How to Compare Cruiser Bikes

A cruiser bike.

Cruisers, according to the late bicycle expert Sheldon Brown's website, used to be called "balloon tire" bikes because of their wide, 26-inch by 2.125-inch tires. According to Brown, such bicycles were popular at flat resort areas and took on the moniker "beach cruiser." Cruiser bikes are meant for comfort, utility and style, not performance. When comparing cruisers, there are fewer features for you to consider than when you are looking at road or mountain bikes.

Instructions

1. Consider the number of gears you require or desire. This is probably the biggest factor when comparing cruisers. Traditionally, cruisers came with just one gear and coaster, or pedal, brakes, but cruisers with multiple gears, including 3-, 7- and 21-speed models, have become common. On 1- and 3-speed cruisers, coaster brakes are still frequently found, but the more gears the bike has, the more likely it is to have hand brakes.

2. Think about where you will ride your bike. If you plan to traverse flat beach paths, one gear is likely enough. If you will ride on any sort of hilly terrain, however, you will probably need at least three or seven gears. If you wish to simulate the experience of riding a non-cruiser bike, a 21-speed model with hand brakes is your best bet.

3. 

   Bicycle sprockets, usually collectively called a "cassette."

   Look at the gearing system of the bikes you are comparing. Many use traditional gearing with an exposed sprocket. Others use internal gearing, such as the Shimano Nexus system. Internal gearing encloses your gears in the wheel's hub--the part of the wheel the spokes attach to--which protects them from the elements, such as sand and water near the beach. Additionally, internal gearing usually allows you to switch gears when coasting or standing still.

4. Choose a comfortable handlebar style. Old-school cruisers have wide handlebars, which can make bike handling awkward for some, especially if you have a narrow torso or core. Modern cruisers offer more handlebar widths, including some that are closer to road and mountain bike handlebars.

5. Compare accessories. Cruiser riders often like to accessorize their bikes with fenders, bells, baskets and other options. In some cases, you have to purchase these items separately, adding up to $100 or more to your purchase. Many cruisers, however, include some accessories in the price of the bike.

References

• Sheldon Brown's Website: Glossary, Cruiser
• Sheldon Brown's Website: The Shimano Nexus System

Resources

• Bicycling Magazine: Cruiser and City Bike Reviews