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Are you struggling to find a suitable bike as a heavy person? You’re not alone. My friend, who weighs over 250 lbs, faced the same problem. Unfortunately, there were not many quality resources on this topic.
So, I decided to create one. This article answers the question that makes you scratch your head:
What is a good bike for an overweight person?
Simply put, a good bike for a heavy person should have a sturdy frame, wheels, and a high weight limit (over 250 lbs [113 kg]). Mountain bikes, especially fat bikes like Mongoose Dolomite, are generally better suited for heavy riders. This is due to their sturdier construction and wider tires than road bikes.
However, I have good news if you are under 250 lbs (113 kg). Most of the standard bikes will support your weight! You can check out this bike category page and browse your desired bike types.
Let’s now dive deeper and explore some of the best bikes for heavy people evaluated based on my bikes for heavy people scoring system.
What Are the Best Bikes for Heavy Riders?
Below, you will find bikes with a weight limit of at least 300 lbs. Some of them can even carry up to 550 lbs!
In my research, I looked through dozens, maybe hundreds of bikes and found many hybrid and mountain bikes with high load capacities. Road and gravel bikes with a weight limit of 300 lbs or higher are rare. These bike types are not typically designed for overweight people.
On other websites, you may find road bikes recommended for heavy riders, but their limit is much lower. The authors put them there just to have them there. So, be careful!
The following table lists all the bikes from this article.
| Bike | Load Capacity | Type | Price Range | Link | Max Load | Comfort | Handling | Build Quality | Components | Accessories | Design | Weighted Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| State Bicycle 4130 ALL-ROAD | 300 lbs 136 kg | Gravel bike | $$ | CHECK PRICE | 3 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 3.6 |
| Zize Bikes 29er Max 2.0 | 450 lbs 204 kg | Hybrid bike | $$$ | CHECK PRICE | 5 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.8 |
| Mongoose Dolomite | 350 lbs 159 kg | Fat tire bike | $ | CHECK PRICE | 4 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 3.6 |
| Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1 | 300 lbs 136 kg | Hybrid bike | $ | CHECK PRICE | 3 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3.9 |
| Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1 Step-Through | 300 lbs 136 kg | Hybrid bike | $ | CHECK PRICE | 3 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3.9 |
| Zize Bikes A New Leaf XG | 550 lbs 250 kg | Hybrid bike | $$$ | CHECK PRICE | 5 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.7 |
| Electra Cruiser Go! | 300 lbs 136 kg | Cruiser electric bike | $$ | CHECK PRICE | 3 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 2.9 |
| Electra Cruiser Go! Step-Through | 300 lbs 136 kg | Cruiser electric bike | $$ | CHECK PRICE | 3 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 2.9 |
| Co-op Cycles DRT 3.3 Bike | 300 lbs 136 kg | Full-suspension mountain bike | $$$ | CHECK PRICE | 3 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 1 | 4 | 3.7 |
| Zize Bikes Yonder | 550 lbs 250 kg | Mountain bike | $$$ | CHECK PRICE | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4.3 |
NOTE: If you are under 250 lbs (113 kg), check out this bike category page and browse the bike types you want. Most of these bikes will support your weight.
State Bicycle 4130 ALL-ROAD
Max Load 3/5 | Comfort 3/5 | Handling 4/5 | Components 5/5 | Build Quality 4/5 | Accessories 2/5 | Design 4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE 3.6/5
Main Features
- Relaxed geometry for a comfortable ride
- Customizable components (including wheels) to match your liking
- Available in multiple colors
- Pedals are not included
Technical Specification
- Weight limit: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Bike type: Gravel bike
- Frame material: Steel
- Brake type: Mechanical disc brakes
- Wheel size: 27.5-inch or 29-inch (650b or 700c)
- Gears: 1×11spd
- Weight: 28lbs (12.7kg)
- Recommended height: 5’1″ to 6’5″
State Bicycle offers a range of bikes, all with a weight limit of 300 lbs. I recommend the 4130 ALL-ROAD for its versatility and affordability. Additionally, you can customize components such as the wheels, saddle, and pedals to suit your preferences.
If you’re searching for a bike that can handle both paved and light gravel or dirt roads, the 4130 ALL-ROAD is worth considering. It comes in various sizes and colors, and its mechanical disc brakes offer reliable stopping power in all conditions.
Please note that pedals are not included, but you can browse gravel bike pedals and purchase them separately. I also recommend reading this 4130 ALL-ROAD review for more info.
Zize Bikes 29er Max 2.0
Max Load 5/5 | Comfort 4/5 | Handling 5/5 | Build Quality 5/5 | Components 5/5 | Accessories 5/5 | Design 5/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE 4.8/5
Main Features
- Specifically designed for heavy riders
- Fenders, kickstand, bottle cage, and pedals are included
- Wide, comfortable saddle
- 29-inch wheels for a stable yet fast ride
Technical Specification
- Weight limit: 450 lbs (204 kg)
- Bike type: Hybrid bike
- Frame material: Steel
- Brake type: Mechanical disc brakes
- Wheel size: 29-inch
- Gears: 1×8spd
- Weight: 48 lbs (21.8 kg)
- Recommended height: 5’7″ to 7′
Zize Bikes is a US-based bicycle brand that produces bikes suitable for heavy riders. That’s why I included multiple Zize Bikes bikes in this roundup.
The Zize Bikes 29er is the best option for people who want to ride fast. It features 29-inch wheels, which are more stable, faster, and more comfortable than 26 or 27.5-inch wheels.
While it may not be the most affordable bike, its excellent build quality and proper maintenance can ensure it lasts a lifetime.
The bike has accessories such as fenders, a kickstand, and a bottle cage, so you don’t need to purchase them separately.
If you weigh over 450 lbs, you may want to check out the Zize Bikes A New Leaf XG.
Mongoose Dolomite
Max Load 4/5 | Comfort 5/5 | Handling 3/5 | Build Quality 3/5 | Components 3/5 | Accessories 2/5 | Design 4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE 3.6/5
Main Features
- Wide tires that allow you to ride in the snow, mud, etc.
- Simple construction – fewer things can go wrong
Technical Specification
- Weight limit: 350 lbs (159 kg)
- Bike type: Fat bike
- Frame material: Steel
- Brake type: Mechanical disc brakes
- Wheel size: 26-inch
- Gears: 1×7spd
- Weight: 52 lbs (23.6 kg)
- Recommended height: 5’6″ to 6′
Mongoose is a well-known brand in the BMX field, but they also manufacture other types of bikes, including mountain bikes.
The Dolomite is a simple and affordable fat bike suitable for overweight people who appreciate simplicity yet like to have fun. With its wide tires, you can easily ride through the snow, sand, mud, and more.
However, it’s important to note that the Dolomite is heavier and has a limited gear range. As a result, I don’t recommend it for hilly and mountainous terrain.
Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1
Max Load 3/5 | Comfort 4/5 | Handling 5/5 | Build Quality 4/5 | Components 4/5 | Accessories 3/5 | Design 4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE 3.9/5
Main Features
- Wide gear range
- Available for men and women
- Excellent value for the money
- Pedals are included
Technical Specification
- Weight limit: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Bike type: Hybrid bike
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Brake type: Mechanical disc brakes
- Wheel size: 29-inch (700c)
- Gears: 3×8spd
- Weight: 27.8 lbs (12.6 kg)
- Recommended height: 5’3″ to 6’3″
Co-op is REI’s in-house bike brand. They offer a variety of bike types, including hybrid, mountain, road, gravel, and more. One of their most popular bikes is the CTY 1.1, which is perfect for commuting, maintaining fitness, or getting back in shape.
Remember, it’s available in two options: standard for men and step-through for women. The step-through option makes it easier to get on.
You’ll appreciate the wide gear range that helps you tackle any hill. Plus, you don’t need to buy hybrid bike pedals because they’re included.
The only downside is the weight capacity of 300 lbs, which is relatively limited. If you weigh more than that, I recommend checking out Zize Bikes.
Zize Bikes A New Leaf XG
Max Load 5/5 | Comfort 4/5 | Handling 4/5 | Build Quality 5/5 | Components 5/5 | Accessories 5/5 | Design 4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE 4.7/5
Main Features
- Specifically designed for heavy riders
- Fenders, kickstand, bottle cage, chainguard, and pedals are included
- Wide, comfortable saddle
Technical Specification
- Weight limit: 550 lbs (250 kg)
- Bike type: Hybrid bike
- Frame material: Steel
- Brake type: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Wheel size: 26-inch
- Gears: 1×9spd
- Weight: 50 lbs (22.7 kg)
- Recommended height: 5’6″ to 7′
Zize Bikes’ A New Leaf XG is designed for individuals who require a heavy-duty bike. Its reinforced steel frame, sturdy wheels, and high-quality components can accommodate riders up to 550 lbs!
Furthermore, it comes equipped with a kickstand and flat pedals, saving you money on accessories. The chainguard will also keep your pants from getting caught in the chain.
Unlike many other bikes, it features hydraulic disc brakes that are more sensitive than mechanical brakes.
Remember that the 26-inch wheels will allow you to accelerate faster, but they may not be as fast or comfortable as larger wheel diameters.
TIP: You might also be interested in the best bikes for big and tall guys.
Co-op Cycles DRT 3.3 Bike
Max Load 3/5 | Comfort 5/5 | Handling 4/5 | Build Quality 4/5 | Components 4/5 | Accessories 1/5 | Design 4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE 3.7/5
Main Features
- Front and rear suspension
- Hydraulic disc brakes for better stopping power
- Dropper seatpost
- Wide handlebar
- Tubeless-ready wheels
- Pedals are not included
Technical Specification
- Weight limit: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Bike type: Full-suspension mountain bike
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Brake type: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Wheel size: 27.5-in or 29-inch
- Gears: 1×12spd
- Weight: 31.5 lbs (14.3 kg)
- Recommended height: 5′ to 6’3″
If you’re an experienced mountain biker or just looking for a full-suspension bike that can handle slightly overweight riders, look at Co-op DRT 3.3.
Depending on the size, it comes with 27.5 or 29-inch wheels, offering better comfort and overall stability than 26-inch wheels.
The front fork travel varies between 120mm and 130mm depending on the frame size. Sizes XS and S have 120mm travel, while M, L, and XL have 130mm travel.
DRT 3.3 uses a 1X drivetrain, following the formula of modern mountain bikes. With the 12spd cassette, you will have hard gears for flats and descents and easy gears for steep climbs.
It also features a remotely-controlled dropper seatpost that offers flexibility while riding. Unfortunately, DRT 3.3 doesn’t come in more color options. The ember color may not suit everyone.
You can check out this DRT mountain bikes comparison for more info.
Zize Bikes Yonder
Max Load 5/5 | Comfort 4/5 | Handling 4/5 | Build Quality 5/5 | Components 4/5 | Accessories 3/5 | Design 4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE 4.3/5
Main Features
- Specifically designed for heavy riders
- Kickstand and pedals are included
- Wide, comfortable saddle
- No front fork suspension
Technical Specification
- Weight limit: 550 lbs (250 kg)
- Bike type: Mountain bike
- Frame material: Steel
- Brake type: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Wheel size: 26-inch
- Gears: 1×10spd
- Weight: 53 lbs (24 kg)
- Recommended height: 5’7″ to 7′
Zize Bikes Yonder is a simple mountain bike designed for riders weighing over 500 lbs. Unlike the Zize bikes mentioned earlier (29er and A New Leaf XG), it doesn’t come with fenders and other accessories, except for the kickstand and flat pedals.
However, it has hydraulic disc brakes and high-volume tires that are suitable for snow, sand, mud, and more. The bike also has a broader gear range (10spd) and is available for people up to 7 feet tall.
I like the bike’s finish and attention to detail, especially those clean welds. However, it would be great if the front fork was suspended. Nevertheless, with a rigid fork, fewer things can go wrong.
Electra Cruiser Go!
Max Load 3/5 | Comfort 3/5 | Handling 2/5 | Build Quality 4/5 | Components 2/5 | Accessories 4/5 | Design 2/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE 2.9/5
Main Features
- Wide, comfortable saddle
- Available for men and women
- Features an electric motor that assists pedaling, making it easier to ride
- Kickstand and pedals included
Technical Specification
- Weight limit: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Bike type: Cruiser electric bike (class 1)
- Pedal assist range: 16-40 miles (26-64 km)
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Brake type: Mechanical disc brakes
- Wheel size: 27.5-inch (650b)
- Gears: 1
- Weight: 44-48 lbs (20-21.8 kg)
- Recommended height: 5’3″ to 6’1″
I have also included an electric bike in this roundup. Electra is Trek’s in-house brand that produces hybrid, cruiser, city, and similar bike styles. The Cruiser Go! not only looks stylish but also provides pedal assistance. So, if your fitness is not great, you can still enjoy cycling and make it a habit.
Don’t be ashamed if others pedal by themselves and you don’t. The point is to have fun cycling and stay active! Cruiser Go has an assisted range of around 30 miles and takes about 4 hours to recharge. Due to its relaxed, almost recumbent-like geometry, I recommend it for flat terrain.
Summary
Finding a suitable bike for overweight individuals can be challenging since many manufacturers have neglected this market. However, there are multiple options available for people weighing over 300 lbs.
- The best gravel bike for heavy riders is the State Bicycle 4130 ALL-ROAD. Its weight limit is 300 lbs, thanks to its steel frame. In addition, you can choose 650b or 700c wheels and customize other components like the saddle, which is available in multiple colors.
- The best hybrid bike for heavy riders is the Zize Bikes 29er Max 2.0. This bike was specifically designed for heavy riders. It has a weight capacity of 450 lbs! Furthermore, it comes with fenders, a kickstand, and other accessories. This bike will serve you for a lifetime.
- The best fat tire bike for heavy riders is the Mongoose Dolomite. It has a load capacity of 350 lbs. Furthermore, it’s affordable and simple, so very few things can go wrong.
How to Choose the Best Bike for a Heavy Rider?
This guide will help you choose a bike if you are overweight. I will explain exactly what you should look for and what to be aware of.
Bike’s Weight Limit
Every bike has a weight limit. Unfortunately, most weight limits vary between 200 and 250 lbs (90-114 kg), only satisfying the general population. If you are overweight, with a BMI over 25 (source), you must find a bike with a weight limit of at least 250 lbs.
However, there are only a few bikes with a load capacity of 300, 350, or even 500 lbs, so it’s important to do your research.
But here is a tip:
Mountain bikes are usually designed to withstand harsher use than other bike types. Furthermore, their wide tires are more suitable for heavy riders because they can absorb bigger loads and better control road vibrations.
What happens if you ride a bike with a weight limit lower than your weight?
You risk damaging the bike and increasing the wear and tear on its parts, which could cause components to fail and result in a crash. Even if a bike can often withstand a higher weight than its limit, it’s not worth taking the risk.
What if the weight limit is not stated, but you like the bike?
The best thing to do is contact the seller and ask for more details.
Wheels
If you are overweight, you need highly durable wheels. Look for aluminum wheels with a higher spoke count (above 30 per wheel) instead of carbon wheels. Carbon wheels usually have a weight limit of around 250 lbs (120 kg).
You will also have to make a decision on which wheel size to choose:
- 26-inch wheels can accelerate quicker but are less stable than 27.5 and 29-inch wheels.
- 27.5-inch wheels are between 26 and 29-inch wheels.
- 29-inch wheels are the most stable and fastest, but the bike accelerates slower.
Based on my research, most heavy-duty bikes come with 26 or 27.5-inch wheels. 29-inch wheels are less common.
Frame and Its Material
Bikes for heavy riders are mostly made of aluminum, steel, or titanium. Carbon is rarely used because it’s mainly for lightweight racing bikes.
Check the quality of the welds in pictures or in person. They should be smooth, like in the following picture:
Brakes
Bikes come with disc or rim brakes. I recommend choosing a bike with disc brakes, although it will probably be a little heavier and more expensive than a bike with rim brakes.
Disc brakes will provide you with better stopping power in all weather conditions. Furthermore, they can better dose the braking force, which is a thing you appreciate.
Other Things to (not) Consider
Size – to maximize your riding comfort, choose the appropriate size of the bike. I recommend following manufacturer instructions or checking out my guide on choosing a bike size.
Accessories compatibility – if you plan to use the bike for longer trips, you should double-check its compatibility with panniers, racks, and other accessories needed.
Saddle – don’t worry about the saddle too much. You can always replace it later if it’s uncomfortable. Heavier riders often prefer wider saddles, but it varies. Check out my guide on choosing a bike saddle if you’re unsure where to start.
Bikes for Heavy Riders FAQ
This post is regularly updated to provide the most up-to-date product tips. If you find a product that is not up to date, please contact me.
I love this blog! I’m a heavy rider and I’m looking for a bike that can handle my weight. I think I’ll be checking out some of these bikes!
Hi Joshua,
Thank you. I am glad you find this article helpful!
– Petr
Hi,
I am 356lbs and looking to get a bike to just ride for exercise around on pavement/streets due to both knees having torn meniscus. I enjoy the estectics of the mountain biked but really have no clue what would be best suited. I am looking for something budget friendly but reliable. Any suggestions?
Thank you for your insight!!!!
Hi Oscar,
Road, hybrid or gravel bikes are the right choice for sidewalks/streets. But mountain bikes can also be used. Just remember that wider tires bumpy tires usually have higher rolling resistance on smooth roads, so they are slower.
You’re slightly over the Mongoose Dolomites weight limit, but I think it could handle it. If you are serious about your recovery and would like to continue cycling in the future, Zize bikes are specially designed for overweight people. In addition, they will be faster. 🙂 I know they are more expensive but this investment is worth it.
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any questions. Good luck with your recovery.
– Petr
Thanks for this. I found a wheelset with 40 spokes and haven’t broken one yet. Someone told me those are tandem wheel specs – lol! I probably weigh as much as many pairs do combined 🤣
Hi Ian,
I am glad you find my article helpful. 🙂 It’s great you have started your journey. I wish you good luck in losing weight and improving your fitness.
– Petr
Awesome post! As a heavy rider myself, I appreciate the comprehensive list of bike options. It’s great to see more variety in the market and better accessibility for heavier riders. Thank you for sharing!
Thank Alan, I am glad you like it. 🙂
– Petr
As a heavy rider myself, I’m thrilled to see a post dedicated to the best bikes for us! I’ve struggled to find a bike that can comfortably accommodate my size, but these recommendations look promising. Can’t wait to try them out!
I am glad you find them helpful. 🙂
– Petr
This is the best source about bikes for overweight people. Period.
Thank you, Gijs!
– Petr