Best Cruiser Style Bicycles: A Review

“Cruisers”, the sturdy, balloon-tired bicycles that were a common sight on American streets through the 1950s, have seen a serious spike in popularity lately. And their throwback style is attracting commuters and other riders for some very good reasons: cruisers are comfortable to ride, thanks to an upright pedaling position; they’re relatively inexpensive compared to sport-specific models like mountain bikes; their frames and components are typically very durable; and they’re mechanically simple, which means minimal maintenance. A cruiser can be a great option for biking around town, and these are 7 of the top models on the market.

Schwinn 2009 Classic AL Cruiser

Speeds: Single
Brakes: Coaster

The cruiser owes its very existence to Schwinn, who developed the functional and durable concept during the Great Depression when other bicycle models were seen as fragile luxury items. The Classic AL Cruiser is a modern update of a classic Schwinn design. The 1955 Classic Cantilever frame is built from lightweight 7000 series aluminum, with a durable steel Unicrown front fork. Front and rear full-wrap fenders are standard, and rack mounts make it easy to convert the Classic AL Cruiser for transport duty. Schwinn also offers a variety of custom add-ons for extra functionality or retro style, including the Phantom carrier, clear-coat paint, or the Phantom “fuel tank”.

Visit the Schwinn website for a dealer locator. The Classic AL Cruiser retails for $399.

Electra Coaster 3i

Speeds: 3
Brakes: Coaster

Electra was one of the first manufacturers to begin producing the new generation of “cruiser” bikes in the early ‘90s. The Coaster 3i combines a straightforward, traditional cruiser design with some very modern design and components. The Coaster 3i employs Electra’s “Flat Foot Technology”, meaning the pedaling angle is shifted forward relative to the seat. This results in a more upright (and comfortable) riding position while allowing a lower frame height – riders can pedal efficiently, yet still sit comfortably with their feet flat on the ground. The Coaster 3i features Shimano Nexus components that combine a coaster brake and an internal 3-speed derailleur, routed to a twist shifter on the handlebars. The frame is built from lightweight 7005 aluminum, while alloy rims and a steel fork provide durability.

The Electra Coaster 3i retails for $430, and you can locate a dealer at the Electra website.

Firmstrong Urban Cruiser

Speeds: Single & 3-speed models
Brakes: Coaster

The Firmstrong Urban Cruiser is a basic, streamlined design for an affordable price. A Hi-Ten steel frame and fork give the bike strength and durability. The Urban Cruiser has a broad, spring-cushioned saddle and wide-grip handlebars for a comfortable ride, and 26-inch Kenda whitewall tires come standard on the alloy rims for a bit of retro style. The bike is equipped with coaster brakes, and it’s available in either a single-speed design or a 3-speed model with a Shimano Nexus hub.

The single-speed Urban Cruiser is available for $135, and the 3-speed version is $190. You can find them at Chubby’s Cruisers.

Trek Cruiser Classic

Speeds: Single
Brakes: Coaster

Trek brings quality components and years of design expertise to its Cruiser Classic model. A 19” steel frame is versatile enough to fit most riders comfortably, and the components offered with the Cruiser Classic are designed for durability. All materials are rust-resistant, and the sealed headset bearings and bottom bracket help ensure years of service. Bontrager tires are standard on the alloy rims, and an aluminum chainguard and kickstand make the Cruiser Classic a commuter-friendly choice.

The Trek Cruiser Classic retails for $289.99, and it’s available in both men’s and women’s frame designs. Visit Trek’s website to locate a local dealer.

Micargi Pantera 7-Speed Cruiser

Speeds: 7
Brakes: Hand

If you live in a very hilly area or need to cover serious distance, a single-speed cruiser or even a 3-speed model may leave you huffing and puffing as you pedal around town. A 7-speed model like the Micargi Pantera combines cruiser design with multi-speed versatility. A Shimano 7-speed derailleur and freewheel give the Pantera impressive versatility for a cruiser, while hand levers control the front and rear V brakes. A Hi-Ten steel frame, chrome handlebars, and stainless steel spokes mean durability; the dual spring saddle keeps riders comfortable mile after mile, and the standard front and rear fenders give protection from puddle spashes.

You can find the Micargi Pantera 7-Speed Cruiser for $205 at Chubby’s Cruisers.

Nirve Classic Cruiser

Speeds: Single
Brakes: Coaster (rear) and hand (front)

Huntington Beach-based Nirve Sports builds cruisers that blend retro-modern style with innovative designs. The Classic Cruiser is a single-speed model with a frame constructed from Nirve’s proprietary Galaxie carbon steel. Aluminum wheels mean lighter weight and easy rolling, and Nirve equipped the Classic Cruiser with a front hand brake as well as the standard coaster brake. A cushy spring saddle and streamlined front and rear fenders are standard.

Note: The Nirve Classic Cruiser is also available in a 3-speed model, with rear hand brakes as an optional configuration.

The Nirve Classic Cruiser is available at Amazon for $339.99.

Cadillac Eldorado Leisure Cruiser

Speeds: Single
Brakes: Coaster

Who says a basic bike can’t still have plenty of style and luxury? The Cadillac Eldorado Leisure Cruiser keeps things simple with a single speed design and Shimano coaster brakes, but it doesn’t skimp on comfort and quality. The frame, rims, stem, and handlebars are all constructed from lightweight and corrosion-resistant aluminum. The handlebars are adjustable to accommodate different size riders, and the Custom Super Comfort Saddle offers memory-foam cushioning for a comfy ride. The Eldorado rolls on 26” wheels, and front and rear fenders are standard. Plus, for extra style points, the classic Cadillac logo is featured on the front badge and the saddle embroidery.

The Cadillac Eldorado Leisure Cruiser is available at Amazon starting at $299 (depending on frame size), and a women’s Eldorado Cruiser is available as well with a modified frame design.