Wednesday, February 17, 2010

How to Buy a Bike Online - The Cruiser Or Comfort Bike

The cruiser is built for fun. Also called the comfort bike, or beach cruiser. This bike seemed to disappear for awhile in favor of the ten speed and later the mountain bike, but as with all things vintage, is making a comeback due to its simple design and its easy to ride.

What kind of rider will fit the cruiser? Most likely someone that is pretty easy going. If you are not in too much of a hurry and like to take in the scenery, then this will be the bicycle for you. Do you want to ride for exercise? It will be easy to get out on this bike because it won't feel so much like "work" or that you have to get into a professional mindset. If you have back problems this could also be a solution because the hunched over riding position is gone, relieving tension on the lower back.

The cruiser styling is very retro, with large tires with sidewalls. The frame is also large tube and features curved lines, instead of the stiff straight tubes of other frames like mountain or road bikes. Remember fenders? Either full or partial fenders are standard on many models, as well as chain guards. One of the most noticeable features is the handlebars, which curve toward the rider, rather than a flat bar or drops.

You'll find the cruiser to be useful for your trips around town, such as running errands. This is a bike that you will want to ride everyday, so it's good for some moderate exercise. This is not a bike for off-road trails, but can is best to be used on paved paths or at least a smooth surface. You'll find that if you want to do a longer ride make sure that you have time for it because this is not the fastest bike, but easy to pedal.

One of the first things you will notice when you sit on this bike is that you will probably be able to put your feet on the ground as you sit. The handlebars seem to come up to you, so you ride in more of a upright position. The seat is also large with padding, or with springs.

How does it feel to ride a cruiser bicycle? It's kind of like a Cadillac, big and comfortable. If you want to get more exercise without it feeling like a chore, then this bike will have looking for excuses to ride.