My 3 Year Journey to Finding the Perfect Ride with Sole Bikes

As someone who has been riding bikes since I learned to walk, I‘m always on a quest to build my ultimate two-wheeled steed. Over the last few years and 15,000+ miles logged, I tested a wide range of models from beach cruisers to electric bikes made by California-based Sole Bikes.

Keep reading for the full low-down from sizing up the catalog to pulling the trigger and everything in between!

Falling for Sole Bikes

I distinctly remember walking past the new Sole store on Abbott Kinney in Venice Beach back in 2018. The gorgeous bikes on display instantly caught my eye. The vibrant colors, sweeping lines and performance-focused specs looked out-of-this world.

As a long-time tinkerer always wrenching in my garage on decades-old Schwinns, I appreciated the modern twist Sole Bikes put on classic silhouettes. Plus supporting a local brand sounded even sweeter.

Once I talked shop with the staffers and took a few models for a spin along the boardwalk, I knew I needed one (or maybe a small fleet!) to round out my quiver.

Comparing the Line-Up from Cruisers to eBikes

Here‘s a breakdown of the diverse line-up I tested ranked by my personal preference:

City/Commuters
Featuring single/fixed gears, slim tires and responsive steering, these lightweight rockets excel zipping around urban areas. The Fixie and Single Speed models shined brightest for me.

Top Pick: Duke II – Stunning matte black / white colorway with bullhorn bars optimized for speed

• Fixie/Single Speed – Lightning quick acceleration and stopping power
• Weight – 25 lbs
• Gears – Flip-flop hub easily swaps between fixie or freewheel
• Price – $550

Electric Bikes
Need a boost tackling hills or longer distances? Sole‘s electric bikes give you that added push topping 20+ MPH.

However, the 50+ lb weight makes lifting them challenging. So apartment dwellers may want to size down.

Top Pick: Miles Model C – All terrain machine with muscular frame and 25-40 mile range

• Motor – 500W rear hub powers climbs up to 7% grade
• Battery – 48V LG lithium ion cells
• Charge Time – 4-6 hours
• Price – $1900

Cruisers
With wide tires, upright seating and coaster brakes, Sole‘s cruisers keep things laidback from beach to market runs.

Top Pick: Sixthreezero Around the Block – Dual spring saddle and wicker basket add vintage vibes

• Frame – Steel stretches for comfort
• Handlebars – Upright posture eases pressure on back
• Brakes – Pedal backwards to engage rear brake
• Price – $420

Folding Bikes
When size matters, Sole‘s folding bike range collapse down for RV trips, boat rides and plane travel.

Top Pick: Mobility Folding Bike – Adjustable stem and seat post for ergonomic fit

• Folded Dimensions – 30" x 28" x 12"
• Weight – 30 lbs
• Wheels – 20" inflatable tires tackle trails
• Price – $610

Kids Bikes
Sole‘s kids collection scales down their popular big kid designs so pint-sized riders can keep pace on family rides.

Top Pick: Beach Cruiser – Coasting mode develops balance before braking

• Age Range – 3-5 years
• Frame Size – 10" fits kids 34-38" tall
• Brakes – Rear coaster brake + front hand brake
• Price – $240

Putting the Miles In

Through sun, rain and even some snow – I logged thousands of miles across Southern California testing Sole‘s two wheelers over varying terrain.

My weekly routine became group rides along San Diego‘s coastline, grocerry runs across West LA plus weekend trips exploring Joshua Tree and Death Valley.

Here‘s some key insights I gathered that could help you pick the perfect model to match your needs:

Budget
With options spanning $350 to $2500, Sole Bikes selection scales across budgets. But you get great quality components even at entry price points.

I‘d size your spend to how often and far you plan to ride. My recommendation – invest where it counts in the frame, drivetrain and brakes to get a bike that lasts years.

Gears
The Fixie and single speed models offer a responsive cadence for flat urban areas through their minimalist builds.

But the 7-speed and 21-speed options shine brighter hitting trails with shifts helping overcome inclines and variable terrain. The wider gear range better handles hills – saving wear and tear on joints too.

Customization
From handlebars to handlebar streamers – you can truly make a Sole bike your own with add-ons galore. Their in-house team even helped me swap out parts between models including saddles, racks and baskets.

Visit your local dealer to test components before custom ordering online. This ensures proper bike fit since arm/torso/leg length all impact ideal sizing.

Maintenance
While Sole‘s bikes required far less tuning than my older rigs, occasional maintenance is unavoidable. Expect a tune-up involving brake pads, cables, chain lubrication every 200 miles or so.

Luckily, their bikes are designed for easy servicing at home. I handled most minor adjustments myself thanks to the ample YouTube tutorials. When in doubt, the pros at my neighborhood bike shop got me safely rolling again.

Modifying and Upgrading

Similar to how auto enthusiasts soup up their rides, I enjoyed bolting on upgrades during my time with Sole‘s selection. Here were some of my favorite add-ons:

Electric Conversion Kit
Transform your regular bike into a DIY eBike with a simple rear wheel swap. For under $800, I converted my Single Speed into a hybrid model reaching 28 MPH top speeds!

Cargo Trailer
Haul the family pooch or a week‘s groceries using Sole‘s custom-fit cargo trailer. With a 50lb capacity, it securely mounts to seat posts with a simple thumb latch that swivels 360° effortlessly.

Phone Holder
Never miss a text or get lost even in unfamiliar areas. I loved the out-front phone mount keeping my iPhone X within sight to pull up Google Maps on the fly!

Bringing The Next Generation Into The Fold

From solo rides to family outings, cycling quickly became integral to everyday adventures. I loved passing on the two-wheeled tradition to my kids including teaching them bike safety basics.

By age 3, they each had a custom Sole cruiser dialed to their size featuring coaster brakes and training wheels. Watching their independence and confidence bloom reminded me why I fell in love with bikes decades ago!

The Verdict After 3 Sweet Years

15,000 miles and countless smiles later – I‘m proud to be part of the Sole Riders community. Their bikes deliver unmatched style, performance and personalization at every budget.

Whether you‘re a casual rider looking to upgrade your Schwinn or an eBike enthusiast chasing that electric buzz – visit your local Sole Bikes dealer.

Take a few models for a spin and I guarantee you‘ll discover a new set of wheels to feed your need for speed!

Ride on!