H.G. Wells once wrote, "When I see an adult on a bicycle, I do not despair for the future of the human race." The unpolluted freedom that bikes offered people in Wells' era is a lost utopia that many long to return to today. Brand new retro-looking cruiser bikes offer more comfort and features than their predecessors. With a variety of styles available, there's bound to be a cruiser that strikes your fancy.
Cafe Deluxe 8 W
Felt is well-known for building some of the most comfortable bikes on the market. According to Christine Bucher at "Bicycling," the eight-speed Cafe Deluxe 8 W is "what the love child of a beach cruiser and a road bike would ride like." Bucher says, despite its "swoopy" bar, it handles with precision and that the Tektro brakes offer stopping-power not found with old-school coasters. Along with the fenders and rack, the Cafe Deluxe comes with amenities like a cup-holder, saddle bags and an integrated bell. As of early 2011, the Felt Cafe Deluxe 8 W had a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $569.
Nirve Fifty-Three Auto 3
The Nirve Fifty-Three Auto 3 features a classic Galaxie frame, springer fork and a cushy seat. If the Fifty-Three wasn't already one of the most comfortable rides around, you can even get it with a three-speed automatic, so you don't have to worry about shifting gears. The "Candy Bar" handlebars mean you won't be leaning forward and straining your back either. As of early 2011, the Nirve Fifty-Three Auto 3 had a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $599.99.
Electra Rat Rod 3i Bike
According to REI.com, the wide tires and swooping handlebars on the Electra Rat Rod 3i Bike will "have you cruising with the smooth ride of a vintage Caddy done up hotrod style." An over-sized saddle with coil springs helps to absorb bumps, while large fenders and a full-length chainguard will keep road grime off of your clothing. As of early 2011, the Electra Rat Rod 3i retailed for $499.
Civia Loring
The Civia Loring could very well end up being your go-to bike for everything from running errands around town to hauling groceries, according to the bicycling website "EcoVelo." The Loring has a Brooks B67 saddle, large step-thru frame and SRAM i-Motion 9 internal gear hub. It comes with stylish bamboo fenders, as well as a bamboo front basket and bamboo rear rack. It can handle loads of 20 pounds up front and 50 pounds in the back, to make it as functional as it is comfortable. As of early 2011, the Civia Loring had a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $1,095.
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