For those that can't cruise on the beach, having a "cruiser" that is multi-purpose is worthwhile for people like myself. It's the reason my 21st century Schwinn Jaguar was a 7 speed. I could go slow or I could go fast. Yes, I did change the bars, set them lower, and raise the seat on that bike to suit my riding preference.

The thing was heavy though at 40 lbs. with the 1-piece forged crank, fenders, lights, and thick tires. At least it did have alloy rims, which really were for the rim brakes I imagine. The thing is, I never noticed the weight until I got my first alloy bicycle, which started out at 30 lbs. until I added some things to it which brought it up to 36 lbs.

Having an alloy frame and modern bottom bracket with alloy crank arms would have shaved 5 to 10 lbs off that Jaguar, I'm sure. The biggest advantage to me would have been that it would be easier to carry into my garage between the cars, then hang from the ceiling hooks. I don't have to climb hills here, so . . .