The first time I rode a beach cruiser I was surprised at how different it was when it came to turning, starting, and stopping. It was relatively easy to learn but there are a few different things you should be aware of so I created this guide to help you.

So how do you ride a beach cruiser? Here are the simple steps so you don’t fall:

1. Mount your cruiser
2. Grip the handles comfortably
3. Push off and pedal

Once you are off and pedaling, you will be able to easily balance your weight just like any other bike. Note the steering and brakes may feel awkward to operate at first. Therefore, I have provided follow-up questions regarding this.

Step 1 – Mount Your Cruiser

Start by mounting your cruiser. You should be resting comfortably, straddling the saddle with only your toes touching the ground. A good resting position consists of having one foot firmly on the ground and the other on the pedal.

Step 2 – Grip Comfortably

You want to place your hands on the handlebars and grip firm enough so they do not slip. No need to squeeze with clenched fists because you want to remain relaxed. You want to make sure your arms are resting comfortably with a slight bend in your elbows. If your arms are too straight or too bent then you need to adjust your handlebars accordingly.

Step 3 – Push Off And Pedal

To start moving, give yourself a slight push forward using the foot that is currently planted on the ground. Immediately start pedaling and bring the foot that propelled you forward to the pedal. You want to keep pedaling in order to maintain your balance just like any other bike. If you have a cruiser with multiple gears, the shifter is located on the handlebars so feel free to switch them using your fingers.

How To Turn A Beach Cruiser

If you are not used to upright, bent handlebars, steering your cruiser bike may be a little tricky at first. Here is a quick guide on how to steer your cruiser.

How do you turn gracefully on a beach cruiser?

1. Remain in an upright position (do not lean forward)
2. Apply slight rotational pressure to the handlebar in the direction you want to turn
3. Lean slightly in the direction you want to ride

This should be a very subtle motion. Turning too quick will cause you to fall. Like I mentioned, if you are not familiar with an upright sitting position and curved handlebars, it may feel awkward.

How To Stop A Beach Cruiser

Using coaster brakes on a beach cruiser is very different than using a handbrake so wanted to give a quick guide on how to do this.

Here’s how to successfully brake on a beach cruiser:

1. Stop pedaling forward
2. Pedal backward slight until you feel the brake engage
3. As you slow down and come to stop, take one foot off the pedal and place on the ground for stabilization

If you pedal backward too fast, it may cause your bike to skid. You want to apply gradual pressure to the brakes by pedaling backward until you come to a complete stop. Skidding will wear your tires quickly and is ineffective if riding in the rain.

Note that multi-speed cruisers typically use handbrakes. These function just like any other handbrake on a road bike or mountain bike. Simply apply pressure to the lever in order to decelerate the wheels.

Practice runs

Take your time if this is your first ride. I thought riding a beach cruiser would be like any other bike and was caught off guard when I had to turn and brake.  

You can practice by riding around your driveway or neighborhood. Once you feel comfortable, you can then venture further around town. Hope this post helps you successfully ride your first beach cruiser!