A lowrider is a vehicle with a modified suspension system that lets it ride as low to the ground as possible. The suspensions are usually modified hydraulic suspensions. Lowriders are mostly classic cars from the 1950’s which already rode low. A large number of cars from the 1940’s and 1960’s are also modified into lowriders. The owner of such a vehicle is also referred to as a lowrider.

Lowriders are often custom vehicles designed to look flashy with expensive custom paintjobs. They traditionally have small solid or chrome spoke wheels. They also have a number of exterior body enhancements such as neon or LED lights, curb-feelers, tinted windows, spoilers, and fifth wheels. Some of the more detailed vehicles have engine and exhaust modifications and beautifications. The interiors of these vehicles are elaborately done up with leather or velvet or with a variety of lights, gold or chrome accents, and woodgrain panels. The iconic chain link steering wheel is also part of the entire interior setup of the vehicle. Most cars are setup with a combination of mobile audio and electronic devices. The key element to the lowrider is its suspension. Most lowriders feature a custom hydraulic system that provides the rider with the flexibility to alter the ride height at will. These hydraulic systems vary from simple to complex and have a combination of switches that are used to control the hydraulic suspensions.

A new generation of lowride bicycles and even some motorbikes has been inspired by the lowrider tradition. They make use of suspension designs that have been deemed redundant by modern design principles.