Recommendation for 3-Speed Woman's Aluminum Frame 26" Cruiser
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Recommendation for 3-Speed Woman's Aluminum Frame 26" Cruiser
We found online the Fito Modena SF, the GreenLine Nexus and the Mango Macaw. None are available to test-ride locally in Ohio. We will be riding on a flat, paved trail that was formerly a RR right-of-way, so no hills to climb. Probably an hour's ride two times a week. Prefer a three speed with a coaster brake as opposed to a one or seven speed. Definitely want an aluminum frame.
Did test ride an Electra Townie 3i and liked it, except for the steep price. Any recommendations? Thanks!
Did test ride an Electra Townie 3i and liked it, except for the steep price. Any recommendations? Thanks!
#2
Calamari Marionette Ph.D
Questions.
Why a 3 speed if there are no hills? Even mild hills can be tackled easily with a single speed.
Why Aluminum frame?
Why a 3 speed if there are no hills? Even mild hills can be tackled easily with a single speed.
Why Aluminum frame?
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Aluminum frame for ease of placing two bikes on trunk rack (I'm definitely not as strong as I was 50 years ago), plus maximum weight for trunk rack is 70 pounds. Three speeds so that she can go a bit faster with fewer pedal revolutions.
#4
Calamari Marionette Ph.D
Make sure you get ACCURATE weights before buying. Those modern aluminum cruisers are heavy. They use oversized tubing that is also very thick. Well over 30 lbs. Steel cruisers can be lighter and ride nicer. Just be sure to check before pulling the trigger.
#5
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I have the Mango Macaw single speed from Bikes Direct.
It spins out at about 15mpg according to my phone app.
My natural pretty lazy cadence runs 10-11mph.
If that is fast enough for you go with the aluminum single speed for $229.
It is geared ok for gentle hills to flat.
It spins out at about 15mpg according to my phone app.
My natural pretty lazy cadence runs 10-11mph.
If that is fast enough for you go with the aluminum single speed for $229.
It is geared ok for gentle hills to flat.
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I just ordered an Electric Deluxe 3I and received it Saturday. Took it out today and absolutely loved it. I didn't want to pay that much for a bike but my husband said that it was worth it because it had everything on it that I wanted. Love the retro style, the coaster brakes, & 3 speed. I would suggest getting the 3 speed because it helped today going against the wind at the beach. If I can figure out how to post a picture of it, I will. Good luck.
#8
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Let me recommend the Electra Townie 3i. It is all aluminum and about 30lbs, dependable Nexus shiftet, very comfortable riding position and very well made. The Electra Deluxev3i is also quite nice and better suited for tall male riders, but weighs close to 10lbs extra. Both good choices but always best to ride before buying because nothing more important that fit!
Good luck.
Also Mango Macaw is solid choice as well. Less money and probably a notch less quality but still very good.
Good luck.
Also Mango Macaw is solid choice as well. Less money and probably a notch less quality but still very good.
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I love my Electra Deluxe 3I. It's not very heavy (I can lift it which says a lot since I'm not very strong) and it rides so smooth. I didn't care for the Townie but my husband loves it. I am sure that I would have loved the Townie too. Thanks for all the advice.
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Craigslist often has a number of inexpensive 3 spds. that are perfectly fine though they may look
like something no one would steal. I take that as a plus. Even if something should happen to one,
they're easy to replace, unless you are really keen on snob appeal. Personally I think aluminum is
overrated. There are sturdy, light weight, lugged steel frames out there that are still a joy to ride.
like something no one would steal. I take that as a plus. Even if something should happen to one,
they're easy to replace, unless you are really keen on snob appeal. Personally I think aluminum is
overrated. There are sturdy, light weight, lugged steel frames out there that are still a joy to ride.
Last edited by rawly old; 08-21-16 at 11:24 PM.