My first bike in 37 years
 

Hello! Last rode a bike when I was 11, I turn 48 in a couple of months.

This is my sidewalk cruiser.

It started life as a cheap Genesis beach cruiser. I like the bike because it is one of the few I have found that is large enough for me (I am 6'7) so I decided to make it a bit nicer.

New seat and kickstand were no big deal but after riding it around for awhile I decided that hills suck. So I put on a Eagle 2 speed automatic kickback hub. It would not work with the stock wheel so I got a new rim/spokes. Other than the spoke pattern being different it matches up great.

So what do you guys think?

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...8a01d8e870.jpg
https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...0b0f7b0ed2.jpg

At 6'7", I'd guess that you have a 35-36" pants inseam. Isn't the saddle low for proper leg extension?

a little yes, but that is as far up as it goes. I am going to try it out like this for a while and if it feels too low I will look into finding a longer seat.. um...pipe? or whatever it is they call that.

It is a fairly big bike with 29 inch wheels so that helps some.

Seatpost. Measure the diameter accurately using digital calipers. Buying the replacement is easy and inexpensive on line, if you know the correct diameter.

Looks good!
I personally would find a way to add a front hand brake. eg Sturmey Archer front drum brake hub. Virtually maintenance free and will handle your "load".
I have a 2-speed that keeps switching gears every time I apply back pedal (as designed) when braking.....drives me batty :)

Good job!

You might want to check out the Beach Cruiser subforum as you go forward with any modification ideas.

John

nice. You will enjoy riding!

I think I'd personally want the handlebars rotated down a bit. It looks like it'd be a bit awkward holding onto them at that angle.

Riding that type of bike can be a lot of fun for street riding. I had slick tires on mine which I found to be super comfortable and relatively fast.

i might have to move it but for now it seems ok, being very tall l need the bars as high up as I can get them

It might look odd, but there are "ape hanger" bars made for bicycles. You may have seen them on motorcycles. They would get that bar height up there.

What do I think?

I think you'll like cycling so much you'll be back here in six months asking what road bike to buy for your first century.

I have looked at some of them but I was concerned it would put my arms in a position that made pedaling awkward

If you're comfortable, don't screw with them.

Mostly, these bikes are about fun. The way you have the handlebars makes the bike look happy.

I suspect ape hangers will make you miserable, btw.

I think it's cool.

I like it.

BMX bars would be another option.