders, rims, and a chainguard), including beach-inspired sea glass and matte coral. The Brighton also has a wide gear range for climbing hills, faster acceleration, and comfortable riding.

SixThreeZero EVRYjourney Women’s 7-Speed Beach Cruiser

Available in both men’s and women’s models and in speeds of 1, 3, 7, and 21, plus two electric versions (250- and 500-watt), there’s an EVRYjourney for everyone. The one you’re looking at here—the 7-speed women’s model—gives you an alloy frame and steel fork, Shimano Tourney 7-speed drivetrain with Revo twist shifter, 1.95-inch semi-slick tires on 26-inch rims, fenders, and a rear rack.

Comfort features include soft grips, a cushy seat, and geometry that puts the rider closer to the ground and moves the pedals forward so you still have proper leg extension. Snap-on attachment points let you easily add accessories like racks, baskets , child seats, and more. And a 365-day test ride and lifetime warranty means you can decide now and change your mind later.

Schwinn Mikko Beach Cruiser

This cruiser is as classic as they come: steel frame, 26-inch wheels, rear coaster brake, classic cruiser handlebar, matching fenders and chainguard, and a cushy seat on springs. Both models come in a variety of colors as well as 3- and 7-speed options (in addition to the singlespeed shown here). It’s a prototypical beach cruiser, for better (affordable, low-maintenance, easy to ride) and for worse (rust-prone, heavy, built for flat terrain).

Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser Electric Bike

Designed with a classic moto style, Ride1Up’s Cafe Cruiser has a casual ride feel. And it’s also practical, with a built-in rack and light. The zippy 750W motor powers the Cruiser to 28 mph (20 mph using the throttle) with a suspension fork and 3-inch-wide tires to smooth things out when it gets bumpy. Ride the Cafe Cruiser to the bar, along the boardwalk, or to Sunday morning brunch, and add a passenger kit for $125 with a padded seat for the rack, footpegs, and wheel guards.

Resident e-bike expert Seplavy rode the Cafe Cruiser and found it plenty powerful to climb short hills. But, like several wide-tire bikes, it has some handling issues while taking turns. It gives riders a range of about 30 to 50 miles per charge, which is more than plenty for beach rides and casual jaunts.

“Ride1Up’s Cafe Cruiser is a fun and sporty bike for weekend rides around town, rolling on the boardwalk, or hitting up the local coffee shop,” she says. “Weighing in over 73 pounds, this bike is certainly not lightweight, but its zippy rear hub motor (with throttle) quickly gets it up to speed. While the Cafe Cruiser has a wide-range 8-speed cassette, the bike’s portly weight, sweptback bars, and overall size make it challenging to ride up very steep hills.”

Priority Bicycles Coast Beach Cruiser

The salt air is no match for the Coast’s rustproof components, which include stainless-steel spokes, an aluminum frame and fork, and a maintenance-free Gates Carbon Drive belt. Sealed bearings keep out water, and Kenda puncture-resistant tires are hardly fazed by broken glass and clamshells. On boardwalks and level city roads, you’ll likely spend most of your time in the hardest gear, but you’ll be thankful for easier pedaling when the street takes a slight upturn.

A double kickstand keeps the bike from tipping when parked, and the option of grabbing a single-, 3-, or 7-speed is nice. The cruiser-style handlebar also has a 3-speed twist shifter on the right and a front-hand brake on the left (though you can also use the coaster brake). It’s the best beach cruiser for coastal living.

Priority E-Coast Step-Through Beach Cruiser

Beach cruisers are part of the quintessential summer experience. Usually, though, they’re heavy, clunky, rust-prone, and hard to ride anywhere but on the boardwalk. Priority’s E-Coast casts those notions aside.

This bike has everything needed for summer days at the beach or riding around town or the campground. The E-Coast’s aluminum frame and fork won’t rust like steel ones, and the Gates belt drive never needs chain lube. The 26-inch-diameter x 3-inch-wide tires help the bike float over sand and soak up cracked pavement. The 500W rear hub motor gets the E-Coast up to a 28 mph, and hydraulic disc brakes ensure stopping power.

iZip Simi Step Thru Beach Cruiser

This beachy-looking cruiser has a rear-hub motor that lets you zip along at 20 mph and a down tube-mounted battery that will provide enough juice for up to 62 miles in the slowest setting. In the highest pedal-assist mode, that range drops to 15 miles, meaning the Simi is better for slow-speed rolls than fast commutes.

The step-thru frame makes the Simi suitable for everyone, especially those just getting into—or back into—riding. You get quite a few extras with this bike (extras often left off other bikes that cost as much or more), such as a kickstand, fenders, lights, a rear rack, and a bottle-cage mount. With a 7-speed drivetrain and a 12-28 cassette—not to mention the bonus boost you get from the motor—this beach bike can do more than just hit the flat boardwalk for an out-and-back morning jaunt.

In her review of the bike, contributor Riley Missel said its motor is solid, given its price, though the Simi isn’t the smoothest she’s ridden. “It had subtle engagement rather than making me feel like I was constantly accelerating like some e-bikes can do,” she said. “I felt the most consistent assistance and smoothest ride in a lower gear going between 8 and 12 mph. At 250 watt-hours, the battery is what I would consider light-duty—in the lowest assist setting, it can extend the range of your ride substantially; in the highest, it’ll do a good amount of the work for you but for only so long.”

Read Full Review View 34 Images

Specialized Roll 2.0 Low-Entry Beach Cruiser

With one of the lowest step-through frames in the business, the Roll 2.0 Low-Entry is ideal for anyone apprehensive about swinging a leg over a top tube or being able to touch their feet to the ground at the last second. Beefy 650b x 2.3-inch tires roll smoothly on the road but come to your rescue when the pavement gets sketchy or a sandy shortcut starts calling your name.

Its upright geometry puts you in a position that takes strain off your neck and back and lets you take in the sights around you. But that means it isn’t ideal for steep climbs up winding mountains. Nor is the Shimano Altus 7-speed drivetrain, but that’s not what this bike is for. It’s also not for going fast. But for what it is—a $800 cruiser bike with mounts to add a rear rack and a head tube tall enough to hang a pretty deep basket off the BMX-style handlebar—the Roll 2.0 Low-Entry can double as a daily cruiser and around-town grocery-getter.

Test editor Adrienne Donica found the bike slow, though an enjoyable ride. “My riding partner averaged a full 2.5 miles per hour faster without me when I hung back from our usual route one day,” she wrote in her review. “Of course, that’s not scientific, considering she is in better shape than me and was riding a faster-rolling touring bike —but if you like to go fast, look into a more aggressive hybrid model . Tackling hills felt more grueling than with other bikes because of the upright positioning. I was glad to have some flexibility with the wide range of gears, though.”

Read Full Review View 33 Images

Linus Rover 9 Beach Cruiser

A classic cruiser with classic lines, the Rover 9 has a light 6061 aluminum frame and steel fork, hydraulic disc brakes, and a 1x9-speed drivetrain controlled by a Microshift trigger shifter. Moderately grippy, 45mm-wide Kenda Koast tires (with coffee-colored sidewalls) on 27.5-inch alloy rims roll fast and eat potholes in your path. The open, alloy pedals aren’t the most barefoot-friendly compared to rubber-coated pedals, but that’s an easy and inexpensive swap.

The Rover 9 comes in two sizes (medium for 5-foot-5 to 5-foot-9 riders, large for 5-foot-10 and taller), two colors (brushed alloy and matte black), and one frame (there’s no step-through model here). And with nine gears to click through, the Rover 9 crosses over into short-commute territory.

Kevin Cortez is an editor for Runner's World, Bicycling, and Popular Mechanics covering reviews. A culture and product journalist for over ten years, he’s an expert in men’s style, technology, gaming, coffee, e-bikes, hiking, gear, and all things outdoors. He most recently worked as the Style Editor for Reviewed, a top product recommendation site owned by USA TODAY. He also helped with the launch of WSJ's Buy Side commerce vertical, and has covered the music and podcast industries for Mass Appeal, Genius, Vulture, Leafly, Input, and The A.V. Club. Equally passionate about leisure as he is his penmanship, Kevin dedicates his spare time to graphic novels, birding, making cold brew, and taking long, meandering walks.

Kylee McGuigan is an associate commerce editor for Hearst Magazines’s Enthusiast Group. She works with content for brands such as Popular Mechanics, Best Products, Bicycling, and Runner’s World. Kylee graduated from Penn State in May 2020 with a degree in journalism and a minor in French. During her undergraduate career, she spent a majority of her time writing for, and eventually editing, VALLEY Magazine: Penn State’s only student-run fashion and lifestyle magazine. She has produced content ranging from beauty and health, to lifestyle and self-improvement. After spending four years in the happiest of valleys (State College, PA), she moved back home to South Jersey—otherwise known as the famous “outside of Philly” area. Kylee can be found working out of her local Starbucks with her best friend, an iced chai in hand, and endless hours of music playlists to get her through the day. When she’s not working, she is more than likely on her daily walk in her neighborhood, at Orangetheory, binging Sex and the City or Gossip Girl, checking out local coffee shops, or trying new bars and restaurants in the city with friends and family. 

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Where to Ride: How to take your bicycle on a cruise ship

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For years, I’ve wanted to bring a bike on a cruise. We’ve done a lot of cruises over the years, but at every port it’s the same thing – crappy tourist-trap shack villages selling trinkets and trash, or excursions that stick you on a bus ride for an all-too-short experience before whisking you back to the cruise port, where you’re funneled back through the maze of vendors.

But with a bike, I thought, maybe we could explore more of an island. See stuff from a local level. Catch the nuances of a place missed from a bus window at 60mph. That was our goal on a recent Western Caribbean cruise, and our friends at Oyama thought they’d help out with bikes. Here’s how it went, and what you need to know before you try to take a bike on just any cruise line…

Exploring beyond the cruise port

Never been on a cruise? Lemme paint the picture for you: You walk off the ship, you’re funneled into a shanty town of tents filled with shells, shirts and sh… you don’t need. What I really want to is to get past it all, and far from it, to see more of the destination’s local flavor. Thanks to Oyama, Kristi and I finally got that chance.

We took a Western Caribbean cruise on Norwegian Cruise Lines with stops at Key West, Grand Bahama and Nassau. At Canaveral’s departure port, we folded the bikes, left them and our luggage with the porter, and boarded. Champagne time!

Port #1 – Key West

Key West, Florida, is a fun stop with a bike. There’s a lot of great stuff to see that’s not on Duval Street, which is the main tourist drag full of chintzy T-shirt shops and tourist traps like Margaritaville.

Venture off a few blocks and you can get local tips from Eaton Bicycles , where our friend Chris has all the high end stuff and intel on group rides for serious cyclists. They also stock a fleet of well-maintained beach cruiser rentals, not to mention one of the coolest cycling jerseys we’ve seen. Grab your handlebar-mounted coozy and turn the corner to…

Cuban Coffee Queen has, hands down, the very best iced coffee in Key West. They also have an amazing sandwich menu, perfect for refreshing/energizing and packing a sando for a picnic lunch somewhere.

If you’re craving seafood, Bo’s Fish Wagon  (above) is close by and gives you that island “shack” vibe while still serving up decent grub. Also worth noting is Blue Heaven , where you can watch the roosters and baby chicks scramble underfoot while dining al fresco on giant blueberry pancakes.

Speaking of roosters, the “Key West Rooster” is, well, I was going to say one of the most colorful characters in town. But that’s a disservice to plenty of locals…like Captain Outrageous, who paints many of the bikes-turned-fixtures around town. Let’s just say they’re everywhere, and they’re ( sort of ) protected.

Ev. Ree. Where.

By getting off the beaten (tourist) path on various trips to Key West, we’ve been able to explore the West Martello Gardens & Fort , participate in a 0k run (yes, you get a T-shirt) across the shortest bridge on the island, and hit Sandy’s Cafe for Cuban/Mexican food (cash only). Or El Siboney for even better Cuban food. How do we know these are good? Because they’ve actually been around for more than a couple years…they’re staples of the “Conch Republic”. And we’ve eaten at all of them. End the day with drinks at Ocean Key for a front row seat to the sunset…just make sure you get back to the ship in time!

Port #2 – Grand Bahama

Grand Bahama made the bringing-of-bikes decision completely worthwhile. The cruise port is situated far from anything “local”. Or interesting. We covered 20+ miles on this day, finding hidden paths that led to pristine beaches with ultra clear water.

See this? Up above? This is not Grand Bahama. This is an artificial tent city with stuff you don’t need. The same stuff you don’t need that you can buy at the next port. And the next. And the next. Maybe just with a different island’s name screen printed on it.

But this? This path here? With that brilliant azure water next to it? That’s something we found about 8 miles away by exploring backroads in the general direction of the beach. Sure, Google Maps helps (and you can download regions and store them on your phone in advance so you won’t need connectivity…though data service was good at all of these places). But sometimes it’s worth taking that secret path through the trees to see where it goes.

Sometimes you’re rewarded with this. And this makes it all worthwhile.

It gets even better when you see locals plucking conch straight from the ocean…

…then see where they’re taking it…

…then have them fry up the biggest basket of conch and conch fritters you’ve ever had. Throw in cheap, ice-cold local beers, friendly chit chat, and gorgeous views and you have a winner. Go ahead and Google Map Toads on the Bay , Grand Bahama, and you’ll see why the best way to get here is by bike.

There’s quite a few conch stands and food shacks along that beachside road. Take your pick, dip your toes, then roll back to the boat for free drinks (see notes at bottom of post to score those).

Port #3 – Nassau

Nassau is another stop Kristi and I have been to several times before. There are actually quite a few things you can walk to (the National Art Gallery, John Watling’s rum distillery, Queen’s Staircase). But first you’ve got to get through the “Straw Market”, which is almost a maze, and which opens up to streets of more tourist craps, er, traps. Seriously, just say no to Señor Frogs, mmmkay?

The cool thing about the port is that, to exit with your bike, you have to get a (free) customs inspection. Which means a free sticker. And you definitely need to get it, because you’ll need to show that to bring the bike back through port security to get back on the ship. Great souvenir!

Once out, note the traffic patterns and left lane driving, then head east to Fort Montagu . It’s tiny, and it costs a couple dollars to enter, but you may see some small locals hanging out in what was a pirate prison cell. The rusted cannon mounts show how they would swivel to aim, and how the ramps allowed them to recoil, then roll right back down into position.

Outside in the parking lot, you’ll like find street vendors hawking fried seafood and a local rum drink called Sky Juice. It’s basically rum and fresh coconut water. If you don’t see them tapping the coconuts right there, move along.

Bicycles are the perfect way to see more of an area with the added bonus of being able to stop wherever you want. Need a second Sky Juice? No problem. Well, actually, you might have a problem. But I’m not judging.

The one caveat is to keep your wits about you. We looped back westward on backroads, through neighborhoods, and had myriad route options. Some of those options looked a little rough, so we asked and were given some recommended safer routes. Remember, you’re the guest here, and outside of the tourist areas, may not always be as welcome. By and large, though, everyone we met was extremely friendly and engaging.

West of the cruise port is Junkanoo beach. Which is easily walkable, but bikes will get you there faster, helping make time for visits to the distillery and art gallery, too. We did a big loop of all that, then worked our way up and down the beachside food shacks. Beyond them is a row of restaurants with largely interchangeable menus, but depending on the season and time of day, how many are actually open varies. We grabbed conch fritters from one, snacks and beer from another, and found a seat.

It’s kinda hard to go wrong. But it is hard to go fast. None of the spots move with a quickness, so grab some drinks and enjoy the view…

Despite being almost adjacent to the port, Junkanoo Beach is rarely packed. It’s just far enough that most people won’t make the walk, but too close to be a good Cruise Excursion. There’s a good chance you could have it mostly to yourselves.

From there, it’s an easy cruise back to the ship. Dockside, you’ll find locals pulling up in their boats with a fresh haul of shells and such. Just do your research ahead of time, we’re not sure how Customs & Border Patrol will feel about these things being brought back into the U.S. But they are pretty to look at!

About the Oyama bikes…

Why Oyama? There are a few reasons we partnered with them to make this happen, and in full disclosure, they helped pay for this trip and donated the bikes. First, they have a history of making dependable, well-featured folding bikes since 1966. Second, they have a huge range, so we could pick the right size bike for this type of adventure…and size matters.

First, you have to get the bikes to the ship. Both bikes easily fit inside the trunk space of our 2008 Toyota Sienna minivan, with room for other essentials and gear.

Cruise ship cabins are small, especially if you opt for the interior rooms with no balcony, which is what we usually choose because, really, we’re not spending much time in them. The 20″ wheel is a happy medium between comfortable ride quality and cruising speed and being small enough to maneuver in and out of the rooms.

We chose the Oyama Skyline in7B, whose name indicates an in ternally geared 7 -speed Shimano Nexus hub and B elt drive. That combination provided a reasonably good gear range for tackling rolling hills (or headwinds) but with no exposed gears, chain or grease. That’s huge when stuffing a bike next to clothes, bedsheets, etc. And when exposing it to salt air. Everything stays perfectly clean and rust free.

Two more features stand out about this model: It has a lightweight alloy frame, and it comes with fenders and a rear rack with integrated bungie strap. All for $799, a pretty good deal for a bike with CNC’d folding and locking mechanisms that should last a long time.

The bikes use a telescoping steerer tube, adjustable handlebar tilt, and have really long seat posts. So, they can be made to fit a wide range of riders, too.

Opening them up to ride is quick and easy. Folding them down is fairly quick, but folding them down perfectly  is a bit more of an art. It never took more than a couple minutes, but we had to learn how to rotate and position the handlebars to get the magnets to make strong enough contact to keep it closed when carrying it in the folded position.

The fenders slide out of alignment if it gets banged around, but they’re easy to slide back into position. If there were one upgrade I’d make on these, it’d be to have sturdier fenders, but that they’re included in the first place is a big win. Overall, the Skyline is a solid package with smart parts spec (Schwalbe Big Apple tires roll well and are tough to puncture). Its hard to imagine a better bike for such things without spending 2-3x more.

Which cruise lines allow bicycles?

Are you allowed to bring a bike onto a cruise ship? That depends on the cruise line, and the size of the bike. Here are the official written rules for the most popular North American cruise lines:

• Disney – Disney cruise lines does NOT allow any type of bicycles or wheeled recreational equipment
• Royal Caribbean – No bikes of any kind allowed
• Norwegian – We tried calling NCL twice and no one seemed to be able to confirm if it is okay or not. They did say no electric bikes, but the list of things on their site that you cannot bring does not include folding bikes or regular bikes so it could be a go, but could be a risk. It worked for us. And pretty much every crew member that saw them was impressed with how small and cool they were.
• Carnival – Regular bicycles are not allowed on Carnival ships, but folding bicycles with wheels less than 20″ are allowed only to be used in port. Meaning, you can’t ride them on the ship.

If you are bringing a bike, keep in mind that the private islands (like NCL’s Great Stirrup Cay) rarely have any paved paths or anything worth exploring by bike. We found that it made locations we’d been to several times before far more interesting when riding. And as the pictures suggest, we found better food and more interesting sites.

Bonus planning info

We cruised aboard NCL’s Sun. As of this post, Norwegian Sun 3-5 Day sailings since May 2018 provides all guests with complimentary beverages which include “designated spirits, cocktails, bottled beer, draft beer, and wines by the glass and unlimited fountain soda and juices at all bars, lounges, restaurants and Great Stirrup Cay.” So, if you’re buying the cruise and get to pick a free “bonus” item, choose something other than an upgraded drink package…unless you really want to pick and choose from the top shelf spirits.

When is the best time to go on a cruise?

As you may imagine, winter holidays like Christmas have much, much higher prices…sometimes 2x or more than summer cruises to warm locations. Our family travel philosophy is to always go to things in off-peak times, during the school year when possible, because it’s usually less expensive and less crowded. Spring Break tends to have mid-level prices, but can be crowded with young, drunken idiots (we’ve all been there).

Headed to the Bahamas or Mexico or surrounding areas? Plan on it being really hot when you land, but the wind at sea tends to keep it more tolerable. Short cruises are fun, but the ones with a full day at sea are a nice way to unplug and just relax.

In our experience, NCL tends to attract a slightly older 30+ crowd, but between Carnival, Royal Caribbean and NCL, prices are similar…just find the destinations and schedule you want. Disney is more expensive, but (from what we’ve heard, we haven’t cruised with them) caters really well to kids…just not to bikes.

Tyler Benedict is the Founder of Bikerumor.com , where he’s been writing about the latest bikes, components, and cycling technology for almost two decades. Prior to that, Tyler launched and built multiple sports nutrition brands and consumer goods companies, mostly as an excuse to travel and ride in new places.

Based in North Carolina, Tyler also loves the Vanlife & family adventure travel and is always on the lookout for the next shiny new part and off-grid adventure.

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Great time to book a cruise, prices are low and the cruise salespeople really need it. Don’t forget the hand sanitizer.

Great time to book a cruise if you want to heavily pollute the atmosphere and the oceans and fuel the climate catastrophe. Shame on you for promoting such a dirty business.

Good timing for the article

I can’t tell if you are being serious or sarcastic. Late winter in the northern hemisphere after the holiday rush indicates the former, but Covid-19 indicates the latter.

Both, my friend. A dear friend of mine is a cruise salesman and could use the business. Toby at vacations to go.

The covid jab is just too obvious to pass up.

This is news? Out of a half a dozen cruises, I’ve never NOT taken a bike. I would never take a cruise without a bike!

Folding bikes or road/Gravel? Oceania?

I like this article, band hopefully more than 1 cruise line allows bike and only those UNDER 20″ wheel (so 16″ and lower?).

But I don’t have much hope for that. As the article shows, bikes allow one to easily get past the immediate port area. Given the kick-backs and relationships most cruise lines have with the the shops, they really don’t want their customers to have the ease of transport a bike provides.

Generally I’ve never felt like bicycle enthusiasts and people that enjoy cruise ships overlap. I’ve been riding and racing the last 15 years and can’t remember the last person I’ve ridden with who has taken a cruise. The main attraction, gorging yourself with exorbitant amounts of poorly made and unhealthy food, you’d think that cyclists would be all over that.

I took my Ritchey breakaway on a Princess cruise 5 years ago. They didn’t have a problem with it, but getting it to shore via the tenders at a couple ports was a pain. My rides on the islands away from the touristy stuff were definitely a highlight!

Santana Adventures (division of Santana Bikes, tandem makers) runs cycling cruises that are AMAZING. And filled with cyclists. We took our singles to Viet Nam, riding and floating from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap, Cambodia, in the flow of Mekong traffic (98% 2-wheeled, between ferries), through sooo many tiny villages, into the hills and jungles of Cambodia, ending up on single track through the ruins around Angor Wat. Local guides really helped understand the history of the place, and where it is going now — deeply engaging. Amazing!!! And it’s just one of many they do in each year.

Interesting post and something I have thought about but not pursued in the past. Anyway, looks like Royal Caribbean’s FAQ show that they CAN make exceptions for sporting goods. From their site: https://www.royalcaribbean.com/faq/questions/prohibited-items-onboard-policy :

“Exceptions can be made for the following sporting goods; however, the item must be stored in the guest’s stateroom and cannot be used onboard. – Baseball Bats, Hockey Sticks, Cricket Bats, and Golf clubs – Skateboards, Surfboards, and Bicycles”

Don’t cruise ships, more or less across the board, dump their waste into the ocean in an appalling manner? I thought that that was well-established. Better to do a biking trip instead and give the extra cash to Greenpeace. This really seems like a problematical article to me. I could envision the next in this new series of questionable endeavors – ‘Cruising the brothels of Bangkok with rental bikes’.

Though it might have been something they did in the past, Cruise ships do not dump their waste in the ocean. They are prohibited from doing so and actually recycle better than any hotel because they have limited space and have to be efficient in how they handle everything.

The person that said cruise ships dump waste is incorrect! That stopped at least 15 to 20 years ago! Nothing is dumped in the ocean that you or I couldn’t drink or eat. It is all recycled now! But you are correct it hasn’t always been this way!

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Best Cruiser Bikes for Casual Riders

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A cruiser bike isn’t a small investment. With proper care, they can last for years on end, so making the right decision is crucial.

If you’re in need of a replacement, upgrade, or simply looking to make your first purchase in this arena, take the time to clearly define what it is you’re after. In comparison to a few years ago, today cruiser bikes are much more varied, filling a plethora of different niches.

Shopping for bikes online is much easier than it used to be – but there’s still plenty of details that need to be checked, reviews that need to be read, and comparisons that have to be made. Fortunately, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to take care of that part of the process.

Cruiser Bikes: Top 5 Picks

Cruisers are a fantastic way to enjoy the beloved hobby of cycling in a relaxed, leisurely manner. Made to be durable, easy to maintain and ride, cruiser bikes are still a relatively rare sight when compared to mountain bikes and road bikes .

Cruisers can’t compete with road and mountain bikes performance-wise, but this doesn’t change the fact that they are underappreciated. For those in need of a bike that’s geared towards casual riding or commuting, cruisers are a fantastic choice.

Newer models have also started incorporating modern, high-performance components, so the gap in performance between cruisers and road or mountain bikes is constantly shrinking.

Be that as it may, you still need to take a good, hard look at the product in question. Is it made from high-quality materials? Do the design and performance of the bike meet your criteria?

To help you make your choice, we’ve prepared a list of five great cruiser bikes. We factored in price, quality, performance, durability, and design.

These are well-made bikes, constructed from the highest quality materials – however, they all fill different niches. As for which one is the right one for you – that’s up to you.

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1. Best Overall - Firmstrong CA-520

Specifications:

• Gearing → 7 speeds
• Wheel size → 26 inches
• Weight capacity → 300 lbs
• Weight → 43 lbs

Key Features:

• Forward pedaling design
• Aluminum frame
• High arching design
• Shimano Tourney derailleur

Firmstrong CA-520 7-Speed Cruiser Review

For our best overall pick, we’ve chosen a cruiser bike that truly means business. Firmstrong took no shortcuts in designing and building the CA-520, and it shows. The result of an uncompromising approach, the CA-520 is a fantastic all-rounder, combining speed, durability, comfort, great design, and high-quality materials into a single, high-value purchase.

If you’re after a top of the line cruiser bicycle, Firmstrong’s flagship product merits your attention – let’s take a closer look at the features that make this bike such a standout cruiser.

Cutting-Edge Materials, Innovative Design

The 17-inch long frame is entirely made out of aluminum, weighing in at just 43 lbs. The frame features a high arching top tube design , which places riders even further back and closer to the ground when compared with the traditional cruiser bike frame setup. The sloping top tube makes it much easier to get off the bike.

This type of seat positioning is very comfortable, and the pedals have been moved approximately 4 inches forward to accommodate the design. This means that even though you sit further back and lower than you usually would, you still have plenty of leg space. This is particularly important for taller riders. The CA-520 can accommodate riders from 5’4” to 6’4” tall.

The entire frame is treated with a rust-resistant coating . The padded dual-spring seat is quite large and comfortable, and the 25.5” wide chrome plated handlebars feature comfortable synthetic leather grips.

Both the seat and handlebar height and tilt can be adjusted to your liking, but the bike’s geometry is fantastic – the saddle position might seem strange at first, but it’s much more comfortable than a regular cruiser bike.

The CA-520 is durable, light, and well-made. But the truly impressive thing about it is the unparalleled level of comfort that it provides. Even the tallest riders won’t have trouble achieving full leg extension with the CA-520.

Top of the Line Performance

The CA-520’s large, 26-inch tires make it easy to gain a lot of momentum. The size of the tires, combined with the light weight of the aluminum frame makes it easy to accelerate and maintain speed.

The whitewall tires of the CA-520 are 2.125 inches wide, providing plenty of traction and smooth rolling. The Shimano Tourney 7-speed derailleur allows you to quickly and easily change gears.

The tires and gear system work well together, allowing you to make short work of various inclines and terrain types. Put simply, the CA-520 is extremely versatile as far as cruisers go.

The frame design also figures into the equation when it comes to performance. The low position of the seat makes for a lower center of gravity, and the upright riding position helps you retain stability on the road.

The 7-speed version of the CA-520 features both front and rear alloy V brakes that provide a huge amount of stopping power and control. Safety isn’t usually a concern with cruiser bikes – but the CA-520 can reach speeds up to 30mph, and at that point, braking has to be a priority. Luckily, the CA-520 can stop on a dime.

Made from the finest materials and featuring innovative design choices, Firmstrong’s CA-520 is a fantastic bike with no major flaws to speak of. It’s durable, adaptable, and quick, and easily outperforms all bikes in its price range.

• Stylish design
• Versatile performance
• Storage space
• Brakes have great stopping power
• Requires some assembly
• High price 

2. Best Budget - Firmstrong Urban

• Gearing → 1 speed
• Weight → 38 lbs
• Shimano rear derailleur
• Back sweep handlebar
• Linear pull brakes

Firmstrong Urban Single Speed Cruiser Review

If you’re after a simple, reliable product that gets the job done, there’s no need to break the bank. The market is full of great, affordable products perfect for those that are working in the confines of a tight budget.

Firmstrong’s Urban single speed cruiser is available for a very humble asking price, but it doesn’t sacrifice quality or durability to achieve that. It may not be able to outperform the other bikes on this list, but it might be just the right choice for you if you’re looking for a bike that is meant for casual riding.

Great Design, Solid Build Quality

The first notable thing about the Firmstrong Urban is the wheel size. It’s one of the rare bikes in its price range that features 26-inch wheels. These are mounted on a clean 19-inch steel frame that features no cables or unnecessary elements. Overall, the aesthetics of the bike are simple and minimalistic – with orange details that do a great job of complementing the black body of the bike.

Despite its steel construction and size, the Urban isn’t a heavy, clunky bike. Fully assembled, it weighs 38 pounds – just the right amount for its size. You won’t have any issues carrying it up a flight of stairs, but it also doesn’t sacrifice stability when riding.

The step-over frame places the rider in a relaxed, upright position. The oversized, dual-spring saddle is comfortable and has plenty of padding, while the swept-back 28.5-inch chrome-plated handlebar features a pair of ergonomic, high-density foam grips . All of these design elements come together to reduce the strain on your wrists, arms, and back.

Both the seat and handlebar feature adjustable height and tilt. Firmstrong’s Urban will fit most people between 5’4” and 6’2” tall. The bike also features a chain guard for added durability, as well as a steel kickstand .

The Urban is a simple, no-nonsense bike that forgoes any unnecessary elements. It’s unassuming, rugged, and comfortable.

Simple, Dependable Cruising

Firmstrong Urban’s single-speed model also takes an uncomplicated approach to performance. With only a single gear, it sacrifices versatility for simplicity. Normally, this would count as a disadvantage – but if you cycle on predictable routes without any steep inclines, a single gear is enough.

As per usual with single-gear cruisers, the Firmstrong Urban features a coaster brake . Coaster brakes work by pedaling backward. This system of braking might take a while to get used to, especially if you’ve never ridden a bike with a coaster brake before.

These brakes require a good amount of road awareness, as they lack both the reactivity and power of handbrakes. The KT coaster brake that the Urban is equipped with is solid, but with only a rear brake, extra care should be taken when coming to a stop.

Although 26-inch wheels help with acceleration, the Urban has a tough time maintaining speeds over 15mph – this, in turn, alleviates a lot of the problems that a coaster brake can present.

The 2.125-inch wide Kenda tires feature a slightly knobby tread pattern that allows them to handle a fair amount of sand or dirt. The tires also feature a decent amount of white wall, giving them a good amount of durability.

• Great value
• Perfect weight
• Coaster brake
• Lack of versatility 

3. Best for Men - Retrospec Chatham

• Weight capacity → 250 lbs
• Weight → 37 lbs
• Durable steel frame
• Grip twist shifters
• Double-walled rims
• Wide Wanda tires

Retrospec Chatham Beach Cruiser Review

Beach cruisers are by far the most popular type of cruiser bike on the market today. Geared towards predictable, consistent terrain, beach cruisers are a great way to enjoy the outdoors while having fun.

Nowadays, it’s difficult to find a cruiser that wasn’t designed with the beach in mind. And there’s nothing wrong with that – but a premium cruiser has to be able to handle a wider variety of challenges.

Retrospec’s Chatham beach cruiser is a well-made, durable bike that can handle relaxing rides on the shoreline just as well as urban riding and commuting . A versatile, powerful bike, the Chatham pushes the envelope, offering an unprecedented level of performance for its asking price.

Materials, Durability, and Design

The Chatham is robust and durable, even by cruiser bike standards. The hand-built step-over frame is made from nigh-indestructible high-tensile steel but weighs just 37 lbs. It offers a great combination of durability and weight – the Chatham is one of the lighter cruisers available, despite its steel construction.

The steel frame works well in tandem with the wide Wanda tires, providing a decent amount of shock absorption. Double-walled rims provide added protection and puncture resistance. The pedals are light, made from a hard plastic material with a durable boron steel axel. Put simply, the Chatham can take quite a beating, without it affecting performance whatsoever.

The wide cruiser saddle and high placement of the handlebar promote a comfortable, upright position while riding. This reduces the strain on your back, making long rides much easier.

The handlebar is set high, and protrudes outwards, allowing for a great mix of stability, control, and comfort. The soft foam handlebar grips do a great job of reducing wrist strain.

Well-designed and made from the highest quality materials, the Chatham ensures an enjoyable, comfortable riding experience. It’s a no-nonsense bike – extremely durable and sturdy, it guarantees smooth cruising, day in and day out. It’s elegant, with no obtrusive tubing or unnecessary bulkiness in the frame.

Premium Performance

Now that we’ve established the Chatham’s durability, the question remains – what kind of performance does that durability guarantee? You’ll be happy to hear that this was obviously one of the biggest priorities in the bike’s design.

This model of the Chatham comes equipped with a 7-speed Shimano tourney derailleur, as well as a RevoShift grip shifter . Shimano is a world-class brand, renowned for precision and durability.

The shifting is smooth, and the 7-speed options allow you to use the Chatham in a much wider selection of areas when compared to a regular cruiser bike. There’s also something to be said for the amount of effort and strain that is reduced by using a 7-speed bike – the Chatham is much better suited to longer commutes.

The thick, 26-inch tires provide a fantastic balance of grip and acceleration. This is one fast cruiser bike, and maintaining high speeds is a breeze. The tread pattern works wonders with pavement and dirt, and the amount of traction that it provides allows you to easily retain control of the bike, even at high speeds.

To counteract the speed of the bike, the Chatham features handlebar-integrated Promax alloy v-caliper brakes. Unlike the 1-speed and 3-speed models, the 7-speed Chatham has both front and rear brakes, allowing you to decelerate in a more controlled fashion. The brakes have a lot of stopping power and are responsive enough to ensure safe riding.

• Light steel frame
• Comfortable
• Versatile drivetrain
• Great brakes
• Average seat padding
• Average handling on rough terrain

4. Best For Women - Sixthreezero

• Weight → 34 pounds
• 7-speed Shimano hub
• Foam grips on the handlebar
• Cushioned dual-spring saddle

Sixthreezero Around the Block Review

A well-made cruiser bike is a great way to get about. Simple, convenient, and comfortable, cruiser bikes are the best choice for leisurely, everyday riding.

But if you’re after something more, be it performance, versatility, or durability, you need to look at higher-end models. Our top pick in this category is one such bike – Sixthreezero’s Around the Block. It offers an experience that far exceeds that of baseline cruiser bikes – in every aspect.

We’ve chosen the 26-inch and 7-speed model because of its impressive performance. But that’s just one area where this bike shines – let’s take a closer look at the entire package.

High-Quality Materials, Great Design

The Around the Block features a classic, simple step-over design. The frame is made out of high-tensile steel and is designed to last a lifetime. At 34 pounds, the bike isn’t heavy at all, considering it is made out of steel.

The plush dual-spring saddle is quite wide and comfortable, and the swept-back handlebar makes for comfortable riding. The handlebar is wider than average, making it much more accessible. The height and tilt of the handlebar can also be adjusted rather easily.

The twistgrip shifters are quick and responsive, and the foam grips are very comfortable . The grips are also blacked-out, making them a bit more scratch-resistant.

The light, aluminum wheels are 2.125 inches wide, allowing for a smooth, cushioned ride. This meshes well with several other design elements – the weight of the steel frame, upright riding position and low center of gravity guarantee stability, while the saddle and handlebar do a great job of reducing wrist and arm fatigue.

The bike also features a rear rack, and the tires are white-walled, further accentuating the vintage look of the bike.

All things considered, this bike delivers a reliable, relaxing, and comfortable riding experience, requiring little to no upkeep or maintenance. It’s well thought out and built to last – deserving high marks for both design and build quality.

Top Of The Line Performance

So, what about performance? This isn’t your ordinary cruiser – and quite a few of the Around the Block’s components make it stand out.

The Shimano 7-speed derailleur shifts smoothly, allowing you to choose just the right amount of resistance. With this added amount of versatility, it’s much easier to deal with inclines or longer commutes.

To balance out the 7-speed options, the Around the Block features front and rear v-caliper handbrakes. They offer a lot of smooth, precise stopping power, and are much easier to use and control in comparison with coaster brakes.

The large, 32-spoke aluminum wheels are very durable and light and work fantastically in tandem with the large, 26-inch tires. The semi-slick tires and wider than average, and the waffle-tread that they use ensures a cushioned ride, with more than enough grip for gravel, tarmac, pavement, dirt roads, and similar terrain.

Versatile, adaptable, and comfortable, the Around the Block is a fantastic choice, particularly for longer sessions. It’s a joy to ride and offers a very high level of performance – particularly when you factor in the very humble price tag.

• Reasonable price
• Great tires
• High-quality Shimano derailleur
• Strong frame
• Bad assembly instructions
• Pedals tend to produce a clicking sound

5. Best With Basket - Huffy Panama Jack

• Gearing → 6 speeds
• Weight → 48 lbs
• Perfect fit aluminum frame
• Handlebar bag
• Lightweight alloy linear-pull brakes
• High-quality Shimano shifter

Huffy Panama Jack Review

Cruiser bikes are generally geared toward relaxing rides at a moderate pace, but high-end models are nothing to scoff at.

Huffy’s Panama Jack is sort of unusual for a cruiser bike. It doesn’t have a single-speed drivetrain and makes use of linear-pull brakes.

But it’s precisely these features that make it such a great choice. This bike offers great performance as far as cruisers go – and it comes with a handy basket and plenty of useful accessories to boot.

Design, Comfort, and Style

Huffy’s Panama Jack is a fashionable bike. The solid black frame and orange beach graphics and details on the chainguard will turn heads. But the Panama Jack is much more than a pretty face.

The bike features a step-over frame design , and the seating position lends itself to an upright, relaxing posture. But this isn’t your typical cruiser bike frame – Huffy’s trademark Perfect Fit frames position you slightly further back and lower than usual.

Even when compared to an average, already-comfortable cruiser, the Panama Jack Shines. The frame design even allows for full leg extension.

At the same time, the raised sweptback handlebar design helps reduce wrist and arm fatigue, and the soft, cork-like grips are very comfortable.

The overall design helps you retain control while riding, reduces exertion, and allows you to maintain a good overview of the road. The Panama Jack allows you to consistently enjoy smooth, relaxing rides.

The seat of the bike is quite wide, and a dual-spring system ensures maximum comfort. The seats have a good amount of padding – just make sure to screw and bolt everything tightly, as the seat is one of the parts that require assembly.

Versatility, Utility, and Accessories

Comfort is par for the course with cruiser bikes. But performance and versatility are the areas where the Panama Jack truly excels. To make things even better, the bike is chock-full of useful accessories.

The first and most important thing to note is the drivetrain. The Panama Jack features a six-speed Shimano TZ-31 drivetrain . This allows for a lot of versatility, allowing you to better meet the challenges of inclines or different terrain types. The shifting is smooth, and in this regard, the Panama Jack goes well above and beyond what is expected.

The lightweight aluminum used in the frame’s construction, together with the large 26-inch wheels allows you to more easily gain momentum and retain speed. You won’t be breaking any records – this is a cruiser bike, after all, but it noticeably faster than your regular cruiser.

So, what about braking? Your average, run-of-the-mill cruiser uses coaster brakes. This isn’t ideal – coaster brakes are, to be perfectly frank, sub-par and much more trouble than they’re worth.

Thankfully, high-end models such as the Panama Jack have begun to incorporate handbrakes. The 26-inch 6-speed model of the Panama Jack features lightweight alloy linear-pull brakes. Combined with machined alloy wheel rims, the brakes offer plenty of smooth stopping power.

All in all, Panama Jack offers impressive, unexpected levels of performance. We would be remiss not to mention the handy accessories that the bike is equipped with. After all, it is our top pick in the category “best with basket”.

The bike features a roomy basket at the front and a rear rack that can support up to 20 lbs of weight. Combined, they offer plenty of storage space for long commutes, bike accessories , beachside picnics, grocery runs, or just lugging your necessities around.

Both the front and rear wheels are equipped with fenders, and a convenient drink holder is placed on the handlebar. The front fork even has a bottle opener.

A stylish, comfortable, high-performance cruiser with plenty of storage space and a lot of useful accessories, the Panama Jack offers everything you could want in a cruiser bike – and then some.

Cruiser Bikes: Frequently Asked Questions

In general, cruiser bikes aren’t terribly fast. They prioritize comfort and durability above speed. An average cruiser bike can achieve speeds of around 15 miles per hour. However, some high-end models have a much higher top speed - but as a rule of thumb, cruisers are not among the fastest bicycle types.

Absolutely! Cruiser bikes and commuter bikes have a significant overlap. In general, they are geared toward the same type of terrain, with cruiser bikes prioritizing comfort and storage space, while traditional commuters are slightly faster. If your commuting route is short and doesn’t have any steep inclines, a cruiser bike can be a fantastic choice for commuting.

Cruiser bikes weren’t made with offroad conditions in mind, but the answer varies. With the appropriate amount of gears and a good pair of tires, a cruiser bike can deal with light trails and dirt, but they weren’t designed to deal with uneven and rough terrain.

Cruiser bikes weigh more than road and mountain bikes. The weight and frame geometry of cruiser bikes provides comfortable, stable riding, but the heavier weight is a part of that tradeoff. Cruisers aren’t terribly heavy on average but are still heavier than your average bike. However, this is alleviated by the fact that the weight is usually pretty evenly distributed throughout the bike.

Cruiser bike models that have multiple gears can provide decent performance when going uphill. The weight of the bike will always mean that it will struggle with large, steep hills, but with the appropriate gears and a less challenging incline, cruiser bikes can do quite a decent job of going uphill.

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60   Best Beach Cruiser Bikes

• Based on reviews from 72 experts and 13,559 users
• Learn how the BikeRide Score works and see our guide to beach cruiser bikes
• Updated July 2024

The BikeRide Guide to Choosing the Best Beach Cruiser

What is a Beach Cruiser?

Locals only – are they just for the beach, bike from the past, geometry and ride style, frame materials.

• Components – Handlebars to Eyelets
• Fenders, Accessories & Lights

Step-Over and Step-Through

Types of beach cruiser, related cruiser types, direct sales vs. local bike shop, get some sand between your spokes, further reading and useful links.

The beach cruiser is a simple, stylish bike for the unrushed rider. Sometimes simply known as a ‘cruiser’, these bikes rock sweeping lines and wide balloon tires for comfort. There’s no question that the beach cruiser is one of the best looking types of bike out there.

Beach cruisers put the rider in a relaxed position, sitting upright with arms extended. Handlebars are wide for casual steering. On most cruisers, your legs will be stretched ahead of you, as the crank and pedals sit in front of the seat. You’ll never be hunched over the handlebars, with your derriere higher than your head.

Most models have one speed. When it comes to gears, single is simple. This keeps maintenance and adjustments to an absolute minimum. Beach cruisers are heavy, so they’re geared with an easy-going ratio for laid-back rolling down the boardwalk and beach-side path. This isn’t the bike for speed demons. Most specimens are made from hi-tensile steel, which is resilient, sturdy and repairable. But not light.

The beach cruiser suits relaxed and casual cyclists, infrequent riders, seniors and vacationers. Ungeared options suit flatlands and the coastal, beach-side life. They’re an incredibly popular choice for a simple, comfortable bike .

Beach cruisers were adopted by Southern Californians and other coastal residents in the 1970s. Delicate 10-speed road bikes tended to ‘harsh one’s mellow’ amidst this slow-burn lifestyle. At the beach, cyclists seek comfort and durability in a bike that can handle a sandy boardwalk and short, flat rides.

Enter balloon tires. At low pressures, they provide a level of comfort that is only now being discovered by mountain and road cyclists. Wide tires easily handle sandy paths and boardwalks.

Beach cruisers are usually heavy and stable. They’re not built for speed or long distance riding, but they can easily cut through a vacant lot or unkempt back-alley to pick up some corner-store groceries and a 40oz. Your cruiser is not just confined to the beach.

If you like to roll easy and look good doing it, you can’t lose cruising.

Where did the beach cruiser come from? How did these big, slow, flashy vehicles evolve to become the United States’ most iconic bike? And how did those distinctive, flowing frames come to be? The beach cruiser’s past can be traced back to the cruisers of the 1920s, 30s and 40s. We can already see the genre’s distinctively wide, swept-back handlebars and humped top-tube in the 1924 Mead Ranger.

In the depression-era 1930s, bicycles were seen as a luxury. With this in mind, manufacturers switched to constructing simple, durable models that wouldn’t beg for spare parts at a time when materials were scarce. Aesthetically, these bikes took on the flowing curvature that was popular in this heyday of Art Deco design.

This style of bike gained popularity from the 1930s through to the postwar 1950s. In 1933, Frank W. Schwinn released the B10E Motobike (which didn’t feature an engine). The ‘B’ referred to the bike’s ‘balloon’ tires. These large, comfortable tires measured around 2.125” wide and had just reached U.S. shores from Europe in the preceding couple of years.

With the onset of the 1950s, European trends influenced U.S. tastes. This resulted in an increase in popularity of the 10-speed racer and lighter bikes with narrower tires and thinner tubing. The bike that would come to be known as the ‘cruiser’, would fall by the wayside.

However, in this era, paperboys and couriers noticed the reliability and simplicity of these older bikes. For rolling around flat suburban blocks and level city streets, they served their purpose well.

They also came to the attention of another subculture. Surfers and beach bums noticed that these low-maintentance machines were perfect for cruising flatland roads and boardwalks on their way to the beach. Fat tires allowed these bikes to roll on firm, shallow sand. And hey, secondhand specimens were cheap and easy to find.

In 1973 at age 20, Larry McNeely opened his second Recycled Cycles franchise store in Newport Beach, California. McNeely and his father restored 1940s and 50s single-speed, balloon-tire bikes. McNeely noticed that people in Huntington Beach and Newport were only riding their bikes for short distances, “…so we promoted the beach cruiser under the comfort, durability and nostalgia aspects, and that’s when it took off.”

McNeely and his father built these bikes by hand, using backswept touring handlebars for an upright seating position. Original saddles were swapped out for wide, cushioned options. Vintage details included matching fenders and bold color choices. Recycled Cycles couldn’t keep up with demand.

McNeely recalls a conversation with a customer from this time. “Yeah, it’s my bay cruiser”, she told him, “I can take my surfboard, go down to the beach, throw this bike down in the sand, go surfing, come back, and it’s still gonna be there…”

“And I thought, ‘Bay cruiser, huh?’ That’s clever. Beach cruiser!”.

In 1976, McNeely trademarked the name “California Beach Cruiser” and thus was born the bike we know today.

Picking up on the trend, the Schwinn corporation quickly released the “Schwinn Cruiser” in 1977, followed by a court case and settlement with McNeely. Other companies, such as Huffy, jumped on board and caught the wave. Versions of some of the first models are still being made today.

During the 1990s slacker renaissance, beach cruisers enjoyed a resurgence in popularity, which hasn’t waned. This gives the current-day beach cruiser buyer a wide range of options, from brands both big and small. To this day, beach cruisers are the stylish, no-frills, low-cost alternative. Rock-solid, carefree options are still out there, if you know what to look for.

Beach cruiser geometry is chill. You’ll find cruisers and road bikes at opposite ends of the comfort spectrum, with cruisers sporting a relaxed and upright seating position.

On beach cruisers, you sit back with arms outstretched and hands above the height of your saddle. Visibility is excellent, allowing you to see the path ahead.

Swept-back handlebars ensure that steering is comfortable, but slow. They place the rider in an ergonomic position, allowing wrists to bend at a more natural angle. The result is a casual steering style that feels free and easy, but won’t see you whipping through alpine hairpin bends.

Beach cruisers have a long wheelbase, keeping them stable. A long top-tube keeps arms extended, while long chainstays result in a grounded bike and slower acceleration.

Head Tube Angle

A relaxed head tube angle of around 69° to 70° results in relaxed steering. It also contributes to less weight being placed over the front wheel, which is only a problem if you’re attempting a lot of climbs. On a cruiser, this probably isn’t the case.

Seat Tube Angle

At around 67° (but as steep as 70°), a slack seat tube angle places the rider further toward the rear of the bike. With tall bars, riders are seated low and reaching high. With many cruisers; the bottom bracket, cranks and pedals are placed further ahead of the saddle than is the case with most bike types. This means that riders stretch their legs forward when pedaling.

Bottom Bracket Height and Drop

Cruisers usually sit low to the ground, leaving less space between their bottom brackets and the ground, than on many other types of bike. This makes for a more stable ride, especially at slow speeds.

In combination with a slack seat tube angle, this makes it possible for some manufacturers to create cruiser models that allow the rider to plant both feet flat on the ground, while seated. This isn’t allowed by the geometry of most bikes.

On the other hand, this brings your pedals close to the ground on turns. Striking your pedals at speed can cause a crash. But let’s be honest, this usually happens when pedaling through turns at high speeds. And those who cruise, usually coast through bends. So this isn’t a downside or safety issue.

Fork ‘Trail’

The fork on your cruiser bike is almost always curved. If not, a straight cruiser fork is usually situated to place it at a similar distance and angle from the head tube. This results in a lot of rake and loads of what is known as ‘trail’. Basically, your steering is slow and casual, just how you want it.

No twitchiness here.

Low Standover

This is one of the build characteristics that makes a beach cruiser so suited to the casual cyclist . It is especially easy to swing a leg over a step-through cruiser frame. But even on a step-over cruiser, there is plenty of room for a rider to stand over the top-tube, with clearance between the bike’s frame and their crotch.

This makes it easy to stop and start, especially at traffic lights or when it’s important to bring the bike to a stable stop. With their low seat and standover heights, beach cruisers can be some of the safest types of bike to ride.

Most beach cruiser frames are steel. They always have been. It’s the classic choice due to its durability, comfort and ability to be repaired. On the downside, it’s heavier than aluminum. It’s also less rust-resistant, unless it’s received a coating (such as electrophoretic deposition ). This is definitely something to consider when riding beachside.

There are two main types of steel that you’ll find on beach cruiser frames, and there are important differences between them.

Hi-Tensile Otherwise known as ‘hi-ten’, this is the steel used to make a great majority of beach cruiser frames. It’s a low-cost option for a frame that can last a lifetime. But it is heavier and less shock-absorbent than chromoly. On a cruiser, this isn’t a great concern. The relative rigidity of hi-ten steel is offset by wide, low-pressure tires and sprung saddles.

Chromoly is a steel alloy that incorporates chromium and molybdenum. It’s also known as ‘cro-moly’, ‘cro-mo’ and by the numerical designation ‘4130’.

It’s relatively rare on new cruisers, but represents a lighter option, partially because it can be drawn into thinner tubing without compromising strength. This makes it more forgiving than hi-ten, over bumpy surfaces. Its strength can also lead to it being more durable.

But in the end, chromoly frames ask a higher price than hi-ten. Because cruisers are a casual ride, most buyers are happy to get by with the extra weight and lower price of hi-tensile steel. For the kind of riding you’ll do on these bikes, you may not notice the difference.

On beach cruisers, aluminum is rarer and costlier than hi-tensile steel. Nevertheless, it makes a lot of sense.

Aluminum is a lot more resistant to corrosion than any kind of steel. It’s also significantly lighter than a hi-tensile frame (and somewhat lighter than chromoly). This means you can have the classic long, flowing framework found on traditional cruisers, without the weight penalty.

Some geared cruisers use aluminum to offset the weight of gearing components.

Titanium is an expensive, light, durable and shock-absorbent metal that is almost rust-resistant.

When you want a simple and low-cost bike, titanium is probably the last material you’ll think of.

The best beach cruiser might be the one that’s ignored by thieves.

Even on the highest-end mountain and road bikes, titanium is boutique. But if you have deep pockets and want a nigh-indestructible bike that won’t rust, you can find yourself a titanium beach cruiser.

If you find yourself drifting in the direction of natural materials, it’s possible to buy yourself a beautiful, wooden beach cruiser. At the date of writing, there only appears to be one production model on the market, available in either Redwood or Ash. At 28.7 lbs, it isn’t even that heavy.

Sure, it looks great and is undeniably unique. But it’ll cost you a pretty penny.

Swept-back handlebars are one of the signature characteristics of beach cruisers. Not every model uses them (see the high-performance titanium cruiser, above), but a great majority do. These handlebars employ a large degree of ‘backsweep’, setting riders’ wrists at a relaxed horizontal or vertical position (such as on ‘North Road’ style bars). This gives you the feeling of steering an unrushed bus.

Backsweep also ensures that you have infinite room for a basket or anything placed on a rack; be it a crate, box or your double-dinked friend.

Cruiser bars are very wide, often measuring between 24 to 30 inches from tip to tip. If you read our section on beach cruiser fork geometry (above), you’ll see that cruisers are ‘high-trail’ bikes, with heavily raked forks. That is to say, the fork sticks out in front of the head tube. This means that your fork can easily flop around from side to side. The way to counter this is with leverage – and the way to gain leverage is with… handlebar width!

Cruiser bars have a decent amount of rise, varying from a couple of inches to the dramatic ‘ape-hanger’ bars found on some custom ‘choppers’ and lowriders.

Dramatic rise doesn’t really help on climbs, as it results in your weight being set lower and further back.

A couple to a few inches of rise places you in a comfortable, upright position with excellent visibility.

Cruiser bars are usually curved and are rarely flat or straight. On some urban cruisers, they might be more angular in shape, but are still bent for rise and sweep. Subsequently, they might not be the best for standing over on climbs.

One thing they ain’t, is racy. You won’t find drop bars on a cruiser and you won’t find yourself leaning over the bars.

On new bikes, most bars are steel. You can find lighter aluminum bars on higher-end, higher-priced models. They are also available as an aftermarket option.

Coaster Brakes

Coaster brakes are also known as ‘pedal brakes’. You might remember them from childhood, when simple bikes required you to push your pedals backwards to stop. There are no pads or discs and braking takes place largely within the wheel hub. Most coaster brakes provide somewhat inferior stopping power, compared to rim and disc brakes. But as with any other brakes, there is a wide range available in terms of quality and cost. Coaster brake hubs can also be combined with internal gearing.

Traditionally, beach cruisers use just one rear coaster brake. This is how the first cruisers were configured. It’s a good enough option for coastal, flatland riding and slow cruising. On its own, a coaster brake might not be practical or safe in hillier terrain or at higher speeds. Mashing a coaster can ‘cook’ the grease inside a coaster hub. The first mountain bikers had to repack this grease after every descent. A number of new models use a rear coaster brake with a front rim brake. This front brake is usually a V-brake. Sometimes, it’s a caliper.

• Coaster hubs only require infrequent maintenance.
• A coaster brake does not need cables or levers.
• They give your cruiser a neat, clean appearance.

Disadvantages

• They can overheat on long, steep descents.
• Coaster hubs may need repacking with grease.
• There are more powerful options available.
• Coaster brakes prohibit back-pedaling.
• Bunny-hopping can be more difficult with a coaster brake.
• A ‘reaction arm’ needs to be detached and reattached to remove and fit the rear wheel.

It’s common for new beach cruisers to use rim brakes. Some models come with a front rim and rear coaster. Other models, especially geared specimens, come with rim brakes front and back.

Linear-pull Brakes (or ‘V-brakes’) are a type of cantilever rim brake that uses a single cable and two arms. They fit well around fat balloon tires and are easily adjusted and maintained at home. That said, they can still be tricky to center. As far as cantilever brakes go, they’re powerful.

Caliper Brakes are also specced on some new cruisers. These attach to the frame or fork by a single bolt. They use curved arms, which must be long and wide enough to fit around your tires. For this reason, they are more suited to accommodating narrow to mid-width tires.

• Easy to adjust.
• Rim brakes lose some power in wet weather.
• Winter braking wears down rims as grit and filth gets attracted to brake pads.

Drum Brakes

Some beach cruisers use drum brakes, but they’re more often found on European roadsters and utility bikes (where they’re sometimes called ‘roller brakes’ or ‘hub brakes’). Drum brakes use an internal hub, like coaster brakes, but are cable-actuated in the same way rim and disc brakes are. Drum brakes work by using a conventional brake lever and cable linked to a cam that presses brake shoes outward against the inside of a cylindrical drum, creating friction.

Drum brakes may be combined with an internally geared hub and / or a dynamo that’s connected to your bike’s lighting. They are used on some U.S. cruisers and lowriders.

• They are easy to modulate.
• Drum brakes are long-lasting and robust.
• They require infrequent maintenance.
• They usually require a mechanic to overhaul.
• Drum brakes are heavy.
• They may “stick”.
• Braking is not as powerful or sudden as with discs.
• Oversized drum hubs affect wheel building and alter spoke length.
• Like coaster brakes, a reaction arm needs to be detached to remove the wheel.
• Drum brakes have poor heat dissipation, making them prone to brake fade.
• They are built into a hub. When one element of this hub is worn out, the whole unit needs replacing.

Disc Brakes

Disc brakes slow the bike by squeezing pads onto a disc, which is attached to the wheel hub. Discs are more powerful and more costly than rim brakes, but are now more affordable than they have ever been. They are more effective in wet weather. They allow for the use of wide tires and don’t wear down your rims.

Disc brakes add weight to your bike. They are also more complicated than rim brakes, when it comes to maintenance, adjustment and repair.

There are two types of disc brake; hydraulic and mechanical. Hydraulic brakes provide greater stopping power and use brake fluid to transmit force. They are more costly than mechanical discs and trickier to maintain.

If you live in a dry climate and cruise by the beach, you might consider cutting costs and using rim brakes. Beach cruisers are attractive for being low-maintenance and low cost. This makes disc brakes an uncommon choice on pedal bikes. They are more prevalent on electric cruisers, to counter the extra speed and weight.

• Strong stopping power in all weather conditions.
• Allow the use of wider tires.
• Protect rims from wear.
• Powerful ability to stop a heavy cruiser’s bulk.
• Complicated and difficult to maintain.
• Require levers and cables.
• Don’t leave a cruiser with such a clean look.

Factors to Consider

Used by itself, a coaster brake could fail at high speeds or with extended use on long, downhill rides. To be safe, it’s a good idea to choose a new bike with a front rim, drum or disc brake.

Either new or as an aftermarket option, a rim brake is the cheapest option. When choosing a geared beach cruiser, it’s a good idea to aim for a model with dual brakes, as you’ll be reaching higher speeds.

A number of cheap, single-speed beach cruisers still use one-piece cranks. Some versions can be tougher than others, but in general, three-piece setups are superior. New three-piece cranks use sealed bearings and a separate part for either crank and the spindle. They are lighter and stronger than one-piece options, which can be easy to bend. If this happens, the whole assembly must be replaced. For a three-piece crank, only the bent arm need be replaced. Aim for three-piece cranks.

Traditionally, beach cruisers are single-speed bikes . Internally geared hubs with 3, 5, 7 or 8 speeds are also common. There are also 7 and 9 speed beach cruisers that employ a rear derailleur. Few brands manufacture a beach cruiser that uses more than one chainring, as this avoids the need to deal with the complication of a front derailleur. That said, there are a couple of manufacturers that offer a 21-speed model.

Generally, beach cruisers are geared quite low, in order to offset the significant weight of these bikes.

Single-Speed

Single-speed gearing ratios are easy-going, hovering around 2:1. Chainrings usually have between 44 and 46 teeth. Rear cogs sit between 18 and 23 teeth. Some common ratios on new bikes are:

• 44:22 – A very common ratio and a good average when considering a new purchase.

• Single-speed setups are very simple.
• They are low maintenance.
• One gear is usually enough for short rides.
• Single-speeds suit coastal, flatland and beachside terrain.
• There’s no need for cables, derailleurs, shifters or internal hubs.
• Single-speeds have a clean and minimal look.
• You won’t have a high top-gear on flats or descents.
• One gear will limit your beach cruiser to less steep terrain.
• A single-speed can be hard work when loaded down with cargo.
• It can be difficult to take off from a dead stop.
• Single-speed drivetrains can cause knee strain.

Internal Gearing

Beach cruisers with 3, 5, and 7-speed internally geared hubs are common. 2 and 8-speed models are rarer. These options open you and your bike up to hilly terrain and longer distance rides, while maintaining the relatively clean look of an internal hub.

• Gears open your beach cruiser up to a wider range of terrains.
• Internally geared hubs are sealed from sand and moisture.
• A geared hub makes it easier to haul cargo .
• A lower gear makes acceleration easier from a dead stop.
• Higher speeds can be attained on flats and descents.
• Internal hubs present neatly.
• They only use one shifter and one cable.
• There’s no need for derailleurs.
• Internal gearing systems only require infrequent maintenance.
• When needed, maintenance can be complicated.
• An internal hub requires a shifter, cable and guides.
• Gears complicate the rear hub, especially when combined with a coaster brake and / or a dynamo for lighting.

Shimano and Sturmey Archer are names to look out for. When it comes to internally-geared hubs, both are manufacturers of renown.

External Gearing using Derailleurs

Beach cruisers are also available with external gearing. External gearing is exposed to salt air and sand, both of which rapidly deteriorate components. If you’re looking for a 7 or 8-speed cruiser and you actually ride your beach cruiser by the seaside, an internally-geared option will be more durable and require less maintenance.

Derailleur-equipped beach cruisers are available in 7, 8, 9 and 21-speed variants. A 21-speed bike uses three chainrings and a front derailleur, making maintenance and adjustment significantly more complicated than the single chainring setups specced on 7, 8 and 9-speed beach cruisers.

• 21 speeds can help you cover more terrain.
• A large number of gears lets you carry cargo up steep hills.
• Low gears make it easier to accelerate from a dead stop.
• Higher speeds are attainable, along with acceleration on descents.
• External gearing can be adjusted by (some) home mechanics.
• External gearing is exposed to rust and sand.
• A full drivetrain (derailleurs, cabling, shifters and guides) is complicated.
• More tuning and repair is needed than on an internally geared drivetrain.

The complexity of external gearing in some ways defies the simple, carefree nature of the beach cruiser. On flatland escapades, you can do without this many gears.

The Contact Points

New beach cruisers generally arrive fitted with a wide, cushioned saddle. There’s a couple of reasons for this. Firstly, a comfy seat suits the relaxed ride-style and aesthetic of these bikes. Secondly, cruiser geometry puts you in a position where a lot of your weight is resting on your behind.

Some cushioned saddles are well thought-out in their construction and shape. However, excessive cushioning can be misleading. This squishiness is uncomfortable on longer rides and will be felt in your hips, thighs and bottom. It can cause numbness due to restricted blood supply.

It’s best to err on the side of moderation when considering saddle width. A number of female riders find that a moderately wide imprint is more suited to their body shape. Other riders will choose a standard saddle as found on a commuter or hybrid bike.

Many new beach cruisers are only fit with a nutted seat collar. This means that you will need an allen key or spanner to adjust the height of your seat. Thieves will also need a tool to remove it. Other new bikes use a quick-release lever that lets you quickly and easily alter the height of your seat. It also makes it easy to steal.

Sprung Saddles

Sprung saddles are a traditional component of classic cruisers. They are an early but effective form of suspension. These saddles usually feature two large, short springs under the seat of a bike’s saddle. Other examples have a third spring beneath the saddle nose. Some modern versions use elastomers as a lighter-weight alternative to springs.

Sprung saddles are comfortable and provide relief on bumpy and uneven surfaces. But they’re usually quite heavy.

Leather Saddles

Leather saddles are fit to higher-end cruisers and are often chosen as an aftermarket option. The first sprung saddles were made of leather. They are expensive and have a breaking-in period, during which they can be a little uncomfortable.

Once broken-in, they mold to the specific shape of your butt and can easily last a lifetime. Leather saddles are collectible and durable, when cared for.

You can always choose a different saddle for your new beach cruiser. For many people, this is the first part that gets replaced on a new bike. A lot of cruiser and lowrider owners enjoy customizing their bike with a saddle that reflects their personal style.

All kinds of grips come fit to new beach cruisers. Something to be wary of is ‘style over substance’. Some grips look great but will cause discomfort on longer rides. This is not an uncommon occurrence on new cruisers. These are the types of grips most often found on beach cruisers:

Molded Grips

This is the traditional style. They’re molded to fit individual fingers and are made of a firm yet pliable rubber. They are comfortable but don’t offer the highest degree of relief from vibration.

Stitched Leather

There are a lot of synthetic ‘leather-look’ grips fit to new cruisers. They can be spongy and not too grippy. More expensive options use either synthetics or real leather. They may be more ergonomic and less slippery in sweaty conditions. Mostly, leather is for looks.

Ergonomic Grips

Higher-end cruisers may come fit with ergonomic grips. These are comfortable and healthy for the natural shape of human hands. They are usually made from a material that provides adequate shock absorbance.

A good guideline for grips is to seek something that’s comfortable but not too squishy.

The most common beach cruiser pedals are flat ‘platform’ pedals. This traditional style features two rubber inserts on the edges of the pedal. Yes, these look cool, simple and classic. But they’re also the best tool for the job.

Platform pedals offer easy on / off action and footdown when coming to a stop. They’re great for casual shoes, flip-flops and maybe most important of all… bare feet. Be wary that a number of low-cost beach cruisers come fit with low quality pedals. On the worst examples, bearings are poor and axles bend.

Never fear. After saddles, pedals are soon swapped out on new bikes. When seeking replacements, keep in mind that ‘plastic’ does not always equal poor quality. Polycarbonate examples can be long-lasting and feature high quality bearings.

Once upon a time, cruisers used steel rims. No doubt, some of them were very sturdy. But these rims rocked some heavy, rust-prone metal. In addition, brake shoes are more effective when biting into alloy. For these reasons, rims on new beach cruisers are made of aluminum.

Aluminum alloy rims are lightweight and highly rust resistant. Aluminum can achieve the same strength as steel at a much lower weight, while retaining a high degree of stiffness. As a material for wheel rims, it isn’t expensive either. If dented, it can often be repaired.

Sealed wheel bearings roll smoothly and protect bearings from salt and sand. Beach cruisers using sealed wheel bearings may cost a little more than models using cage bearings. The durability is worth the extra cost.

Beach cruiser rims are wide, in order to accommodate balloon tires at low pressures. This allows your big tires to spread out to an even wider footprint, creating a large contact patch, for grip and stability.

On beach cruisers, these are the approximate internal rim widths needed for beach cruiser tires:

• 20 to 22mm covers the most common beach cruiser tire sizes (from 2.0” to 2.35”)
• 25mm rims are needed for bigger and ‘plus-size’ tires (2.4” to 2.7”)
• 35mm to 50mm for fat-tire cruiser options (2.8” to 4.0”)

Wide rims can be expensive. It’s worth taking rim width into consideration if you plan on upgrading or customizing with truly fat tires .

700c Wheels

20 to 25mm rims will fit tires from 35c up to 54c (the most common 700c cruiser sizes).

New cruisers usually use 32 to 36 spokes.Look for 32 spokes at a minimum, to provide support under a heavy frame and bike.

New bikes should use regular gauge spokes in a 14G width. Anything wider would be a bonus.

For a real beach bike, look for stainless steel spokes to impart rust resistance.

Almost all beach cruiser wheels are 26” in diameter. This is a classic size. It’s also the same size that was adopted as the mountain bike standard, up until the 2010s. This means that there are plenty of spare wheels and rims available.

Of course, bigger wheels would be faster. But speed is not a priority for the beach cruiser.

26” – 26 Inch

Most adult beach cruisers use this size. These wheels can proscribe a tighter turn-circle than 700c wheels, on what is a comparatively long wheelbase bike. Most frames allow for fat, balloon-style tires. With fat rubber, the total diameter of your tires is increased.

700c / 29” – 29 Inch

This is the standard size for road bikes as well as many hybrids and commuters. They are used on some cruisers that are also intended for commuting and longer distances. Being of larger diameter, they roll faster. Wide 700c rims are known as ‘29 Inch’ in the mountain biking community.

They also roll over small bumps without the need for such plump tires as on 26” varieties. Even so, you’ll want ample rubber for comfort and flotation on sandy surfaces. Your new bike should sport tires at least 35c in circumference, but preferably 38c to 50c. Your cruiser’s frame should have clearance for tires of at least 38c.

Cruisers for shorter riders and juveniles sometimes use 24 inch wheels. This allows for a more proportionate build with smaller frame sizes. 24” rims are also used on standard frame sizes to accommodate very fat tires.

Smaller children’s cruisers use 20” and 24” wheels.

All beach cruiser tires share similar traits. They have moderate tread and ample width.

Big balloon tires are:

• Comfortable.
• Bouyant on firm and shallow sand.
• Good lookin’.

They are designed to:

• Have superior rollover on bumps and debris.
• Bestow moderate traction.
• Provide a low rolling resistance.

Lets face it, with beach cruisers, looks can be important. The same goes with tires. New and aftermarket tires sport a variety of colors and styles.

Beach cruiser tires usually bear a ‘mixed’ tread. This pattern isn’t knobbly, like on mountain bike tires. But it has enough tread to maintain traction on some sand, especially on turns. A moderate tread allows you to ride your cruiser on unkempt roads, grass and hardpack dirt. But if you regularly roll through urban streets, you won’t want your tires creating excess drag. For this reason, you can choose between smoother ‘semi-slick’ tires and moderately tread tires with zig-zag and waffle patterning.

Beach Cruiser Tire Sizes and Widths

• Standard widths usually range between 2.0” and 2.35”.
• Fat tire options can be as wide as 4.0”.
• On cruisers, tires usually start at a width of 38c.
• Maximum widths peak at around 50c.
• 2.125” is a popular width.
• Widths generally vary between 1.75” and 2.15”.
• 24” tires are often used on ‘dragsters’ and fat bikes with 3.0” tires.

20” and 16”

• These sizes are used on kids’ cruisers with widths from 1.75” to 2.15”.

Really? Yes. Suspension exists, for beach cruisers.

Springer Forks

The Springer Fork is the traditional form of beach cruiser suspension. They often use a single, central spring attached to the threaded headset assembly. They do provide relief over bumps and poor terrain, but the centrally located spring can have a tendency to swing from side to side, creating steering lag and a spongy ride.

Good quality options are hard to find on off-the-shelf cruisers. But they sure do look good. A more stable option uses this same central spring in combination with a ‘double-sprung’ fork, attached by pivots to either side of a ‘second fork’.

Bosses, Eyelets and Mounts

Many beach cruisers don’t have mounts for bottles, as they’re intended for short-haul rides and jaunts. Some stylized frames don’t leave room to attach bottle bosses or to fit a bottle in the frame. If you plan on going on longer rides, keep an eye out for a model that does allow a bottle to be fitted. Many geared and commuter cruisers come equipped.

Many beach cruisers have mounts for a rear rack. Check for the appropriate eyelets or mount-points near the dropouts or on the seat stays of your new cruiser’s frame. For some cruisers, you may need to purchase an aftermarket saddle clamp adaptor.

Front Racks

Front racks can also be attached to your beach cruiser. Many Cruisers may not have eyelets to attach the kind of front rack that you would attach to a touring bike , but they can be attached to the headtube and / or handlebars, using a bracket.

Baskets, Boxes and Crates

These are popular, traditional and stylish options for cargo . Crates and boxes can be mounted on a front rack, while smaller baskets can be attached to the handlebars.

Surfboard Racks

Because this is a ‘beach’ cruiser we’re talking about, you may need a way to carry a surfboard. Specialist racks tote a surfboard beside you as you ride. Some models even have their own proprietary rack.

When looking for a new cruiser, keep in mind that many models won’t have mounts for any racks .

Many beach cruisers arrive fit with matching fenders or at least with eyelets to attach them.

This may be a ‘beach bike’, but you never know when an unexpected saltwater puddle or onshore rainstorm is coming to harsh your sunny buzz.

Accessories

Many beach cruiser accessories are stylized to suit the retro aesthetic. Options are almost endless, including horns and cup-holders for your Mai Tai.

Aside from electric models, few beach cruisers come equipped with lights. For aftermarket lighting, you might consider aesthetically appropriate options.

Beach cruising is not an expensive cycling genre. At heart, beach cruisers are intended to be simple and low-cost, as relates to both upfront and ongoing costs. This is due to their minimalistic build. Even so, low cost models can be low quality. There are numerous examples on the market.

That said, a few hundred dollars should buy you a sturdy ride. Geared models will cost more, but a 3-speed, internally-geared bike may be similar in price to a 7-speed cruiser with a derailleur. Of course, beautiful designer models fetch a premium.

Many custom enthusiasts will buy a cheap complete bike, intending to strip all parts from the frame. With this in mind, there is less concern over the quality of components.

Cruisers with 3-piece cranks and / or sealed wheel bearings will cost more. For the extra money, you get a bike that is better sealed against the elements, more durable and easier to upgrade.

The main beach cruiser variation is between the two frame shapes. Cruisers with step-over frames have a higher standover height, meaning the top-tube curves upward from the head-tube. This means that it sits up higher from the ground than on a step-through frame. Step-through frames have a downward-sloping top-tube and a much lower standover height.

Traditionally, this means that step-over frames were favored by male riders, while step-through frames were marketed to women. This is still predominately true. Step-through frames do make it easy to mount a cruiser in a dress. But in reality, some shorter or less-able men choose step-through frames, while some taller women prefer a step-over frame. Many cruiser models are available in both styles.

Commuter Cruisers

These bikes are daily commuters that retain the cruiser’s flowing framework. Often, they use chromoly steel or aluminum tubing. This makes for a lighter, more comfortable rig. Unlike their flatland counterparts, they’re geared. Some models use 700c wheels to achieve greater speeds and cover longer distances.

Fat Tire Beach Cruisers

Fat cruisers look extra bad-ass. Tires range from 3.0” to 4.0” wide on both 26” and 24” wheels. Some of them are all about the look. But like other fat bikes , a few of these cruisers exhibit so much flotation that they can actually be ridden on sand. They are heavy, slow and not practical for everyday use.

Electric Beach Cruisers

Wide tires and relaxed geometry make the beach cruiser well suited to e-biking . Long frames easily accommodate batteries without inhibiting aesthetics. E-Cruisers should use disc brakes, which can be either mechanical or hydraulic.

What could be better than the synthesis of two of the world’s most popular vacation bikes? New tandem cruisers should use wheels with at least 36 spokes, to handle both riders’ weight.

Urban Cruisers

These bikes employ the same relaxed geometry as beach cruisers, but often use sturdy, angular frame construction. They come in single-speed options but are often available in geared versions to suit urban commutes .

Board Track Racers / Café Racers

Like cruisers, these retro bikes feature arched frames with flowing lines. They are reminiscent of Board Track and Cafe Racer motorbikes of the 1910s and 20s. Handlebars are low, in an old-school racing position. They often use large 28” wheels with balloon tires, to attain higher speeds. They may be geared, with up to 5 speeds in an internal hub.

They may be slow to accelerate. But at speed, big wheels and tires unite with ample weight to make for an unstoppable steamroller of a bike.

Mountain bikes originated from cruisers. In the 60s and 70s, the sport’s pioneers adapted cruisers from the ‘20s and ’40s. Knobbly, off-road tires were added, while fenders and chainguards were removed. The Klunker was born. Riders needed to repack coaster hubs after long, rapid off-road descents. Modern versions are a niche style that harks back to these groundbreaking bikes. New models often use disc brakes.

Buying a bike online is a world apart from the experience of choosing a bike from your local bike shop. The benefit of a direct sale from the manufacturer, is that you aren’t paying for the middleman. If you’re buying a bike from an online retailer, they don’t have to pay for the rent of premises and they don’t need to pay an experienced, professional mechanic to assemble and tune your bike. For these reasons, you pay less.

Good online bike retailers will pre-assemble as much as 80% to 95% of your bike before shipping and will provide the tools required for the remaining adjustments.

Whatever route you choose, there are benefits and drawbacks.

Beach cruisers are meant to be easy. Easy to buy, easy to ride and easy to maintain. These simple and beautiful machines are a mile away from the technical and competitive worlds of road and mountain bikes, where flowing lines are rare. While they should be low cost, this doesn’t mean that they should be ‘cheap’.

When it comes to coastal coasting, choose wisely and roll on!

• Have questions about which bike to choose? Ask in our Forum .
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• Mead Cycle Co., Mead Ranger Bicycles, Chicago, Illinois 1924
• Chicagology, Bicycle Manufacturers
• Schwinn, Schwinn History: 1930 to 1939
• Kathryn Bold, Retro Bikes : 1930s to ‘50s Balloon-Tire Bicycles Worth Peddling
• Andy Uhler, He Built the Beach Cruiser and Sold a Lifestyle
• Andrew Small, The California Beach Cruiser Built a Bike Movement
• Alex Matoso, Cruiser Bicycles’ Early History and Their New Name: Beach Cruisers
• Shawn Sweeney and Gary Meneghin, The First American Balloon Tire Bicycles
• Los Angeles Times – July 27th, 1978, 1930s ‘One-Speeds’ Back in Style, Old Bikes Produce New, Expensive Fad
• Leon Dixon – Popular Mechanics – January, 1978, If It’s Not Too Late – Hang on to That Balloon-Tire Bike!
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Ride in Style, Ride for Miles: The Long-Distance Appeal of Cruiser Bikes

Dec 25, 2023

By Tracer Bikes 01

When it comes to embarking on a long-distance cycling adventure, the choice of the right bike can make all the difference. Cruiser bikes, often associated with leisurely rides along the beach or through the neighborhood, might not be the first choice that comes to mind for long journeys. However, as we delve into the unique features and capabilities of cruiser bikes, you might be surprised to find that they could be your ideal companion for those extended rides. Are cruiser bikes good for long distance?

### Hitting the Road in Style: Cruiser Bikes' Aesthetic Appeal

Cruiser bikes are known for their laid-back, stylish design. The wide, padded seat and high handlebars create a comfortable, upright riding position. Many people think that cruiser bikes are only suitable for leisurely short-distance rides on the beach, and that they are not designed for long-distance riding. For long distance rides, many people will leave them at home, hanging on more suitable road bikes or mountain bikes. However, this is not the case. The leisurely riding position of a cruiser bike, especially a stretchchopper cruiser bike (like the Tracer Leopard Stretch Beach Cruiser Bike) can significantly reduce the stress on your back and neck during long rides. Embracing a cruiser for long trips is like sitting in your favorite armchair.

source:Bill R Petty

### A Smooth Operator: Cruiser Bikes and Road Comfort

Cruisers are best suited for short-distance rides. they are not designed for long-term comfort. Cruisers are great for riding on the weekends or for short commutes because cruiser bikes are designed for comfort on flat surfaces, and if you want to ride long distances , the roads are flat, making them great for . Wide tires and relaxed geometry contribute to a smooth and stable ride, minimizing the effects of vibrations typically associated with uneven terrain.

### Long-Haul Luxury: Understanding Cruiser Bike Ergonomics

Ergonomics play a crucial role in the suitability of a bike for long-distance riding. Cruiser bikes, with their ergonomic design, distribute your weight evenly, reducing fatigue and discomfort. This feature becomes increasingly valuable as the miles add up.

## Steady as She Goes: Stability on the Long Road

### Sturdy Foundations: The Stability of Cruiser Bikes

Cruiser bikes are built with a sturdy frame that enhances their stability, especially on straight, well-paved roads. This stability not only ensures a safer ride but also boosts the rider's confidence during long journeys. ### Wind in Your Hair, Not in Your Face: Cruiser Bikes and Wind Resistance The design of cruiser bikes, with their upright riding position and wider handlebars, might result in slightly more wind resistance compared to aerodynamic road bikes. However, the impact is minimal during leisurely long rides and is often outweighed by the comfort they provide.

## Pace vs. Comfort: Cruiser Bikes and Long-Distance Efficiency

### The Tortoise and the Hare: Cruiser Bikes and Speed Expectations

Cruiser bikes are not known for their speed, and this characteristic might raise questions about their suitability for long-distance rides. While they may not break speed records, cruisers offer a consistent and leisurely pace that aligns well with the unhurried nature of long-distance journeys.

### The Efficiency Equation: Cruiser Bikes and Energy Conservation

Efficiency in long-distance riding isn't solely about speed. Cruiser bikes excel in energy conservation, allowing riders to maintain a steady pace for extended periods without exhausting themselves. This efficiency becomes a valuable asset when covering substantial distances. 

## Load it Up: Cruiser Bikes and Luggage Capacity ### More Than Just Looks: Cruiser Bikes and Luggage Racks Contrary to the perception of cruiser bikes as minimalist in design, many models come equipped with luggage racks or have the option for easy installation. This feature enhances their practicality for long-distance riders who need to carry essentials without compromising comfort.

### Gear Up: Cruiser Bikes and Accessories for Long Journeys Cruiser bikes can be customized with various accessories, including saddlebags and handlebar-mounted pouches. These additions make it possible to carry everything you need for a long adventure while maintaining the cruiser's distinctive aesthetic.

## Personalized Pedaling: Matching Cruiser Bikes with Your Riding Style ### Finding Your Fit: Cruiser Bikes and Personalized Comfort Cruiser bikes come in various sizes and styles, allowing riders to find the perfect fit for their body type and preferences. Achieving a personalized fit is crucial for long rides, and cruiser bikes offer a range of options to accommodate individual needs. ### The Joy of Customization: Cruiser Bikes and Personal Expression One of the appealing aspects of cruiser bikes is the potential for customization. From color schemes to accessories, riders can tailor their cruisers to reflect their personality. This personal connection enhances the overall riding experience, making long journeys more enjoyable. ## Maintenance Matters: Keeping Your Cruiser Ready for the Long Haul ### Easy Riders: Cruiser Bikes and Low-Maintenance Appeal Cruiser bikes are often praised for their simplicity and low maintenance requirements. This characteristic is advantageous for long-distance riders who want a reliable companion without the hassle of frequent repairs and adjustments. ### A Smooth Ride Ahead: Tips for Maintaining Your Cruiser Bike While cruisers are generally low-maintenance, a few key tips can help keep your bike in top condition for those extended journeys. Regular checks of tire pressure, lubrication of moving parts, and a thorough inspection of brakes contribute to a smooth and safe ride. ## On the Horizon: Choosing Cruiser Bikes for Specific Long-Distance Scenarios ### Coastal Cruising: Cruiser Bikes and Seaside Adventures For riders looking to explore coastal routes and enjoy scenic beachside views during their long-distance journey, cruiser bikes are a fantastic choice. The comfortable ride and aesthetic appeal perfectly complement the relaxed coastal atmosphere. ### Urban Exploration: Navigating Cities with Cruiser Bikes Cruiser bikes, with their comfortable and upright riding position, are well-suited for navigating urban landscapes. For those planning long rides through city streets and diverse neighborhoods, cruisers offer a unique and enjoyable experience. ## Riding Into the Sunset: Conclusion In the grand debate over the suitability of cruiser bikes for long-distance rides, the answer isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. The choice ultimately depends on individual preferences, riding styles, and the specific nature of the journey. While cruiser bikes may not be the speed demons of the cycling world, they shine in providing comfort, stability, and a unique aesthetic that resonates with riders seeking a leisurely pace on the open road.

Our customers EPIC in September 2023, 2 DAY RIDE TO 225 mile cycling ON TRACER LEOPARD.    Many people call him a beast, an animal or a savage because of his ability to ride a TRACER LEOPARD to a 49ers game. After the race, he was able to ride home.Through the story of Bill R Petty, cruiser bikes are also suitable for long distances.One of the key things that make cruiser bikes stand out on long-distance rides is that they offer a huge amount of room for personalization, taking into account each rider’s unique preferences and physical condition. We need to choose a suitable long-distance riding cruise bike according to our own circumstances.

  source:Bill R Petty

## Frequently Asked Questions

### 1. Can cruiser bikes handle challenging terrains during long rides? Cruiser bikes are best suited for flat and well-paved surfaces. While they may handle occasional bumps, they are not designed for rough terrains commonly encountered in mountain biking.

### 2. Are cruiser bikes suitable for riders of all heights? Cruiser bikes come in various sizes, making them suitable for riders of different heights. It's essential to choose the right frame size for a comfortable and efficient riding experience.

### 3. How do cruiser bikes compare to road bikes for long-distance riding? Road bikes are designed for speed and efficiency, making them faster than cruiser bikes. However, cruisers excel in comfort and stability, offering a more relaxed riding experience.

### 4. Can I use a chopper cruiser bike for bikepacking on long-distance trails? While chopper cruiser bikes are not the typical choice for bikepacking due to their design, some models with added accessories and modifications can handle light bikepacking on well-maintained trails.

### 5. Are cruiser bikes suitable for cross-country touring? Cruiser bikes can be suitable for cross-country touring, especially on routes with smooth terrain. However, riders should consider their preferences, comfort, and the expected road conditions before embarking on such journeys.

Reading next

Cruiser Bikes vs. Regular Bikes: Choosing the Right Ride for Your Lifestyle

Riding in Style: Your Ultimate Guide to Chopper Bikes and Customization

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The 9 Best Beach Cruiser Bikes of 2024

Enjoy the sand and surf from the saddle

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Chloe Jeong /TripSavvy

Beach cruiser bikes epitomize the saying that the journey is the destination. “A cruiser bike is for when comfort, not speed, is the goal,” says Jeff Shyman, founder and owner of Confederacy of Cruisers, a New Orleans bike tour company.

Functional differences exist between these bikes and others, with their (often) single-speed operation, balloon tires, comfortable seats, and coaster brakes. Andre Batista, director of operations for web retailer Bikes Online, observes, “The seating position [is] 90 degrees to the ground, so the rider’s back is upright, contrary to road and mountain bikes where the rider leans down towards the handlebars for aerodynamic benefits.”

These bikes also have a great deal of style with their low profiles and wide, sweeping handlebars. “Styling is a traditional consideration when shopping for a cruiser, and it is a personal choice that’s fun to make,” says Josh Arnold, co-owner of Routes Bicycle Tours and Rentals in Albuquerque, New Mexico. “Just ask yourself what type of bike fits your taste, and know that—these days—the sky is truly the limit.” Although often ridden at the beach, cruiser bikes are fitting for cross-town commutes, Sunday rides, and even resort vacations. Before buying, consider the cost, comfort features, and whether you need gears.

Final Verdict

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall men's cruiser, schwinn men’s cruiser bike.

Dick's Sporting Goods

Can accommodate most riders

Smooth switch between gears

This beach cruiser is tops when it comes to all-around features for men. It comes in various frame sizes to fit riders with larger builds. For example, the 21-inch frame fits riders up to 6 feet, 6 inches. The steel frame is also incredibly durable, making this bike heavier than those with aluminum frames. It features a seven-speed drivetrain with a Shimano Revoshift twist shifter and a Shimano rear derailleur for easy shifting across various terrains. Plus, with its classic American-era design, this stylish bike is eye-catching.

Frame Size: 18 inches | Tire Size: 26 inches | Weight: 42 pounds

Best Overall Women's Cruiser

Sixthreezero evryjourney hybrid cruiser bike.

Available in multiple speeds

Multiple color options

Four adjustment points

Assembly required

This seven-speed hybrid cruiser delivers excellent versatility. Although its stylish colors (navy, yellow, mint green, and teal) and white-walled tires make it perfect for cruising at the beach, the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney can tackle plenty of other terrains as riders shift up hills and speed through work commutes. Though attractive, this bike doesn’t place style over function. With 2-inch-thick tires and a cushioned, wide saddle, this bike is made for a comfortable, stable ride, even along bumpy streets or boardwalks.

Frame Size: 17 inches | Tire Size: 26 inches | Weight: 38.1 pounds

Huffy Women's Cruiser Bike

Has a nice aesthetic

Basic braking not ideal for all terrain

Single gear

Riders looking for a stylish, simple, and affordable bike have found their match in the Huffy 26-Inch Women's Cranbrook Cruiser Bike. Its eye-catching white frame features pops of periwinkle blue along the tire sidewalls, pedals, seat, and handlebars. The bike is a single-speed and has an easy-to-use coaster brake (which means that riders pedal backward to stop). This bike is a match for the everyday rider who doesn't want to bust their budget with an over-priced, over-accessorized bike. It's recommended for riders who are 60 inches or taller and are at least 13 years old.

Frame Size: 17 inches | Tire Size: 26 inches | Weight: 42 pounds

Best for Beginners

Firmstrong urban single speed beach cruiser bicycle.

Built to last

Easy to ride

Minimal setup

Not good for tall riders

Coaster brakes inconvenient for some terrain

Cruiser bikes are inherently beginner-friendly, so beginners won't easily go wrong in their selections. The 26-inch Firmstrong Urban Lady Single Speed offers easy-going, single-speed riding that can reach 3 to 15 miles per hour. It features a durable 15-inch steel frame with aluminum wheels. The wheels are outfitted in attractive, retro white-wall balloon tires that offer a cushioned ride. Although sized for women up to 5 feet 6 inches, the bike can hold any rider up to 300 pounds. Plus, this model is a breeze to set up since it's shipped mostly pre-assembled.

Frame Size: 15 inches | Tire Size: 13-26 inches | Weight: 38 pounds

Best Single-Speed

Sixthreezero around the block women's cruiser bike.

Rear rack included

Basic braking system

Single-speed cruisers make up most of the market, so it’s easy to find good choices in this competitive category. Single-speed bikes are matches for casual riders who plan on cruising flat roads and paths. The Sixthreezero Around The Block Women’s Single-Speed balances design and performance in a laid-back ride that won’t leave you fussing with gears and cables. This bike delivers smooth riding with a springy saddle, foam grips on the handlebars, and waffle-tread tires. Stopping is equally stress-free with its pedal-backward coaster brakes. Sixthreezero also makes a men’s version of this beach cruiser.

Frame Size: 17 inches | Tire Size: 26 inches | Weight: 10 pounds

Best Electric

Sohoo electric beach cruiser bicycle.

Easy riding

Detachable luggage rack

Multiple modes

Needs to be charged

Although riding a cruiser bike is all about cruising, some bikes now come with electronic assistance to ease the pedaling difficulty and increase speed. Most e-cruisers top out at around 20 miles per hour; however, a few go faster. The core components of the Sohoo electric cruiser bike easily help riders reach 25 miles per hour.

Riders can choose their own adventures, with modes for regular biking, which turns the bike into a standard one; pedal-assistance, which allows you to get some exercise; and throttle mode, which doesn’t need you to pedal at all. This e-bike also incorporates some of the best features of a mountain bike, with a fork shock at the front of the bike and a seat shock. Together, these deliver smooth riding even on bumpy surfaces. It can hold up to 290 pounds, and the removable lithium battery lasts up to 65 miles before needing to be recharged.

Frame Size: 17 inches | Tire Size: 26 inches | Weight: 66 pounds

Best for Commuting

Schwinn beach cruiser bike.

Available in multiple colors

Fenders keep riders dry

Simple braking not ideal for all terrain

Cruiser bikes aren’t a popular choice for long distances, like on bikepacking trips . However, for shorter trips around town, like commuting to work, they can fit the bill. With a seven-speed drivetrain, the Schwinn Huron Adult Beach Cruiser Bike is ready to conquer any hills on your urban commute or to accelerate around traffic. Twist shifters help gear changes easy to make on the fly, while front and rear linear-pull brakes offer confident stopping power. The steel-framed cruiser provides durability and stability—it’s suggested for riders up to 6 feet, 2 inches tall.

Frame Size: 17 inches | Tire Size: 26 inches | Weight: 38 pounds

Best Vintage Style

Huffy beach cruiser bike.

Generous storage features

Smooth ride

Some assembly required

Single speed

Shoppers purely looking for style will find it in spades with the Huffy Panama Jack Beach Cruiser Bike. Flower detailing across the bike's frame, chain guard, and included cup holder feel straight out of a movie set in Polynesia—in all the best ways possible. White-walled tires and a front wicker basket add to the vintage appeal. The bike has six retro styles, from creamy white to sky blue.

Not one to compromise on comfort, Huffy also delivers its Perfect Fit frame, allowing upright riding and full leg extensions typical of cruisers. The lightweight aluminum frame perfectly matches the salty beachside conditions in your favorite beach town . A dual-spring padded seat and soft cork handlebar grips complete the comfort features.

Frame Size: 17 inches | Tire Size: 20-26 inches | Weight: 44 pounds

Best for the Beach

Priority coast bicycle.

Handles well on sand

Simple braking system

Many coastal cruisers on the market don't actually handle well on beaches—the water, salt, and sand are often too much, and seaside corrosion deteriorates the vehicle. Not for this Priority Coast, though. The ultralight frame is rustproof, making this bike extra durable. It comes with the option of single-speed or three-speed. You can also have a custom-built surfboard rack attached at an extra cost.

Frame Size: 17 inches | Tire Size: 26 inches | Weight: 44 pounds

The Schwinn Men's Cruiser Bike is built out of a burly steel frame and comes in mutliple sizes to support a vast range of heights. We also recommend the sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women's Beach Cruiser for riding over hills, commutes, and boardwalks.

What to Look For in a Beach Cruiser Bike

If you're looking to replace your existing bike or car and use this as the primary mode of transit around town, then it might be worth spending a little more to ensure your purchase is right for you. If you only plan to ride your bike a couple of times a year, getting something a little cheaper might not be a bad idea. 

If your new bike isn’t comfortable, the chance of you riding it drops exponentially. Be sure to test out your bike before you commit to it to make sure that it fits you from pedal to saddle—the last thing you want is to feel sore for a day or two after a ride. This is easier in a brick-and-mortar shop, but many places to buy bikes are online retailers. In this case, check the type of return or trial policies the retailer has to ensure you get the right product.

Beach cruisers are one of the few types of bikes that commonly come in single-speed models, but if you live in an area that has plenty of hills (or just isn’t that flat), you might want to look at a bike that has more than one gear to help you navigate the terrain. Otherwise, getting where you're going will be a lot of work. “If you plan to ride on hilly roads and bike lanes, a cruiser bike might not be the right option for you,” Batista says. However, if you’re sure a cruiser is right for you, Josh Arnold of Routes Bicycles Tours recommends selecting a bike with at least three speeds.

“Cruiser bikes usually come in very few frame sizes, so make sure you check the size chart to ensure the bike will fit you accordingly,” says Andre Batista, director of operations for web retailer Bikes Online.

Cruiser bikes generally have a single-speed or a limited range of gears. “If you plan to ride on hilly roads and bike lanes, a cruiser bike might not be the right option for you,” Batista says. However, if you’re sure a cruiser is right for you, Josh Arnold, of Routes Bicycles Tours, recommends selecting a bike with at least three speeds.

Cruisers are often ridden at the beach and in humid climates. These conditions can cause wear over time, in particular a rusting frame. “Ensuring that most components are made of aluminum will prevent rust from settling in,” Batista says.

Cruisers generally have two configurations: step-thru (Dutch) or top-tube style. “Today, this is a very personal choice, and both types are unisex,” Arnold says. “I recommend trying both styles in an appropriate size (based on height and leg length) and choosing what feels best to you.”

There are three standard adult cruiser wheel sizes: 26 inches, 27.5 inches, and 29 inches in diameter. Various tire widths are available as well, ranging between 1.95 and 4.0 inches. “In general, smaller wheel diameters offer more nimble handling—but slightly less balance and stability–while larger wheels require less force to turn at a given speed (i.e., less effort to ride) and are a bit more stable, but are heavier and accelerate more slowly,” Arnold says.

Freelance writer Ashley M. Biggers rode her trusty cruiser bike to campus during her graduate studies at Arizona State University. Since then, she’s been back in the cruiser saddle on bike tours in her hometown of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and around the globe. She interviewed three bike experts for this article. While researching beach cruiser bikes, we spoke with Arnold, Josh Arnold , co-owner of Routes Bicycle Rentals and Tours , Jeff Shyman , founder and owner of Confederacy of Cruisers, and Andre Batista , director of operations for web retailer Bikes Online.

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Expert Guide to Cruiser Bikes: A-Z of Riding in Comfort

• Post author: Know Your Guide
• Post published: July 20, 2024
• Post category: Blog

Are you tired of uncomfortable bike rides that leave you feeling sore and tired? Look no further than cruiser bikes . With their relaxed geometry, comfortable seats, and upright handlebars, cruiser bikes offer a leisurely and enjoyable ride that’s perfect for casual cycling. 

In this article, I’ll provide an A-Z guide to cruiser bikes, from the definition of the style to the top models on the market today. 

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to cycling, this article will provide valuable insights into what makes cruiser bikes the perfect fit for riders seeking comfort and style. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of cruiser bikes.

Beach Cruiser Bikes — Elevate Joys of Riding Experience

Introduction

Beach cruiser bikes are a type of bicycle that is designed for casual and comfortable riding on flat terrains, such as along the beach or boardwalk. They typically have a classic and retro design, with a curved handlebar, wide seat, and wide tires. 

Beach cruisers are often single-speed or have a limited number of gears, and they are designed for a relaxed riding posture with the rider sitting upright. They are also known for their durability and ease of maintenance. 

Anatomy of a Beach Cruiser Bike

The anatomy of a beach cruiser bike can be broken down into several key components that work together to create a comfortable and efficient ride. Here are the major parts of a beach cruiser bike:

Beach cruiser bikes typically use “ Coaster brakes “, which are activated by pedaling backward. This design helps keep the handlebars uncluttered and free from additional brake levers.

Some beach cruiser bikes also feature hand brakes, which are located on the handlebars and provide additional stopping power.

The chain on a beach cruiser bike is typically enclosed within a chain guard, which helps prevent clothing from getting caught in the gears.

The chain is usually a standard 1/2 inch pitch and can be either single-speed or multi-speed. Riders can choose from a range of chain guards to match the style of their bike.

The frame is the backbone of the bike, providing structural support for all other components.

Beach cruiser frames are typically made of steel frame or aluminum frame, with a classic design that includes a curved top tube and elongated head tube. The frames can also be painted in a range of colors or feature decorative graphics.

The handlebars on a beach cruiser are usually wide and curved, allowing riders to sit upright and maintain a relaxed posture.

This design helps reduce strain on the back and shoulders during long rides. Beach cruiser handlebars can be one-piece or two-piece and are often made of steel or aluminum.

Beach cruiser pedals are designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip for the rider’s feet. The pedals can be made of plastic, rubber, or metal and can be customized with different colors and patterns.

Some beach cruiser pedals also feature reflectors or other safety features.

Beach cruiser seats are typically wider and more padded than other bikes. The seats can also feature springs or other types of suspension to absorb shock and provide additional cushioning.

Riders can choose from a range of materials for their seat, including leather, vinyl, and synthetic materials.

Beach cruiser tires are known for their wide and balloon-like design, which provides stability and shock absorption on uneven terrain.

The tires are typically 26 inches in diameter and can be either smooth or with a slightly knobby tread. The tires can also be customized with a range of colors and patterns.

Beach cruiser wheels are usually simple in design, with a single-speed or three-speed hub. The wheels can be made of aluminum or steel and can be painted or chromed for added style.

Some beach cruiser wheels also feature white-wall tires, which add to the classic look of the bike.

An Overview of the Different Types of Cruiser Bikes

There are several types of cruiser bikes available, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Here are some of the most common types of cruiser bikes:

Classic Cruiser Bikes

Classic cruiser bikes are the original beach cruisers that were first popularized in the mid-20th century. They typically have a retro look and feel, with wide handlebars, balloon tires, and a comfortable saddle.

Classic cruiser bikes are designed for casual, comfortable riding and are ideal for leisurely rides or short commutes.

Chopper Cruiser Bikes

Chopper cruiser bikes are inspired by the chopper-style motorcycles that were popular in the 1960s and 1970s. They typically have a low-slung frame, a long wheelbase, and a high-rise handlebar.

Chopper cruiser bikes are designed for riders who want to make a bold statement and are popular among motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors.

Electric Cruiser Bikes

Electric bikes are a modern variation of classic cruiser bikes that feature an electric motor for added power and convenience. They typically have a single-speed or three-speed drivetrain and a battery-powered motor that assists when pedaling. 

Electric cruiser bikes are popular among commuters and recreational riders who want to ride farther and faster with less effort.

Lowrider Cruiser Bikes

Lowrider cruiser bikes are a variation of classic cruiser bikes that have a lower frame and a more laid-back riding posture. They often feature custom paint jobs, chrome accents, and decorative accessories like lights and bells.

Lowrider cruiser bikes are popular among riders who want to make a statement with their bike’s appearance.

Stretch Cruiser Bikes

Stretch cruiser bikes are a variation of classic cruiser bikes that have a longer frame and a stretched-out appearance. This design provides a more laid-back riding posture, with proper leg extension forward.

Stretch cruiser bikes are popular among taller riders, as they provide more legroom than traditional cruiser bikes.

Tandem Cruiser Bikes

Tandem cruiser bikes are designed for two riders to ride together on the same bike. They typically have a longer frame, and two sets of pedals, with the riders, seated one behind the other.

Tandem cruiser bikes are popular among couples and families who want to enjoy a leisurely ride together.

Must-Have Features for the Perfect Cruiser Bike

When choosing a cruiser bike, there are several key features to consider to ensure that the bike meets your needs and preferences. Here are some important features to look for in a cruiser bike:

Comfort and Ergonomics

Cruiser bikes are designed for comfort, so it’s important to look for a bike that provides a comfortable riding position. Look for features like wide handlebars, a comfortable saddle, and a relaxed ride posture.

Some cruiser bikes also have adjustable handlebars and saddles, which can be customized to fit your body.

Durability and materials

Cruiser bikes are often made from durable materials like steel or aluminum, which provide stability and durability. Look for a bike with a sturdy frame, high-quality components, and reliable brakes.

A good cruiser bike should be able to handle regular use and last for years with proper maintenance.

Style and design

Cruiser bikes are known for their unique style and design, so it’s important to choose a bike that suits your personality and preferences.

Look for a bike with the color and design that you like, and consider features like decorative accents, fenders, and baskets to further customize your ride.

Accessories and customization options

Cruiser bikes are highly customizable, so look for a bike with a range of accessories and customization options. Some popular accessories for cruiser bikes include baskets, bells, lights, and saddlebags.

Many cruiser bikes also have options for custom paint jobs, handlebar grips, and other personalized touches.

Pros of having Cruiser Bicycles

Cruiser bicycles offer several benefits that make them a popular choice for casual riders and commuters alike. Here are some of the key pros of having a cruiser bicycle:

Comfortable riding position

Cruiser bicycles are designed with a relaxed, upright position that is comfortable and easy on the back and neck. This makes them a great option for riders who want to enjoy the scenery and take a leisurely ride without feeling cramped or uncomfortable.

Easy to ride

Cruiser bicycles are simple and easy to ride, with a single speed or few gears that make them ideal for flat or moderately hilly terrain. They are also easy to balance and steer, with wide handlebars and stable frames that provide a smooth ride.

Stylish and customizable

Cruiser bicycles come in a range of colors, designs, and styles, which makes them a great option for riders who want a bike that reflects their personality and style. Additionally, cruiser bicycles can be customized with accessories like baskets, bells, and lights to further personalize your ride.

Low maintenance

Cruiser bicycles are designed with durability in mind, and they require minimal maintenance compared to other types of bicycles. With regular cleaning, lubrication, and occasional tire and brake adjustments, a cruiser bicycle can provide years of trouble-free riding.

Eco-friendly

Riding a cruiser bicycle is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the environment. By choosing to ride a bicycle instead of driving a car, you can help reduce traffic congestion, air pollution, and carbon emissions.

Cons of having cruiser bicycles

While cruiser bicycles are popular among many people, there are also some drawbacks to consider. Here are some cons of having cruiser bicycles:

Cruiser bicycles are often heavy and can be difficult to maneuver, especially uphill. This can make it harder to ride for longer distances or at higher speeds.

Limited functionality

Cruiser bicycles are designed primarily for leisurely rides on flat terrain, and they may not be suitable for more challenging terrain or activities like mountain biking or racing.

Limited gear options

Cruiser bicycles often have limited gear options, which can make it more challenging to ride up hills or against the wind. This can also limit the variety of terrain that can be tackled with the bicycle.

Not ideal for commuting

Cruiser bicycles are not typically designed for commuting or long-distance riding, as they may not have features like racks for carrying bags or baskets for holding items.

Higher cost

Cruiser bicycles can be more expensive than other types of bicycles due to their unique design and materials. This can make them less accessible for those on a budget.

Essential Maintenance and Repair Tips to Keep Your Beach Cruiser in Optimal Condition

Beach cruiser bikes, like any other type of bike , require regular maintenance and occasional repairs to stay in good condition. Here are some key tips for maintaining and repairing your beach cruiser:

Cleaning and lubrication

Keeping your beach cruiser clean and well-lubricated is important for preventing rust and corrosion and ensuring smooth operation. 

Wipe down the frame, chain, and gears with a damp cloth after each ride, and use a mild detergent to remove any stubborn dirt or grime. Apply lubricant to the chain and moving parts, and wipe away any excess to prevent buildup.

Tire and tube replacement

Beach cruiser tires and tubes can wear out over time or become punctured, so it’s important to know how to replace them. To replace a tire, remove the wheel from the bike and use tire levers to pry off the old tire. 

Insert the new tire onto the rim, making sure it is evenly seated, and inflate to the recommended pressure. To replace a tube, remove the wheel and tire as before, and replace the old tube with a new one, being careful not to pinch or twist the tube.

Brake adjustment

Properly functioning brakes are essential for safe riding, so it’s important to know how to adjust your beach cruiser’s brakes. Start by inspecting the brake pads for wear or damage, and replace them if necessary. 

Adjust the brake cable tension so that the pads contact the rim evenly on both sides and adjust the brake pads so that they are centered on the rim and not rubbing against the tire.

Gear tuning

Beach cruiser bikes typically have a single-speed or three-speed drivetrain, but it’s still important to keep the gears properly tuned. Start by inspecting the derailleur and shift cables for damage or wear, and replace them if necessary. Use the barrel adjuster on the derailleur to fine-tune the shifting, making sure that the chain moves smoothly between gears.

Who should and shouldn’t use a Cruiser Bike

Cruiser bikes are a versatile option for many people, but they may not be the best choice for everyone. People who enjoy leisurely rides on flat terrain, short-distance commuters, and older adults may benefit from using cruiser bikes. 

They are comfortable and easy to ride, making them a great choice for those who want to stay active without putting too much strain on their joints. 

However, serious cyclists who enjoy long rides or participating in races may not find cruiser bikes suitable for their needs. Cruiser bikes are designed for casual riding and may not be suitable for more intense cycling activities. 

People who live in hilly areas may also find cruiser bikes challenging to ride uphill as they are designed for flat terrain. Additionally, those who are on a tight budget may not be able to afford the higher cost of cruiser bikes compared to other types of bikes.

Cruiser Bike vs. Hybrid Bike

Choosing between a cruiser bike and a hybrid bike depends on your specific needs and the types of rides you plan to take. Here are some factors to consider when deciding between a cruiser bike and a hybrid bike:

If you plan to ride on flat terrain, an adult cruiser bike may be a good option. If you plan to ride on a variety of terrains, including hills or rougher surfaces, a hybrid bike may be a better choice.

If you plan to ride long distances, a hybrid bike may be more comfortable due to its lighter weight and multiple gears. If you plan to ride shorter distances, a cruiser bike may be a more comfortable option due to its relaxed riding position and comfortable seat.

If you plan to ride at a higher speed, a hybrid bike may be a better choice due to its lighter weight and multiple gears. Cruiser bikes are not designed for speed, but rather for comfortable, leisurely rides.

If you plan to use your bike for commuting, running errands, or carrying items, a hybrid bike may be a better option due to its ability to attach racks and baskets. Cruiser bikes may not have these features.

How many gears do I need for my Beach Cruiser Bike

The number of gears you need for your beach cruiser depends on the type of terrain you plan to ride on and your personal preferences. Beach cruisers are designed for casual, leisurely rides on flat terrain, so you may not need as many gears as you would on a bike designed for more varied terrain or faster riding.

Many beach cruisers come with either one or three gears. Single-speed cruisers have a simple, low-maintenance design that is perfect for flat terrain and shorter rides. Three-speed cruisers have a few additional gears that can be useful for moderate hills or wind resistance.

However, some beach cruisers may have more gears, such as 7 or 21 speeds, which can be useful if you plan to ride on more varied terrain or if you want to go faster.

For women riders, a women’s cruiser bike with gears can be an especially appealing option. These bikes are designed specifically to fit women’s bodies and provide a comfortable, stable ride. 

So whether you’re cruising along the beach, commuting to work, or just enjoying a leisurely ride around the neighborhood, a cruiser bike with gears can be a great choice. 

Cruiser Bikes with E-Assist

Cruiser bikes with e-assist, also known as electric cruiser bikes, are similar to traditional cruiser bikes but come equipped with an electric motor and battery system. The electric motor provides an additional boost to the rider’s pedaling power, making it easier to pedal uphill or into a headwind.

Electric cruiser bikes have many benefits, including making riding easier and more accessible for people of all ages and fitness levels. They are particularly useful for those who may have physical limitations or find it difficult to ride a traditional bike for extended periods.

Electric cruiser bikes usually come with a throttle system or pedal-assist system. Throttle e-bikes have a button or lever that can be pressed to activate the electric motor and propel the bike forward without pedaling. Pedal-assist e-bikes have sensors that detect the rider’s pedaling and provide a proportional boost from the electric motor.

However, electric cruiser bikes can be more expensive than traditional cruiser bikes due to the added technology and components. They also require charging, which can take several hours, and may have a limited range depending on the battery size and the level of assistance needed.

5 Best Cruiser Bikes to Go for in 202 4

Cruiser bikes have been around for decades and are still popular among cyclists of all ages. In 2024, there are many great options available, each with its unique features and style. Whether you’re looking for a bike to ride around town or to take on longer rides, there’s a cruiser bike out there that will meet your needs.

1. Schwinn Mikko — Best in the Classic category

• The Mikko cruiser bike is great for riding around the neighborhood, at the beach, or through the park. The bikes frame is suitable for riders 5'4" to 6'2" height
• With an easy to use single-speed drivetrain, this cruiser is best suited for cyclists that enjoy flat, easy going rides
• Bike has rear coaster brake (pedal backwards to stop) provides simple stopping power, while the included retro fenders keep you clean and dry
• The durable steel cruiser frame and fork make for a smooth ride while the 26-inch x 2.1-inch wide tires provide added stability and comes ready to be assembled
• Accessories include a wide, dual-spring padded cruiser seat and classic cruiser handlebars, this bikes at an upright and comfortable riding position for relaxing rides

Last update on 2024-07-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Benefits of going with this bike: The Schwinn Mikko is a classic cruiser bike that offers a retro-inspired design and modern features for a smooth and comfortable ride. This bike features a lightweight aluminum frame, a comfortable saddle, upright handlebars, and a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain for efficient gear changes. 

One unique feature of the Mikko is its Schwinn quality spring seat, which offers added cushioning for a more comfortable ride. Another great feature is the swept-back handlebars that allow for a relaxed, upright riding position, reducing strain on the back, neck, and shoulders. 

The Mikko is the best choice for riders who want a classic cruiser bike with modern comfort and convenience.

• Limited color options
• No suspension for rough terrain
• Assembly required
• No kickstand is included for easy parking

2. Specialized Roll 2.0 Low Entry — Beginner-friendly frame

Benefits of going with this bike: The Specialized Roll 2.0 Low Entry is a great option for beginner riders or those with mobility issues. This bike features a low-entry frame that makes it easy to get on and off, as well as a lightweight aluminum frame for easy handling. 

The Roll 2.0 also features a comfortable, upright riding position, thanks to its riser handlebars and suspension seat post. Another unique feature is the bike’s hydraulic disc brakes, which offer reliable stopping power in all weather conditions. The Roll 2.0 is the perfect choice for those who want a comfortable and easy-to-ride cruiser bike.

• Limited color options are available
• More expensive than some other beginner-friendly cruiser bikes on the market
• Only comes in one frame size, which may not be suitable for all riders
• The suspension seat post may require adjustment or replacement over time for optimal comfort

3. SixThreeZero EVRYjourney   — Comes with accessories option

• BEACH CRUISER BIKE FOR MEN: Versatile men's touring hybrid commuter bicycle with a sleek 19 inch steel frame; perfect for cruise, leisure, commute, and casual to up-tempo rides across multiple types of terrain; can hold riders up to 300 lbs, fits riders from 5 to 6 feet tall
• COMFORTABLE AND ERGONOMIC: City bike features a soft foam bike seat, comfy handlebar grips, and an upright riding style which keeps your back and shoulders comfortable while on the move; road bike features a forward-pedaling design which allows riders to ride close to the ground while maintaining proper leg extension
• 21-SPEED DESIGN: Beach cruiser bike features a 21-speed design with an easy-to-use shifter, which is perfect for tackling demanding street, trail, long distance, and uphill riding; men's hybrid bike features a front and rear hand brake for easy stopping
• SLEEK STYLE: These bikes for men feature a stylish, curvy frame with a comfortable foam saddle; hybrid bicycles include a rear rack for optional bike accessories such as baskets and panniers
• QUALITY TIRES: Adult hybrid bicycle features white wall tires which provide a cushioned, stable ride for easy rolling; each tire measures 26 L x 2 W in inches

Benefits of going with this bike: The SixThreeZero EVRYjourney is a versatile cruiser bike that comes with a range of accessories for a customizable ride. This bike features a lightweight aluminum frame, a comfortable saddle, and upright handlebars for a relaxed riding position. 

One unique feature of the EVRYjourney is its accessory compatibility, which allows riders to add front baskets, racks, and other accessories to suit their needs. The bike also features a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain for easy gear changes and wide tires for a smooth ride on a variety of surfaces. 

The EVRYjourney is the perfect choice for riders who want a customizable cruiser bike that can adapt to their lifestyle.

• The included accessories may add to the overall cost of the bike
• The seat may not be as comfortable as other cruiser bikes on the market and may require an upgrade for optimal comfort
• Some riders may prefer a more traditional or vintage look, which the EVRYjourney’s modern design may not provide

4. Priority Coast — For coastal living

Benefits of going with this bike: The Priority Coast is a cruiser bike designed for coastal living, with a rust-resistant aluminum frame and belt drive for low-maintenance riding. This bike features a lightweight frame and comfortable saddle, as well as a unique feature called the Priority Continuum Onyx hub. 

This hub is an internally geared hub that allows for smooth and efficient gear changes without the need for a traditional derailleur. The Priority Coast also comes with disc brakes for reliable stopping power in all weather conditions. This bike is the perfect choice for riders who want a low-maintenance cruiser bike that can handle coastal living.

• The lack of gears may not be suitable for riders who frequently encounter steep hills or challenging terrain
• The narrower tires may not provide as smooth a ride as wider tires found on other cruiser bikes

5. Brooklyn Brighton 7 — Right fit for comfort lovers

Benefits of going with this bike: The Brooklyn Brighton 7 is a cruiser bike designed for comfort, with a lightweight aluminum frame. This bike features a comfortable saddle, swept-back handlebars, and a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain for easy gear changes. 

One unique feature of the Brighton 7 is its Kenda Kwick Tendril tires, which offer low rolling resistance for a smooth and efficient ride. The bike also comes with a rear rack for added convenience. The Brighton 7 is the perfect choice for riders who want a comfortable and efficient cruiser bike that can handle a variety of terrains.

• More expensive than some other cruiser bikes on the market

Last Words — Cruiser Bikes

I feel my A-Z guide on cruiser bikes is your one-stop shop for all things related to these classic and stylish bikes. I’ve covered the different types and even some tips on customization and maintenance.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner looking to purchase your first cruiser bike, my guide has all the information you need to make an informed decision. From iconic brands to more budget-friendly options, I’ve got you covered.

So, fire up the engine put on your shades, and get ready for the ride of your life. Happy cruising!

Cruiser Bikes — Frequently Asked Questions

What is a cruiser bike good for.

Cruiser bikes are great for a variety of activities, including leisurely rides around the neighborhood, beach cruising, and commuting short distances. They are also ideal for riders who want to enjoy the benefits of cycling without the discomfort or physical demands of a more performance-oriented bike.

What is the difference between a cruiser bike and a normal bike?

The main difference between a cruiser bike and a normal bike is its design and intended use. Cruiser bikes are designed for comfort and style, with wider tires, a heavier frame, and a more relaxed riding position. 

Normal bikes, on the other hand, are designed for performance and efficiency, with narrower tires, a lighter frame, and a more aerodynamic riding position. 

Is a cruiser bike hard to pedal?

Compared to other types of bikes , such as road bikes or mountain bikes, cruiser bikes can be harder to pedal due to their heavier frame and wider tires. However, this can depend on the specific model and components of the cruiser bike.

Are cruiser bikes good for long rides?

Cruiser bikes are generally not recommended for long rides, as they are designed for comfort and leisurely rides rather than speed or efficiency. The wider tires and heavier frame of cruiser bikes make them ideal for short commutes or leisurely rides around the neighborhood, but they can be more difficult to pedal for long distances.

However, some cruiser bikes may be more suitable for longer rides if they have certain features such as multiple gears or a more aerodynamic riding position. Additionally, riders who prioritize comfort over speed may still enjoy using a cruiser bike for longer rides if they take breaks and ride at a slower pace.

Are all cruiser bikes single-speed?

No, not all cruiser bikes are single-speed. While many cruiser bikes have a single-speed drivetrain, some models are equipped with multiple gears. These gears allow riders to adjust the level of resistance and maintain a comfortable pace while riding on different terrains, such as hills or flat roads.

Some cruiser bikes with multiple gears also come with features such as hand brake or coaster brake, allowing riders to stop or slow down more easily. These features can make cruiser bikes with multiple gears more versatile and practical for a wider range of riding conditions.

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The 5 Best Cruiser Bikes On The Market Today In 2023

• Last Updated August 18, 2023

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In this article, I tested 5 bikes and found the sixthreezero EVRYjourney Beach Cruiser Bicycle to be the best cruiser bike.

Cruising around can be fun, relaxing, and healthy as long you do it with the right bike. Unfortunately, it’s not easy to figure out which cruiser bike is ideal for your cycling needs.

Don’t sweat it though, I’ve spent dozens of hours researching to present you with the best cruiser bikes on the market, so you don’t have to go through the hassle. 

If you want to know:

• The overall best cruiser bike
• The best budget cruiser bike
• The best cruiser bike for stability
• The best cruiser bike for electric assistance
• The best cruiser bike for style
• Things to keep in mind when buying a cruiser bike

Then this article is for you. Let’s jump in!

The Best Cruiser Bikes Overview

Sixthreezero evryjourney beach cruiser bicycle – best overall, schwinn meridian adult tricycle – best for stability, sixthreezero around the block beach cruiser bike – best for budget, ancheer electric bike – best for electric assistance, firmstrong bruiser man beach cruiser bike – best for durability, best cruiser bikes reviews.

Check out below the 5 best cruiser bikes based on hours of research and testing.

The EVRYjourney Beach Cruiser Bicycle from sixthreezero is built to offer riders maximum convenience and ease of use while looking stylish on the road. It can make your everyday cycling experience both comfortable and exciting, so it should come as no surprise that it won the best overall spot.

Thanks to the high-density foam base of the seat, this bike can provide plenty of support for riders. It accommodates a maximum weight capacity of up to 300 pounds, equipped with a padded dual-spring large saddle to prevent bruising after long cruising adventures.

Additionally, this bike features a forward pedaling mechanism that helps you stay upright while riding, which reduces the usual pressure exerted on the back and shoulders.

The design of this bike allows you enough room to fully stand (feet flat against the ground) when you make a stop. It’s also spacious enough to let you extend your legs when riding. I particularly like that the handlebars are wide and curved to give you improved control for extra safety.

The sixthreezero EVRYjourney Beach Cruiser Bicycle has a lightweight aluminum frame that measures 19 inches. The wheel size is 26 inches, covered with whitewall semi-slick 2-inch tires to deliver impressive smoothness and stability while cruising.

The included handbrakes are situated at the front and the back of the bike so you can stop quickly. What’s more, this model features a 7-speed gear to serve your different cruising needs.

Size-wise, this cruiser bike can fit riders ranging from 5 feet up to 6 feet and 4 inches. As for assembly, this unit arrives at your doorstep 80% preassembled to save you most of the hassle.

Who it’s for

The sixthreezero EVRYjourney Beach Cruiser Bicycle is an ideal choice if you want to enjoy reliable and stable performance with multiple speed options and ample comfort.

• The design of the frame accommodates decent leg stretching
• Supporting an upright position boosts shoulders and back comfort
• The seat is wide and padded with high-density foam
• The curved handlebars improve control
• Customer service is a bit slow
• Instructions need updating

The only thing that can offer you better stability than a regular tricycle is one built by the renowned Schwinn brand. This is why the Meridian Adult Tricycle took home today’s best-for-stability title.

It offers more than just the name though — this tricycle delivers excellent performance for people suffering from balance problems and looking for something convenient to help them cruise around.

The Meridian tricycle is equipped with a sturdy aluminum frame with a low-profile design. This allows you to easily get on and off without putting your legs through unnecessary stress; you just need to step over the bar and that’s it.

Additionally, the wide handlebars are swept back to allow for a comfortable reach and promote riding while maintaining a proper upright posture to minimize back strain. Not to mention, the height of the handlebar is adjustable within a range of 37 inches up to 40 inches.

What’s more, the Schwinn Meridian tricycle features fenders on all wheels to keep you from getting scraped and make sure your clothes stay clean. The included oversized basket is a nice touch to help you carry groceries and other items while running errands or simply riding.

This cruiser bike comes in 7 colors and you get to pick from multiple speed options. It’s also covered by a 5-year warranty.

The Schwinn Meridian Adult Tricycle is an excellent choice for anyone concerned about stability while cruising. As such, older folks would have a great time on this bike.

• Stable and smooth performance
• Mounting and dismounting require minimal effort
• The height of the handlebars and seat is adjustable
• Has a sizable carry basket that folds
• 5-year warranty
• May produce a popping sound
• If you’re riding a tricycle for the first time, you may need some time to get used to it

The sixthreezero Around The Block Beach Cruiser Bike is my top pick for budget shoppers seeking comfort and casual cruising. Not only is it very low-maintenance, but it’s also built to be ready for a ride whenever and wherever.

This bike features a solid steel frame measuring 17 inches in size. It has a classically beautiful curved design with many color options to pick from including coral, mint green, and light plum.

I had to name it the winner of the looks category. It has a vintage meets modern vibe that’s simply a treat for the eye.

Beyond good looks, this bike comes with a durable steel frame that’s 15 inches in size. The curved shape of the frame adds to its charm, while the aluminium 26-inch wheels absorb impact to guarantee smooth riding.

When you sit on it, you’ll notice that the seat is oversized and padded to increase your comfort. It also has dual springs to maximize support while cruising.

I also like how wide the handlebars are, which means they have quite a comfortable reach. The rubber grips at the ends allow you to hold onto them firmly.

This cruiser bike is available in 4 gear options, but today I chose the 1-speed model for hassle-free, relaxed cycling. The top speed of this model is 15 mph.

The lack of hanging wires means there’s nothing to get in your way. Additionally, the coaster brake located at the back makes it easier for you to stop quickly.

The Urban Lady Beach Cruiser Bike arrives 80% preassembled, so most of the work is already done for you!

What it’s for

Anyone interested in a classic-looking cruiser bike with high construction quality should consider the Firmstrong Urban Lady Beach Cruiser Bike.

• Beautiful vintage style
• Comfortable handlebars with slip-resistant rubber grips
• Relaxed pace
• No hanging cables in your way
• Getting on the bike can be problematic if you can’t lift your legs high enough

The ANCHEER Electric Bike is my favorite choice for folks who sometimes need a little help getting around when cycling. This bicycle features a 350-watt brushless motor that’s not just powerful and fast but also operates quietly.

It can reach a maximum speed of 20 mph and is equipped with a 36V, 10.4Ah lithium-ion battery to support an impressive distance range of 22 to 40 miles per one full charge. For most riders, such speed and range are more than enough for a daily casual cruise.

Not to mention, you can charge the battery away from the frame or while still on it depending on what’s more convenient at the time.

The ANCHEER cruiser e-bike comes with 3 different modes: normal bike, assisted bicycle, and e-bike. There’s a built-in LED 4-speed smart meter switch that lets you set the level of electric assistance according to your needs.

The frame is also lightweight yet sturdy thanks to the aluminum alloy construction. It even comes complete with double-walled aluminum rims to boost the durability of the unit, supporting a weight capacity of up to 300 pounds.

Additionally, the ANCHEER e-bike houses a 21-speed gear system, a high-strength front suspension fork, as well as mechanical disc brakes at the front and back. It arrives 85% preassembled, available in red, orange, and blue colors.

This cruiser e-bike is a terrific choice for anyone who often finds themselves in need of some extra help when cycling or those who like to take long cruising adventures so they want to spare some effort.

• Offers 3 different working modes
• 20 mph top speed
• Has a 21-speed gear
• A durable yet lightweight frame
• The battery can be charged while still attached
• On the pricey side

Last but not least, the Firmstrong Bruiser Man Cruiser Bike is what I recommend if you’re mainly concerned with durability thanks to its solid construction and practical design.

The curved-style frame features thick tubing at the top to provide a beefy, rugged look. It’s built using steel and extends to form wide handlebars. Besides promoting comfort, the handles are covered by synthetic leather to give you a secure grip.

When it comes to comfort, this cruiser bike uses an oversized cushioned saddle to prevent soreness during and after rides. The dual coil springs serve to increase stability for smoother cycling.

What’s more, this bike has 2.125-inch whitewall tires to efficiently absorb shocks and suppress shakiness over bumps.

The 26-inch version of the Bruiser Cruiser Bike is available in a few gear options, but I want to focus on the 1-speed and 3-speed models. The 1-speed gear is suitable for casual rides and moderate exercise. The 3-speed gear offers a bit more oomph so you can do some hill climbing as well.

As for the brake system, this cruiser bike houses coaster brakes at the back. They’re foolproof to use for maximum safety while riding.

As with most bikes from Firmstrong, this one also helps you assume an upright position during cycling to avoid tiring your back. Available in several colors, this bike is shipped 80% preassembled.

The Firmstrong Bruiser Cruiser Bicycle is a good option if you’re looking for a highly durable and functional unit.

• Sturdy frame
• Functional design
• Shock-resistant tires
• Powerful brakes
• Fits tall riders up to 6 feet and 4 inches
• The fenders are sold separately

How to Choose the Best Cruiser Bike

When shopping for the best cruiser bike, you need to consider a few points to make sure you end up with the right product for your needs. Here are the most important ones:

Although cruiser bikes are known for being relatively larger than other types of bicycles, you should still check for the specific frame dimensions of your target bike to make sure it can comfortably accommodate you.

The size of the bike is also important to determine whether or not your height is compatible with it. If you blindly choose a size and it turns out to be wrong, expect to experience some pain while cycling.

Bike Weight

Because of their relatively larger size, cruiser bikes are normally on the heavier side. This is something you should be aware of when choosing a bike because it’ll significantly affect the feel of the bike as you ride it.

The weight of the bike can also alter how easily you can control it. Not to mention, the heavier the bike, the more challenging it is to transport it from one place to another.

No matter the type of bike you’re looking to buy, the seat is one of the most important features to check. It should be wide enough to accommodate your bottom and upper thigh region. Otherwise, you’re in for some unpleasant soreness.

The seat should also have ample padding to provide adequate softness and comfort. This helps alleviate the stress on the back and shoulders.

Additionally, you may want to consider a seat with height adjustability to better match your fitting requirements at any given time.

Geometry and Colors

A lot of cruiser bikes have different geometry and colors for men and women. But I say that if you like the way a certain bike looks, then you should get it no matter its intended audience.

As long as you make sure that the bike’s measurements are suitable for your figure, there’s absolutely nothing stopping you from choosing whatever geometry and color you prefer.

Extra Speeds

Cruiser bikes are generally known for having limited gear options. However, some models offer up to 21-speed gear systems for people who appreciate the versatility and may want to do more challenging cycling than casual cruising. For example, off-road cycling.

Choosing the best cruiser bikes isn’t a simple task, especially with so many features to think about first. This is why I made sure that only the top-performing units made it to the list so you end up with a great deal no matter what.

The ideal cruiser bike ultimately depends on your personal preference when it comes to speed, comfort, and style. But as a rule of thumb, any cruiser bike should be durable, require minimal maintenance, and ride smoothly.

That being said, I recommend the sixthreezero EVRYjourney Beach Cruiser Bicycle as today’s winner. I like the design of the frame as it allows room for decent leg stretching, the seat as it’s generously cushioned, and the handlebars as they improve your control over the bike.

See Also: The 7 Best Comfort Bikes In 2023

Best Bike for Overweight Females: Top 7 Reviews & Buyer’s Guide (2023)

The Best Hybrid Bike Tires In 2023- Top 7 Picks and Buying Guide

The 7 Best Comfort Bikes In 2023 – Enjoy Your Ride

Types of bikes – what is the best type of bike for me In 2023?

7 Best Beginner Mountain Bikes In 2023: Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

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The Best Cruiser Bikes

• Sixthreezero Around the Block – best overall cruiser bike
• Firmstrong Urban – ideal beach cruiser for relaxed bike
• Sixthreezero In The Barrel – optimal for tall riders
• Sixthreezero EVRYjourney – solid frame and wheels
• Sixthreezero Women’s Cruiser – best for women
• Margaritaville Coast Is Clear – classic ladies model with catchy design
• Schwinn Wayfarer – classic bike from reputable manufacturer
• Schwinn Huron – another tribute to the classic design, with belt drive
• Schwinn Sanctuary – comfortable and versatile design
• Huffy Nel Lusso – one of the best-sellers, for a reason
• Huffy Panama Jack – stable and heavy bike with wood accents
• Retrospec Chatham – ultra-low budget bike
• Retrospec Beaumont – one of the best designs available
• Margaritaville First Look – budget women’s bike with unique design
• Kent International Kiawah – solid option – budget, but has a belt drive
• Firmstrong Urban Man Deluxe – one of the few stretched cruisers available

Sixthreezero Around the Block

The Sixthreezero Around the Block is what the industry refers to as a deluxe cruiser. For the most part, the versions of the Around the Block feature hand brakes and multiple gears. The classic styling of the cantilever-type frame is something many people recognize as a typical design of most cruisers.

Many of its competitors are more basic and only feature 7 gears. The Sixthreezero Around the Block goes beyond with a 21-speed setup, and front and rear rim brakes for extra stopping power. With the 2.125” tires you get a stable and comfortable ride, and they are inexpensive to replace. The seat quick release allows quick height adjustments to the double sprung comfort saddle.

For the price, the Sixthreezero Around the Block is an excellent choice for a deluxe cruiser. The added gears work well for hilly or windy areas, and the dual brakes give you good stopping power.

Firmstrong Urban

When looking at beach cruisers, the Firmstrong Urban is the typical deluxe option. With 7 speeds on the back and dual handbrakes, it is what you think of on a cruiser bicycle. The bright metallic paint makes it shine all the better.

Technically, the Urban is offered in several configurations, not all of them are 7 speed with hand brakes. Firmstrong offers single speed 26” wheel and 24” versions as well. The frame size is pretty typical, although if you are taller you may seek out a bike with a larger frame.

The Firmstrong Urban is a solid choice and competitive on price. These are great campus bikes, and thanks to bolt-on wheels, they resist theft if locked properly. With a variety of colors, the Urban is an easy top pick for 2020.

Sixthreezero In The Barrel

So if you are tall, and frustrated with standard beach cruisers the Sixthreezero In the Barrel is a great choice. This bike features a different frame design that increases the distance from the seat to the bars, precisely where taller cyclists need the space to be comfortable.

Additionally, this bike repositions the cranks forward, allowing longer leg riders to stretch out without having to raise the saddle up a foot. Overall, the geometry of the bike really helps guys 6’ and taller be comfortable and not feel like they are riding a kids bike.

The Sixthreezero In the Barrel features a Shimano Nexus 3 speed hub with coaster brake. This is a solid shifting internal gear hub that works flawlessly for years. Beyond these great features, you get a great bike with a reasonable saddle and great styling.

Sixthreezero EVRYjourney

The Sixthreezero EVRYjourney is quite an interesting bike. It is part cruiser and part hybrid. Some people complain that cruisers are hard to pedal, and not great for commuting, but want the relaxed style and comfort of a cruiser. The EVRYjourney combines the best of a cruisers’ relaxed design with elements of a hybrid so that you can cover more ground on your rides.

One of the first things you will notice is how high the bars are. This allows your body to sit more upright, similar to most cruisers. This bike will work with you, so try to adjust the saddle for your leg length. Once set up, you will find a great riding bike.

A cool aspect of the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney is that there are several configurations of the bike. There are four models with either a 1, 3, 7 or 21-speed drivetrain to fit your needs. Additionally, this bike can come as an electric drive. That can make your commute quite easy.

Sixthreezero Women's Cruiser

When you think of a traditional beach bike the Sixthreezero Women’s Cruiser matches exactly. The step-through frame and low saddle height can allow nearly all riders to feel comfortable and safely put their feet on the ground.

This Women’s Cruiser comes in several configurations and many colors. They all feature the same frame and wheel size but alter gears and hand brakes. You can always go with a simple 1 speed with the foot brake.

Move up to a 7 or 21-speed version and you gain dual hand brakes, but also the gears to get you up hills or ride into the wind. The sprung comfort saddle features deep foam padding in addition to coils to smooth out the road. It is hard to go wrong with a truly classic bike like the Women’s Cruiser from Sixthreezero.

Margaritaville Coast Is Clear

Riding this bike is almost like being in Key West, the Margaritaville Coast is Clear is everything a true beach cruiser should be. It has the basket for your beach things, and the parrot horn to tell everyone that the waves are calling.

This women’s model is quite cute, with the mint green paint, stylish island styling, and other effects showing some great detail that other bikes leave behind. The 7-speed drivetrain and easy to operate hand brakes are standard.

Overall the Coast is Clear from Margaritaville should exceed expectations for most cruiser riders. The step-through frame and reasonable proportions should allow most lady riders comfort and adjustability. This bike is a great choice for an all-round women’s cruiser.

Schwinn Wayfarer

The Schwinn Wayfarer is a step back in time, back to the ’60s, where not everyone wanted a balloon 2.125-inch width tire. The Wayfarer is a throwback bike that has great utility even today. The Men’s and Ladies models look nearly like their counterparts of 50+ years ago.

Like mentioned before, leisure cruisers are dominated by bikes with wider tires, usually a 2.125-inch width, but sometimes even larger. The Wayfarer goes the opposite, and moves to a smaller tire. For easy riding, these tires are easier to get up to speed and cover more distance with less effort. The drivetrain is simple with 7 speeds and powerful V-style brakes for stopping power. Even the included rack screams useful.

The Schwinn Wayfarer should easily be a top choice. Certain bikes stand the test of time, and this style is here to stay. If you are looking for the comfort of a cruiser, but something even easier to ride, this is the bike for you.

Schwinn Huron

It is amazing how many bikes were great almost 100 years ago like the Schwinn Huron. Back then it was a Straightbar or B-6 variant, but the Huron is easy to trace its ancestry. The original bikes were heavyweight cruisers, usually used for work purposes due to their heavy-duty frames and wheels. Don’t worry, the Huron is modern, and certainly not heavy like the bikes of decades ago.

The Huron comes predominantly as a single speed, just like its older cousin. There is also a 3 speed internally geared option as well. These bikes are simple, and no hand brakes, just the coaster foot brake to slow you down.

The Huron hails from the old-style tank bikes. While a tank isn’t on this bike, you can dream as if this was your original cruiser from back in the day, with your paper route, or your way to school. The Schwinn Huron is a hit with that tried and true retro styling.

Schwinn Sanctuary

If you look closely, you will recognize several bikes the Schwinn Sanctuary traces its roots from. It is easy to see a little bit of a Phantom, a Jaguar and some of the tried and true 5 speed cruisers from the ’70s and ’80s in its design.

The Sanctuary is nearly an exact copy of a Phantom, with the cantilever style frame, and similar cranks as a 50’s version. It doesn’t run the paperboy style sweep back bars as they are a bit poor for ergonomics and messes up your tight turning abilities.

In a tried and true fashion, the Schwinn Sanctuary runs a 7-speed drivetrain, with chainguard. The hand brakes are significantly better than any of the old school bikes. The rack is cool, with a Phantom style and shape. It is hard to go wrong with this very retro Schwinn.

Huffy Nel Lusso

The Huffy Nel Lusso might be the most popular bike on college campuses today. It is a favorite with women, as it is a nice simple bike with a weld-on rear rack, front basket, and fenders. The same goes for the guys’ bike.

Overall this is a reasonable bike for the money. It is as basic as they come and functions as expected. The rims are painted steel, where the competition usually has longer lasting aluminum rims. The color-coded plastic pedals do ok but could be an upgrade option if you use the bike quite a bit.

This bike has been popular for years, perhaps with over 100,000 made. It ticks off all the boxes on what a useful cruiser should be and is fairly economically priced. If basic transportation is your goal, the Huffy Nel Lusso is a great choice.

Huffy Panama Jack

If you are looking for the blueprint for a cruiser to build, the Huffy Panama Jack is your answer. For many years, the main competing companies building cruisers have built copies of the Panama Jack, it is what most people picture when you say cruiser.

The Panama Jack has the tried and true cantilever frame pioneered for nearly 100 years now. It comes as a single or 6-speed drivetrain. At nearly 50 pounds, the extra gears come in handy.

This bike is all about style. With wood grain accents, an integrated rear rack, a front carrying basket, and several other accessories, this bike is all about looking good at the beach.

Retrospec Chatham

The Retrospec Chatham beach cruiser comes in as one of the more budget worthy bikes and still retains a reasonable level of quality. This is a very traditional cruiser, with Retrospecs version of a cantilever frame, sweep-back bars, and a very typical cushioned wide saddle.

This bike comes with all the features you would expect from a good cruiser. The frame is a standard 18”, with 26” wheels, one-piece cranks, and coaster foot brakes. There are men’s and ladies’ models, as well as upgraded 3 and 7-speed versions.

With over 4 colors available, it would be easy to find something to your liking and your budget here. At this price, you won’t be getting fenders, but they get bent up easily and can be annoying with rubbing. Overall, the Retrospec Chatham is a reasonable choice for the budget-friendly cruiser bike in 2020.

Retrospec Beaumont

There are many ways to describe the Retrospec Beaumont. This ladies’ bike is a little bit cruiser, city bike, comfort, and definitely leisure. It is a well-designed bike that is quite modern in its approach to fitting the rider’s needs.

The Beaumont features a very high handlebar position. These are set an easy 4-6” above the seat, which many leisure riders seek out as they want to be upright as possible. The very low step through height makes it easy for riders to mount the bike.

The Retrospec Beaumont looks very retro, but it certainly is not. The larger 700c sized wheels roll great, and the easy to operate V-style brakes have good stopping power. Overall this is a great bike for that seasoned older rider, it delivers on their needs easily.

Margaritaville First Look

For an entry-level bike, the Margaritaville First Look is a great place to start. The great thing about cruisers is they can be simple, or complicated and the First Look is the former. No need for multiple gears or hand brakes, this bike goes with the tried and true single speed coaster brake.

The khaki color is pleasing as are the graphics throughout the bike. What this bike lacks in gears and the like makes up with a basket, drink holder and cute horn. Everything you need for a cruise in the neighborhood or to the beach.

Kent International Kiawah

Like many, the Kent International Kiawah takes a tried and true approach to the beach cruiser. With a single-speed coaster brake, and the typical cantilever style frame, you get what most people define as a beach cruiser. While a basic single speed, what more do you need?

Offered in men’s’ and ladies’ models, these easy to ride bikes have everything you would expect in a basic cruiser. A wide saddle, swept-back bars, chain guards and tasteful colors polish off these two models. The simplicity of these bikes makes both of them an easy purchase choice.

Firmstrong Urban Man Deluxe

Stretch cruisers are starting to gain some popularity again, lead by the Firmstrong Urban Man Deluxe. In some areas of the country, it has been popular to stretch out a bike, like a custom motorcycle. The Urban Deluxe is done in that style.

Not only is the frame stretched, but it is lowered by moving the seat back and the cranks forward in a chopper motorcycle style. Add the old school springer front end and you get a very unique looking bike. The drivetrain is a simple single-speed with coaster brake. Anything else would look out of place.

If you are tired of cookie-cutter bikes that all look the same, check out the Urban Deluxe from Firmstrong. It will be the most unique bike in your neighborhood.

I've worked on cruise ships for years. Here are 6 things passengers should stop wasting money on.

• I've worked on cruise ships for years , so I compiled a list of things passengers should stop buying.
• If you drink a lot, it may make more sense to get the drink package instead of individual cocktails.
• Onboard gym classes and nail services are often pricey and not what you might expect.

Between the shopping malls, specialty dining options, and endless alcoholic beverages, it's easy to lose sight of how much you're spending while cruising .

As someone who has worked with major cruise lines for almost a decade, I've compiled a list of things tourists should stop wasting money on .

I've found the gym classes are often shorter and easier than travelers expect

Many guests try to combat the pounds some cruisers fear they'll gain by paying extra for 7 a.m. boot camp.

But these classes are usually on the easier side since every guest has a different fitness level, so if you're looking for a burn, you might be disappointed.

Also, they can get very pricey and may be shorter than the gym classes you're used to.

Buying individual drinks may cost you more in the end

Your alcohol consumption depends on how wild you want your cruise to be , but buying drinks one by one can add up fast.

Guests often don't think they'll drink a lot, then end up buying six mojitos at $17 apiece in the nightclub. I think the beverage package is the way to go and worth it if you are going to have three or more drinks per day.

Most onboard nail salons are quite limited

Save yourself the money and disappointment, and get your nails done before your cruise.

Many people are used to nail salons that offer extensive services, but most onboard options lack the bells and whistles you may be looking for. Plus, the prices for onboard salon services are always exceptionally higher at sea than they are on land.

It's risky to book unaffiliated tours

It's tempting to book an exhilarating excursion that's half the price of the ship's but be wary of unaffiliated tours .

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First off, you could miss your ship: Cruises will wait for late tours booked through the ship but not for outside excursions.

Plus, affiliated tours are run by verified operators. You don't know what safety and security you'll get when you book independently, so spend your money wisely.

Art auctions aren't usually worth your time and money

As soon as you step on the ship, you're bombarded with art exhibits and raffle tickets to lure you into a three-hour auction where you'll likely walk out with something you didn't need in the first place.

Unless you are serious about art, the free glass of bubbly for three hours of your precious vacation is not worth it.

Plan what to pack carefully instead of paying for laundry

Most major cruise lines don't have self-service laundry facilities for guests to use, so you usually have to send your clothes away with a stateroom attendant if you want them cleaned. However, this option can be expensive and take a few days. 

Since most guests just cruise for a week , it doesn't really make sense to pay for this service.

Pack enough outfits for the cruise, keeping in mind people typically change multiple times a day depending on the activities and events.

This story was originally published on August 31, 2021, and most recently updated on July 22, 2024.

Watch: Why it costs $1 million a day to run one of the world's biggest cruise ships

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