Hey guys, I'm making my first ever bike purchase probably this weekend and was hoping for some advice on the best flat foot bikes out there.
My budget is $500.

Many have told me Trek Pure, Electra Townie.
Anyone have any other suggestions?

Also are flat footed bikes best for new riders?


Thanks

No - some people like them and some don't- you won't know until you test ride one. They're not real good when you need to stand up on a hill for example, or pop a little wheelie to hop up a curb either.

And they're not a whole lot different than plain old beach cruisers which most family type LBSs would have in stock.

I would have to disagree with DiabloScott this time. A "flat foot bike" as you put it, is the perfect bike for someone new to cycling. It will allow them to stand up and over the bike without having to dismount. They typically are more stable and steering is generally more controlled. These are all reason why we start children out on those kinds of bikes rather than miniature sporty bikes.

My Puma Nevis is "supposed" to be a flat footed type bike (for the geometry & seating position it's a looonnnngggg stretch for meh), and it's a comfortable ride on flat ground. Even some moderate Hills are doable. But, I'd personally recommend a more traditional fit bike - especially for most commuters. I might be comfortable using the flat foot tech, but it's not the easiest to adjust to. My Gravity G29 SS 29er is what I use most days,... Go figure!

Oh, one other thing. You choice of handlebars & seats are a bit more limited with these flat foot bikes, at least for my ride. I have an Origin8 classique cargounit front carrier on mine,...but believe it or not I prefer bmx handlebars for the Nevis. No drops will work, but a butterfly handlebar might. I keep the basket handlebar for carrying my lunch, so I'll never test the touring bar (butterfly).

Try them out. My son does really well on his Electra Cruiser but it doesn't give him much speed.

Crank Forward bikes do let you stop flat footed , Rans makes some too, they wont be $500. cost More.

yes, if speed is what you want .. either go full recumbent , or get used to tippy toe stops with a regular bike type.

JRA cruiser then they are OK.

regular bikes you can put your foot down on the curb , and stay seated as well.

If you do get a bike of this design, be sure it has at least 3 speed IGH, as climbing any type of incline can turn a fun ride into a chore on a single speed. Standing on the pedals is also very awkward due to how far forward the crank sits vs the handlebars.

- Andy

My knees, if I need to stand and pedal, sometimes touch/hit my handlebar. And I'm almost standing over the handlebar stem. I'm used to it myself, and I'm also (when necessary) quite fast.

Now, I'm using a Nexus 8 hub, and it helps immensely. As stated above, at LEAST get a 3 speed. Internal/external will just be a matter of personal preference.