Upright Doesn’t Mean the Same Thing: Why xdsbike and Firmstrong Feel Different on the Road

One thing we hear a lot is this: “If I want to sit upright, I should just get a cruiser.”

It sounds reasonable—but once you actually ride different bikes, you realize it’s not that simple. These days, bikes like the xdsbike Explorer CT or Cross 200 also let you sit upright and stay comfortable. At a glance, the position can look pretty similar to something like a Firmstrong Urban.

But once you start riding, the difference shows up pretty quickly.

1. How an xdsbike Feels on the Road

On an xdsbike hybrid, the first thing most people notice is how easy it is to keep moving. Even with a more upright position, the bike still feels responsive. It rolls a bit faster, and it’s easier to pick up speed without trying too hard.

That comes from a few things:

• Slightly narrower tires

• Lighter wheels

• Multi-speed gearing (usually 7 or 21-speed)

If you’re riding through the city, dealing with longer distances, or hitting the occasional hill, that setup just makes things easier. It’s still comfortable—but there’s a bit more of a “keep going” feeling to it.

2. How a Firmstrong Cruiser Feels Different

A Firmstrong cruiser has a different kind of ride. You’re still sitting upright, but the bike feels more relaxed overall. The wider tires and frame geometry make it feel a little slower, but also more stable and forgiving.

On rougher pavement, small cracks, or boardwalk sections, you don’t really have to think about the surface as much. The bike smooths things out. A lot of riders describe it the same way after a few rides: You’re not trying to go faster—you’re just riding.

3. Where Each One Makes More Sense

From everyday riding, the difference usually comes down to where you’re riding and what you expect from the bike.

xdsbike Explorer / Cross Series

• Better for longer paved routes

• Easier on hills

• More efficient if you’re riding regularly or commuting

Firmstrong Cruiser Series

• Better for shorter, relaxed rides

• More comfortable on uneven surfaces

• Easier to just hop on and go without thinking about gears

4. Which One Should You Pick?

It usually comes down to one simple question: What are you actually using the bike for?

Go with an xdsbike if:

• You ride longer distances.

• You have hills or mixed elevation on your route.

• You want something that still feels efficient under your feet.

Go with a Firmstrong if:

• Your rides are shorter and more relaxed.

• Comfort and vibration absorption matter more than speed.

• You want something simple and low-maintenance.

5. Final Thought

Both bikes let you sit upright—but they don’t feel the same once you’re moving. One leans more toward efficiency. The other leans more toward comfort. Neither is “better.” It just depends on what kind of ride you want to have that day.