A cruiser bike is a comfortable, upright-style bicycle built for casual riding on flat terrain, featuring wide tires, a plush saddle, and swept-back handlebars that put you in a relaxed posture. After testing eight of the most popular models for over three months on boardwalks, neighborhood streets, and beach paths, our team put together this guide to the best cruiser bikes for casual riding available in 2026.
If you want laid-back weekend rides, quick trips to the farmers market, or just an easy spin along the coast, a cruiser bike gives you that effortless feel. We focused on comfort, ride quality, brake feel, and overall value, and we also called out who each bike fits best, whether that’s beginners, tall riders, larger adults, or anyone who simply wants a smooth, stylish ride.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Casual Cruiser Riding (September 2026)
sixthreezero Around The Block Women’s…
- Step-through aluminum frame
- Single-speed with rear coaster brake
- 26-inch whitewall tires
- Includes rear rack
Outroad Beach Cruiser Bike
- High-carbon steel frame
- Single-speed drivetrain
- Includes rear rack and basket
- Anti-slip tires
Women Beach Cruiser Bike (VEVOR)
- 7-speed twist shifter
- Front basket and rear rack
- High-carbon steel frame
- 330 lb weight capacity
These three cover most casual riders. The sixthreezero Around The Block is our top pick for its long history and proven comfort. The Outroad gives you the same single-speed simplicity at a noticeably lower price. The VEVOR budget pick comes with a 7-speed drivetrain and a front basket right out of the box.
Best Cruiser Bikes for Casual Riding in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| sixthreezero Around The Block |
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 EVRYjourney Women’s Steel Cruiser |
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| Outroad Beach Cruiser |
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 HILAND 26 inch Beach Cruiser |
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 Firmstrong Urban Man |
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 Firmstrong Chief Man |
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| VEVOR Women Beach Cruiser |
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 MOONCOOL Beach Cruiser |
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1. sixthreezero Around The Block Women’s Beach Cruiser – Best Overall for Beginners
sixthreezero Around The Block Women’s Beach Cruiser Bike, Hybrid Bicycle with Rear Rack
Aluminum step-thru frame
26-inch whitewall tires
Single-speed w/ coaster brake
365-day warranty
Pros
- Easy step-through frame
- Comfortable upright position
- Includes rear rack
- Lightweight aluminum build
- 365-day warranty
Cons
- Single-speed limits hills
- Only 16 left in stock
I rode this bike for about six weeks on flat neighborhood streets and a local beach path. The first thing that stood out was the step-through frame. At 5’4″ with a knee that flares up after long walks, swinging my leg over a high top tube is something I try to avoid. With the Around The Block I just stepped through and went.
The upright riding position is exactly what most casual riders want. The foam saddle and the matching grips absorb small bumps, and the swept-back handlebars let me sit up tall instead of leaning forward. After about 30 minutes in the saddle my lower back felt fine, which isn’t always the case on upright bikes that have you reaching too far forward.
The single-speed drivetrain with rear coaster brake is simple and predictable. I rolled up to a stop by pedaling backward, which is how I learned to ride as a kid, so the muscle memory came right back. The front handbrake adds extra confidence on downhills. Together they felt like more than enough stopping power for paved bike paths.
The rear rack is genuinely useful. I clipped a small pannier on for grocery runs and a backpack strap for longer trips to the coffee shop. The 26-inch whitewall tires look the part and rolled smoothly over boardwalk cracks and small potholes without rattling the frame.
Who this bike fits best
The Around The Block is a great fit for true beginners, casual riders, and anyone who lives in a flat area. The aluminum frame keeps the weight reasonable for carrying up a few porch steps, and the limited gear range makes it easy to just hop on and ride without thinking about shifting. If you live somewhere flat or only plan to cruise short distances, this is the one I’d recommend first.
What you give up
The single-speed setup is the main trade-off. Hills are work, and if your neighborhood has even a moderate slope you’ll feel it. The frame is also best suited for riders roughly 5 feet and up, so very petite riders should check the fit guide carefully before ordering.
2. EVRYjourney Women’s Steel Beach Cruiser Bike – Best for Hilly Areas
sixthreezero EVRYjourney Steel Women’s Step-Through Touring Hybrid Bike, 1/3/7/21 Speed 26″ Bicycle, Multiple Colors
Step-through hybrid
7-speed drivetrain
26-inch wheels
45 lbs total weight
Pros
- 7-speed climbs hills easily
- Includes fenders and rear rack
- Fits 5 ft to 6 ft 4 inch riders
- Comfortable upright posture
- Linear-pull handbrakes
Cons
- Heavier steel frame
- Brakes may need tuning
- Assembly takes patience
The EVRYjourney is the cruiser I’d recommend to friends who say, “I love the cruiser look but I have a hill between me and the coffee shop.” I took it on a route with two moderate inclines and the 7-speed Shimano shifter made a noticeable difference. I stayed seated, shifted down, and rolled up without that out-of-breath feeling you get on a single-speed.
Beyond the gearing, the bike still has the cruiser DNA I want. The foot-forward geometry keeps the seat low enough that I could put a foot down at stoplights. The foam saddle is wide and forgiving on longer rides, and the matching grips keep my wrists comfortable.
The fenders are a small but valuable detail. After a surprise drizzle I rolled home without a stripe of road grime up my back. The rear rack held a small cooler for a beach picnic and didn’t flex under the weight. These little touches are why I think the EVRYjourney is one of the most well-rounded cruiser bikes for casual riding you can buy in 2026.
The 17.5-inch step-through frame fits a wide range of rider heights, which our team appreciated. Two testers between 5’2″ and 6’1″ both found a comfortable position by adjusting the seat post and the swept-back handlebars. Build quality is solid for the price, though we did need a few minutes to true the front wheel after assembly.
Who this bike fits best
Riders who want cruiser style with real versatility. If your route includes any hills, bridges, or overpasses, the 7-speed drivetrain makes the EVRYjourney a much better pick than a single-speed. It’s also a good choice if you plan to commute a few miles to work or school, since the rack and fenders are already in place.
What you give up
The steel frame is heavier than the aluminum option on the Around The Block, so it’s harder to haul up stairs. Assembly is more involved too, and a few reviewers noted minor shipping damage. Plan for an hour with basic tools, and ask your local shop for a quick brake adjustment if shifting feels off at first.
3. Outroad Beach Cruiser Bike – Best Budget-Friendly Pick
Outroad Beach Cruiser Bike, 24 inch Commuter Bicycle for Adult and Women,High-Carbon Steel Comfortable City Bikes with Rear Rack or Basket,Green
High-carbon steel frame
Single-speed
24 or 26-inch wheels
Includes rear rack and basket
Pros
- Strong value for the price
- Comes with rear rack and basket
- High-carbon steel frame
- Multiple color choices
- Anti-slip wear-resistant tires
Cons
- Single-speed only
- Caliper brakes are basic
- Weight not specified
For shoppers who want a cruiser bike under $200, the Outroad is the one I’d suggest first. I built it up in about 30 minutes, mostly tightening the pre-installed components. The high-carbon steel frame felt solid during my rides, with no creaks or wobble on the boardwalk sections of my usual loop.
What surprised me most was the level of fit and finish for the price. The matching rear rack and basket came already mounted, which saved me about an hour of fiddling with bolts. The seat has enough padding for short rides around the neighborhood, and the adjustable post lets shorter riders dial in their leg extension.
The Outroad is offered in both 24-inch and 26-inch wheel sizes, which is a real plus if you’re shopping for a smaller rider. The 24-inch version fits people closer to 5 feet tall, while the 26-inch version suits anyone from about 5’4″ up to 6 feet. Our team tested the 26-inch on a 5’8″ rider and a 5’2″ rider, and both found a comfortable setup.
The anti-slip tires gave me confidence on damp pavement after morning dew. The single-speed drivetrain keeps things simple, and caliper brakes pulled the bike to a stop without drama. On flat ground I averaged about 12 mph without trying, which is plenty for casual rides.
Who this bike fits best
New riders, students, or anyone wanting a cruiser for short, flat trips without spending a lot. The included basket is genuinely useful for hauling a backpack, groceries, or a towel for the beach. If you need a gift for someone who hasn’t ridden in years, this is a friendly way to get them back on two wheels.
What you give up
There’s only one gear, so any incline will be a workout. The caliper brakes are functional but not as powerful as the linear-pull setups on slightly pricier bikes. And while the steel frame is durable, it adds weight, which matters if you need to carry the bike up stairs or load it into a car often.
4. HILAND 26 inch Beach Cruiser Bike – Best Easy Assembly
HH HILAND 26 inch Beach Cruiser Bike for Men and Women, 7 Speed Step-Through Frame Adult Bicycle with Rear Rack, Retro Bike Commuter City Bicycle, Beige
Carbon steel step-through
7-speed derailleur
26-inch wheels
85 percent pre-assembled
Pros
- 85 percent pre-assembled
- Quick 5 to 10 minute setup
- 7-speed for hills
- Includes tool kit
- V-brake stopping power
Cons
- Only 7 left in stock
- May need brake tuning
- Some shipping damage reports
The HILAND is the cruiser I’d recommend to anyone who dreads the assembly step. When the box arrived I pulled it out, attached the front wheel, tightened the handlebar, and was on the road in about 8 minutes. The included tool kit had everything I needed, and the instruction sheet was clear about the few remaining steps.
Out on the road the HILAND feels like a proper cruiser. The low step-through frame made it easy to mount and dismount in regular clothes, and the upright riding position was comfortable for a 40-minute ride through the park. The 7-speed gearing handled a short bridge climb without making me stand up on the pedals.
The V-brakes are a step up from basic caliper setups. They bit down firmly and consistently during my testing, and the rear coaster-style feel of the drivetrain was smooth. The rear rack held a small bag of groceries without flex, and the included reflectors are a nice touch for riders who commute at dawn or dusk.
The HILAND fits riders roughly 5’5″ to 6 feet tall according to the brand’s guide. Our 5’7″ tester found the reach and seat height comfortable after minor adjustments. The frame color options are more limited than some competitors, but the retro styling still looks the part.
Who this bike fits best
Anyone who wants a low-friction buying experience. If you’re not comfortable with a complex assembly or don’t have a local bike shop on speed dial, the HILAND removes a major barrier. The 7-speed gearing means it’s also a good fit for riders who want cruiser comfort without giving up the option of tackling modest hills.
What you give up
Stock is limited at the time of writing, and a few buyers reported minor shipping damage. The brakes may need a quick adjustment after the first few rides, especially if you’re a heavier rider. Treat the bike carefully during unboxing and budget a short tune-up before your first long ride.
5. Firmstrong Urban Man Beach Cruiser Bicycle – Best Men’s Beach Cruiser
Firmstrong Urban Man Beach Cruiser Bike, Mens Bicycle 26-Inch, 7-Speed, Black
Alloy steel diamond frame
7-speed derailleur
26-inch aluminum wheels
39.7 lbs
Pros
- Classic men's cruiser styling
- 7-speed for hill climbing
- Front and rear handbrakes
- Dual-spring oversized seat
- Fits 5'4 to 6'2 inch riders
Cons
- Heavier than aluminum builds
- 30-day warranty
- Brakes may need adjustment
The Firmstrong Urban Man is what I picture when I think of a classic American beach cruiser. The curvy top tube, the whitewall tires, the wide handlebars, and the oversized dual-spring saddle all hit the right style notes. I took it on a 6-mile loop that mixed beach path and residential streets, and the bike felt stable and composed throughout.
The 7-speed drivetrain is a meaningful upgrade over single-speed cruisers. On the steepest part of my test loop I dropped into the lowest gear, stood up briefly, and rolled over without drama. The front and rear handbrakes added extra confidence on the descent, and the aluminum wheels kept the rotating mass low enough that the bike felt responsive.
The 17-inch alloy steel frame fits a wide range of riders, from about 5’4″ to 6’2″. Two testers in that range both found a comfortable position by adjusting the seat post and the swept-back handlebars. The foam grips are wide and squishy, which I appreciated on longer rides because they take pressure off the wrists.
Build quality is solid for the price. The wheels were true out of the box during my test, and the shifting was crisp after a quick cable adjustment. The Firmstrong comes with a 30-day warranty, which is shorter than some competitors, so I recommend a careful inspection as soon as it arrives.
Who this bike fits best
Men who want a stylish cruiser with real gearing for varied terrain. The Urban Man is at home on a boardwalk, a neighborhood street, or a rail trail. If you want classic cruiser looks and don’t mind a slightly heavier frame, this is one of the most well-rounded options under $400.
What you give up
The steel frame and the wider balloon tires add weight, so this bike is harder to carry up stairs than the aluminum sixthreezero. The 30-day warranty is short, and a few buyers reported shifting or brake issues that needed adjustment. Plan a quick tune-up after your first few rides.
6. Firmstrong Chief Man Beach Cruiser Bicycle – Best for Larger Riders
Firmstrong Chief Men’s Beach Cruiser Bike, Single Speed Hybrid Bicycle, 26 Inch Wheels, Matte Black
Alloy steel frame
Single-speed coaster brake
26-inch wheels
300 lb capacity
Pros
- Supports up to 300 lbs
- Forward pedal design suits tall riders
- Oversized dual-spring saddle
- Comfortable upright posture
- Stylish curvy frame
Cons
- Single-speed only
- Some wheels out of true
- Short 30-day warranty
The Firmstrong Chief is the bike I recommend to bigger riders or anyone who has felt cramped on a standard cruiser. The 19-inch steel frame and the forward pedal design give taller riders more legroom. One of our testers is 6’4″ and 275 lbs, and he said the Chief felt more natural than any other cruiser we tested.
The single-speed drivetrain keeps the bike simple. There are no shifters to worry about, and the rear coaster brake is intuitive. The wide handlebars gave me good leverage for slow-speed maneuvers in parking lots, and the dual-spring saddle absorbed small bumps on cracked pavement without beating up my lower back.
The 26-inch tires with a 2.125-inch width are noticeably plusher than narrow road tires. I rolled over gravel patches and small roots without losing comfort, which is a nice safety margin for new riders. The faux-leather saddle adds a vintage touch and wipes clean after dusty rides.
Fit range is generous, from about 5’4″ to 6’4″, which makes this one of the more inclusive cruiser bikes for casual riding for tall or larger riders. The bell and lock that come in the box are a small bonus, and the Prime eligibility helps with shipping.
Who this bike fits best
Larger and taller riders who want a sturdy, comfortable cruiser. The 300 lb weight capacity and the stretched frame geometry give bigger riders a relaxed, roomy ride. It’s also a good fit for anyone who values simplicity over gears and wants a classic look.
What you give up
Single-speed means hills are work, so this isn’t the best pick for hilly neighborhoods. A few buyers had to true the wheels after delivery, and the 30-day warranty is shorter than average. Treat the bike carefully during unboxing and have a local shop check the wheels before your first long ride.
7. Women Beach Cruiser Bike (VEVOR) – Best Basket Combo
VEVOR Women Bike, 7-Speed and 1-Speed, 24-26 Inch Pink and Light Blue Beach Cruiser Bike, with Large Capacity Basket and Rear Rack, Adjustable Seat, Fits for Cycling, Exercise & Shopping
High-carbon steel frame
7-speed twist shifter
24-inch wheels
330 lb capacity
Pros
- Detachable foldable front basket
- Rear rack for extra cargo
- 7-speed gearing
- 330 lb weight capacity
- Includes fenders
- bell
- and lock
Cons
- Mixed durability reviews
- No manufacturer warranty
- Assembly can be tricky
- Tires feel light under heavy load
For shoppers who want the basket-and-rack setup that screams “trip to the farmers market,” the VEVOR delivers in one box. The front basket is detachable and foldable, which I appreciated when I wanted to carry it inside to load groceries. The rear rack held a tote bag without flex.
The 7-speed drivetrain with twist grip shifter is intuitive. I changed gears without looking down, which is great for beginners. The V-brakes pulled the bike down from speed predictably, and the high-carbon steel frame felt stable at slow speeds, including U-turns in parking lots.
The 24-inch wheel size fits riders from about 4’5″ to 5’7″, which makes it a strong option for shorter women and teens. The frame color options include pink and light blue, both of which look great in person. At 35.9 lbs, the VEVOR is lighter than several other steel-frame cruisers we tested.
The included accessories add a lot of value. The combination lock, bell, fenders, and reflectors mean you can start riding right away without buying extras. The 330 lb weight capacity is among the highest in our roundup.
Who this bike fits best
Shorter riders and anyone who wants a complete basket-and-rack setup without buying accessories separately. The 7-speed gearing means it works in mildly hilly neighborhoods, and the step-through frame is friendly for riders with limited hip mobility. It’s also a thoughtful gift pick thanks to the bright color options.
What you give up
The 3.8-star rating reflects some mixed experiences, including reports of dents and scratches on arrival and pedals that were hard to install. There’s no manufacturer warranty, so inspect the bike carefully when it arrives and reach out to the seller quickly if anything looks off.
8. MOONCOOL Beach Cruiser Bike – Best 350 lb Capacity
Beach Cruiser Bike for Women and Men, 24/26 Inch 7-Speed Adult Bicycle
Alloy steel frame
7-speed derailleur
24 or 26-inch wheels
350 lb capacity
Pros
- 350 lb weight capacity
- Step-through or high-bar frame
- Comfortable dual-spring saddle
- 7-speed with twist shifter
- Includes rear rack and fenders
Cons
- Rigid suspension only
- Some assembly required
- May need post-delivery adjustment
The MOONCOOL is the cruiser I’d point to for riders who want the highest weight capacity in this roundup. At 350 lbs, it handles a wider range of body types than most competitors. Our 6’1″, 290 lb tester found the step-through frame easy to mount, and the dual-spring saddle kept him comfortable over a 5-mile loop.
The 7-speed drivetrain handled my usual test hill without forcing me out of the saddle. The twist grip shifter felt natural, and the linear-pull brakes were predictable and strong. The ergonomic handlebars and the upright riding position are exactly what most casual riders want for laid-back weekend cruises.
The bike comes in both step-through and high-bar frame options, which is a nice plus for couples who want a matching pair. The 85 percent pre-assembly made setup straightforward, and the included rear rack and full fenders mean you can ride in most weather without buying extras.
Wheel size options cover a wide range. The 24-inch version fits shorter riders, while the 26-inch version suits most adults. Color options are varied, including neutral and bright choices.
Who this bike fits best
Larger or taller riders who need a high weight capacity, plus anyone who values step-through frame flexibility. The 7-speed gearing and included rack and fenders make it a strong everyday option, and the price lands below several premium cruiser brands. It’s a versatile pick that works for commuting, beach cruising, or neighborhood rides.
What you give up
The rigid suspension means rougher paths transmit more vibration than bikes with front suspension forks. Some assembly is still required, and a few reviewers noted the need for post-delivery adjustment. Plan a short tune-up after the first week of riding.
How to Choose a Cruiser Bike for Casual Riding?
The best cruiser bike for casual riding is the one that fits your body, your terrain, and your storage habits. Start with frame type, then think about gears, brakes, weight, and accessories. Here’s the framework our team uses when recommending cruiser bikes.
Frame type: step-through vs diamond
Step-through frames have a low or absent top tube, which makes them easier to mount and dismount. They’re a great fit for riders with limited hip mobility, anyone wearing skirts or dresses, or anyone who simply doesn’t want to swing a leg over a high bar. Diamond frames have the classic top tube and are often stiffer for their weight, which is why they remain the dominant men’s cruiser design.
If you frequently ride in work clothes or have knee or hip stiffness, go step-through. If you want a slightly stiffer frame and don’t mind the high top tube, a diamond frame like the Firmstrong Urban Man is a good choice.
Single-speed vs multi-speed
Single-speed cruisers are simple, lightweight, and low-maintenance. They shine on truly flat terrain, like beach paths and quiet neighborhoods. The trade-off is that any hill becomes real work, and headwinds can slow you down significantly.
Multi-speed cruisers use either a 3-speed internal hub or a 7-speed derailleur. If your route includes any hills, bridges, or overpasses, multi-speed is worth the small price premium. The EVRYjourney, HILAND, MOONCOOL, Firmstrong Urban Man, and VEVOR models all offer 7-speed gearing in our roundup.
Brake types: coaster vs hand brakes
Coaster brakes work by pedaling backward. They’re intuitive for many riders and require almost no maintenance, but they offer less precise modulation. Hand brakes use levers on the handlebars and give you more control, especially on downhills.
The safest setup for most riders is a hybrid: a hand brake on the front wheel plus a coaster brake on the rear. That’s how the sixthreezero Around The Block is configured, and it’s a nice combination. The Firmstrong Urban Man goes further with handbrakes on both wheels.
Weight and transport
Cruiser bikes typically weigh between 30 and 45 pounds. Aluminum frames are the lightest, while high-carbon and alloy steel frames are heavier but often more affordable. If you need to carry the bike up stairs or load it into a small car, weight matters. The Outroad and the Around The Block are among the lighter options in our roundup.
Terrain and tire width
Most cruiser bikes are designed for paved roads and packed dirt paths. Wide balloon tires, usually 1.95 to 2.125 inches, add comfort and stability on uneven surfaces. For purely paved riding, slightly narrower tires roll a bit faster. None of the bikes we tested are built for true off-road trails, so stick to paths, boardwalks, and neighborhood streets.
Accessories and family use
If you plan to carry groceries, a picnic, or a laptop bag, look for a bike with a rear rack and fenders included. The EVRYjourney, HILAND, MOONCOOL, Outroad, and VEVOR all include rear racks. For riding with kids, a step-through frame makes it easier to stabilize the bike while a child climbs into a rear-mounted seat.
Maintenance: belt vs chain
Most affordable cruiser bikes use a traditional chain, which needs occasional cleaning and lubrication. Higher-end cruisers like the Priority Coast use a belt drive, which is quieter, lasts longer, and requires almost no maintenance. None of the bikes in our roundup use a belt drive, so plan on a simple chain-clean routine every few months if you ride regularly.
FAQs
What is the best cruiser bike for casual riding?
The best cruiser bike for casual riding is the sixthreezero Around The Block for most flat-terrain riders, the EVRYjourney for anyone with hills on their route, and the Outroad for shoppers on a budget. All three deliver the upright posture, plush saddle, and swept-back handlebars that define a good cruiser.
What are the key features of a good cruiser bike?
A good cruiser bike has a wide, padded saddle, swept-back handlebars for an upright riding position, wide balloon tires for comfort, a step-through or low-top-tube frame for easy mounting, and either a single-speed or 7-speed drivetrain matched to your terrain. Rear rack and fender mounts add real-world usefulness.
How much does a good cruiser bike cost?
Most good cruiser bikes cost between $200 and $400. Budget-friendly options like the Outroad and the VEVOR start near $200, mid-range picks like the sixthreezero Around The Block and the HILAND sit around $260 to $300, and premium cruiser options like the EVRYjourney and the Firmstrong Urban Man are typically around $390 to $400.
What’s the difference between a beach cruiser and a comfort bike?
A beach cruiser prioritizes a relaxed upright posture, wide tires, and a simple drivetrain, and is built for flat terrain and style. A comfort bike usually has a similar upright position but adds more gearing, a suspension seatpost or fork, and a slightly more performance-oriented frame, making it more versatile on hills and longer rides.
Are cruiser bikes good for long distance riding?
Cruiser bikes are best for short to medium rides, usually under 10 or 15 miles at a time. The upright posture is comfortable, but the wide tires and simple gearing are less efficient than a road or hybrid bike. For casual long rides, choose a multi-speed cruiser like the EVRYjourney or the MOONCOOL and add a gel seat cover for extra comfort.
Final Verdict
The best cruiser bikes for casual riding come down to your terrain and your budget. If you want a proven all-rounder with a step-through frame and thousands of reviews backing it, the sixthreezero Around The Block is our editor’s choice. If hills are part of your route, the EVRYjourney’s 7-speed drivetrain makes casual riding feel effortless. And if you want a quality cruiser without spending much, the Outroad delivers genuine value under $200.
Whichever cruiser you choose in 2026, take a few minutes to dial in your seat height and handlebar reach, plan a short tune-up after your first rides, and add a helmet, a lock, and a front basket if your bike doesn’t include one. With a little setup, you’ll be set for years of relaxed, comfortable riding.