FYI, Your Summer Won’t Be the Same Without a Pretty Cruiser Bike

best cruiser bikes
These Cute Beach Cruiser Bikes Have Rave Reviews!!Pieter Estersohn/Getty Images


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Shopping for a bike can be a bit overwhelming! 'Tis a whole-ass vehicle! There are a lot of different types to choose from surprisingly—and if you're someone who's just looking for a simple (and cute!) beach cruiser bike you can take out for a casual spin, it might take ya some time to sift through all the bicycle options stores have to offer. I know you probs don't wanna put in all that work (who does?), but making sure that you get the right one for you is important. You want to make sure that it's got the frame, gears, and brakes you want—and of course that fun, retro look you were probably sold on from the beginning. So, that's why I've gone ahead and put together a list of only the best cruiser bikes worthy of your eyes. And you betcha they're high quality and really freakin' pretty.

Below, you'll find the best cruiser bikes the internet has to offer. All of them have their own flexes—whether it be storage space, protective fenders, a kickstand, or water-resistant tires—but each of them has incredible reviews that will easily convince you to get one of these gorgeous bikes for yourself.

Summer will be so much more fun with one! Promise! Oh, and make sure to get a helmet with your bike purchase because #safety.

Cranbrook Women s Beach Cruiser Bike Blue

This budget-friendly ride has Huffy's popular perfect fit frame, which was designed to fit any individual body. The padded seat sits farther back with a lower center of gravity, encouraging a more steady balance. It has raised handlebars so that you're able to sit in an upright position—and so that your legs can fully extend forward while you pedal. If you don't want to worry about wrist, arm, neck, and/or leg soreness, this would be a great option for ya!

  • Frame: Steel

  • Gears: Single-speed

  • Breaks: Coaster brake

THE REVIEWS: "It's a nice bike. It's very well built and sturdy for the price," wrote one reviewer. "I feel like it will hold up for a while. It has pedal back brakes, but no front brakes or gears. This is fine for me since I only ride around the neighborhood for exercise. It is very pretty too. I get compliments from neighbors. I'm 5'3" and the ride and seat are comfortable. Buy it! It won't disappoint."

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FHuffy-26-Cranbrook-Women-s-Beach-Cruiser-Bike-Blue%2F439309549&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Flifestyle%2Fg39970547%2Fbest-cruiser-bikes%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Cranbrook Women s Beach Cruiser Bike Blue</p><p>$168.00</p><p>walmart.com</p><span class="copyright">Walmart</span>

BCA 26 In. Charleston Ladies Cruiser Bike Pink

Cruiser bikes are famously known for their nostalgic design—but this fabulous pink one takes the cake when it comes to that! It checks off all the exterior boxes... How about specs? This bike has all the basics you'd want in a casual cruiser, plus fenders to protect your tires from the rain and a front basket and drink holder. (And you can't beat the price!)

  • Frame: Steel

  • Gears: Single-speed

  • Brakes: Coaster brakes

THE REVIEWS: "The bike came partially assembled thankfully, because the directions are horrible. It's a great bike for the money," wrote one reviewer. "It rides great! The basket, bottle, and cell phone holder are great features! Overall, definitely worth the money!

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FBCA-26-In-Charleston-Ladies-Cruiser-Bike-Pink%2F949384789&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Flifestyle%2Fg39970547%2Fbest-cruiser-bikes%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>BCA 26 In. Charleston Ladies Cruiser Bike Pink</p><p>$198.00</p><p>walmart.com</p><span class="copyright">Walmart</span>

The Troy

Crafted specifically with the traditional beach cruiser in mind, luxury bike company Solé Bicycles, created its own version of the famous two-wheeler. Because of its super comfortable step-through frame, you can hop on and off the bike just by stepping through the curved frame. (Who else hates when their legs get stuck while getting off of a bike?) It also features balloon tires which increase speed and rust-resistant components. Not only will it be looking pretty beachside and for those Instagram pics, but it's also a very sturdy and solid ride.

  • Frame: Steel

  • Gears: Single-speed

  • Brakes: Coaster brakes

MY REVIEW: I love the fact that you can really customize this baby, and you can add all the bells and whistles you want. You can throw on lights, locks, a cellphone holder, a hand pump, a basket, a rear rack, and more!

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.solebicycles.com%2Fproducts%2Fthe-troy-coastal-cruiser-step-through%3Fvariant%3D42726900105%26gclid%3DCjwKCAjwuqiiBhBtEiwATgvixHTAgpbMOjz8w1-bbleqsna16lqFGYHM8WAf1jXPACUR-KRo_6kmBRoCAIAQAvD_BwE&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Flifestyle%2Fg39970547%2Fbest-cruiser-bikes%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>The Troy</p><p>$299.00</p><p>solebicycles.com</p><span class="copyright">Solé Bicycles</span>

26" Panama Jack Beach Women's Cruiser Bike, Champagne Gold

If you're someone who always travels with a bunch of stuff (bag ladies, I'm lookin' at you), this option has all the storage options you can have in a bike. It's got a front basket, a rear rack, and a cup holder so that you don't have to leave behind any belongings or have extra weight on your back/shoulders. And can we just give a moment of silence for this stunning floral design, puh-lease!!!

  • Frame: Aluminum

  • Gears: Single-speed

  • Brakes: Coaster brakes

THE REVIEWS: "I have been begging my husband for one and now that summer is finally here he surprised me with my awesome new Panama Jack beach cruiser! It's comfortable to ride and even has a bottle opener on the front fork. How cool is that?!" wrote one reviewer. "It comes almost fully assembled out of the box and after about 30 minutes I was out the door riding :)"

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FG2M1W2?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10049.g.39970547%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>26" Panama Jack Beach Women's Cruiser Bike, Champagne Gold</p><p>$425.00</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Amazon</span>

Cruiser 1 Step-Through Bike

It's got a five-star rating for a reason! Customers have raved about it, particularly for its smooth ride, comfort, and its easiness to handle/maneuver. If a 75-year-old woman loves it (according to a review), I know you prob will too!

  • Frame: Steel

  • Gears: Single-speed

  • Brakes: Coaster brakes

THE REVIEWS: "This is one of the best cruiser bikes I have had," one reviewer wrote. "I used to have a PHAT Beach cruiser, it is exactly like that one. There’s enough room between the handlebars in the seat for a larger frame, and the ride is smooth and enjoyable. The seat is comfortable and you could spend hours biking and not get tired. The frame is strong and durable and the rose gold is a beautiful color as well! This is truly the best value and quality for the price."

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F148214&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Flifestyle%2Fg39970547%2Fbest-cruiser-bikes%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Cruiser 1 Step-Through Bike</p><p>$329.95</p><p>rei.com</p><span class="copyright">REI</span>

EVRYjourney Women's 7-Speed Step-Through Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle

Because of its synthetic leather saddle and grips, this cruiser has much more of ~fancy~ touch to it. It even has a rear rack that can bags, boxes, and more.

  • Frame: Aluminum

  • Gears: 7-speed

  • Brakes: Hand brakes

THE REVIEWS: "I haven’t ridden a bike in over 20 years (after falling off one as a teenager in the late 90s), but bought this cute one during the Amazon Prime event this year. It’s been such an amazing purchase, bringing me and my kids together as they learn to ride a bike as well," one reviewer wrote. "It wasn’t too bad to build out of the box. We watched the video on YouTube, and they provide the necessary tools. I was able to ride right away, with everything coming back pretty easily. I’m 5’1”, and everything about the adjustability in the seat and handlebars is fine for me. I'm super happy with this purchase."

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B011A4HBTC?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10049.g.39970547%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>EVRYjourney Women's 7-Speed Step-Through Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle</p><p>$498.00</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Amazon</span>

Wayfarer Adult Bike Hybrid Retro-Styled Cruiser

Don't underestimate this retro-style bike! It's actually a seven-speeder—which means it's super powerful and can ride in tricky terrain thanks to its gears. You have the ability to shift into lower gears for uphill moments and higher gears for downhill rides and flat roads.

  • Frame: Steel

  • Gears: 7-speed

  • Brakes: Alloy linear pull brakes

THE REVIEWS: "Once assembled, the bike has a solid, smooth, quiet ride— and it has somewhat of a vintage feel," one reviewer wrote. "The riding position is very upright with just some very slight forward lean. There is not a lot of space between the seat and the backswept handlebars, which is fine if you are not expecting a racing position. The bike seems to encourage taking one's time and looking around to enjoy the ride. It feels efficient and secure, though not what I would call nimble. I think this would make a great bike for a college campus, paved trails, and urban commuting for short to moderate distances."

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TYB8LMU?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10049.g.39970547%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Wayfarer Adult Bike Hybrid Retro-Styled Cruiser</p><p>$374.65</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Amazon</span>

Bicycles Priority Coast

Trust that this ultra-light, luxe bike will give you smooth rides time and time again because of its rust-proof aluminum that can live through any type of weather.

  • Frame: Aluminum

  • Gears: Single-speed, 3-speed, or 7-speed

  • Brakes: Hand brakes

MY REVIEW: Something I look for in a bike is whether or not they have reflectors. I WANT to be noticed when I'm out and about, pedaling through the town so I don't get hit by a car or something. And I love that this bike has them all over it.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prioritybicycles.com%2Fproducts%2Fthecoast&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Flifestyle%2Fg39970547%2Fbest-cruiser-bikes%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Bicycles Priority Coast</p><p>$599.00</p><p>prioritybicycles.com</p><span class="copyright">Priority Bicycles</span>

Womens’ Cruiser Bike

The fact that this gorgeous cruiser bike comes 85 percent already assembled is enough to sell me, TBH. I mean, the less work, the better! Who's with me?

  • Frame: Steel

  • Gears: Single-speed

  • Brakes: Front wheel V brake and the rear wheel coaster brake

MY REVIEW: Um, how could one not love the fact that there's a bike that comes delivered to their house pretty much ready to ride? I'm all for a product that barely needs assembly, so hearing that it's practically ready to go is music to my ears.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08YN61Y6Y?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10049.g.39970547%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Womens’ Cruiser Bike</p><p>$279.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Amazon</span>

E-Ride Electric Bike

Fan of biking, but hate the pedaling part? I. Get. You. Invest in this fab electric bike that can go up to 20 miles per hour with minimal pedaling needed. You can choose one of its seven speeds depending on how fast or slow you want to go. Let's give it up for technology!!

  • Frame: Not listed

  • Gears: 7-speed

  • Brakes: Front and rear v-brakes

THE REVIEWS: "This is the most comfortable bike I have ever owned," one reviewer wrote. "It has plenty of speed and power. It's beautiful and retro. It was exactly what I was looking for and I got it for a reasonable price. I'm very happy that I purchased this bike. It arrived in excellent condition and was easy to assemble. I love the way this bike can sense when extra assistance is needed. It's very user-friendly!"

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2F226959065%3Fselected%3Dtrue&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Flifestyle%2Fg39970547%2Fbest-cruiser-bikes%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>E-Ride Electric Bike</p><p>$648.00</p><p>walmart.com</p><span class="copyright">Walmart</span>

Tandem Adult Beach Cruiser Bike

Why bike alone when you can bike with a buddy? Get this uber-cool tandem bike that allows two people to cruise around together.

  • Frame: Steel

  • Gears: 7-speed

  • Brakes: Front and rear v-brakes

THE REVIEWS: "We bought this tandem not expecting to use it that often until our children were bigger. But it’s incredibly easy to drive and we are able to hook up our children’s trailer and pull it with ease," wrote one reviewer. As my husband said, 'This is the best thing we’ve ever bought and we should get rid of our personal bikes.' The seats are extra wide for a bicycle and are comfortable. However, your rear still gets sore after a six-mile ride. We love this bike and we would highly recommend it!"

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086ZKJ55S?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10049.g.39970547%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Tandem Adult Beach Cruiser Bike</p><p>$614.22</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Amazon</span>

Heritage Bike & Skate Helmet

Make sure your noggin is safe and secure in a helmet. Bonus points if it's cute! This one comes in 14 colors and has a magnetic buckle, seven air vents, and three cooling channels for breathability. Safety must always come first, friends!

THE REVIEWS: "It’s a good helmet and my head can still breathe," wrote one reviewer. "The straps are so easy to adjust and I love the magnets as opposed to pinching buckles. Once it’s on, I tighten it up one turn in the back, and it's snug over my delicate coconut."

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.explorethousand.com%2Fproducts%2Fbike-helmet%3Fcolor%3Djacaranda-purple%26size%3Dsmall&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Flifestyle%2Fg39970547%2Fbest-cruiser-bikes%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Heritage Bike & Skate Helmet</p><p>$89.00</p><p>explorethousand.com</p><span class="copyright">The Thousand</span>

Cycling Shoes

Having comfortable shoes for cycling is very important! These fan-fave ones are super lightweight and breathable because of the mesh fabric at the top of the shoes. They're incredibly versatile, and you can wear 'em for indoor or outdoor cycling or even daily exercising.

THE REVIEWS: "I ordered a size up to make room for swelling and thicker socks. They are very comfortable and cute!" wrote one reviewer. "You can remove the clip to wear as normal shoes."

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09G5WJTL3?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10049.g.39970547%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Cycling Shoes </p><p>$95.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Amazon</span>

Shop Now

Cycling Shoes

$95.99

amazon.com

Amazon

Are cruiser bikes good for beginners?

Definitely! Cruisers are great for beginner riders. These specific bikes are made for chill, flat rides that don't require any intense pedaling. They're super comfortable, durable, and are made for easy activities like daily exercise, errand-running, or leisurely rides. So if you're looking to learn how to bike (it's never too late!), or you're on the hunt for your first ~adult~ two-wheeler, a cruiser bike is for sure the move.

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Here's what to look for in a cruiser bike:

Obviously, you won't like or feel comfortable riding just any cruiser bike, so you wanna make sure you know what you want before you start shopping. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Consider the size

JSYK: Bikes are not one-size-fits-all, so it's essential that you find one that fits you best (and make adjustments to the seat and/or handlebars if needed) so that you can avoid injury and just generally ride comfortably.

To find out which bike size is best for you, you can check the size chart (based on your height) on the bike brand's website. Most will have one.

But if you want to get more specific than that, you can measure your inseam (aka the distance between your crotch and ankle) and compare it to the bike's standover height (aka the distance between the ground and the top of the top tube). Generally, you'll know if a bike is too big for you if your inseam measurement is shorter than the standover height.

Determine what kind of frame you want

Cruiser bikes typically come in a steel or aluminum frame. The difference between the two is weight. Aluminum is lighter and more durable (it doesn't rust as easily) than steel which makes for a breezier ride. Though, it is more expensive. So, it honestly just depends on what you're looking for and what your budget is when it comes down to choosing a frame.

Regardless of the actual material though, an ideal cruiser bike will have a step-through blueprint. This means that the rider will be able to sit comfortably in an upright position and lean back as they pedal.

Figure out what the brakes situation is

Because a cruiser falls under the beginner-level category in bicycles, most of them are built with coaster breaks—aka you have to pedal back for the bike to come to a halt. Though there are some that either come with hand brakes too, or you can add them ont for an extra cost. Whatever you're most comfortable with though and feel the most safe in, look into what brake system a bike has.

Consider the gears/speed

FYI: The "speed" of a bike has nothing to do with how fast or slow it goes. It actually refers to the gears which enable riders to maintain a safe and comfortable pedaling speed no matter what kind of terrain they're on. So if you know you'll only be cruisin' on flat grounds, stick with a single-speeder. Or if you think you may hit some bumpy hills at some point, maybe you wanna look into getting a three- or seven-speeder. Those ones have low and high gears that you can adjust based on where you're riding.

Consider the storage options

Having a place to put your belongings while you're biking is key, and if you agree, you should consider a cruiser that's got a front basket or a back rack. They're small and v handy accessories that can help you out a lot!

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Why trust Cosmopolitan?

Cosmo's shopping team is constantly curating the internet to bring you the chicest, trendiest options like it's our job (because it is, heh).

We have pretty high standards when it comes to recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes picks for all styles. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to. You're welcome!

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