Exploring new places; both scenic countryside or historic towns on your bicycle is one of the most enjoyable activities you can do. However, you might be surprised to find that you actually have a lot of options when choosing a bicycle for cruising around either at home or further afield.
Well, why not get a bike meant for that specific purpose? You can choose from the best brands of cruiser bikes to guarantee that you always have the best time. If you’re not familiar with this type of bicycle, here’s what you need to know.
What’s a Cruiser Bike?
Cruiser bikes are ergonomically-designed bicycles meant to keep you comfortable, healthy, and help you stay on the bike for extended periods. While it may not be as fast as other types of bikes, cruiser bikes are designed to reduce the strain and pain you might experience in different parts of your body after cycling for hours.
How To Choose a Cruiser Bike
With cruiser bikes being the best option for recreational cycling, you might be wondering how you can guarantee that you have the best one. Below are some factors you may need to consider when choosing a cruiser bike.
Frame Type
Generally, there are two types of cruise bike frames. They’re divided according to the gender they are intended for. Cruiser bike frames for men have straight top tubes for improved balance and sturdiness.
On the other hand, women’s cruiser bikes have top tubes or frames that fall downward, leaving the space between the handlebar and seat empty. This feature makes it more convenient for women to mount on the bike even when wearing skirts.
Frame Material
The next thing you should consider is the material from which the bike, or more specifically, its frame, is made out of. Most frames are made out of steel, making the bike sturdier and less prone to dents. However, steel is quick to rust, which means it may require additional maintenance tasks.
You also need to ensure the bike is away from excessive sunlight and moisture to prolong its lifespan. Its sturdiness also comes with a price—its weight. Steel frames are significantly heavier than other types of frames, making the bike relatively difficult to lug or carry around if you need to.
Your other option is an aluminum frame. It’s significantly lighter than steel and does not corrode quickly, allowing it to last for years with minimal maintenance. The same goes for alloy frames. However, one disadvantage these latter two types of frames have is that they’re more expensive.
Size
We mentioned that cruiser bikes are designed for comfortable cycling. If you don’t pick the appropriate size, you might experience discomfort and body aches. Additionally, choosing what size bike is so important in order to avoid any accidents and injuries.
Unlike most bikes, cruiser bikes are categorized or measured according to the size of their wheels. The sizes range from 16 to 26 inches. The former is intended for young or shorter people, while the latter is meant for adults or teenagers.
On the other hand, if your height is somewhere between six feet flat and six foot nine inches, you can still find cruiser bikes with wheels at about 29 inches in diameter. They may not be as common as smaller sizes, but cruiser bike companies manufacture them.
Braking Mechanism
Cruiser bikes are quite unique because of one of their subcategories which is the coaster. This type of cruiser bike does not have cable wires and levers for the break. Instead, it uses a foot- or pedal-brake mechanism.
The bike still uses a freewheel mechanism which means the wheels will keep turning when you rest your feet on the pedals. However, when you suddenly backpedal or jolt your feet in the other direction, the brakes will activate and stop the wheels.
On the other hand, other types of cruiser bikes still have the same breaking mechanism as most bikes. Some have rear brakes only, while others have rear and front brakes with two levers on the handlebar.
Seat
Make sure that you also test the bike out first before purchasing it. You don’t want to suffer pains from your bottoms or private area. That’s why the seat is very important when choosing a cruiser bike.
It should have an ample amount of padding to keep you comfortable despite sitting on it for hours. Additionally, it should have good enough spring action to avoid hurting your private area when you hit bumps on the road.
Fenders
Make sure that you also purchase a cruiser bike with rear and front fenders. These keep dirt, debris, and water from spattering to your face, legs, and back. If you don’t like how they look, you can always remove them. Nonetheless, you’ll be glad you have front and rear fenders on your cruiser bike during rainy days.
Choosing the Right Cruiser Bike
Whether you’re going to work or just wanting to explore the town, a cruiser bike is one of the best bicycles you could use. If you wish to invest in one, make sure that you know how to choose the best cruiser bike by following the tips we mentioned.
