Best Cruiser Bikes for Beginners in 2023

If you are a novice in bike riding and looking for the best cruiser bikes for beginners, make sure to read this article till the end.

Beach cruiser bikes, also called beach cruisers or cruiser bikes, are meant for casual riding, commuting, and recreational activities. They are most suitable for plain tracks like city premises and beaches. Such bicycles have an advantage over road bikes regarding their usability on trails that are not so hard. However, unlike Mountain Bikes, they are not suitable for rough and hard terrains.

A great thing about beach cruisers is that they are beginners friendly. What makes them so is their comfortable riding position, simple design, and single speed in most models. New riders do not need to learn to switch gears or adjust their body to awkward positions during rides.

So if you are confused about what to consider before finalizing the purchase and which model is the best for you, we are here to help.

We advise you to read a comprehensive buying guide that we have written for you at the end of the article. It will surely help you make a decent purchase and value your money.

So here are our top choices for the best cruiser bikes for beginners (both men and women) along with their reviews. We have also included the pros and cons of each product to make things more understandable for you.

Best Cruiser Bikes for Beginners in 2023 – For Gents

1. Sixthreezero Around the Block – For Men

This Sixthreezero’s bike for men is by no means less classy than a women’s model. Again amazing buying options are available for ride lovers according to their needs.

Construction

The frame is made of durable steel, and it is so strong that it can carry a weight of 300 lbs. Therefore, even very bulky riders will not have any issue whatsoever.

But the size of the frame here is bigger to suit male riders, and it is 19″.

The top tube has a smaller curve as compared to the ladies’ variant. An adjustable handlebar has foam grips at both ends to provide extra comfort to hands.

An upright riding style combined with a double-spring seat is ideal for charming rides. One cannot expect anything better than that.

Gears

This men’s bike also features 1, 3, 7, and 21-speed gearing options. Except for the single-gear model, all others include a Shimano gear shifter to switch between the gears.

Beginners, who intend to ride on flat surfaces, can go for the single-speed option as it will be more than enough for them.

But if bikers have a bit of prior experience and need to travel on hilly tracks, they may select higher gearing as per their requirement.

Wheels

This bicycle also has two variants considering the size of the wheels. So you can go for 24″ or 26″ aluminum wheels with 2.125″ width. These wheels include large waffle tread tires that facilitate a sensational ride.

Two sizes of wheels enable this bike to cover a wide range of riders’ heights. The 26″ variant is best for bikers from 5′ to 6’2″. This feature makes it among the best cruiser bikes for tall riders.

The other variant with 24″ wheels is best suited for riders who are 4’3″ to 4’11” tall.

There is no provision for fenders to protect wheels from mud and dust.

Brakes

The Sixthreezero Around the Block beach cruisers come with braking systems according to their gear provisions.

There are coaster brakes with 1 and 2-speed bikes. So the riders have to pedal in the backward direction to apply brakes.

On the other hand, the 7 and 21-speed models feature easy-to-operate handbrakes.

Miscellaneous

There is a rack behind the rider, where a basket can also be attached to carry groceries, etc.

This bicycle is available at a very reasonable price. So it is affordable even with a tight budget.

2. Schwinn Huron – For Men

Huron is the men’s model of the adult beach cruiser bike from popular Schwinn. It is also nothing short in quality compared to the women’s version.

Construction

It has superb build quality with a steel frame having a weight limit of 250 lbs. So bikers can use it for years and years without any significant wear and tear.

The 17″ frame size is the best for 5’4″ to 6’2″ tall riders.

The top tube is much straighter as compared to the women’s variant. But it still has some curvature. This design, accompanied by an adjustable handlebar and seat, makes the bike usable for even 5′ tall users.

The spring-supported saddle with an upright riding style provides riders with a wonderful riding venture.

Gears

Schwinn doesn’t disappoint here as well. They take care of their customers by providing 3 different gearing variants. So the bikers can select a 1, 3, or 7-speed model according to the conditions of their tracks.

If a novice must select a 3 or 7-speed version, there is no need to worry. The Shimano Twist Shifter is very easy to operate for gear switching.

Wheels

The only available diameter of the wheels for Schwinn Huron is 26″ with 2.125″ wide tires. This much size is excellent for medium to tall bikers.

Unfortunately, this bike is not the best choice for less than 5′ tall men due to its unavailability in 24″ size.

As wheels have aluminum alloy rims, they are long-lasting if they do not meet some big accident.

Another useful feature is the presence of fenders on both wheels. It increases the life of wheels by protecting them from water and mud etc.

Brakes

If you choose the single-speed bike, it will have an easy coaster-type brake. You can slow down by pedaling backward.

For higher speed models, there are hand-operated pull brakes equally convenient to apply.

Miscellaneous

This bike misses the mark in terms of the features like a front bucket and rear rack. They should have been included, keeping in view the price, despite not being the dealbreakers.

A higher price is a bit obvious because of the Schwinn tag. But you will not regret spending a few extra bucks after using the product.

This brand also offers a limited lifetime guarantee.

3. Firmstrong Urban – For Men

This beach cruiser bike offers some excellent features for men. Standing among the best cruiser bikes for beginners, it has the following specifications.

Construction

It is very well built, and the steel frame is feasible for bikers weighing even 300 lbs.

The frame sizes 19″ to suit medium to tall men. However, the shorter guys may not feel comfortable despite its adjustable seat and handlebar.

The upright riding style, along with the spring-supported saddle, makes your ride delightful. The foam grips with the handle provide a more comfortable feeling.

Gears

This bicycle is available only with a single gear. Beginners will have no problem with that, especially those living in plain areas.

Wheels

The only option here is the 26″ wheel size. Hence, this bike is suitable only for tall riders who are 5’4″ to 6’2″.

The durability of the aluminum wheels is exemplary. The high-quality balloon tires make things even better due to high shock absorption.

But the wheels lack fenders, so they are more susceptible to dust and mud.

Brakes

This bike features coaster brakes, which you can apply by pedaling in the backward direction.

Miscellaneous

There is no inclusion of the rack and basket. So you will have to spend a few more bucks if you want to add these features. But it still secures its place among the best cruiser bikes for beginners.

4. Kent Rockvale – For Men

It is an overwhelmingly cheap bike, with very satisfactory features for novices. That is why we place it on the list of best cruiser bikes for beginners. The main specs are as follows.

Construction

There are no two opinions about the quality of the steel frame. It is sturdy and durable and can safely hold the riders weighing 300 lbs.

The frame size is 18″, which is perfect only for average to tall bikers. So anybody below 5’8″ will find it too large, despite the adjustable seat and handlebar.

The good thing about the saddle, other than being comfortable, is that it has a quick-release function. Therefore, it is easy to adjust its height for beginners.

Gears

It is a single-speed bicycle, and therefore, it is best suited for flat surfaces. No multi-gear variant is available here.

Wheels

This bicycle comes with only 26″ diameter wheels. This wheel size, combined with a large frame, makes it one of the best cruiser bikes for tall riders. But it is not feasible for anyone even below 5’8″.

However, there is no issue with the quality of the wheels. They are up to the mark and have 2.125″ wide rubber tires.

The wheels also include fenders that protect them from dust, mud, and water.

Brakes

The braking system is coaster type, which involves pedaling backward.

Miscellaneous

There is no inclusion of a basket or rack with this product. So you will have to buy these accessories separately.

A delightful thing about it is that it is one of the cheapest products in its category.

Best Cruiser Bikes for Beginners in 2023 – For Ladies

1. Sixthreezero Around the Block – For Women

This first model on our list is the most popular bike for all good reasons. What you will like most about it is its availability with various features. So it can be handy for all most all kinds of users.

Construction

It is very well built and comes with a steel frame. It is sturdy enough to take 300 lbs weight, and you can’t expect anything better than that.

The 17″ frame can accommodate a wide range of riders, thanks to its availability in 2 sizes of wheels. More on that later.

The top tube is highly curved, making it convenient for women to mount. The handlebar is adjustable and has foam grips that provide extra comfort.

Apart from the upright riding style, a dual-spring saddle ensures you a fantastic biking experience.

Gears

A delightful thing about the bike under discussion is that you can select it in different drivetrains. It is available with 4 options, including 1, 3, 7, 21-speed, and you can choose any of them as per your liking.

Variants with more than one gear have high-quality Shimano derailleurs and friction shifters that facilitate switching between the gears.

We suggest the single-speed model for beginners as it is easy to operate. It offers very satisfactory performance on flat tracks.

You can go for a higher-speed model if you have to ride in hilly or inclined terrains.

Wheels

There are two options available, including 24″ and 26″ diameter aluminum wheels. They are provided with 2.125″ wide waffle tread tires that facilitate a smooth run even on uneven surfaces.

The 2 wheel sizes make this product suitable for tall and short bikers. The 26″ size can accommodate ladies from 5′ to 6’4″ in height. So it is one of the best cruiser bikes for tall riders.

The shorter girls can opt for a 24″ variant ideal for heights between 4’2″ to 4’11”.

Unfortunately, this cruiser bike lacks fenders with wheels. Hence, the tires are exposed more to dust and rocks.

Brakes

Talking about the braking system, it is different with different gearing models. The single and 3-speed variants have very simple coaster brakes. You only need to pedal backward to slow down or stop.

The 7 and 21-speed models have front and rear handbrakes. You can operate them conveniently to reduce speed or halt.

Miscellaneous

It also includes a rack behind the seat where you can install a basket for carrying goods.

Another good thing about it is that it is available at a very affordable price.

2. Huffy 24″ Nel Lusso – For Women

Huffy is a renowned brand for splendid bicycles, and this model is nothing short of one of the best cruiser bikes for beginners.

Construction

A durable steel frame is one of the best things about this commuter. The exact weight capacity is not mentioned in the manual, but users have experienced it can take a maximum load of 200 lbs.

The company does not mention the exact frame size either. However, it can accommodate women from 5′ to 6′.

The top tube is curved enough to make it easy for ladies to get on the bike. The handlebar and seat are adjustable to facilitate various heights of bikers.

The saddle has springs underneath it that provide shock absorption on uneven tracks. Also, there are comfortable grips on each side of the handle.

Gears

This bike is available only in a single-speed version, so it is not the best performer on hilly terrains. However, it can serve the purpose perfectly for beginners as they will tend to travel on flat surfaces.

Wheels

The wheels are 24″ in diameter and 2.125″ in width. They comprise alloy rims and creme cruiser tires.

This wheel size is ideal for riders from 5′ to 6′ because of the adjustable seat and handlebar.

Both front and rear wheels have fenders, which keep them safe against dust and water to some extent.

Brakes

There is a coaster type braking in this bicycle, which riders can apply by pedaling in the backward direction.

Miscellaneous

This model is inclusive of a front basket, which can hold your essentials up to 12 lbs. Also, there is a beverage holder fitted with the handle. In addition to that, a rear rack is also there to carry various goods.

3. Schwinn Mikko – For Women

Schwinn is among the most famous brands, and it has been manufacturing top-quality bicycles for more than 100 years. So this model also has almost every quality to be one of the best cruiser bikes for beginners.

Construction

The steel frame is durable and sturdy, with a safe weight capacity of 250 lbs. So it is usable for riders of almost every physique.

This frame is easy to ride for girls from 5’4″ to 6’2″ in height. Therefore, if you are looking for the best cruiser bikes for tall riders, this model can easily be your choice.

The step-through frame is with a highly curvy top tube. The seat and handlebar both are adjustable to suitable heights. These two factors make it possible even for women as short as 5′ to ride it. But not for less than that.

The presence of a padded spring saddle combined with an upright riding position will make the biking experience highly amusing.

Gears

Different riders have different types of terrains in their native areas. So the availability of various drivetrain options is highly beneficial. Thankfully, this bicycle comes with 4 variants, including 1, 3, and 7-speed.

You can select the right model according to the topography of your town. The steeper is the slope, the higher gearing will be better.

But being complete a beginner, it is likely that you will avoid biking on inclined and hilly tracks. So the single-speed vehicle will be enough for you.

Shimano Nexus twist shifters make it very easy to switch between the gears, even for 3 or 7-speed drivetrain options.

Wheels

The diameter of the aluminum alloy rim wheels is 26″, which is ideal for taller women. The tires are 2.125″ wide with a powerful road grip.

The availability in 26″ size only makes this machine somewhat unsuitable for short commutes.

Both front and rear wheels have fenders over them to ensure protection from dirt and weathering.

Brakes

Different types of brakings are available with various gearing models. The single and 3-speed versions have coaster brakes, while the 7-speed model features linear-pull handbrakes.

Both types of brakes are easily operable and quite efficient.

Miscellaneous

This commuter is devoid of any basket or rear rack, which is a bit unfortunate.

As this product belongs to a trustworthy company, the price is also higher as compared to competitors. But it is worth it.

It also comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

4. Firmstrong Urban – For Women

Being one of the best cruiser bikes for beginners, it has almost every feature you can expect.

Construction

The build quality is first-rate with a sturdy steel frame. It has an amazing weight capacity of 300 lbs, which is among the best in this category.

The frame size is 15″, which is a bit small. But adjustable seat and handlebar make it handy for tall riders too.

The top tube has a convex curve so that the women can mount the bike with ease.

The manufacturer has provided a saddle with dual springs and a handlebar with rubber grips to ensure a comfortable ride.

Gears

This bike is famous for its 1-speed version, although a 21-speed variant is also available on the market.

The single-gear model can serve beginners pretty well, provided that the tracks are not much rough and inclined.

Wheels

The only available wheel size for Firmstrong Urban is 26″. So the girls shorter than 5′ will have to look for some other bike.

The wheels made of aluminum are of superior quality. The 2.125″ wide white-wall balloon tires are also splendid. They have good shock absorption capability while passing over the bumps.

On the flip side, this bicycle misses out on the fenders on both wheels. The company, however, sells them separately.

Brakes

Like many other single-speed devices, this one also comes with a coaster-type brake system. It is simple to use, which is a key factor while searching for the best cruiser bikes for beginners.

Miscellaneous

This product is devoid of accessories like a basket and rack. So you will have to purchase them separately if needed.

Best Cruiser Bikes for Beginners – Buying Guide

There are several things to consider to make a solid purchase. So let us discuss them one by one.

1. Rider’s Height

This one is the most basic and crucial factor to consider. If the size of the bike doesn’t fit your height, you’ll feel like to have wasted your money.

Although most sellers have size charts, the buyers should also be well aware of the bicycle size that suits them.

There are two things to be seen in this regard.

Frame

First is the frame size, which commonly varies from 15″ to 19″. Ladies’ bikes usually have a smaller, while gents’ have a larger frame.

If you are shorter than 5’6″, you should preferably go for a 17″ or smaller frame.

Wheels

The second factor is the size of the wheels. Keep in mind that a comfortable standover is as important as biking itself. And it is mainly governed by the diameter of wheels.

Be sure that there is at least a 2″ cushion above the top tube in your standover position.

The majority of the best cruiser bikes for beginners are available in either 24″ or 26″ wheel size. If your height is below 5′, you must choose a maximum 24″ size regardless of the frame size.

Riders taller than 5′ can go for 26″ wheels, and the final choice will further depend on the frame size. More than 6′ bikers will need at least an 18″ frame with a 26″ wheel size.

As most bikes have adjustable handlebars and seats, they can accommodate a specific range of riders.

2. Men’s vs Women’s Bikes

Most of the features are the same in ladies’ and gents’ bicycles, but there are a few differences.

Men’s Bikes

Men’s bikes have either a flat or slightly curved or sloped top tube. Secondly, as men are generally taller than women, their bikes have a larger frame.

As most of the gents have a broader chest, the handlebars of their bikes are wider. Besides, the seat is a bit narrow as compared to ladies’ bikes.

Women’s Bikes

The bicycles for women have either no, or a highly curved/ sloped top tube. Its level falls from the handlebar to another tube carrying the seat. This design helps ladies to mount the bike comfortably.

Moreover, female bikes have a comparatively narrower handlebar but a broader saddle. Also, they are available in a large variety of colors.

3. Terrain Conditions

Gears

You should have a good idea about the terrain conditions of your area before finalizing the purchase.

Most beach cruiser bikes are available in 1-speed, but 3, 7, and 21-speed models are also there. Single-gear models are the best cruiser bikes for beginners. So if your area has flat or slightly inclined surfaces, the single-speed commuters are perfect for you.

However, you will need to opt for multi-gear bicycles to commute on steeper slopes. At lower gear, you can climb hills easily at a slow speed. And when you want to speed up on a flatter trail, you can switch to a higher one.

Fenders

Fenders protect the wheels and tires from pollution like dust, mud, and water. Therefore, they are very helpful in increasing the life of wheels.

Few manufacturers include fenders on both wheels, and a few do not.

If the area you intend to bike in has a lot of loose soil, the fenders will be desirable. On the other hand, if biking tracks have hard soil, vegetation, or metallic protection, their absence will not be problematic.

A few brands also sell fenders separately. So you can buy them if you need them.

4. Weight of the Rider

As bicycles from renowned vendors are very sturdy, this factor is not much to be worried about. They have high-quality steel frames that are strong and long-lasting.

Most of the cruiser bikes can easily carry 250 lbs plus rider. Few of them even have above 300 lbs capacity.

In a nutshell, if you avoid too-cheap-to-be-good products, you won’t face any issue in this regard. Nevertheless, almost every brand specifies the maximum weight capacity for each model.

5. Price

It is needless to say that budget is the biggest factor regarding any purchase. The same is valid here.

You should never compromise on the quality if you want to value your money. So we strongly suggest you choose some well-known brand, even if you require to spend some extra bucks.

Bicycles from trustworthy manufacturers will not only be durable but will also have better resale value.

Beach cruisers have a wide price range. It can vary from below two hundred to nearly a thousand dollars.

The price highly depends on the drivetrain. Higher is the number of gears, more costly will be the bike.

But most beginners will prefer single-speed commuters. So they can get a suitable machine for them at a reasonable price.

6. Assembling

Brand new bicycles come unassembled, especially if you buy them online. So you might need to put some extra effort to assemble.

Manufacturers provide detailed guidelines in product manuals about how to assemble the bike.

Few brands also provide their customer the option to purchase assembled bikes and charge a few extra bucks for them.

7. Miscellaneous

Many brands provide some accessories with their bicycles. Examples are the front basket, rear rack, beverage holder, etc. Such options are not there in a few models, but it is not a dealbreaker at all.

It is all up to you whether you need such add-ons or not. If they are absent and you still need them, you can spend a few bucks and install them.

Best Cruiser Bikes for Beginners – Final Word

All in all, numerous beach cruiser bikes are available on the market with different specs and prices. We have discussed a few of them in this article.

So you can select any of them, keeping in mind your needs and budget.

We hope our guidelines will be helpful for you to select the best cruiser bike.

Best Cruiser Bikes for Beginners – FAQ