Classic beach cruiser bikes, the ones with sturdy frames and balloon tires like you may remember from childhood, may be just right for short routine trips. We're talking about comfort bikes here, not something designed to rough it through forests and mountains nor those designed to whiz through the countryside from town to town. The classic beach cruiser bike is no road bike or mountain bike; it's a comfort bike, made to feel good and be fun to ride with a simple, uncomplicated choice of features and options.
The classic beach cruiser got that name from people taking it "off road" on beaches and populated bike paths. It generally has a sturdy, easy-to-mount frame and the wide (balloon) tires and upright, curved handlebars you'd expect for comfort riding. Many of these bikes are single-speed, and some even have the old-fashioned coaster brakes. You may wish to look for one, however, that has caliper brakes for increased safety and stopping control. And though a good old single speed is less complicated just to kick around the neighborhood (or park or beach), you can easily find multi-speed hubs and/or derailleurs in a good price point beach cruiser bike.
What if you don't live anywhere near a beach or major body of water? Don't let the name beach cruiser or just plain cruiser dampen your enthusiasm. These sturdy little bicycles come in frame sizes to fit all sized riders and riders of every age. They are dependable and useful wherever you live, whether you have a beach or just want to lay back and relax like a "beach bum."
And, quite honestly, these bikes may be ideal for elderly riders who feel the bumps and bounces more than in their younger days and who may not have plans for long road trips. Mount a good basket or strap on a good set of pannier bags on one of these delightful bicycles, and you're ready for everyday trips to the store, quick trips to your local library, or a swing by your favorite restaurant for a biker's lunch.
Please don't think a good beach cruiser or comfort bike belongs only to the elderly. They would be incredibly sturdy and useful to anyone who wants a simple, easy-to-maintain bicycle for short to middle distance riding. If you don't need the speed and durability of a road bike or mountain bike, you really ought to consider buying a beach cruiser or other comfort bike -- or give one to a friend!