The Stingray
The classic lowrider bicycle is the Schwinn Stingray of the 1960s. The bike had high handlebars, a big comfy banana seat, small wheels and plenty of chrome fittings.
Origins
The lowrider bicycle was essentially a kid's version of the lowrider car movement. The bikes therefore shared many of the stylistic features of those classic cars.
Modifications
It was not uncommon to modify these bicycles to make them even more showy. Common custom modifications would include decorative parts to make the bike look more like a motorcycle or bending the frame so it rode even lower to the ground.
Decline
Bike designs like the lowrider and the cruiser, with their style-over-substance ethos, were displaced by the growing popularity of BMX dirt bikes, 10-speed racing bikes and utility roadster bikes.
Southern California
The lowrider never truly went out of fashion, however, especially in Southern California and among the Hispanic community there.
Revival
Interest in classic retro bikes like the lowrider and cruiser took off in the late 1990s, causing a renewal in their popularity. Today, companies like Street Lowrider and Aztlan specialize in making lowrider bikes.
Article Written By Edwin Thomas
Edwin Thomas has been writing since 1997. His work has appeared in various online publications, including The Black Table, Proboxing-Fans and others. A travel blogger, editor and writer, Thomas has traveled from Argentina to Vietnam in pursuit of stories. He holds a Master of Arts in international affairs from American University.
