About Stretch Beach Cruisers

Stretch beach cruisers are low-slung, retro-looking bikes that have become popular in the fashion-forward indie scene. The bold and beefy bikes have become the muscle car of the bike world.

  1. History

    • The first beach cruiser was Schwinn's 1933 World B10E Motorbike, which had no actual motor but resembled a motorbike with its hefty tires and sturdy frame. Stretch beach cruisers are modern-day exaggerated versions of the original cruiser that take the motorbike inspiration further and emulate custom choppers.

    Characteristics

    • Stretch beach cruisers have an extended frame and are lower to the ground than traditional cruisers. Riders can place both feet on the ground for an easy-going swagger, sit far back with long, chopper-style handlebars, and cruise smoothly on a smooth single speed.

    Brands

    • Manufacturers making stretch beach cruisers include Firmstrong, Prado, Micargi, American Flyer, and Kustom Kruiser. Model names of stretch cruisers evoke the laid-back biker culture, such as Micargi's "Mustang," Kustom Kruiser's "Double Down" and Firmstrong's "Rebel."

    Customization

    • Riders typically customize their beach cruisers with decals, fenders, handlebars, seats and wheels. Customized stretch cruisers go for a dragster look with bold colors and flame detailing, body-colored rear and front fenders, extra-long chopper handlebars, extra-wide white-wall tires, painted alloy rims and plenty of chrome.

    Culture

    • The stretch beach cruiser has become a symbol of laid-back Los Angeles style. It's the stylish mode of transportation for beach-bound surfers and urban hipsters, but it's also gaining popularity beyond the Southern California beach-and-boardwalk crowd.