One of the first questions we hear at the shop is simple: should I get an e-bike or a regular beach cruiser? Both are great ways to see Marathon. The right pick depends on how far you want to go, who is riding with you, and how much of your vacation you want to spend pedaling into the wind. Here is how we help people decide.
The Case for a Beach Cruiser
A beach cruiser is the classic Keys ride. Upright seat, wide handlebars, comfortable tires, and nothing to charge. If your plans are mostly short hops, a cruiser is hard to beat: a morning coffee run, a ride to dinner, a lap around your neighborhood at sunset, or a trip down to the beach.
Marathon is flat, so you will not be fighting hills. Cruisers are also easy for most riders to get comfortable on in a minute or two. We carry both men's and women's cruisers, plus a tandem if you and your partner want to share the work (and the view).
A cruiser is a good fit if you:
• Plan to stay within a few miles of where you are staying
• Like a relaxed pace and an easy, low-maintenance ride
• Want a bike to keep at the rental for the whole trip
The Case for an E-Bike
Flat roads do not mean easy riding. The trade winds in the Keys can be steady, and a headwind on the way home can turn a fun outing into a workout. That is where an e-bike shines. Pedal assist gives you a boost when you want it, so you can cover more ground and still feel fresh when you arrive.
We rent two e-bike models: the City Scape 2.0 and the Ranger 3.0. E-bikes are available for 2 hours, 4 hours or a full day, which makes them easy to fit around the rest of your plans.
An e-bike is a good fit if you:
• Want to ride the Old Seven Mile Bridge out to Pigeon Key and back
• Are riding with people of different fitness levels and want to keep the group together
• Would rather explore farther than you would on a regular bike
Thinking About the Old Seven Mile Bridge?
The ride out to Pigeon Key on the Old Seven Mile Bridge is one of the most popular outings in Marathon, and both bike types can do it. Out on the bridge there is no shade and often a breeze, so many riders choose an e-bike for this one. If you would rather go at your own pace on a cruiser, that works too. Just bring water, sunscreen and sunglasses, and plan your ride for the cooler part of the day.
For more on the ride itself, see our guide to riding the Old Seven Mile Bridge to Pigeon Key on this blog.
Mixing and Matching for a Group
You do not have to choose one type for everyone. Families and groups often rent a mix: an e-bike or two for the riders who want help with the wind, and cruisers for the ones who like a classic ride. It is an easy way to make sure everyone enjoys the trip.
A few tips that apply to any bike:
• Helmets are free with every bike rental, and we recommend wearing one
• Use the bike paths and stay alert at driveways and intersections along Overseas Highway
• Carry water, especially on longer rides
• Lock up when you stop for a meal or a swim
Getting Your Bikes
Pickup is free at our shop at 2225 Overseas Hwy in Marathon (Mile Marker 48). We are open 8am to 6pm every day, holidays included. We also offer free delivery in Marathon, Coco Plum and Key Colony Beach, so your bikes can be waiting when you arrive.
Still not sure which one to choose? Call or text us at 305-900-7401 and we will help you pick the right ride for your plans. When you are ready, you can book your bikes online, along with beach chairs, coolers, snorkel gear and anything else you need for your trip.