Although the current price ranges of cruiser bikes are cooled down a lot compared to the past, the market is saturated, which is overwhelming to find the right one for your needs. If you’re a beginner and have no idea to decide the best cruiser bike on your own. Let me help you!
See also:
- Top 14 Best Mountain Bikes Under 500 Reviews In 2021
- Top 20 Best Hybrid Bikes Under $500 Reviews In 2021
- Top 20 Best Bike Cell Phone Holders and Mounts in 2021
- Top 15 Best Hitch Bike Racks Reviews In 2021
- Top 14 Best Bike Racks for Garage Reviews In 2021
Table of Contents
Is A Cruiser Bike Easier To Ride?
Yes, it is. Cruiser bikes are easy to ride for many reasons:
- They are extremely easy to adjust and tune
- Simple to ride in comparison to road bikes and mountain bikes
- Not as easily damaged as the carbon-steel bikes
- Deliver smooth and comfortable riding feel
What Is The Best Brand Of Beach Cruiser Bicycles?
If you are wondering which brands are reliable enough to pick the best cruiser bike, here are some (due to my experience):
Huffy
With headquarters in Ohio, this has been one of the most reliable suppliers of beach cruiser bicycles and other bike types.
This is also one of the oldest companies out there, founded in 1887, so they know how to make a great quality cruiser that can satisfy even the strictest buyers.
Firmstrong
At Firmstrong, you’ll be able to find a high-quality cruiser not only at a very good price point but also look stylish for an enhanced experience. Every single design is a great blend of functionality and fashion, making it not a pure transportation mode at all.
sixthreezero
Inspired by the amazing Southern California beach culture, sixthreezero was set up in 2005. Up to now, they have been at the forefront of manufacturing cool and minimalist cruisers that focus on comfort, durability, reliability, and of course, competitive price ranges.
Schwinn
Schwinn is one of my most favorite choices when it comes to the best brand for cruiser bikes because this Chicago-based manufacturer was established by a Germania technician named Ignaz Schwinn. And you know that Germania products are well-known for top-notch quality.
What Are the Best Cruiser Bikes to Buy?
Each cruiser is made for certain purposes, so it’s important for you to know what you intend to use the bike for as well as your budget and preference.
Then, take a look at this list where I’ve rounded up the strengths of my 13 best cruiser bikes:
- Best Overall: Schwinn Perla Women’s Beach Cruiser Bike
“Easy to get on & off; Able to handle different riding terrains & simple to change gears; Comfortable enough for extended rides; Deliver safe and powerful stopping power”
- Best for Beginners: sixthreezero EVRYjourney Cruiser Bike
“Lightweight and maneuverable; Easy to assemble; Ride smoothly and offer full of control; Safe and reliable to ride without compromising speeds; Able to handle different riding surfaces”
- Best With A Basket: Margaritaville Coast Is Clear Cruiser Bike
“Feature a strong, sturdy, yet lightweight basket for extra storage space; Provide lots of convenient add-ons; Easy to maneuver & controllable; Extra comfort for long rides or riding over bumpy surfaces”
- Best for Short Riders: Firmstrong Urban Lady Single Speed Cruiser Bike
“Easy to get on/off, to stand on your feet when not pedaling, and to brake; Feel comfortable and supportive with smooth-riding; Straightforward assembly; Cute colors”
- Best for The Money: Firmstrong Urban Man Beach Cruiser Bike
“Ideal for casual rides, beach cruising, or on paved paths; Keep stable cruising speeds from 3 to 15MPH; Give durable and comfortable feel while riding it; Simple installation; Low maintenance”
- Best for Tall Guys: sixthreezero Women’s 7-Speed Beach Cruiser Bike
“Ideal for riders from 5’4” to 6’4” in height; Easy to stop, ride, and maintain; Able to handle slightly bumpy surfaces or boardwalks despite its single-speed gearing; Great shock absorption; Include free full-coverage fenders with matching colors”
- Best for Big Guys: sixthreezero Men’s In The Barrel 3-Speed Beach Cruiser Bike
“Strong and durable enough to handle extra loading weight; Offer superior comfort for bigger riders on various terrains; Easy to get on/off; Various seat color options to choose from”
- Best for Hills: Schwinn Sanctuary 7 Cruiser Bike
“Enhanced controllability and maneuverability; Able to go up/downhills; Allow for carrying more luggage with the least effort; Keep mud and dirt away from your clothes”
- Best for Kids: Firmstrong Urban Girl Single Speed Beach Cruiser Bike
“Best for girls from 3’2” to 4’4” in height; Ideal to be ridden over flat terrains; Deliver enhanced safety, especially when riding at night; Reliable to stop whenever in need”
- Best Under $300: Kulana Hiku Cruiser Bike
“Incredibly affordable; Offer good comfort for long-distance rides; Include full-coverage fenders bonus some cool decals”
- Best for Men: Retrospec Chatham Men’s Beach Cruiser Bike
“Deliver soft ride and superior shock absorption; Long-lasting & durable; User-friendly; Make it possible to attach a rear rack, fenders, and a basket”
- Best for Women: Kent Oakwood Women’s Cruiser Bike
“Lightweight and easy to control; Able to handle different terrains; Enhance your safety while riding it; Easy to use and adjust the seat post”
- Best for Seniors: Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike, Three Wheel Cruiser Bike
“Take the bike’s stability to the next level; Maneuverable, easy to get on/off, and low-maintenance; Perfect to hold bags of groceries or other cargo; No lower back pain while riding it, even during long rides”
Best Cruiser Bikes Comparison Chart 2021
Find it’s hard to compare my best cruiser bikes side-by-side? Well, this comparison chart might be what you are after. Keep reading!
Top 13 Best Cruiser Bikes Reviews In 2021
Best Overall: Schwinn Perla Women’s Beach Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Easy to get on & off
- Able to handle different riding terrains & simple to change gears
- Comfortable enough for extended rides
- Deliver safe and powerful stopping power
Cons
- The handle grips aren’t long enough
If you plan to replace your standard pedal bike with a new cruiser, the Schwinn Perla Womens is the best overall option.
While pedaling is a breeze to this one, I love its 7-speed twist shifters as well as how easy changing the gears is.
It features an 18-inch frame size and two 26-inch wheels, which is perfect for a rider from 5’4″ to 5’9″ in height.
The best part is that its step-over height is just 19 inches – low enough to get on/off easily. The handlebars are at a nice angle while the seat is wide, comfortable, and well-padded. Last but not least, its alloy linear-pull brakes function easily.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 71 x 26 x 40 inches |
| Weight | 42 Pounds |
| Wheels Size | 26 Inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Highlight Features | an 18″ frame size
A quilted seat with trim, soft grips, and springs alloy linear-pull brakes 7-speed twist shifters sweptback handlebars matching fenders |
To learn more about this cruiser bike, please watch this review video:
Best for Beginners: sixthreezero EVRYjourney Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Easy to assemble
- Ride smoothly and offer full of control
- Safe and reliable to ride without compromising speeds
- Able to handle different riding surfaces
Cons
- Wish the rear fender functioned better
- The derailleur was loose on the bike
Whether you’re a complete beginner or back to bike-riding after a long time, the sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men’s Single Speed is a good choice.
It is pretty simple to assemble right out of a box.
Aside from its lightness and ease of maneuverability, the cruiser rides smoothly, feels durable, and looks sleek. The 26” wheel size makes it a lot easier for newbie riders to control it regardless of the surface.
That said, it still lets you enjoy high speeds, thanks to the 2” semi-slick tires.
What I impressed the most was its versatility that can handle different purposes: from riding over long distances and hills to performing on trails and streets.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 56.00 inches x 29.00 inches x 8.00 inches |
| Weight | 36.5 lbs. |
| Wheels Size | 26 Inches |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Highlight Features | Black synthetic leather grips and saddle
2″ semi-slick tires Shimano 7-speed External Derailleur Aluminum city frame 26″ wheels |
To learn more about this cruiser bike, please watch this review video:
Best With A Basket: Margaritaville Coast Is Clear Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Feature a strong, sturdy, yet lightweight basket for extra storage space
- Provide lots of convenient add-ons
- Easy to maneuver & controllable
- Extra comfort for long rides or riding over bumpy surfaces
Cons
- The front brake alignment needs improvement
Nothing is better than an easy-to-ride cruiser bike added with a basket on the front for extra storage space, especially for ladies.
That’s why I highly recommend the Margaritaville Coast Is Clear Women’s Beach Cruiser, which highlights a large basket made of wire metal material. It’s strong enough to hold up a 9-pound terrier with no bent but lightweight enough to be easily picked up.
Along with that, the bike is attached with a cup holder and full-coverage fenders to protect your dress from dirt.
The aluminum frame makes this bike weigh to nothing while its soft padded seat gives the rider extra comfort while riding over bumpy terrains or for extended rides.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 53 inches x 28 inches x 9.75 inches |
| Weight | 35-40 lbs. |
| Wheels Size | 26 Inches |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Highlight Features | Soft padded seat
High rise handlebars Aluminum frame Feature a wire mesh basket, a cup holder, and Full-coverage fenders |
Best for Short Riders: Firmstrong Urban Lady Single Speed Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Ideal for casual rides, beach cruising, or on paved paths
- Keep stable cruising speeds from 3 to 15MPH
- Give durable and comfortable feel while riding it
- Simple installation
- Low maintenance
Cons
- The fenders are sold separately
- The grips are cheap foam
The Firmstrong Urban is a highly valuable option for those people who just want a basic bike for an afternoon riding with friends or to ride around the town, the beach, or on paved paths.
Built with just a single speed, it is able to easily reach and keep a stable cruising speed of up to 15MPH.
The design with no complicated gear systems or cables hanging off the bike also makes it very low-maintenance. The price is awesome when compared to its comfy seat, durable frame, sharp classic look, and ease of assembly.
Take note that it will fit riders from 5’5” in height or above due to the 26” wheels and 19” frame.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 52 (length) x 8 (width) x 27 (height) |
| Weight | 40lbs. |
| Wheels Size | 26 Inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Highlight Features | wide handlebars with rubber grips
Oversized seat with dual springs easy-to-use coaster brakes 15-inch durable steel frame 26-inch wheels |
To learn more about this cruiser bike, please watch this review video:
Best for the Money: Firmstrong Urban Man Beach Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Ideal for casual rides, beach cruising, or on paved paths
- Keep stable cruising speeds from 3 to 15MPH
- Give durable and comfortable feel while riding it
- Simple installation
- Low maintenance
Cons
- The fenders are sold separately
- The grips are cheap foam
The Firmstrong Urban is a highly valuable option for those people who just want a basic bike for an afternoon riding with friends or to ride around the town, the beach, or on paved paths.
Built with just a single speed, it is able to easily reach and keep a stable cruising speed of up to 15MPH.
The design with no complicated gear systems or cables hanging off the bike also makes it very low-maintenance. The price is awesome when compared to its comfy seat, durable frame, sharp classic look, and ease of assembly.
Take note that it will fit riders from 5’5” in height or above due to the 26” wheels and 19” frame.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 53.00 inches x 28.00 inches x 10.00 inches |
| Weight | 50 pounds |
| Wheels Size | 26 Inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Highlight Features | Single-speed
26″ Wheels 19″ Frame oversized dual-spring saddle |
To learn more about this cruiser bike, please watch this review video:
Best for Tall Guys: sixthreezero Women’s 7-Speed Beach Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Ideal for riders from 5’4” to 6’4” in height
- Easy to stop, ride, and maintain
- Able to handle slightly bumpy surfaces or boardwalks despite its single-speed gearing
- Great shock absorption
- Include free full-coverage fenders with matching colors
Cons
- Unable to attach a bottle holder or a rear rack on this bike
In contrast to the Firmstrong Urban Lady Simple Speed Cruiser, this model is professionally designed for taller riders up to 6’4” in height. That’s a big thank you to the perfect combo of 26” wheels and 17” classic, curvy frame.
Just like most other counterparts in this list, it arrives 85% pre-assembled.
It’s also easy to use or stop when in need, due to the pedal-backward coaster brakes and single-speed gearing.
The bike will perform its best on flat terrains but if it has to, it still handles slightly bumpy surfaces or boardwalks like a champ. The secret? It all lies in the bike’s ultra-wide seat with dual-springs.
A bonus is this cruiser comes with free full-coverage fenders.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 69.00 inches x 28.00 inches x 45.00 inches |
| Weight | 43 pounds |
| Wheels Size | 26 Inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Highlight Features | variety of seat colors with matching grips
Specially crafted crank mechanics pedal-backward coaster brakes extra-wide comfort saddle with dual-springs front and rear fenders Classic, curvy 17-inch beach frame design |
Best for Big Guys: sixthreezero Men’s in The Barrel 3-Speed Beach Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Strong and durable enough to handle extra loading weight
- Offer superior comfort for bigger riders on various terrains
- Easy to get on/off
- Various seat color options to choose from
Cons
- The chain link could be higher quality
While there are still many other bikes out there designed with 300-pound weight capacity, this is the shiniest candidate for big guys, at least in my opinion.
The reasons are its ultra-large frame (18 inches) and forward pedaling design, which delivers extra comfort for bigger riders to enjoy their rides no matter the terrain. Not to say that it’s built with dual-springs for shock absorption, a bigger saddle, and balloon tires.
It supports excellently even if you want to travel longer distances. Another thing that I really love is the low-profile structure for ease of getting on and off. Very sophisticated!
And you can choose from a wide range of seat color options with matching grips.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 73.00 inches x 28.00 inches x 42.00 inches |
| Weight | 44.6 pounds |
| Wheels Size | 26 Inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Highlight Features | Specially crafted crank mechanics
pedal-backward coaster brakes extra-wide saddle with dual-springs Balloon tires 18-inch extended steel frame & 26-inch wheels Low-profile structure |
To learn more about this cruiser bike, please watch this review video:
Best for Hills: Schwinn Sanctuary 7 Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Enhanced controllability and maneuverability
- Able to go up/downhills
- Allow for carrying more luggage with the least effort
- Keep mud and dirt away from your clothes
Cons
- The seat feels stiff
- The drive train components are cheap
Out of the beautiful color and nice vintage look of this cruiser bike, it stands out from the rest for hill performance.
The SRAM twist shifters, Shimano 7-speed rear derailleur, and the lightweight aluminum frame enhance the controllability of this bicycle. So it’s great for going up steep hills or downhill.
The bike also comes with an attached rear rack which is convenient to carry along your package during the journey.
And, it is created with full-coverage, matching color fenders that keep mud and dirt away from you while riding over splashes or wet roads.
Due to the bike’s height and its adjustable saddle, I greatly suggest it for people from 5’4″ to 6″2″ in height.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 53.5 inches x 32 inches x 8.4 inches |
| Weight | 52.549 pounds |
| Wheels Size | 26 Inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Highlight Features | Aluminum alloy rims
SRAM twist shifters & A Shimano seven-speed rear derailleur rear cargo rack & Full fenders |
To learn more about this cruiser bike, please watch this review video:
Best for Kids: Firmstrong Urban Girl Single Speed Beach Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Best for girls from 3’2” to 4’4” in height
- Ideal to be ridden over flat terrains
- Deliver enhanced safety, especially when riding at night
- Reliable to stop whenever in need
Cons
- The rear axle is too short to be able to add 20” training wheels
Featuring a 13” frame size, 20” wheels, and 150-pound weight capacity, the Firmstrong Urban Girl Single Speed Beach Cruiser Bicycle is undoubtedly made for kids.
The best rider’s height ranges should be from 3’2” to 4’4” tall.
Its single-speed gearing is ideal for flat riding surfaces while the larger seat with dual springs and soft padding adds comfort to the rider. It also has dual fenders as well.
But what I like the most is the added front light for extra safety when riding at night. Meanwhile, the pedal-backward coaster brake makes it simple and reliable to stop whenever your kid wants.
Product Specs
| Weight | 30lbs |
| Wheels Size | 20 Inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Highlight Features | 13-inch frame
Oversized seat with dual springs front and rear fenders Maximum Rider Weight – 150 pounds Pedal-backwards coaster brake 20-inch wheels |
To learn more about this cruiser bike, please watch this review video:
Best Under $300: Kulana Hiku Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Incredibly affordable
- Offer good comfort for long-distance rides
- Include full-coverage fenders bonus some cool decals
Cons
- Heavy
This is one of the most inexpensive cruiser bikes in my review roster – priced under $300 and what’s worth mentioning here is it doesn’t compromise quality or performance.
The frame material is still high-grade steel, the handlebars are wide enough for comfortable reach, and the brake functions greatly.
Best of all, it includes full coverage, steel, and matching-color fenders for free. Not to say that there comes a couple of “fern”-type decals for a nice, subtle touch.
The seat is comfortable to not numb your butts after a long ride while the riding experience can’t be smoother. For the price, this one is a steal.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 71.00 inches x 26.00 inches x 40.00 inches |
| Weight | 51.55 pounds |
| Wheels Size | 26 Inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Highlight Features | Easy reach cruiser handlebars
Full wrap steel fenders Ultra-large cruiser seat with springs steel frame and fork |
To learn more about this cruiser bike, please watch this review video:
Best for Men: Retrospec Chatham Men’s Beach Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Deliver soft ride and superior shock absorption
- Long-lasting & durable
- User-friendly
- Make it possible to attach a rear rack, fenders, and a basket
Cons
- The directions could have been a bit better
- Assembly is time-taking
I want to make clear that other men’s cruisers in this list are great in function and performance, but this one is the best for two good reasons.
First, it is constructed from a handmade high-tensile steel frame that not only offers a softer ride than aluminum frames but also delivers superior shock absorption. This newly designed frame is also able to last for years’ abuse due to its next-level durability.
It’s easy to use enough for beginners to start with, like featuring a foot-operated coaster brake, a single-speed gearing, and including a kickstand, by the way.
A good thing is it’s custom-made with rear eyelets and a double fork so that you can mount a rear rack, fenders, and a basket if you want.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 54 inches x 27 inches x 8 inches |
| Wheels Size | 29 Inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Highlight Features | made possible with rear eyelets & double fork
soft foam grips, a plush wide saddle, wide tires, & Upright handlebars include a kickstand a foot-operated coaster brake & single-speed gearing 29-inch wheels & steel frame |
Best for Women: Kent Oakwood Women’s Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to control
- Able to handle different terrains
- Enhance your safety while riding it
- Easy to use and adjust the seat post
Cons
- The brakes are squeaky sometimes
The Kent Oakwood Women’s Bike is a wonderful companion for either cruising to a local coffee shop or a nearby store.
It’s an ultimate beach cruiser with an emphasis on quality components, lightweight rust-resistant aluminum frame, and versatile 7-speed gearing. Particularly, it features dual hand brakes with an enclosed chain cover for extra safety during the ride.
For female riders, its “ease of assembly” and quick-release seat post clamp are big bonuses.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 53 x 28 x 8.5 inches |
| Weight | 40 Pounds |
| Wheels Size | 26 Inches |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Highlight Features | Quick Release Seat Post Clamp
Enclosed Chain Cover Front and Rear Handbrake 7-Speed Gearing |
Best for Seniors: Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike, Three Wheel Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Take the bike’s stability to the next level
- Maneuverable, easy to get on/off, and low-maintenance
- Perfect to hold bags of groceries or other cargo
- No lower back pain while riding it, even during long rides
Cons
- Very expensive
This 26” cruiser is a bit different from the rest; it’s actually a tri bicycle and specifically designed for seniors from 5’4” to 6′ 2” tall.
It has a single-speed drivetrain, super-low-profile step-through frame which is made of lightweight aluminum material. In other words, it’s maneuverable, easy to get on/off, and low-maintenance.
The bike is perfect to go through flat surfaces. And a special thing about it is an ultra-large rear basket that can hold bags of groceries or other cargo.
Aiming to deliver the highest comfort level, it is also added with full fenders and ultra-wide upright handlebars so riding it doesn’t put a strain on your back.
All-in-all, this is a great choice for seniors.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 76. inches x 31. inches x 40. inches |
| Weight | 72.69 Pounds |
| Wheels Size | 26 Inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Highlight Features | Super low step-through aluminum frame
Wide upright handlebars both front and rear fenders Linear-pull brakes Single-speed drivetrain |
To learn more about this cruiser bike, please watch this review video:
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Cruiser Bikes In 2021
Frame sizes & Wheel sizes
The frame size is generally the frame height, measured from the top tube to the bottom bracket (crank bearing). But you can’t just rely on this element to decide whether it fits your height or not, which is why you should take its wheel size into consideration.
Wheel size is the diameter of a cruiser’s wheels, commonly measured in inches.
To help you easily figure out which cruiser fits you best, take a look at this information table:
| Frame Size
(inches) |
Wheel Size
(inches) |
Rider’s Height Range |
| 8 to 10 | 16 | 2’10” to 3’8” |
| 12 | 20 | 3’8” to 4’4” |
| 15 | 24 | 4’4” to 5’4” |
| 15 to 21 | 26 | 5’4” to 6’4” |
| Extended frame | 26 | 6’ and over |
Gears
There are three gear options when it comes to cruiser bikes:
Single-speed – ideal for the beach or casual riding on flat surfaces. They’re very low-maintenance due to the minimalist construction and usually built with pedal-backward coaster brakes. In turn, single-speed cruisers can’t ride up/down a hill.
Three-speed or seven-speed gearing – ideal for riding on the hilly beachside town but they’re more complicated in the construction to require more maintenance. They usually feature handbrakes.
Brake types
As mentioned above, there are two main types of brakes:
Coaster braking
This is a traditional type that requires pedaling backward to stop the bike. Although it might lack stopping power, it is a perfect choice for those who love clean-looking handlebars and bikes with low-maintenance.
Front and rear braking
On the contrary, this brake type will sacrifice your cruiser’s aesthetics. In turn, it is a lot safer and doesn’t depend on chain quality. That’s why dual braking is perfect for downhill riding.
FAQs
What is the best cruiser bike to buy?
My suggestions are:
- Schwinn Perla Women’s Beach Cruiser Bike
- sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men’s Single Speed Hybrid Cruiser
- Margaritaville Coast Is Clear Women’s Beach Cruiser Bike
Are cruiser bikes good for long rides?
Compared to a road or hybrid bike, cruisers have a significantly slower top speed, which is also the major difference between them. So if extended rides at slower speeds are not a problem for you, then a cruiser is a nice option.
Are cruiser bikes Good for hills?
Not at all.
With a few gears, it is comfortable and easy enough to ride up hills but its hefty weight is a big drawback (also a controversial feature). Combined with your body weight, climbing a steep hill on a cruiser is pretty arduous.
Are Huffy cruiser bikes good?
Yes, they are. Huffy cruiser bikes are known most for their comfortable riding experience, sturdiness, and stylish look. But take note that the vast majority of their lines are for men
My Top Pick
My top pick for the best cruiser bike is the Schwinn Perla Womens because it is affordable, well-built, and easy to step through or stand over. It also features a padded, soft saddle, and wider handlebars to enhance your comfort during the rides.
And of course, can’t ignore its functional brakes which deliver powerful stopping power.
Although there’s no universal cruiser bike, if you want something that can handle various terrains, performs well, and looks great without flattening your wallet, this is it.
Do you have any further questions about cruiser bikes? Have any good cruiser bikes out there that you know but aren’t listed here yet? Kindly let me know in the comment section down below.