CRUISING
SYMPTOMS: The desire to style and flash amidst a maelstrom of Henna tattoos, sidewalk performers and tourlsb or to roll comfortably across Martha's Vineyard.
SYMPTOMS: An acute need to commute to your local surf break. CONDITIONS: Trestles in San Clemente is one of Southern California's best surf breaks. The only catch, the break is more than a mile from the nearest park· ing spot.
Xtracycle Whether hauling groceries, a quiver of surf- boards, or your date, the Xtracycle is one of the most eco-friendly ways to go. Billed as the SUB (Sport-Utility Bicycle), it attaches to most any bike. For beach riding, bikes such as an Electra cruiser (www.electrabike.com) are ideal, but the Xtracycle works with mountain bikes or other geared machines for heavier dates or more grueling terrain. Xtracycle, 888-537-1401, www.xtracycle.com. $390
1> Schwinn Panther All blacked out with a low-tech look, the Panther isn't a prima facie threat. But when the imaginary starting gun fires, you'll leave other cruisers behind as you smoke down the bike path in a blur of cool. Beneath this retro design brews a svelte aluminum frame with mountain bike geometry, alloy cranks and alloy wheels. All told, it's a feathery 23.5 pounds. The Moby Bite slicks are cushy, roll fast and grip well on those fast, sandy cor- ners. The Panther is also set up to add gears should you fancy them. Schwinn, 800-SCHWINN, www.schwinn.com. $560
2> Bianchi Auto Milano This is the martini of cruising bicycles: sophisticated yet intoxicating. Stylish, too. Indeed, people are literally drawn to it. The Auto Milano is designed for slow, predictable handling--ideal for those times when your judgment is somewhat impaired. Highlighting this cafe cruiser is Shimano's Auto-D dri- vetrain-a battery-powered, intemally geared hub that changes gears (one to four) according to speed and grade. The front brake features an antilock mechanism and the seat has bui~-in taillights, which can be set to flash. Bianchi, 510-264-1001 , www.bianchiusa.com. $700
