Recreational & Family - Chrysler Cruiser

I'm new to this site but it looks like a great forum to get some info, so here goes. The type of riding I do is strictly recreational, like cruising around a campground. Consequently, I'm all about comfort, a cushy ride, big fat seat, etc. Performance is really not much of an issue here but I do want to have the flexibility to take a moderate grade. The king of the cruisers that I've found so far seems to be the Chrysler PT Cruiser Woody 4 speed. Does anyone know anything about the Chrysler series? I know it's kind of a stupid name but with Shimano internal hub gearing, disc brake, fork and seat post suspension, it really seems pretty nice. I've found it online for $495 and free shipping so please, if anyone has one or knows anything about them, is it worth the money? Thanks, Jeff

It's an amazing looking bike, I'll give you that. It also undoubtedly weighs a ton, has a Chinese-made frame, and will fit you only by a stroke of luck, since it comes in only one size. If you want to choose style over substance, though, that's your privilege.

Do you have a particular reason for not going to a bike shop, where you have at least a reasonable chance of finding a bike that fits you, is assembled by a pro, and will be serviced for free if something breaks or needs adjustment? There are plenty of nice cruisers from reputable bike companies like Trek and Raleigh.

I might also point out that there are bikes available with all the same comfort features that are also lighter, easier to ride, and made with better quality parts in a vcariety of frame sizes. They're usually marketed as "comfort bikes." No fake-wood fenders, though.

RichC

You can also keep an eye out for an old schwinn 3-speed at garage sales and stuff. My aunt got an 80's Schwinn collegiate with an internal 3 speed hub and it is in great condition and is a blast to ride. It doesn't look retro, it IS retro. Of course if you don't know what to look for you're probably better off taking Rich's advice and going to a reputable bike shop and telling them what you're looking for in a bike.

Rich, you're no doubt right about going to a local bike shop. I was just kind of sucked into the fake wood fenders and all. I was wondering about the frame size (19 in.) and whether that would fit me or not (6'2", 265 lbs.). While in Yosemite this summer I borrowed a beach cruiser to cruise the campgrounds with my daughter and it was so enjoyable not to be leaning over trying to see the sites I will never go back to my mountain bike for just pleasure riding. With a big carcass like mine comfort is my main goal. So, you think I could achieve all the comforts I need and get a better made bike for that kind of money I guess?
Jeff

Rich, you're no doubt right about going to a local bike shop. I was just kind of sucked into the fake wood fenders and all. I was wondering about the frame size (19 in.) and whether that would fit me or not (6'2", 265 lbs.). While in Yosemite this summer I borrowed a beach cruiser to cruise the campgrounds with my daughter and it was so enjoyable not to be leaning over trying to see the sites I will never go back to my mountain bike for just pleasure riding. With a big carcass like mine comfort is my main goal. So, you think I could achieve all the comforts I need and get a better made bike for that kind of money I guess?
Jeff

Yes, I do. That kind of money would buy you a Trek Navigator 400, for example. 7-speed internal hub shifting, comes in several frame sizes (including a 21" which might be closer to what you need), aluminum frame, and a generally higher level of components. You can add fenders and a light and other accessories as needed.

It would also buy you warranty support, professional assembly and service after the sale, and fitting/adjustment.

I'm not recommending the Trek brand in particular over other, similar bikes. It's just an example. And I'm not much of a fan of cruisers of comfort bikes in general, but if you know what you want, who am I to argue? :)

RichC

Sounds like you might like Breezer bicycles. See if they have a dealer near you.

Another proper bike with 7speed hub gear is the Bianchi Milano.
There seem to be quite a few cruiser style bikes which are designed to be ugly and ineficient. When you are the engine, you want a bike which will make the most of your power, even if you are just pootling around a small town.
Lost of suspension, springs and thick foam padding do NOT make a bike more comfortable.
Check out the Bianchi website. Its a comman brand in the US, with an excellent reputation.