I recently bought a 24' girls' cruiser that I absolutely love. I love it because it's comfortable to ride, and has pedal brakes instead of handle brakes. I've had a mountain bike before, and I much prefer a simpler bike without gear shifts.
I want to use this bike to commute, which could be 5 to 7 miles one way each day. I also plan to ride it to and from bus stops. Right now I have a NEXT La Jolla Cruiser. I may purchase a Roadmaster Mountain Sport.

Though I know a mountain bike would probably be better suited for the commute, I'd rather use the cruiser, but I'd like your input.

Personal preference always rules in the end. However, you might try thinking through the definition of "better suited." Not all mountain bikes have attachment points for front fenders. If your cruiser does, it might be better suited. If you have hills on the trip, the mountain bike might be better suited. Do you like to sit up in traffic--cruiser. Are you habitually running late in the morning--mountain bike. Is the more bent-over position less comfortable--cruiser. Are there any really bad stretches of road--mountain bike. Do you park in a high-theft area? Do you stop for groceries on the way home? Will you be riding in the winter? It goes on and on, which is part of the fun.

If it's flat the whole way then use the bike you enjoy. There is no need for tons of speeds if you never go up a hill.

I ride an old mens single speed roadster bike with "coaster" brakes (pedal brakes) and have no problem riding it 5 miles has long as there are no really steep hills to climb. I also installed a front handbrake as it really improves stopping power if needed. My bike also has fenders and a rack too so I can carry stuff if needed. If your daily route is flat without a lot of steep hills I'd say the cruiser is the way to go. I love my bike for what it is, simple and comfortable to ride. My daily ride to work only takes 15 mins though but I use my bike for transportation and shopping so it gets used 7 days a week.

I'd also suggest trying your route on your day off just to see how long it takes and how your bike handles the ride.

Well, there are no hills around, and the roads here are maintained very well.

Thanks.

You're welcome. Let us know how your commute goes.

Neither the 24 inch toy "girl" bike or the mtb bike is actually suited but go ahead. It will either work out or not.

You've got the cruiser, so why not use it for a month or so and determine how suitable it is? If it isn't, buy something else that corrects the observed deficiencies.

Worldwide, most people who commute by bike use something similar to your bike, so it has a reasonable chance of being optimal.

Paul

For flat, short (under 10 mile) commutes a cruiser is hard to beat. They are easy to use, dependable, and if need be, really easy to fix. As a bonus they almost always accommodate fenders and racks which is useful for the rain and carrying stuff to work.

I say enjoy your commute on your cruiser, if you need more bike get it, I bet your cruiser will suit you fine.