The Crusader “Cruiser” model was the high-end men/boy’s bicycle, and included additional features, such as front headlight, rear rack, and most importantly, the motorbike tank. Many coastal cruisers on the market don’t actually handle well on beaches—the water, salt, and sand are often too much, and seaside corrosion deteriorates the vehicle. The ultralight frame is rustproof, making this bike extra durable. You can also have a custom-built surfboard rack attached at an extra cost. The 3 and 7-speed models have internally geared hubs that change the gears instead of a traditional derailleur. Housed inside the rear hub, the gearing mechanism is protected from damage and will rarely (if ever) need maintenance like a derailleur will.
White-walled tires and a front wicker basket add to the vintage appeal. 7D has a motor with pretty low wattage, which allows for a nice power boost while also requiring the rider to maintain a sustained low-effort. If you’re looking for an e-bike that still gives you the feel of a real bike, the Townie is a great option. If you love the bright colors and design of the Townie, but are looking for an even easier, breezier ride, an electric bike worth the splurge. I was born and raised in Houston but spent a good deal of my childhood in Dallas with my grandparents. My grandparents lived in Dallas as well as my aunt and uncle, my mother’s aunt, and other family friends and relatives; all of them lived around the DFW area.
The name “Schwinn” in front of the title “Cruiser” means a solid, comfortable ride on a cantilever frame bike that is always instyle. That’s why the words “Schwinn Cruiser” are something special if you agree that first class on white-walled balloons is theonly way to roll. Companies like Schwinn, also Huffy, way too big of volume to be doing that kind of one-off customization. We’re all about the customer and letting people choose what they wanna do.
Not one to compromise on comfort, Huffy also delivers its Perfect Fit frame, allowing upright riding and full leg extensions typical of cruisers. The lightweight aluminum frame perfectly matches the salty beachside conditions in your favorite beach town. A dual-spring padded seat and soft cork handlebar grips complete the comfort features.
The Spitfire was reintroduced as a heavyweight for 1977 and was sold through 1979 with reissue S2s that were made in Hungary. In 1980, Schwinn introduced the Cruiser Series which has survived multiple iterations and has been offered more or less continuously through present. The most desirable Cruisers are the Cruiser, Deluxe schwinn beach cruiser Cruiser and Cruiser 5. The 4, 7 and Alloy as well as the other models were made as part of the Signature Series by Schwinn’s current parent, in China. Usually just little trips to a nearby store for candy and a soda or just roam around the neighborhood a bit. The freedom and fun of exploring parts of the neighborhood, streets I hadn’t been on before, was liberating.
We also recommend the sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s Beach Cruiser for riding over hills, commutes, and boardwalks. Kevin Cortez is an editor for Runner’s World, Bicycling, and Popular Mechanics covering reviews. A culture and product journalist for over ten years, he’s an expert in men’s style, technology, gaming, coffee, e-bikes, hiking, gear, and all things outdoors. He most recently worked as the Style Editor for Reviewed, a top product recommendation site owned by USA TODAY.
Take a spin on these modern reproductions to learn why true classics never go out of style. When our shop re-opens to the public following the coronavirus outbreak, we’ll be happy to discuss options for fit customization, upgrades, and accessories. We wanted to showcase the Turi on this list because of its versatility.
When I got old enough (and big enough!) to ride it, my grandparents let me ride a bike that was just taking up space in my grandfather’s shed, a 1963 Schwinn Fleet cruiser bike. Now, I’m not 100% certain it was this exact model but it’s darn close. “Technology” makes it sound complicated, but it’s really quite simple. The pedals on the Townie are placed more forward on the frame, so that instead of pushing straight down on the pedals, you’re pushing slightly in front of you. The Electra Townie 7D comes in a wide variety of bright and cheery colors, and is also one of the best-quality cruisers on this list.