Changing the rear cog on a Walmart Schwinn?

Generaly, bike are pretty simple devices machanically and my moto is, if it was put together, there generally is a way to take them apart.  Of course, if there is glue,welds, or parts that snap together (like a zip tie type thing) it get's a lot harder.

So that being said, I'm sure you can find the basic tools around to take it apart and replace parts.  My biggest concern is can you find replacement parts?  Especially non OEM parts.

Like other said, have you riden the bike?  The low end gears on cruisers are pretty easy unless you are going up a steep hill.  If you make them TOO easy, you may not be able to get enough speed to stay upright.

If the OP would, tell us the gear ratio on the cruiser.  I'm wondering if it's the same as a MTB or not.  Just curious.

If you're doing it just once, I think it would be more ideal just to take it to the shop and have them do it.

I bought a chain whip and cassette remover because I have a wheel cover to make my wheel a disc, and you have to take the cassette off each time you put the cover on/off as it goes behind the cassette close to the spokes.

Those tools ran about $30.

I may do that if she decides it is too hard. I actually have a chain whip and freewheel remover, but I don't think they'll work on this bike.

I did take a quick look at the gearing. One ring on front..looks like a 53.  Looks like the large cog on back is about 28.  Should be fine, but did not feel like an easy spin to me.  The wheels are 700's with fairly wide tires, but not as wide as an mtb. The bike is 45lbs.  I'll just see what she says and take it to the shop if she thinks she needs something easier. It almost seems like going to a smaller ring in the front would be the thing to do.  Wouldn't hurt for them to go over it anyway.  For what she paid, she'll still come out ahead. It was $65 on clearance. Actually a nice bike for the price. Hard to imagine spending that on a whole bike for most of us : )

The freewheel on this bike may be a splined pattern but it's worth checking. Some bikes in that category also use a four-notched tool to remove the freewheel assembly.

As the others have mentioned a local bike shop should be able to swap this out quickly for easier gearing for well under $50 total labour and parts.

Other strategies to make the bike easier to pedal that you are likely already aware of is correct saddle height and adequate air pressure in the tires.

Best of luck with this and nice of you to lend a helping hand!