Alt Bike Culture - From So Cal trying to find cruiser

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cruiser81
10-08-08, 10:05 AM
Hi, I'm looking to buy a cruiser for less than $200. If you have any suggestions for a place to buy one, please let me know. And it'd be a big plus if they have a website so I can see the bikes they have before I go. Thanks ;).

ersatz
10-08-08, 10:11 AM
bikesdirest.com???
dokydoky
10-08-08, 02:45 PM
Chubby's Cruisers if you're in LA.

cruiser81
10-08-08, 03:43 PM
Chubby's Cruisers if you're in LA.

I was considering going to this place :). I don't live in LA, so I'd have to drive an hour to get there. Have you had any experience with this place or the brands they sell?

I want an all black bike, so there are two that fit my description. One is a Firmstrong, and the other is a 3G.

Here's the Firmstrong:

http://www.chubbyscruisers.com/shop/black-out-urban-man-p-137.html

this next one is the same as that ^ except with upgraded Shimano components. Does it look like what's upgraded is worth it?

http://www.chubbyscruisers.com/shop/shimano-stealth-urban-cruiser-p-227.html

The 3G:

http://www.chubbyscruisers.com/shop/3g-classic-cruisers-black-out-p-154.html

What do you think of those?

One I was considering before this was a Micargi, but I've seen mostly bad reviews for them.

Thanks :thumb:.
gemoose23
10-08-08, 06:24 PM
There is a cruiser bike seller at the OC Swap meet. A bunch of different styles, colors, etc.

Mostly taiwan/china bikes, but sub-200 bucks, it could be a winner for you.
cruiser81
10-09-08, 08:55 AM
Thanks for all your help everyone. I decided that I will go with a 3G found on bikes-cheap.com. (3G was started by former founder/designer of Phat cycles)

It is $149 with free fenders and it is close to my house. I'll let you know how it goes.

If I'm making a mistake, please let me know before I buy it :)
deez
10-09-08, 11:14 AM
Looks like a decent starting point and a good price. As you ride it and see things you want to change you'll be able to upgrade the components....maybe an internal gear hub or a springer fork or a new saddle down the line...
Black Sunshine
01-27-09, 01:02 PM
I've got a Micargi Tahiti NX3:
http://i330.photobucket.com/albums/l426/Black_Sunshine_81/DSCF2571.jpg
It was only $200 shipped. I read more bad reviews about Firmstrong than Micargi. I read somewhere that Electra's components are no better. I don't know if that's true or not. I figured the most critical component on this kind of bike is the rear hub. Maybe the BB.