Electra Townie Bicycles

Townie. This bike’s innovation was what the company calls “Flat Foot Technology.” Simply put, when the rider is sitting on the saddle, his or her feet can still stand flat on the ground, making the rider feel much safer and more comfortable. At the same time, riders can still get full extension when they pedal. Baenziger achieved this breakthrough by combining the cruiser frame with some of the geometry of recumbent bikes, moving the pedals forward and the seat back. Although ads claim that the design is easier on the back and knees than traditional bicycles, the real advantage is that novice riders feel at ease on the bike.

The Townie is the embodiment of the “bikes for people who don’t ride bikes” Electra philosophy. The design has won wide acclaim and has enticed many older Americans back onto a bike. The Townie is an ideal first bike or re-entry bike for lapsed riders, because it is easy and comfortable to ride, and the “flat foot” design overcomes the number one fear of many non-cyclists: falling off the bike. "The bike had to be easy to ride and put a smile on your face," Baenziger says.