Hello all, lifelong cyclist here. Right now my ride is a Greenspeed recumbent trike, which is fantastic. Used to ride fixies Bromptons. BUT - just this week the cruiser bug bit me!! I can't explain it, other than - I grew up in Southern Cali and have been admiring them for many decades, both stock and custom. I'm hoping you can help me to find a cruiser that fits me. I've had some joint issues, so I need to pay attention to certain angles and ergos. I currently ride a recumbent, which is fantastic. I had a great titanium Brompton that I had to sell because there was just a bit too much weight on my wrists. All else was great. It looks like a cruiser would fix that with the higher handlebars. I know fairly well what kind of posture I need. My height is 5'11' (~180cm). Inseam 29" (~73.7 cm). I'm looking for a cruiser that fits these characteristics. I know I can look thru Craigslist for bargains. But my main concern is quality and a pain-free ride.
I know I will go for a test-ride if possible, or at least a good return/exchange policy. My "use case" is weekend and evening rides up to 20 miles on mostly flat streets, parks, paths, boardwalks. Here's what I'd be looking for.
- Under $1000
- Upright rising position (lower back issues)
- Handlebars high and not too far from body (tendonitis in wrists)
- Good leg extension (tender meniscus)
- Alloy preferable but steel not a deal-breaker
- 3-7 speeds preferable but no derailleurs
- Doesn't look like an "old man's" bike. I already AM old, I don't want to add to it!
- Hopefully, a "wow" factor
Looking around at retail offerings, I realize I may end up installing a longer aftermarket stem or longer bars, a more comfortable seat. Here are the models and styles that have caught my eye:
- Sun Cruz 3
- Sixthreezero Around the Block
- Sixthreezero EVRYJourney
- Jamis Earth Cruiser 3 (maybe with longer bars)
- Vivelo Rider X (maybe with a taller stem)
Thanks for any advice you can provide!
--Greg