I’m not exactly a handy guy. Though I compulsively read Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, Robert M. Pirsig’s 1974 existential juggernaut about working through life’s philosophical con-undrums while tending to the ailments of an old bike, my fascination never translated into practical knowledge. I can’t even change the oil, let alone replace a carburetor. But the mere sight of an engine triggers some primal urge to pick up a wrench and tinker with it.
That’s rarely a good idea, unless we’re talking about the Motoped Cruzer. Designed to replicate classic motorcycles from the early20th century, the Cruzer combines a mountain-bike frame with a 49cc engine and adds retro details like wood fenders and a leather saddle. The best part: you can assemble it yourself in a long weekend. (You’ll need a Phillips screwdriver, a metric socket set, Allen wrenches, a hacksaw, and a small favor froma buddy with a steering-headset press.)
The results may looklike something out of Mad Max, but this bike is built for beach missions. The Cruzer’s tank holds 1.3 gallons, enough to travel 150 miles, and it tops out at 24 miles per hour. Best of all, you don’t have to use the engine; you can rip up and down your favorite coastal roads looking for the perfect beach break, then cut the motor and pedal the bike right onto the sand.
From $3,249,