Photo by Nish Nalbandian

So many things about a vintage cruiser bicycle say “classic.” Its balloon tires, the profusion of chrome, the elegant lines; it’s like riding a 50s diner. Not to mention that you catch the eye of everyone you ride by. That timeless look and feel is what makes the true classics so valuable and what gives the 2009 Trek Cruiser Classic its stylistic chops. It’s a tall order to fill, naming a bicycle a Cruiser Classic, but Trek walks the walk with all the right details. From the wide-ass handlebars to the bulky fenders—standing a block away, you’d call it a Cruiser Classic without knowing that’s its name. Comfort, style and quality are timeless traits, and all it takes is a ride across town to know this one is one sweet ride.

Props: It looks like a cruiser bicycle should–low, sweeping curves; a perfect paint job; and a beefy posture that pulls eyes from both sides of the street. The super-wide handlebars impart handling that is stable and forgiving. Add to that gearing that’s spot on, and it all adds up to a smooth and comfy ride.
Shlops: Despite its aluminum frame, this beast is one heavy single-speed bicycle. That translates into some serious work getting up hills. Also, would it be so hard to throw in a quick-release on the seat tube?
Bottom line: This is the bicycle you want to show off to your friends at the park on weekends and take on a leisurely cruise in Kansas. This isn’t an everyday, commuter or transportation bicycle, especially if you live in San Francisco.

Quotables:
The Gear Head: “This is a great cruiser bike; it has everything I expect from one: Classic look, great feel/comfort and a price point that’s not too scary.”
The Rookie: “More than a few cute girls checked me out.”
The Random Person Bugged For a Comment: “Looks like a bicycle I grew up with.”
Guy Who Organizes Cruiser Rides: “It’s a great cruiser bike: style, flair and comfort.”

The Specs on the Trek Cruiser Classic

• Sizes: Men’s 19” & 21”/Women’s 17”

• Frame: Aluminum

• Fork: Tensile steel

• Seat: Trek saddle

• Brakes: Coaster

• Tires: Bontrager Cruizer

• Components: Steel fenders, aluminum kickstand, chain guard, alloy crank and fenders

• MSRP: $350