Discover the Best Beach Cruiser Bikes for Effortless Rides

Cruiser bikes, often referred to as beach cruisers, are your ticket to relaxed, stylish, and comfortable riding. Whether you’re planning leisurely trips around your neighborhood, a breezy ride to the local farmer’s market, or a scenic cruise down the boardwalk, a beach cruiser bike provides the perfect blend of comfort and ease. The hallmark of these bikes is their swept-back handlebars, designed to promote an upright riding posture, allowing you to soak in your surroundings with maximum comfort and minimum strain.

While beach cruiser bikes are celebrated for their simplicity, choosing the best beach cruiser bike for your individual needs and budget still requires considering several key features. To simplify your decision-making process, we’ve rigorously tested a range of cruiser bikes. Our hands-on reviews are designed to highlight the nuances between different models, guiding you to understand which features truly matter for your personal riding experience.

Alt text: Top beach cruiser bikes collage featuring models from SixThreeZero, Priority, Retrospec, and Electra, showcasing diverse styles for comfortable and relaxed riding.

Top-Rated Beach Cruiser Bikes: Our Expert Picks

Bike	Why We Love It	Price
VALUE-PACKED OPTIONS: Basic yet Reliable
Retrospec Chatham 1 Speed	Best budget-friendly basic cruiser	$289
Retrospec Chatham 7 Speed	Best 7-speed cruiser on a budget	$389
SixThreeZero EVRY Journey	Includes matching fenders, rack, and stylish accessories	$449
MID-RANGE MARVELS: Enhanced Quality & Components
Electra Cruiser 7D	Most comfortable and cushioned ride experience	$499
Electra Townie 7D	Features flat foot technology for confident stops and better control	$599
Brooklyn Bicycles Franklin	Lighter frame with a versatile wider gearing range	$599
PREMIUM CRUISERS: Top-Tier Quality & Features
Priority Coast	Built with rust-proof components for longevity	$599
Linus Dutchi 7i	Embodies classic Dutch bicycle aesthetics and style	$899
Priority Turi	Highly versatile for both leisurely cruising and daily commuting	$949
ELECTRIC BEACH CRUISERS: Pedal-Assist for Extra Ease
Electra Townie Go!	Offers a natural bike feel with pedal assist, no throttle	$1,399
Priority e-Coast	Equipped with a throttle for truly effortless and fast riding	$1,999

Quick Guide to Selecting Your Ideal Cruiser Bike

5 Essential Questions to Consider:

Answering these questions will significantly streamline your selection process, helping you focus on preferred brands, colors, and must-have accessories. If you find yourself uncertain about any of these points, simply click here to explore our comprehensive Beach Cruiser Bike Selection Guide located at the end of this article.

1. Frame Type & Size: Are you leaning towards a step-thru frame for easy mounting or a traditional diamond frame? Frame style often dictates sizing considerations.
2. Gearing Preferences: Do you prefer the simplicity of a single-speed cruiser or the versatility of a 3 or 7-speed model?
3. Brake Style: Do you have a preference for coaster brakes (back pedal activated), hand brakes, or a combination of both?
4. Family Rides: Will you need to attach a child bike seat or bike trailer for family outings?
5. Budget: The following bike recommendations are organized from the most affordable to the most premium. Generally, higher price points correlate with enhanced bike quality and features.

Best Value Cruiser

Alt text: Affordable Retrospec Chatham beach cruiser in yellow, showcasing budget-friendly quality and optional basket accessories for practical and stylish urban riding.

Retrospec Chatham – 1, 3, or 7 Speeds

$259

RIDER HEIGHT RECOMMENDATION: Step-thru frame (minimum 29″ inseam), diamond frame (minimum 32″ inseam) GEAR OPTIONS: 1, 3, and 7-speed variants BRAKE SYSTEM: Coaster brake on 1 and 3-speed models, dual handbrakes on the 7-speed COMPATIBLE REAR RACK: Retrospec recommends Ibera Bike RackBIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: YesCHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame mount

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Discover the Retrospec Chatham

The Retrospec Chatham Cruiser stands out for delivering impressive quality without breaking the bank. If you’re in the market for a fundamental beach cruiser that’s easy on your wallet, the Chatham is undoubtedly your top choice.

Our team put the single-speed and 7-speed Chatham Plus models to the test, from Texas to the sunny beaches of Destin, Florida, to assess their performance in a genuine beach setting. Beyond the numerous compliments we received on their vibrant color palettes from fellow beach-goers, we were thoroughly impressed by the smooth and effortless ride these bikes offered on the paved paths leading to Seaside.

WHY WE’RE IMPRESSED:

• Exceptional build quality and a supremely comfortable ride, especially considering its unbeatable price point.
• Available in a wide spectrum of delightful and eye-catching colors!
• Designed to be compatible with rear racks for added utility.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE PURCHASING:

• The Chatham cruiser line is segmented into two tiers: standard and Plus, each with distinct price levels. Opting for the Plus model brings a slight price increase but upgrades to an aluminum frame over steel (resulting in a lighter, rust-resistant bike), wider tires for enhanced stability, and premium rubber lock-on grips instead of standard foam.

Stylish & Accessorized

Alt text: Teal SixThreeZero EVRYjourney beach cruiser showcasing color-coordinated accessories, including frame bags and helmet, for a fashionable and personalized riding experience.

Sixthreezero EVRYjourney

$449

SUGGESTED HEIGHT RANGE: Step-thru (5’0 – 5’11), Diamond frame (5’5 – 6’5)GEARING OPTIONS: 7-speed (occasionally 1, 3, and 21-speed models are available)BRAKE TYPE: Dual handbrakesREAR CARGO: Equipped with a rear rack, supporting up to 45 lbs.BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: YesCHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame mount

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Unveiling the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney

SixThreeZero offers a selection of excellent cruiser bikes, with the EVRYjourney consistently being a top recommendation. Balancing affordability with commendable quality, it’s a great pick for many riders.

The EVRYjourney incorporates the innovative flat foot stopping concept pioneered by Electra bikes, ensuring you can stop confidently without the risk of tipping over. This design strategically positions the pedals further forward than traditional bikes, encouraging riders to push slightly forward rather than directly down on the pedals.

This results in an exceptionally relaxed riding posture, amplifying the quintessential beach cruiser vibe for an unparalleled cruising experience.

WHY WE’RE IMPRESSED:

• The EVRYjourney stands out with its comprehensive color coordination across all options, featuring matching accessories like fenders and a rear rack—included as standard. Optional upgrades such as bags, helmets, and water bottles perfectly complement the bike’s aesthetic, achieving a cohesive and stylish look.
• The included saddle is remarkably plush, offering surprising comfort for a bike in this price range.
• Equipped with robust dual handbrakes and no coaster (back pedal) brake, it ensures quick and reliable stopping power, boosting rider confidence.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE PURCHASING:

• The EVRYjourney is available with either a lightweight aluminum frame or a more economical steel frame.
• It’s important to note that the included rear rack is designed for cargo and is not suitable for mounting a child bike seat.
• This cruiser bike features a higher “easy” gear compared to others listed, making uphill climbs more challenging in its easiest setting. It’s also slightly heavier at 36.5 lbs. If you reside in an area with even minor hills, another model might be more suitable.

Rust-Resistant Design

Alt text: Blue Priority Coast step-thru beach cruiser, emphasizing rust resistance, paired with basket and pannier accessories, ideal for coastal environments and low-maintenance riding.

Priority Coast

$599

RIDER HEIGHT RECOMMENDATION: Diamond frame (5’5 – 6’5), Step-thru (5’0 – 5’11)GEAR OPTIONS: 1, 3, and 7-speed variantsBRAKE SYSTEM: Rear coaster brake combined with a front hand brakeCOMPATIBLE REAR RACK: Priority suggests Axiom TransitBIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: YesCHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame, rear rack

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Exploring the Priority Coast

The Priority Coast is recognized as one of the Best Beach Cruiser Bikes for its exceptional build quality, engineered for ease of riding and minimal maintenance over years of use.

While the Coast is aesthetically pleasing and performs admirably in any setting, its standout feature is its enhanced rust resistance. This is especially beneficial for riders in coastal towns where salt air can rapidly corrode steel components commonly found in bikes, particularly frames and chains.

The Coast addresses this issue with an aluminum frame and fork, coupled with a carbon Gates belt drive. This combination ensures smooth operation and longevity, even with frequent exposure to salty coastal conditions.

WHY WE’RE IMPRESSED:

• Features a belt drive instead of a traditional chain, significantly reducing maintenance needs and virtually eliminating the chance of chain slippage. It’s also grease-free, keeping your clothing clean.
• The 3 and 7-speed models utilize an internally geared hub, protecting the gearing mechanism within a sealed housing, away from damage.
• Offers a cushioned ride thanks to its tires and spring saddle, enhancing comfort on various terrains.
• Comes standard with color-matched fenders, seamlessly integrating with the frame’s aesthetics.
• Includes touch-up paint with every purchase, perfect for addressing minor scratches and maintaining the bike’s pristine appearance.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE PURCHASING:

• The step-thru and diamond frame options cater to distinct rider height ranges with some overlap, so careful size selection is important.
• While bike trailers and child bike seats are technically compatible with the Coast, models with superior dual handbrakes are recommended for enhanced stopping power when carrying extra weight.

Ideal for Timid Riders

Alt text: Pink Electra Townie 7D beach cruiser, optimized for timid riders, featuring flat foot technology and adorned with bell, basket, and bag accessories for added charm and practicality.

Electra Townie 7D

$599

RIDER HEIGHT RECOMMENDATION: Step-thru (4’11 – 6’0), Diamond frame (5’3 – 6’1) GEAR OPTIONS: 7-speed BRAKE SYSTEM: Dual hand brakesCOMPATIBLE REAR RACK: Requires specific Electra racks – Electra Townie Alloy Rack and Electra MIK Rear RackBIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: YesCHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame mount, contact Electra for rear rack compatibility

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Delving into the Electra Townie 7D

The Electra Townie 7D, available in a spectrum of vibrant and cheerful colors, is not only visually appealing but also ranks among the best quality cruisers available. What sets the Townie apart is its patented Flat Foot Technology.

While “technology” might suggest complexity, it’s remarkably straightforward. The Townie’s pedals are positioned more forward on the frame, altering the pedaling motion from a direct downward push to a slightly forward motion.

This innovative design allows for a lower saddle height while maintaining optimal leg extension. A lower saddle means you can place your feet flat on the ground when stopped—eliminating any precarious tip-toe balancing acts.

WHY WE’RE IMPRESSED:

• Flat Foot Technology delivers an exceptionally relaxed and laid-back riding experience. It’s particularly advantageous for plus-sized riders, as detailed in our comprehensive review.
• For riders who are nervous or lack confidence, the ability to stop and plant feet firmly on the ground is transformative. Even seasoned cyclists appreciate this secure and stable feature.
• Electra offers a charming collection of accessories, including baskets, bells, panniers, and racks, to personalize your ride.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE PURCHASING:

• The forward pedaling motion might require an adjustment period, especially for experienced cyclists. Test riding a Townie at a local Trek shop is recommended to ensure it aligns with your riding style.
• The Townie is offered in a base model and an upgraded EQ model (more expensive). The EQ version includes practical additions like fenders and integrated front and rear lights.

Supreme Comfort

Alt text: Electra Cruiser 7D collage highlighting comfort features and fun accessories, showcasing wide tires, padded saddle, and stylish customization options for a smooth and enjoyable ride.

Electra Cruiser 7D

$499

RIDER HEIGHT RECOMMENDATION: 24″ wheels (4’9 – 5’4), 26″ wheels (5’1 – 5’8) GEAR OPTIONS: 7-speed (26″ model also available in 1 and 3 speeds)BRAKE SYSTEM: Dual hand brakesCOMPATIBLE REAR RACK: No – frame lacks eyelets for rack mountingBIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: Yes CHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame mount

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Inside the Electra Cruiser 7D

The Electra Cruiser 7D distinguished itself as the most plush and comfortable ride among all the cruisers tested. Contributing to this superior comfort are its wider tires, which effectively dampen road vibrations, and a spring saddle that excels at absorbing bumps and uneven surfaces.

Adding to the comfort factor, the Cruiser’s generously wide, padded saddle was unanimously voted the most comfortable among all the cruiser bikes evaluated.

The Electra Cruiser shares similarities with the Townie, yet presents three notable distinctions. Firstly, the Cruiser features a more conventional beach cruiser aesthetic with elegantly curved handlebars.

Secondly, while it incorporates Electra’s Flat Foot Technology, it’s less pronounced than on the Townie. This means while you can lower the saddle for comfortable leg extension, lowering it to achieve flat-footed stops might compromise pedaling efficiency due to reduced leg extension during motion. Thus, setting the saddle for slight tip-toe contact when stopped is generally optimal.

Thirdly, the Cruiser may offer a more tailored fit for riders of shorter stature. While many beach cruiser bikes aim to accommodate a broad range of heights, this often results in a less ideal fit for those at the shorter or taller ends of the spectrum.

The Cruiser is available in both 24″ and 26″ wheel models. The 24″ variant, featuring smaller wheels and frame, is the smallest bike in this lineup, accommodating riders as short as 4’9″.

WHY WE’RE IMPRESSED:

• The expansive saddle is exceptionally comfortable, earning top marks among all cruisers tested.
• Wide 2.125″ tires, combined with a suspension-spring padded saddle, provide an incredibly smooth and forgiving ride.
• Equipped with dual hand brakes on the 7-speed model (and no coaster brake), it offers excellent stopping power.
• Despite its robust build, the Cruiser is not overly heavy and features a reasonably low gear, enhancing its hill-climbing capability compared to many cruisers.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE PURCHASING:

• The Cruiser frame lacks built-in eyelets, preventing the attachment of a rear rack.
• The Cruiser Lux, available exclusively in a 1-speed configuration, includes standard fenders.
• Single and 3-speed Cruiser models are equipped with a coaster brake system.
• Riders under 5’0″ may need to have the seat post professionally trimmed at a bike shop to achieve a comfortably low saddle position.

Best for Hilly Terrain

Alt text: Brooklyn Bicycles Franklin 8-speed cruiser in Sea Glass, ideal for hilly areas, shown with stylish basket accessories, blending city comfort with efficient gearing for varied terrains.

Brooklyn Bicycles Franklin 8-speed

$599

RIDER HEIGHT RECOMMENDATION: S/M Step-thru (4’11 – 5’5), Large Step-thru (5’6 – 6’3)GEAR OPTIONS: 8-speedBRAKE SYSTEM: Dual handbrakesCOMPATIBLE REAR RACK: Yes, includes eyelets for rack mountingBIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: YesCHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front frame, rear rack

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Discover the Brooklyn Franklin 8-speed

For those seeking the relaxed comfort of an upright riding position but needing enhanced speed and range for more than just casual cruising, the Brooklyn Bicycles Franklin is expertly designed. While technically a city comfort bike rather than a traditional cruiser, it offers larger wheels, narrower tires, and a broader gear range than typical beach cruiser bikes.

These design features prioritize efficiency and speed for commutes and longer rides, yet like beach cruisers, city bikes such as the Franklin excel on paved streets and sidewalks.

WHY WE’RE IMPRESSED:

• The Franklin boasts exceptional build quality and design, guaranteed to attract attention. Highlights include color-matched fenders and luxurious vegan leather saddles and grips.
• Premium Tektro v-brakes provide reliable and quick stopping power, complemented by easy-to-pull brake levers.
• Despite not featuring a classic wide cruiser saddle, the included saddle is surprisingly comfortable for extended rides.
• Offers the convenience of free shipping to local bike shops and complimentary assembly services.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE PURCHASING:

• With a notably lower lowest gear than any other bike in this guide, the Franklin 8-speed is particularly well-suited for neighborhood exploration and casual commutes that involve moderate hills.
• Conversely, its higher highest gear surpasses all others listed, enabling riders to achieve and maintain momentum more effectively on flat terrain and downhill stretches.
• For riders preferring less maintenance and simpler gear changes, the Franklin 3-speed variant features an internally geared hub, offering reduced maintenance and increased durability (though with a narrower gear range).
• During testing of the Large size, designed for heights 5’6″ to 6’3″, testers at 5’7″ and 5’10″ found the bike very comfortable, while a 6’1″ tester felt slightly confined. Riders on the upper end of the size range should consider the Bedford 8, which is similar to the Franklin but offered in a larger frame size.

Classic Dutch Design

Alt text: Linus Dutchi 7i beach cruiser collage highlighting classic Dutch style, paired with vintage-inspired bag and basket accessories, perfect for sophisticated and comfortable city riding.

Linus Dutchi 7i

$899

RIDER HEIGHT RECOMMENDATION: Small Step-thru (4’10 – 5’3), Medium Step-thru (5’2 – 5’10)GEAR OPTIONS: 7-speedBRAKE SYSTEM: Dual handbrakesCOMPATIBLE REAR RACK: Comes with a rear rack, 40 lbs weight limit (not suited for child bike seats)BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: YesCHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Rear rack, requires replacing Linus rack with a higher weight capacity rack like the Eco bike rack.

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Inside the Linus Dutchi 7i

The Linus Dutchi 7i combines the comfortable, upright posture and relaxed pedaling style of a beach cruiser with a distinctive frame design inspired by classic Dutch bicycles. Dutch bikes are often favored for their timeless aesthetic, blending vintage charm with modern sophistication.

We evaluated the 7-speed Dutchi model, which offers optimal versatility for adjusting to various riding speeds and terrains. This casual cruiser is also available in single-speed and 3-speed configurations to suit different preferences.

The 3 and 7-speed models feature internally geared hubs, which offer gear changes within a protected rear hub, shielding the mechanism from damage and minimizing maintenance compared to traditional derailleurs.

WHY WE’RE IMPRESSED:

• With a minimum rider height of 4’10 for the small model, the Dutchi is among the most accommodating beach cruiser bikes for shorter riders.
• Gear transitions are exceptionally smooth, ensuring a seamless riding experience.
• The Dutchi is presented in a range of understated, fashionable colors, enhancing its classic and refined appearance.
• Features genuine leather handlebar grips that are both soft to the touch and comfortable for extended use.
• Includes a rear cargo rack and offers fashionable and functional accessories, amplifying its European-inspired elegance.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE PURCHASING:

• For those living in hilly regions, the 7-speed model is highly recommended due to its lower gearing, which significantly eases climbing moderate inclines.
• Offered in 1, 3, and 7-speed options with an internally geared hub, the Dutchi shares some similarities with the Priority Coast but utilizes a chain instead of a belt drive. Unlike the Priority, the Dutchi does not include a coaster brake, which may appeal to riders who prefer to pedal backward freely.
• Thinner tires, compared to typical beach cruisers, provide less cushioning, making it best suited for paved surfaces.
• The brakes required initial adjustments to perform optimally. Professional bike shop assistance is advisable for riders not comfortable with making these adjustments themselves.

Most Versatile Cruiser

Alt text: Priority Turi versatile cruiser bike collage, highlighting flat handlebars, hydraulic disc brakes, and accessory options, ideal for both commuting and recreational cruising.

Priority Turi

$949

RIDER HEIGHT RECOMMENDATION: Available in 3 sizes, fitting riders from 5’0 – 6’1GEAR OPTIONS: Enviolo continuously variable gearingBRAKE SYSTEM: Dual handbrakes, hydraulic disc brakesCOMPATIBLE REAR RACK: Priority recommends Axiom Transit (suitable for child bike seats) or 174Hudson (not suitable for child bike seats)BIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: TBACHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: Front mount and rear rack mount

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Exploring the Priority Turi

Featuring flat handlebars instead of the typical swept-back style, the Priority Turi diverges slightly from the traditional beach cruiser bike mold. Nevertheless, it delivers a supremely comfortable and largely upright riding experience, making it an exceptional choice for cruising.

The Turi is highlighted in this guide for its remarkable versatility. If you appreciate the essence of a cruiser but need a bike that capably handles both weekday commutes and weekend leisure rides, the Turi is adept at both.

WHY WE’RE IMPRESSED:

• Every Turi model is equipped with a high-end Enviolo gearing and shifting system. This continuously variable, step-less shifter operates similarly to a volume knob, offering seamless gear adjustments.
• The Enviolo gearing system is encased within a rear hub, protecting it from environmental elements and potential damage. Unlike conventional derailleurs, it maintains alignment over time and requires minimal upkeep.
• The belt drive system eliminates the possibility of chain detachment and is grease-free, ensuring cleaner rides.
• Hydraulic disc brakes offer superior ease of engagement compared to standard brakes and provide enhanced performance in wet conditions.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE PURCHASING:

• While the Turi offers a broad gear range, its lowest gear for hill climbing is not as low as some might prefer. For areas with frequent hills, the Priority Coast 7-speed might be more suitable.
• Adding a bike basket or rack and pannier bag is highly recommended to maximize its utility. The Hudson174 pannier tote is a particularly recommended accessory.

Comfortable Electric Cruiser Feel!

Alt text: Yellow Electra Townie Go! 7D electric beach cruiser with vibrant coordinating accessories, including helmet, basket, and bell, combining comfort with electric assist for enjoyable, effortless rides.

Electra Townie Go!

$1,399

RIDER HEIGHT RECOMMENDATION: 4’11 – 5’11GEAR OPTIONS: 7-speed BRAKE SYSTEM: Dual handbrakes, mechanical disc brakesCOMPATIBLE REAR RACK: Townie Go! is exclusively compatible with Electra MIK Rear RackBIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: YesCHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: For rear rack compatibility, contact Electra

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Discover the Electra Townie Go!

If you’re drawn to the vibrant colors and design of the traditional Townie but desire an even more effortless and breezy ride, the Electra Townie Go! is an electric bike that justifies the investment.

The Townie Go! 7D features a motor with a moderate wattage, providing a pleasant power boost while still encouraging the rider to engage with low-exertion pedaling. For those seeking an e-bike that retains the feel of a conventional bicycle, the Townie Go! is an excellent choice.

WHY WE’RE IMPRESSED:

• Incorporates Flat Foot Technology for easy and stable stops and starts, allowing you to place your feet flat on the ground.
• The battery is seamlessly integrated into the frame, giving the Townie Go! a sleeker, more streamlined appearance than typical e-bikes.
• Features a wide, cushioned saddle for superior comfort.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE PURCHASING:

• The integrated battery design means the battery is non-removable. Consequently, the entire bike must be stored indoors during extreme winter and summer temperatures.
• The Townie Go! operates without a throttle, aligning with e-bike regulations in many urban areas that prohibit throttle-equipped models.

Truly Effortless E-Bike!

Alt text: Navy blue Priority e-Coast electric beach cruiser showcasing rust-free features, paired with metal basket and panniers, designed for effortless, long-distance, and low-maintenance electric cruising.

Priority e-Coast

$1,999

RIDER HEIGHT RECOMMENDATION: Step-thru (5′ – 5’11), Diamond frame (5’5 – 6’5)MAX SPEED ASSIST: Up to 28 mph (adjustable to any speed below 28 mph)BRAKE SYSTEM: Dual handbrakes – hydraulic disc brakesBIKE TRAILER COMPATIBILITY: YesCHILD BIKE SEAT COMPATIBILITY: No

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Inside the Priority e-Coast

The e-Coast is the electric variant of Priority’s acclaimed Coast beach cruiser, inheriting the same attributes of minimal maintenance and rust resistance. If you plan to cover longer distances or simply desire a ride that’s virtually effortless, an electric beach cruiser like the e-Coast is an outstanding consideration.

WHY WE’RE IMPRESSED:

• Features a low-maintenance belt drive that is grease-free, rust-proof, and exceptionally reliable against detachment.
• Offers both throttle and pedal assist modes, with max speeds up to 28 mph, ensuring swift and efficient travel.
• The max pedal assist speed is customizable to any setting below 28 mph, a unique and highly beneficial feature for riders of varying confidence levels.
• Equipped with fat tires that provide a smooth, cushioned ride and enable riding on packed sand surfaces.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE PURCHASING:

• The rear rack is designed for cargo and is not engineered to support child bike seats.
• Transporting e-bikes on car racks can be challenging, and the integrated rear rack on the e-Coast further complicates compatibility with standard car racks.

How to Choose a Beach Cruiser – Your Concise Buying Guide

Alt text: Woman leisurely riding a Retrospec Chatham Plus 7-speed beach cruiser in Seaside, Florida, illustrating step-through frame convenience and classic beach cruiser style for relaxed coastal rides.

Step-through vs. Diamond Frame (Sizing Matters!)

Frame design is a matter of personal style preference but also significantly influences bike sizing. The iconic, swooping step-thru frame (bike on the left) is a defining characteristic of beach cruiser bikes. However, beach cruisers are also available with a slightly curved top tube, known as a diamond frame (bike on the right), often marketed towards men.

Step Thru Frame vs. Diamond Frame Considerations:

While both frame styles are universally accessible, many riders find the step-thru frame more convenient for mounting and dismounting.

Beyond aesthetics, frame type often indicates sizing. Step-thru frames, traditionally associated with “women’s styling,” are generally smaller. Diamond frames, considered “men’s frames,” are typically sized for taller riders.

However, most beach cruisers are engineered to accommodate a wide spectrum of rider heights. For instance, the Priority Coast step-thru frame suits riders from 5’0″ to 5’11″, while the diamond frame fits those from 5’5″ to 6’5″. Riders within the overlapping height range can select based on style preference.

All bikes in our selection are highly adjustable, ensuring a comfortable fit for nearly any rider within the specified height range. Both seat and handlebar heights can be adjusted to match your individual proportions and riding posture.

Gears vs. Single Speed

Reflecting on classic beach cruisers, they were almost exclusively single-speed. This single gear simplifies the bike’s mechanics and reduces maintenance needs.

Today, most beach cruisers offer geared options, typically 3 or 7 speeds. While gears add complexity and require some maintenance, they drastically increase the bike’s versatility, allowing for faster speeds, longer distances, and easier navigation of hills.

For predominantly flat terrain riding, a single-speed bike is perfectly adequate. However, for most riders, the added capability to shift gears based on terrain and desired speed is a significant advantage.

Coaster Brakes vs. Hand Brakes

Alt text: Young woman riding a Priority Coast beach cruiser on a dirt path, demonstrating coaster brake simplicity and the bike’s capability for light trail riding with classic cruiser comfort.

The coaster brake, or back pedal brake, is another quintessential retro feature of beach cruiser bikes. Coaster brakes are celebrated for their minimal maintenance and operational simplicity.

However, many modern beach cruisers now incorporate handbrakes. Similar to gears, handbrakes introduce a bit more maintenance but offer enhanced flexibility.

Quality handbrakes provide superior stopping power compared to coaster brakes, allow for foot placement on the ground during stops, and enable backpedaling while coasting.

Riding with Children: Bike Seats & Trailers on Beach Cruisers

Alt text: Mother riding a beach cruiser with a child in a front-mounted bike seat, showcasing the compatibility of beach cruisers with front child seats for family-friendly, leisurely rides.

Most cruiser bikes are compatible with both child bike seats and bike trailers. However, for safety and control, a bike equipped with high-quality dual hand brakes is preferable to one with just a coaster brake, especially when carrying extra weight. Gears are also recommended, as the added load of a child can make even slight inclines challenging on a single-speed.

Bike Trailers

Alt text: Priority e-Coast electric beach cruiser towing a kids bike trailer, demonstrating the compatibility of electric beach cruisers with trailers for extended family outings and cargo transport.

A bike trailer attaches to your beach cruiser via a hitch coupler on the rear axle. Most standard axles are sufficiently long to accommodate the coupler.

Alt text: Close-up of a hitch coupler for a bike trailer, detailing the attachment mechanism to the bike’s rear axle, essential for safely towing trailers with internally geared hub beach cruisers.

If your bike has an internally geared rear hub, you may require a special hitch adapter like this one. If you are also considering a bike trailer, explore our guide to the best bike trailers for kids. We have personally reviewed over 40 models!

Rear Mounted Child Bike Seats

Rear child bike seats can be mounted to a rack or directly to the bike frame. For beach cruiser frames, rack-mounted seats generally offer a better fit.

Every bike in this guide includes rack mounts, but it’s crucial to note: a rack’s presence doesn’t automatically guarantee its suitability for child bike seats. Nor does it ensure frame compatibility with all child bike seats.

A rack intended for use with a child bike seat must have a substantial weight capacity—sufficient to safely bear the combined weight of the seat and your child. We recommend and use the Axiom Transit rack with our child bike seats on Priority bikes.

Front Mounted Child Bike Seats

The tall stem characteristic of beach cruisers is typically well-suited for mounting a front child bike seat. Specifically for beach cruisers, opt for a seat that mounts to the headset and turns in sync with your handlebars, such as the Thule Yepp Nexxt Mini.

Certain front-mounted seats, like the Weeride Kangaroo, attach to the bike’s frame and remain stationary when the handlebars turn. With very curved cruiser handlebars, these can potentially hit the child during turns. It’s advisable to avoid this style of front-mounted seat when riding a beach cruiser.

Explore More Cruiser Bike Resources

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10 Best Women’s Bikes: Unsure if a cruiser is right for you? Our guide to the best women’s bikes includes cruisers, city bikes, hybrids, mountain bikes, and cargo bikes.

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