I'm starting out with talking about Flat-Foot Technology as I'll be referring to it often as I compare different lines of bicycles (in terms of function and comfort).
Flat-Foot doesn't exactly sound snazzy, but it's one of the coolest things to happen to the bike industry, especially to the general population of bicycle enthusiasts. It single-handedly took the category of Comfort Bike to a whole new level, and is offered only by Electra (a company located right here in Vista, CA).
Traditional mountain, road and hybrid bikes have very similar frame geometry. Look closely and you will see the pedals are almost directly below the seat. As a result, your upper body is rotated forward. That's great for low-profile racing and/or serious mountain climbing, but for a relaxed cruise through the neighborhood, the park or along the bay, it's not very comfortable.
Traditional position:
- Back is curved forward
- Weight is on hands
- Neck is bent to see ahead of you
- Feet can't reach the ground while in seated position
- Improved level of comfort and control
- Upright seating
- Relaxed arm position
- Wider view of the road
- Allows riders to place their feet on the ground while still sitting in the saddle
Again, this is only offered by Electra Bikes, a company that makes bikes "for the rest of us" (quoted from the San Diego Tribune). Luckily, they make a huge selection of them: basic beach cruisers, high-end fashion bikes, geared beach cruisers, Townies, 21-speed Townies with front shock, and now, even an Electric Bike!
As you look around and see people 'cruising', you'll see most of them ride Electras. They are carried by a number of shops - and we highly recommend you support a local bike shop because it's the mom & pop shops that really put a lot of care into the build up and maintenance of your bike (but that's a blog for another time).
WARNING - if you punch in 'Townie' as a search (a popular pedal-forward Electra bike), you'll frequently find results of bikes that are NOT Townies (wrong brand - e.g. Micargi) and of stores that DO NOT carry Townies or any Electra bikes (e.g. Walmart). Make sure you take time to find an Electra bike that comes with Flat Foot Technology and test-ride it.
You won't regret it.
This blog, by the way, is especially for all of you who think you're too old or too uncoordinated to ride a bicycle. Call us, come by to test ride a Townie or even an adult trike.
No excuses, get out on a bike and ride!
Sylvia @ A & B Cycle
