trek drift beach cruiser

GRAB LIFE BY THE HANDLEBARS. The beach is in our DNA and the Cruiser is where it all began. It’s the first in a long succession of Electra bikes that bucked convention and made the world take notice. We redefined an American classic with our patented Flat Foot Technology ® by opening up the frame geometry, moving the pedals forward and relaxing the seat angle for a more ergonomic, comfy ride. And of course, we dialed it in with our signature Electra style for a ride as unique as you.

Available in single speed, 3i and 7D models, the Cruiser comes in a bunch of amazing colors and is the perfect bike to outfit with Electra accessories for your own sweet, custom ride.

TANDEM CRUISERS

It’s the most fun four legs can have on two wheels. Our awesomely fun tandems feature a lightweight aluminum frame and Flat Foot Technology for easy maneuverability.

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If you like our Cruisers, you’ll love our Cruiser Go! e-bikes. Same style. Same vibe. More power.

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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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The 9 Best Beach Cruiser Bikes of 2024

The winners are the Schwinn Largo 7 Cruiser and sixthreezero EVRYjourney Hybrid

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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 breaks. 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 if you need gears.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, schwinn men’s cruiser bike.

Dick's Sporting Goods

Available in multiple sizes

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 frames. 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

Assembly required

This seven-speed hybrid cruiser delivers excellent versatility. Although its stylish colors (navy, yellow, mint green, and teal) and white-side-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 breaking 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 tires' 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.

Easy to ride

Minimal set up

Not good for tall riders

Coaster breaks 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: 26 inches | Weight: 38 pounds

Best Single-Speed

Sixthreezero around the block women's cruiser bike.

Rear rack included

Single speed

Basic breaking 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 breaks. 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 breaking 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 pounds

Best Vintage Style

Huffy beach cruiser bike.

Generous storage features

Smooth ride

Some assembly required

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-side-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 is a perfect match for salty beach-side conditions. A dual-spring padded seat; and soft, cork handlebar grips complete the comfort features.

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

Best for the Beach

Priority coast bicycle.

Handles well on sand

Simple breaking 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 3-speed. You can also have a custom-built surfboard rack attached at an extra cost.

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. 

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 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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The 10 Best Beach Cruiser Bikes

Electra’s Townie 7D Step-Through Bike makes riding comfortable and fun

Ravi Davda is a certified personal trainer with nearly 10 years of experience in the fitness and wellness industry. Ravi has worked with a range of personal training clients both in-person and online.

Jonathan Valdez, RDN, CDCES, CPT is a New York City-based telehealth registered dietitian nutritionist and nutrition communications expert.

Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle.

Verywell Fit / Zackary Angeline

Whether you’re looking for a bike for your next vacation or for your daily commute to work, beach cruiser bikes can do it all. “Beach cruisers are relaxed and fun. They aren't built for speed or trails, but for overall comfort on the road. We consider these our comfort and fun bikes. But make no mistake, we can still get where we want to go in good time—we just feel great getting there,” Chad Buchanan, founder of BiKASE, says.

Beach cruiser bikes come in a wide range of sizes, weights, and brake styles, and may offer different accessories. To find the best beach cruiser bikes on the market, we first asked experts for their opinion on what makes a quality beach cruiser bike. Then, we researched over 40 beach cruiser bikes and evaluated them for comfort, style, price, and more.

Based on our research, here are the best beach cruiser bikes on the market.

• How We Selected
• What to Look For

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Best men's overall, electra electra townie 7d step-through bike.

Ergonomic saddle

Low center of gravity

Wide range of colors

Assembly required

Our top men’s overall pick is Electra’s Townie 7D Step-Through Bike because it has a sleek, user-friendly design. This bike features an ergonomic, shock-absorbing saddle that offers a comfortable ride. And we love that Electra’s beach cruiser bike has a low center of gravity, ensuring that you stay upright while riding and that you can touch the ground with both feet when stationary. 

Note that you will need to either assemble this bike yourself, or bring it to an REI store to be assembled. It’s also more expensive than other bikes on our list. Choose from five bright, modern colors. Key Specs: Style: 7-speed cruiser | Height Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 34.5 pounds | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Colors: Five

Best Women’s Overall

Sixthreezero evryjourney hybrid cruiser bike.

Customizable

One-year warranty

SixThreeZero’s EvryJourney Step-Through Bike is our other top pick because it’s designed to go just about anywhere. It features wider tires, which makes it great for riding on different types of terrain, including rougher trails. The handlebars are easy and comfortable to hold, thanks to synthetic leather grips. 

We also like that the bike comes with a one-year warranty—or, you can purchase a lifetime warranty for an extra $29.99. Although you’ll have to assemble this bike yourself, it’s fully customizable. Choose your desired color, number of speeds, and accessories to create a cruiser you’ll use for years to come. Key Specs: Style: Hybrid | Height Capacity: 5'0” to 6'4" | Weight: 36.5 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 lbs | Colors: Five

Best Budget

Huffy fairmont cruiser bike.

Comfortable, padded saddle

Raised handlebars

For a budget-friendly beach cruiser bike, we recommend Huffy’s Fairmont Cruiser. It comes with a low center of gravity and raised handlebars, which helps you sit upright while pedaling for an effortless ride. And we love that the saddle is padded—a bonus when taking your bike for a spin on a long or bumpy route.

Note you’ll have to assemble this cruiser yourself. However, Huffy includes all of the tools you’ll need to get the job done. Choose from classic gray or royal blue with pink accents and floral details. Style: Key Specs: Single-speed cruiser | Height Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 47.7 pounds | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Colors: Two

Best Electric

Schwinn mendocino step-thru electric bike.

Schwinn Bikes

Lasts up to 45 miles per charge

Pedal assist motor

Looking for an electric beach cruiser bike? We recommend Schwinn’s Mendocino Step-Through Electric Bike. Made from aluminum, we like that this beach cruiser bike is built to last. You can ride it for up to 45 miles on a single charge, and the bike can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour with the help of its pedal assist motor. 

One charge takes just four hours, so you can be confident this cruiser will always be ready for your next ride. Shift between six different speeds to tackle hills, slopes, and rougher terrain. However, this bike is significantly more expensive than other models on our list, and you’ll need to assemble it yourself. Key Specs: Style: Electric | Height Capacity: 5'4" to 6'2" | Weight: 49.9 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Colors: Three

Best Single Speed

Firmstrong bella fashionista single speed.

Extended frame for taller riders

Some assembly required

Firmstrong’s Bella Fashionista Single Speed Bike is our choice for a sturdy, well-designed, single-speed beach cruiser bike. We love the wide range of bright hues, especially because Firmstrong adds an extra pop of color to the rims. The extended frame is made from durable steel, to better suit taller riders.

Since the frame is painted, this bike is resistant to rust. It does require some light assembly, but it’s less expensive than many other models on our list. Key Specs: Style: Single-speed cruiser | Height Capacity: 5'0” to 6'0” | Weight: 43 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Colors: Nine

Best with Gears

Electra cruiser 7d step-over.

Electra Bikes

Only two colors

The Electra 7D Step-Over Bike is our top choice for a beach cruiser bike with gears. If you’re going to be riding on hills often, a single-speed beach cruiser bike may not have the power you need. With Electra’s bike, it’s easy to change gears simply by twisting your wrist. 

Plus, we like that it has wide tires, so you can bike on sand or gravel with ease. Although it only comes in two colors, this bike is fully customizable. Add accessories like a bell, a handlebar or phone bag, a front basket, and more. Key Specs: Style: 7-speed cruiser | Height Capacity: 5'3" to 5'11" or 5'6" to 6'2" | Weight: 40 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Colors: Two

Best Fat Tire

Sohoo fat tire beach cruiser electric bicycle.

Digital LCD display

LED headlight and rear light

Two-year warranty

If you’re searching for a fat tire beach cruiser bike, we recommend this electric version from SOHOO. Fat tires make it even easier to ride on sand. Plus, this cruiser features a pedal-assist mode and can reach speeds up to 28 miles per hour. And we love that it has a digital LCD display, so you always know exactly how fast you’re going and how far you’ve traveled.

SOHOO’s cruiser also has additional safety features, like a bright LED headlight and a rear light. You can also choose to ride it without the motor, if you prefer. It’s one of the more expensive bikes on our list, but it has all the features and durability you’ll need. Key Specs: Style: Electric | Height Capacity: 5'9" to 6'8" | Weight: 67 pounds | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Colors: Three

Best Aluminum

Chatham plus aluminum beach cruiser bike.

Budget-friendly

Lower weight capacity

If a rust-resistant frame is your top priority, we recommend Chatham’s Plus Beach Cruiser Bike. The frame and double-walled rims are both made from durable aluminum, to help you get the most out of your bike. And we like the budget-friendly price point, which comes in at around $300. 

But because it’s single-speed, this bike isn’t recommended for rougher terrains. You’ll also have to assemble the Chatham Plus yourself, and it has a lower weight capacity compared to others on our list. Key Specs: Style: Single-speed cruiser | Height Capacity: 5'0” to 6'4" | Weight: Not listed | Weight Capacity: 250 lbs | Colors: Three

Best with Cup Holder

Huffy panama jack men’s beach cruiser bike.

10-year frame warranty

Comes with accessories

Huffy’s Panama Jack Beach Cruise doesn’t just come with a cup holder—it also has a cooler bag, a bottle opener, and a rear rack for carrying all of your beach day essentials. A 10-year frame warranty comes standard with this bike, so you can ride confidently. And since it’s made from aluminum, this beach cruiser is both lightweight and durable.

You will have to assemble parts of this bike, and it only comes in two colors (black and dark blue). But we love all of the added accessories, which make this cruiser the ideal oceanside ride. Key Specs: Style: Single-speed or six-speed cruiser | Height Capacity: 5'0” and up | Weight: 48.6 pounds | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Colors: Two

Best for Kids

Micargi jetta beach cruiser bike.

Comfortable handlebar grips

Steel frame, not aluminum

No accessories included

The Micargi Jetta Beach Cruiser Bike wins our top spot for a kids’ beach cruiser bike because it comes in a wide range of retro colors and offers a durable design. Handlebar grips make riding easy, and with coaster brakes, stopping is a breeze. Plus, we like that this bike is budget-friendly—always a plus when shopping for items kids can grow out of. 

However, the frame is made from steel, not aluminum like other bikes on our list. It also doesn’t come with any extra accessories, like a helmet, so you’ll need to purchase those yourself. Key Specs: Style: Single-speed cruiser | Height Capacity: 4'0” to 5'0” | Weight: Not listed | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Colors: Four

Electra’s Townie 7D Step-Through Bike is our top pick because its range of gears makes cycling smooth and simple. Plus, a shock-absorbing, ergonomic saddle means a comfortable ride every time.

We also recommend SixThreeZero’s EvryJourney Step-Through Bike . Its wide tires give you more control while riding on different types of terrain, and customization options can help you design a bike that’s truly yours.

How We Selected the Best Beach Cruiser Bikes

When choosing the best beach cruiser bikes, we first spoke with Jeffrey Palter , owner of Cycle Loft bicycle shop, and Chad Buchanan , owner of BiKASE, a bicycle accessories manufacturer. They shared their expert opinion on the important features every beach cruiser bike should have. 

Then, we researched over 40 different beach cruiser bikes from the most trusted brands and picked the best ones based on comfort and value. We also considered size, weight, brake style, and additional accessories.

What to Look For in a Beach Cruiser Bike

Beach cruiser bikes usually come in one universal size, but can be adjusted based on your height and riding preferences. “Most of the fit can be accomplished with the adjustable seat or slight handlebar adjustment. I'd suggest setting the handlebars and grips to allow a more upright and comfortable back position,” Buchanan says.

When shopping for beach cruiser bikes, it’s important to note that they usually weigh more than traditional bicycles. This is because they’re designed with features that stand up to daily wear and tear, like wider tires and curved handlebars. Most beach cruiser bikes also have a weight capacity, so make sure to read all information from the manufacturer carefully before purchasing to ensure your bike will be the right fit.

Brake Style

Beach cruiser bikes usually come with either coaster brakes or hand brakes. Coaster brakes are triggered by pedaling backward and generally offer a softer stop. Hand brakes are similar to the brakes on traditional bikes—they’re attached to the handlebars and can be squeezed to quickly stop the bike.

Accessories

Some beach cruiser bikes come with additional accessories like cup holders, baskets, headlights, cellphone holders, bells, and more. Others don’t come with any, but you can usually purchase and fit most of these afterward if you feel that your beach cruiser bike is incomplete without them.

Frequently Asked Questions

“Typically, a beach cruiser is a bicycle with big, wide, almost balloon-like tires, and a relaxed upright riding position. They usually have single speed (although this can vary), perfect for cruising along flat pathways common around beaches,” Palter says. Regular bikes feature thinner tires and a more horizontal riding position.

Compared to mountain bicycles, cruiser bikes can be easy to ride, especially when biking on flat terrain. This is because they usually have wider tires, more comfortable seats, and wider handlebars. You’re also biking in an upright position which is comfortable and feels easy to ride for most people. However, if you’ll be riding on rough terrain often, a mountain bike may feel easier to ride because it offers the stability and variety of gears you’ll need to tackle hills.

Unless you have a beach cruiser bike that has fat tires, like SOHOO’s Fat Tire Beach Cruiser Electric Bicycle, beach cruiser bikes generally aren’t designed for riding on sand. Pavement or unpaved biking trails are better places to ride your beach cruiser bike.

Cycling, even on a beach cruiser bike, can be an excellent way to stay active. Beach cruiser bikes are easy to use, and you can choose how intense your workout is. Riding a beach cruiser bike is usually considered low impact exercise, which is great for your joints, bones, and muscles.

As a qualified personal trainer and health and fitness writer, Ravi Davda understands how important quality product recommendations can be. He recommends products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.

Haynes C. The Practical Cyclist: Bicycling for Real People . New Society Publishers; 2009.

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The Best Beach Cruisers of 2020

Our annual list of the best cruiser bikes is here again, riders! And if you're asking yourself, "What's the cruiser bike I need for my rides?" you've come to the right place.

To find the right beach cruiser, it's important to find the right size, style, and comfort level for your budget. So we grabbed a whole bunch of cruisers and did just that.

Then we combined our experience with customer reviews, their overall build, performance, and their prices to assemble the top 5 beach cruisers of 2021 . So take a look at the best options below to find the beach cruiser that's best for your next bike ride:

1. Editors Choice

$299.95 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (25 Reviews)

SWITZ CRUZ 26" BEACH CRUISER BIKE

When you're looking for a cruiser bike with the perfect combination of looks, performance, and comfort, this is the one you need.

Its 26" Hi-Ten Steel cruiser frame has a modern design that sets it apart from any bike in its class. Meanwhile, its stainless steel rims offer steel CP 36H hubs . And with a 44 tooth crank and 18 tooth rear sprocket , this cruiser comes together to give you the perfect gearing for easy pedaling on the streets, trails, and your favorite bike path.

Complete with 2" wide tires, strong fenders, extra wide handle bars, and an extra large saddle , this beach cruiser gives you optimal comfort and control on your rides.

✔ Modern heavy duty hi-ten steel cruiser frame

✔ Perfect for riders 5-6ft tall

✔ 44:18 gear ratio, perfect for cruising flat surfaces

✔ Available in Matte Black, Deep Pacific Blue, Diamond White

2. Best Value

$319.95 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Reviews)

MICARGI 26" TOUCH BEACH CRUISER BIKE

When you're looking for a tough beach cruiser at an incredible price, this is the bike you need.

Its shock-absorbing saddle, padded moon handlebars, and comfortable 18.5" size make this is one of the most comfortable cruiser bikes around. Meanwhile, the strong hi-ten steel frame and forks are built to withstand everything from short trips to long rides. And rounded out with 26" alloy rims , this bike's ready to take as much damage as you can dish out.

Most cruiser bikes with these features cost well over $400, but this bike's under $320 . So if you're looking for high quality at a low price, this is the ride for you.

✔ Simple, lightweight, high quality design

✔ The go-to for motorized bicycle builders

✔ Available in step-through model ( only $279.95 )

✔ Available in 9 different colors

3. Best Premium Cruiser Bike

$299.95 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Reviews)

MICARGI 26" ROVER GX BEACH CRUISER BIKE

If you're in the market for a premium bike without the premium price tag, this is the cruiser bike you're looking for.

This bike comes stock with chrome cranks and a chrome top end , compared to other bikes with plain black accents. Its matching fenders also come with a rear reflector for a touch of safety when your rides go dark. And with its knobby white wall tires and colored alloy rims , this bike's a head turner for under $300!

Rounded out with high quality coaster brakes, this beach cruiser is just what you need to cruise your favorite spots in style without breaking the bank.

✔ High quality chrome parts and accessories (most are cheap black)

✔ White wall tires and fenders included

✔ Step-through model available here ( only $299.95 )

✔ Available in 18 different colors

4. Best Multi-Speed Cruiser Bike

$319.95 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (11 Reviews)

MICARGI 26" ROVER 7 SPEED BEACH CRUISER BIKE

When you've got serious rides in mind, this is the beach cruiser you'll need to get the job done.

Its 26" alloy wheels come with a Shimano 7 speed gearing system , allowing this cruiser bike to go from flatland to incline seamlessly. Unlike others, this bike also comes with front and rear brakes to make sure you're safe down hills and on your commutes.

Meanwhile, its frame offers a tapered oversize top tube and forward pedaling geometry for a sturdy riding experience. So if your rides take a hilly (even off-road) turn, this bike can handle nearly any terrain safely- rain or shine.

✔ 7 Speed Shimano gearing helps you up inclines

✔ Front and rear caliper brakes included for maximum stopping power

✔ Step-through model available here ( only $319.95 )

✔ Available in 10 different colors

5. Best Fat Tire Cruiser Bike

$559.95 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (2 Reviews)

When you need a cruiser bike that can take sand and paved roads like a champ, this is the one for you.

Equipped with huge 4" wide tires , this bike can ride comfortable on dirt, sand, gravel, and pavement with ease. It also has a 44t front gear and 22t rear sprocket for an optimal cruising gear ratio. Backed by heavy duty wheels, a springer saddle, and padded moon handlebars , you'll have complete comfort and control over your ride no matter what terrain you ride on.

So if you want a beach cruiser you can take to the beach, the mountain, the city, and back, this is the bike you need.

✔ 4 inch wide tires give this bike better control on sand, dirt, gravel, and snow

✔ 44:22 gear ratio, perfect for riding on loose surfaces

✔ Carrying capacity of over 300 LBS

✔ Available in 4 different wheel/frame color combinations

What is a Cruiser Bike?

But these days that definition can lend itself to any bike out there. So it's important to note that what sets beach cruisers apart from other bikes is that they're made with two things in mind: comfort and casual riding . This is mainly due to their components:

• Coaster Brakes- Also known as "pedal brakes", these brakes engage when pedaled backwards. Though they don't have a complete freewheel, coaster brake wheels let you coast forward without pedaling. These are one of the main features you'll find only on cruiser bikes.
• Upright Seating Position- While road bikes and mountain bikes are made for hunching over, cruiser bike frames are designed for the rider to sit up. This gives the casual rider more comfort than other bikes.
• Oversized Everything- From the balloon tires to the wide saddles. extra large frames down to their moon-shaped handlebars, cruiser bikes have the largest, most comfortable components you need for casual, comfortable cruising.

Why Ride a Cruiser Bike?

Beach cruiser bikes are one of the most commonly used bikes around. And the reason they're so popular is because beach cruisers are fun, practical, and they can do much more than other bikes. In fact, there are 3 reasons beach cruisers should be in every rider's garage:

✓ Easiest Bike to Maintain — With the least amount of parts of any style bicycle, cruiser bikes are easy to build and simple to maintain. Unlike other bikes with 10+ speeds, derailleurs, and messy brake setups, these bikes use value-priced, simple parts that are easy to maintain and common in any bike shop.

✓ Exercise — Despite what road bikes and mountain bikes may tell you, beach cruisers are perfect for those who want to fit some low impact exercise into their day. Especially with one speed, you can get your heart rate up by simply cruising around the block a few times.

✓ Motorized Bike Kit Compatibility — Ever thought about putting a motor on your bike? Beach cruisers are the number one recommended bikes for installing 2-stroke and 4-stroke bike engine kits , as well as electric bike kits . The frame style and size of breach cruiser bikes makes them the perfect candidates if you want to turn your cruiser into a motorized commuter.

Cruiser Bike Sizing and Compatibility

A good cruiser bike is useless if it's not the right size. If it's too big, you can't control it; and if it's too small and you won't be able to even move it.

So finding the right size wheels and the best frame to fit you is vital for a safe, comfortable ride.

The great thing about beach cruisers is that there's only a few sizes to choose from, so finding the right one to fit you is the easiest part of your journey. In fact, you can use this chart as a quick reference to find the right one for your size:

Standard vs Step-Through Frames

The last part of the cruiser equation is choosing the right style frame for you.

Now, some may say this is the debate between "mens" and "womens" bikes. But the truth is each style of frame offers benefits for riders regardless of gender. So let's take a look at the benefits of each and figure out which is best for your needs:

Standard (Diamond) Frames

✓ Top bar creates a more structurally sound frame.

✓ Lightweight than step-through's, making them easier to maneuver and control.

✓ They're perfect for engine kit and electric bike kit conversions.

X Mounting and dismounting is harder.

Step-Through Frames

✓ Simple to mount and dismount.

✓ Easier on your hips and clothes (like pants, skirts, and dresses) when riding.

✓ Ideal bike for e-bike conversions like city bikes in major cities.

X They're heavier and stiffer to control than standard frames.

What makes BikeBerry different?

• We have the best bike support and lifetime service. With over 12 years in the cruiser bike game, our bike experts know beach cruisers in and out. From from repairs to tune up's and maintenance, our team is only a call or email away from having you up and running in no time. And while others' service depends on when your warranty expires, we'll make sure you receive the same customer service and support you did from day 1 until you stop riding.
• We carry every part and accessory you need to keep riding. From tools to accessories, wheels to parts, we've got what you need to keep your cruiser bike running for years to come. And with our experts ready to answer any of your questions, we can walk you through every step of installing and using your new parts and accessories.
• We offer an industry-leading 1 Year Warranty. While most companies offer limited warranties, we at BikeBerry offer a 1 year warranty on frame failures. We also back each bike up with 6 months of coverage against parts and accessories. Better yet, by working directly with manufacturers, we can process warranties 2-3x faster than others to get you riding ASAP.

What do riders have to say about BikeBerry Cruiser Bikes?

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐ Steven V. "The Switz is one awesome buy!"

It is one of the best leg, and cardio workouts around. Riding the bike in the foothills section of Littleton Colorado makes work and realization of what it takes to stay in shape. And, at 67 years old one wants to keep the heart in tip top shape. I would recommend this product to everyone, whether the bike is purchased for workout or joy.

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐ George V. "Easily the best bang for the buck."

As an aging parent, my rides are rejuvenating, feeling the breeze run through my fingers and across my face- brings back memories of childhood. Honestly guys, the Touch is just a great bike. It has all the nice parts, its fully metalized, and is a great price.

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐ Jer M. "For me, the Slugo is geared perfectly"

I have several single speed fat bikes and this one is geared the best. It goes at a pretty good pace and i can still get up the hills. For the steeper hills, I do have to stand up and pedal but that’s okay and I have no trouble making the hills. It was packaged really well which I appreciate. The tires are awesome which is why I bought it. They have huge gripper nubs on them that most of my fat bikes don’t have. It is great for riding in the winter or offroad in the summer. It was very easy to put together and I really love this bike !

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐ Lisa P. "Great Bike!"

The Rover 7 speed cruiser bike is great, gears shift nicely, and the color is awesome. The seat is comfortable and I love the wide handlebars. It was a little tough to put together, but with BikeBerry's help we made it work. Overall it's a great bike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What should I look for in a beach cruiser?

A: When you're shopping for a cruiser bike, you want to know that you're getting the best bike for your rides. That's why you'll want to make sure the bike you have your eye on has these traits:

• Simple Gearing — Most beach cruiser bikes have a single gear with no shifters, perfect for flat land cruising. Others have shifters with up to 3 speeds, which helps when it comes to cruising up hills and rough terrain. Whichever bike you go with, make sure the gearing of your cruiser works for your style of riding .
• Quality Breaks — Beach cruisers traditionally have a friction brake on them (aka. a "pedal brake"), whereas others offer hand-operated caliper brakes. If you're running a friction brake bike, ensure it has a high quality hub to take lots of pressure . For hand brakes, ensure the calipers are high quality and ready to stop quickly .
• Upright Seating Posture — Beach cruiser bikes are designed to help riders sit upright, easing back and shoulder tension. So if your cruiser isn't comfortable when you sit on it, it's not the bike for you. Look for the most comfortable cruiser that lets you sit upright with your shoulders at a comfortable height.
• Smooth, Comfortable Ride — Cruiser bikes are equipped with cushioned seats and wide handlebars, which make it easy for you to lean back, relax, and ride. The thick balloon tires that beach cruisers are equipped with help these bikes withstand rough terrain. So when it comes to beach cruisers, make sure their tires are thick, and that the saddle and grips give you the comfort you need on your rides .

Q: Are cruiser bikes good for exercise?

A: You may not see a beach cruiser on the Tour de France, but that doesn't mean they won't give you quite the workout. In fact, because most are single speed bikes, you can find the right terrain and distance to ride for the workout you're looking for.

• Unlike other bikes with multiple gears to make riding easier, cruiser bikes only have a single gear. The steeper the incline and the longer the distance, the harder you'll need to work to ride.
• Moreover, their frames are generally heavier than road and mountain bikes. That means you'll be moving more weight on a cruiser without any more help. So not only will you get a good cardio workout with a bit of weight resistance, too.

Now, of course, in the interest in safety we should mention that cruisers are meant for casual riding under 10 miles at a time. If you're pushing for longer rides, consider using a cruiser with an electric conversion kit . This will allow you to turn a cruiser bike into an electric beach cruiser with all the same capabilities as before, only with a motor to assist pedaling as much or as little as you need.

A: The sky's the limit when customizing a beach cruiser. Unlike roadies and MTB's that have very few aesthetic and functionable upgrades, you can virtually rebuild a cruiser bike to your every spec. In fact, here are the most popular beach cruiser upgrades riders make:

• Lights - With safety in mind, one of the first upgrades any rider needs is a set of lights. From tail lights to headlights down to wheel lights, it's important to stay well lit when the sun starts setting.
• Wheels - These are the first major upgrades because they're easy to upgrade and instantly give your bike a bit of style and performance. Mag wheels , for example, look great and help reduce wind resistance. Heavy duty wheels , on the other hand, give bikes an added bit of safety and longevity out of their rides.
• Brakes - Adding brakes to a beach cruiser is going to increase its safety. Though the majority of cruiser bikes come with coaster brakes, their frames and forks often have ports for brake calipers pre-installed. So adding brakes to your bike- or upgrading them if you have some installed- will make your rides safer.
• Forks - These will add a bit of style and safety on the road. Springer forks, for example, have a shock to help absorb bumps and breaks on the road. However, swapping them out takes a little bit of mechanical know-how and extra parts, so only exchange your forks if you're sure you know what to do.
• Saddle - Exchanging your stock saddle with a new one can mean new looks or more comfort. The saddle from Flying Horse , for example, offers a backrest for extra comfort. Saddles like the BBR Tuning hairpin saddle give your bike a touch of retro flare.

And that's just the top 5 upgrades riders choose. That's not including upgrades to cranks , handle bars , and fenders!

Q: Where can I ride a beach cruiser?

A: Cruiser bikes aren't just limited to the beach. On the contrary- their balloon tires are great to use over all sorts of terrain. They can handle themselves best on paved bike trails, sidewalks, and on low-impact roads . Even better, if your beach cruiser has fat tire wheels, you can on even rougher terrain, like sand and dirt trails .

Because of their size and coaster brake gearing, we recommend keeping beach cruisers out of the street. Unlike mountain bikes and road bikes, the single speed of beach cruisers can't keep up with traffic, and they take up too much space on the road.

Of course, like any bike, where you can legally ride a cruiser bike entirely depends on your area's bike laws.

Q: How much do beach cruisers cost?

A: Cruiser bikes range between $209.95 and $559.95 . The great thing about their price range is that there's a cruiser to fit anyone's budget. All you need to do is decide what features you want in your bike, because more accessories and upgrades will increase its cost.

So we suggest starting off by making a list of all the features you need in a bike. For example, if you have rough terrain on your rides, fat tire wheels may be a priority for you. If you don't, you can save money by going with a standard model.

Things like extra large wheels, shifters/derailleurs, hand-operated brakes, and even fenders are going to increase a beach cruiser's price tag. So keep in mind all the things you need out of a cruiser bike now, and what you can upgrade later when your budget opens up.

Q: What sort of brakes are on a cruiser bike?

A: Most cruiser bikes use friction brakes . Also known as "pedal brakes" or "coaster brakes" these are engaged by pedaling backwards. As you do, pads inside of the rear wheels hub come together, grab the axle, and reduce the speed of the rear wheel to come to a stop.

They're the main reason why beach cruisers are so simple to use. However, too much pressure, speeds over 15 MPH, and quick stops will break the components inside. When that happens, you're in for some danger, as it will cause the wheel to lock up or even fall apart.

If your rides take you down steep hills or you need to make quick stops, we suggest going with a cruiser bike that comes with brakes or has ports for them.

Q: How much weight can beach cruisers carry?

A: One of the main reasons cruiser bikes are so popular is because they can easily carry up to 300 lbs . Unlike road bikes with thin 700c wheels, the wheel base on beach cruisers can hold significantly more weight without dragging.

To carry more weight, beach cruisers with fat tire wheels can carry around 350+ lbs on all kinds of terrain . So if you're looking for a bike that can carry a good amount of weight without the complicated (and expensive) gearing of mountain bikes, a cruiser is just what you need.

Q: Do beach cruisers come with warranties?

A: They absolutely do! In fact, every beach cruiser bike from BikeBerry comes with an industry-leading 1 year warranty against frame failure . They also come with a 6 month parts-exchange warranty against manufacturer defects.

Each cruiser bike also comes with BikeBerry's Lifetime Assistance . No matter how long it's been, if you run into a problem fixing your bike, need advice on what upgrades you need, or you need help finding your next bike, we're only a phone call, email, or text away.

I got two of the #3’s and they have not given me any trouble since

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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.”

Some Strategist-approved bike helmets we’ve written about

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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11 Best Beach Cruiser Electric Bikes of 2024

Electric bikes have exploded in popularity in recent years due to their versatility , affordability, maximum comfort , and sheer fun factor . Not only are they better for the environment than cars, but they also promote fit, healthy, and explorational lifestyles.

Luckily there’s quite a good range of comfortable cruiser e-bikes, and the prices are relatively low compared to other electric bikes around. We didn’t include the cheapest options, instead chose the ones that have shown great ratings and feedback.

If you’re in the market for a powerful and affordable electric beach bicycle , then this list will hopefully help you make your decision.

Granted, some of these models are more suited to beach cruising than rapid, urban commuting, but all of these bikes make for a great option. Whilst some of them may oscillate in price, they’re all fantastic e-bikes with their unique strengths.

If you fancy ditching the car for a snazzy new motorized beach cruiser or a powerful electric hybrid bike, then any one of the bikes featured here will get you on your way to a healthier, more efficient life.

Best electric cruiser bikes of 2024

1 . rad power bikes radcity 5 plus.

City cruiser with a front suspension. Score: 4.7 / 5 out of 1,400 ratings!

Price: $1,999 Rad Power Bikes

The RadCity 5 Plus by Rad Power Bikes is a true powerhouse. Strong, sturdy, hefty, and reliable – it’s ideal for those long commutes and meandering, explorational journeys.

The RadCity 5’s puncture-resistant tires work just as well traversing through smooth, flat roads as they do on treacherous uphill ascents. The 750W motor provides the power and you’ll expect to reach speeds of around 28mph on this bike.

If you’re a taller, heavier rider, then you’ll feel right at home on the RadCity 5 Plus . Larger folk really are the biggest benefactors of this bike as it can support riders who are 6’5″ tall and 275lbs.

The padded saddle and swept-back handlebars will keep you comfortable as you take advantage of its 50-mile max range.

The backlit LCD display is also top-quality, especially considering the RadCity 5 Plus’ status as a more affordable electric bike. Complete with a speedometer, a battery indicator, and a wattmeter, this electric bike aims to cover all your bases.

The Cons – Not everybody will appreciate the bulk of the RadCity 5 Plus. Its 65lb frame can be formidable for smaller, more lightweight riders, and its sheer bulk can make carrying the bike an exhausting task.

In Conclusion – The RadCity 5 is a stallion of a commuting bike. For the price of $1,999, it is one of the best value urban eBikes on the market.

• 6061 aluminum frame
• 750W rear hub motor
• 672Wh battery
• Range : 28-50mi
• Max weight capacity : 275lbs
• 7-Speed Shimano Altus derailleur
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• 27.5×2″ puncture-resistant tires
• Weight . 65lbs

Buy from Rad Power Bikes

2 . Ride1UP Cafe Cruiser

Top-Value Electric Beach Cruiser

Price: $1,595

• 750W hub motor – 60 Nm torque
• 48V 15Ah, 720 Wh battery
• Range : 30-50 miles
• Class 3 eBike
• Tires – 26″ x 3″

The only thing you’ll have to worry about when you’re riding Ride1UP’s Cafe Cruiser is which speed to cruise at.

This electric beach cruiser bike features a lightweight alloy frame that is built with your comfort and safety in mind. The powerful 750W geared hub motor will have you smoothly cruising the streets at speeds of up to 28 mph.

The Cafe Cruiser is part comfort and part performance. Its lightweight frame and the rapid engine will get you to your destination quickly whilst the plush, padded seat and swept-back handlebars will get you there in style.

Safety is another important part of the Cafe Cruiser. Complete with hydraulic brakes and powerful front and rear lights, riders can feel assured that the bike has got their back.

If Ride1Up had just one improvement to make, it would be the two-tone LCD display. While it’s intuitive and easy to read, it would be great to see a color LCD display on future models. 

In Conclusion – Ride1Up is on to a true winner with its Cafe Cruiser. For $1,595, this bike has all the features of a top-quality electric beach cruiser bicycle.

Buy from Ride1UP

3 . Schwinn Mendocino

Electric hybrid cruiser bike

Price: Check on Amazon

There’s an old-school charm about Schwinn ’s Mendocino electric bicycle. The stylish frame and retro-looking handlebars certainly give this bike a timeless look.

Equipped with pre-installed fenders and a rear bike rack, this 250w bike is capable of reaching a 20mph top speed. There are also five different pedal assist settings and a 6-speed Shimano twist shifter. Whilst it doesn’t have an LCD screen, it does have LEDs on its front displaying battery life pedal assist settings.

It’s no powerhouse, but it’s a smooth, comfortable ride fitted with tires that are suitable for a variety of terrains. The range is also respectable for this price range – 45 miles maximum, but for a retail price of just $1,599, you get plenty of bang for your buck.

The Cons –  The lack of suspension may be a turnoff for some. Whilst this may be part and parcel of the Mendocino very affordable price, it’s still disappointing to note.

In Conclusion –  Considering how affordable this Schwinn electric cruiser bike is, it possesses a surprising amount of cool features. The rear bike rack is a great touch, and the range of pedal-assist settings is a treat. It certainly feels enjoyable to ride and the tires will handle pretty much every terrain.

• Range: 20-45mi
• 250W hub-drive motor
• 313Wh battery
• 6-Speed Shimano Tourney derailleur
• Weight capacity: 250lb
• Mechanical disc brakes

Fits Riders

26″ frame – 5’4″ – 6’2″

Buy on Amazon

4. Norco Scene VLT

Price: $3,599 Jenson USA

Here’s a perfect example of what to expect from a traditional cruiser bike, a low-step frame, double-spring saddle, and swept-back handlebars. 

Norco’s Scene VLT is a solid electric beach cruiser as it maximizes comfort without sacrificing versatility. It has solid electronics, including Shimano’s STEPS E6100 mid-drive and huge 504Wh battery. This combination is great for long rides or multiple days of riding. 

The drivetrain is a Shimano Alivio 9-speed and combines with Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. Finally, you have shock-absorbent 2.2″ Schwalbe Big Apple tires that keep you rolling without issue. 

• Aluminum frame & fork
• 27.5×2.2″ tires
• 250W rear hub motor

5’1″ – 5’10”

Buy on JensonUSA.com

5 . Electra Townie Go 8D EQ!

Best electric beach cruiser bike!

Price: $2,450 REI.com

Electra’ s beach cruiser electric bikes have one of the best values in terms of price-to-quality ratio.

Owned by Trek bicycles , Electra has put up a number of mid-and entry-level bikes at an affordable rate. The reason why they have managed to keep the prices low is the number of in-house components used. They produce a great variation of bikes for the whole family – from kids’ to men’s and women’s bicycles. Electra Women’s cruiser bikes are among the best-selling on REI .

Based on the Electra Cruiser 1 bike, the Townie Go! 8D EQ is a great choice for anyone who needs a bike for everyday commutes but prefers the ultimate comfort factor.

• 6061 T6 Aluminum frame, steel fork
• 250W Bosch Active Line mid-drive motor
• Class 1 eBike: Pedal assistance up to 20mph
• Battery : 400Wh Lithium-Ion
• Weight : 50lbs
• Range : 20-70mi
• 8-speed Shimano Acera derailleur
• 26×2.35″ tires
• Tektro Mechanical disc brakes

Size Recommendations

M – 5’3″ – 6’3″

Buy on REI.com

6 . Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 EQ

Modern and fast cruiser electric bike

Price: $2,175

This electric beach cruiser may look innocuous, but it packs a lot of punch. Behind its fully-equipped setup lies a bike that is bound to be a head-turner.

Fitted with a 250W rear hub motor, riders can expect a 47-mile max range at speeds of 20mph. The 650b x 47mm tires also provide plenty of cushioning and comfort while cruising.

There’s also a 250Wh Lithium-Ion battery. The 8-speed microSHIFT system gives riders tremendous versatility on roads, hills, beaches, and trails. 

Larger riders may feel awkward riding this model as it is primarily built for people between 4’11”-6ft tall. So keep in mind that it can feel a little too small if you’re of above-average height.

Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 EQ appeals to the needs of its target market very well. Its small size may be a hangup for some, but it remains an impressive e-bike with a lot going for it. Retailing at the respectable price of $2,175, it makes for a great introduction to the world of electric bicycling.

• 250Wh battery
• 650b x 47mm tires
• 8-Speed microSHIFT

Buy from REI

7 . NAKTO Fat Tire Electric Bike

Best fat tire beach cruiser bike

This fat tire cruiser is ideal for smooth gliding across a range of differing terrains.

Whether you’re cruising along a sandy beach or merely getting to the office, this electric bike has you covered. Its carbon steel frame is extremely sturdy and shock-resistant. Its 300lb max loading weight is a testament to its strength, as the bike itself only weighs 68lb.

A unique step-through frame helps riders keep a low center of gravity and is suitable for a variety of different body shapes and sizes.

This NAKTO cruiser comes equipped with a 300watt brushless motor that generates a top speed of 30mph. A 36V10Ah Lithium Battery gives this pedal-assist beach cruiser a range of around 30-40 miles with pedal assist.

Of course, the tires on this cruiser are certainly an area of discussion. These 26×4 wheels will help you get out of a variety of sticky situations and awkward terrains.

The Cons – There are  a few areas of this e-bike that are very average – the pedals (which are a little generic) and the brakes (which are noisy and difficult to control at times). The cruiser also lacks good suspension and riders can often feel the impact of the terrain below on their backsides.

• Aluminum frame
• 360Wh battery – 35V 10Ah Charge time: 4h

8 . Gazelle Arroyo C8 HMB Elite

Urban comfort eBike

Price: $3,700 Mike’s Bikes

This rapid, affordable cruiser is deceptively powerful. The Arroyo C8 has a 250W, 50Nm Bosch motor and a 500Wh battery located in the downtube, this battery is removable for charging. Riders can expect a 70-mile range out of this cruiser which is impressive considering its price.

The Arroyo has a 30mm headset-integrated suspension that boosts comfort by absorbing road vibrations and 1.75″ tires ensure plenty of grip and extra damping. 

This fully-equipped urban comfort machine is a fantastic option for those brand new to the world of e-bikes. Not only is it a great mid-level option, but its decent speed and long-lasting battery are features that will appeal to even advanced riders.

• 250W Bosch motor
• Range – 70mi
• 500Wh battery
• Integrated kickstand, fenders, rack

Get from Mike's Bikes

9 . SixThreeZero EVRYjourney 500W

Best eBike cruiser under $2,000

Comfort and ease are the two cornerstones of the EVRYjourney 500W bike.

Its ergonomic design and swept-back handlebars are perfect for relaxed beach cruising and laid-back exploration. Built more for effortless riding than pure performance, this e-bike is ideal for the more casual market.

Powered by a 500watt rear hub motor, this eBike is a smooth ride under full motor power or pedal assistance. With a respectable range between 30-40 miles, the 26’’ tires give riders tremendous coverage across a variety of terrains.

Expect top speeds of 15-20mph. The 62.4lb, 19’’ frame includes both a rear rack mount and a rear fender mount. Its unique design keeps riders in a low position to the ground, providing a greater sense of control and engagement.

There’s also a backlit LCD screen complete with a speedometer, power meter, and battery gauge.

The Cons –  Those who are seeking pure performance with their e-bikes may find EVRYJourney’s offering a little underwhelming. More suitable as a mellow electric beach cruiser than a high-speed transport tool, commuters may find this ebike cruiser a little on the slow side.

Users have noted slight quality control issues with the handlebar grips and rear fender installation too.

In Conclusion – For a low-moderately priced electric bike, EVRYJourney’s 500w cruiser has a lot going for it. Perfect for those laid-back summer explorations, this e-bike will keep you comfortable and looking stylish for the duration of your journey.

• 250W hub motor
• Max speeds: 15mph throttle assist / 24mph pedal-assist
• 26×2.1″ tires

5′ – 6’2″

Buy on Amazon.com

10 . Ecotric Electric Cruiser

Best cruiser eBike below $800

This budget-level electric cruiser bike is ideal for both new electric commuters and more casual street riders. A low retail price points out to an electric bike without many extras but the Ecotric Cruiser definitely delivers plenty.

Armed with a 350W geared hub motor and a 360Wh battery, the Ecoctric e-Cruiser has a 21-40 mile range and a top speed of 21mph on a charge time of seven hours average.

A pair of 26 x 1.95’’ tires sit below a comfortable low-step frame. Complete with mixed brakes (front v-brake and rear disc brake) and bookending fenders, this 55lb electric cruiser has a lot going for, including a Shimano 7-Speed shifter.

The Cons –  One slight drawback of the Ecotric Electric Cruiser is it doesn’t have lights powered by the battery pack. Whilst this is by no means a dealbreaker, it does mean riders will have to purchase some for city riding.

In Conclusion –  Despite a handful of minor annoyances, this bike is a sleek, stylish cruiser that is designed for smooth riding and user comfort. It achieves a great balance between comfort, versatility, and value and would be a great option for many new riders.

• Motor: 350W hub motor
• Battery:360Wh
• Max load capacity: 198lbs

Get from Amazon.com

11 . Electra Cruiser Go!

Price: $1,550 REI

Electra’s Cruiser Go! e-bike takes oceanside cruising to the next level. Equipped with 27.5 x 2.35″ comfortable balloon tires and a 250W motor, riders have plenty of punch to ride along at a top speed of 20mph.

Complete with a sleek cruiser frame with fully-integrated electronics, Electra values charm just as much as comfort. Comfort is, however, the cornerstone of this e-bike which you can see from the ergonomic saddle with shock-absorbing elastomers, relaxed ride position, and plush tires.

The Cruiser Go! has a one-size-fits frame and weighs 45lbs with the battery included. Expect a respectable 40-mile max range out of this bike. One notable feature that it boasts is the patented Flat Foot Technology which allows you to keep a foot on the ground while sitting.

Buy from REI.com

1 . Moustache-type wavey handlebar 2 . Rigid frame 3 . Large tires 4 . 26″ wheels 5 . Large & comfortable saddle 6 . Side stand

The list of best electric beach cruiser bikes listed above is chosen according to the best feedback and ratings online. The electric beach cruiser industry is a seasonal trend where we’ll be seeing an increasing trend of quality, selection, and more affordable price tags as time goes on. Do we recommend electric cruisers under $1,000? Probably not.

Best Electric Beach Cruiser Bikes

1. Norco Scene VLT 2 . Electra Townie Go 8D EQ! 3 . Firmstrong Urban Lady 26″ 350W 4 . Ride1UP 700 Series 5 . Rad Power Bikes RadCity 5 Plus 6 . Schwinn – Medoncino 7 . NAKTO Fat Tire Electric Bike 8 . Gazelle Arroyo C8 HMB Elite 9 . SixThreeZero EVRYjourney 500W 10 . Ecotric E-Cruiser 11 . Electra Cruiser Go!

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