beach cruisersBeach cruisers bicycles were first introduced by Schwinn at the time of the Great Depression when bicycle sales were declining sharply. It seems almost poetic that the beach cruisers are making a comeback today in 2009 during another economic downturn when people are spending less on their gas guzzling vehicles and opting for a more environmentally friendly way to get around town instead.

During the Great Depression, adults purchased very few beach cruisers – or any type of bicycle – because bikes were thought of as an extravagance intended for sports or recreation in which no one had time for because they were all out looking for jobs in order to feed their families.  People rode public transportation or walked to their destinations if they didn’t have a car or money.

During the 30s and 40s, beach cruisers for sale had seen an increase in popularity. Some models of the beach cruisers weighed nearly 50 pounds and contained single speed mechanicals, plus the balloon tires made this sort of bike perfect for a flat terrain.  They were popular with bicycle couriers and paperboys and had a lot of competition from manufacturers such as Shelby, Monark, Roadmaster, Huffy and Columbia.

Bicycles imported from Great Britain during the 50s and 60s had beach cruisers taking a backseat in popularity because their bikes were lighter – 30 to 40 pounds, with greater hill climbing capabilities and more nimble for sports, plus their bikes featured three speeds, taller wheels and a more narrow tire.  About this time was also the debut of the low-rider or muscle bicycle which featured a banana seat, shift levers that were oversized and this in turn gave birth to the BMX bicycles and finally the mountain bike.

The beach cruisers style, affordability and comfort – compared with racing bikes and mountain bikes – have led to a renewed popularity in addition to the fact that Baby Boomers are reaching an age where a comfortable bike, in addition to the “retro-style” look, are worth the money – even though the beach cruisers are more affordable than their counterparts.

To complete the ‘retro-look’ many of the beach cruisers come with a large bike basket in the front, perfect for holding beach towels, picnic basket or wine and cheeses for a day at the beach.

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