Stretch cruiser bicycles have unmistakable characteristics that begin with the frame. The long and low configuration that sets the bike apart from upright cruisers attracts riders who seek the lowrider experience. To the casual observer, stretch cruisers frames might appear similar from one to the next. A closer look reveals several variations, ranging from frame design to finishes and accommodations for accessories.
Frame Geometry
Frame geometry refers to the configuration of a particular bicycle frame. Browsing a showroom display or walking among a stretch cruiser gathering, you might notice several designs. Some top frame tubes have a gentle arc that terminates at the seat post. More distinctive top tubes have a larger arc that sweeps downward below the seat and terminates at the rear frame arms. Typical front frame tubes sweep downward from the steering headset and transition to horizontal at the bottom bracket shell. Frames vary in design, as well as overall height and wheelbase dimensions.
Materials and Finishes
Similar to contemporary bicycles, stretch cruiser frames are manufactured from aluminum, titanium or carbon fiber. Any of these materials provides lightweight and reliable frames. Carbon fiber and titanium frames are typically more expensive, and for a consumer, one concern when selecting a stretch cruiser might be cost. You won't find any shortage of options when selecting a finish. Manufacturers offer trendy color schemes that include a variety of colors, accent shading and sparkle paint.
Headsets
Steering headsets on stretch cruiser frames accommodate typical handlebar stems for attaching riser bars and ape-hanger bars that are indicative of lowrider bikes. Some production bikes come with a chrome springer fork assembly that resembles those found on custom chopper motorcycles. The construction of the headset allows you to fit an accessory springer fork or extended forks in the same way that you fit forks on other bicycles.
Accessory Posts
Most stretch cruiser bicycles are manufactured with single-speed gears and a coaster brake at the rear wheel. It's rare that you find stretch cruiser frames with posts for attaching derailleurs or caliper brakes. This is not to say accessory posts cannot be adapted to a metal frame if you want to add multiple gears or brakes with hand levers. Stretch cruiser accessories, such as sissy bars, banana seats and extended fenders, mount to the frame with the same attachments found on upright cruiser bicycles.
