Considering my own experience as a cyclist over 200lbs and the feedback from other overweight bikers, I found the Mongoose Malus to be the best bike for big guys. And while I picked this bike to be the best overall bike for big guys, there are a lot of great bikes out there for large riders.
This article goes into detail about 10 bikes I believe to be great options for big guys. I paid special attention to the various qualities of these bikes, including their frames, material, tires, brakes, and more. I looked at the reviews of a lot of the users as well to get a sense of the quality of these bikes.
After analyzing all this information, I picked Mongoose Malus to be the best bike for big guys thanks to its fat tires, durable steel frame, mechanical disc brakes, and general high-duty quality.
But I also wanted to present different options so our readers can pick the best bike for themselves based on their own personal preferences and what matters the most to them.
See below for all the bikes that made our list and keep reading for some detailed information on these bikes!
Our Pick for Best Bikes for Big Guys!
Mongoose Malus Adult Fat Tire Mountain Bike
Best Bike for Big Guys
Weight Limit: 300 lbs

Mongoose Argus Trail Adult Fat Tire Mountain Bike
Best Mountain Bike for Big Guys
Weight Limit: 300 lbs

Schwinn Phocus 1600 Drop Bar Road Bicycle
Best Road Bike for Big Guys
Weight Limit: 250 lbs


DJ Fat Bike 750W 48V 13Ah Power Electric Bicycle
Best Electric Bike for Big Guys
Weight Limit: 275 lbs

Mongoose Dolomite Men’s Fat Tire Mountain Bike
Best Bike for Big Guys on a Budget
Weight Limit: 300 lbs

sixthreezero Around the Block Men’s Cruiser Bike
Best Beach Cruiser Bike for Big Guys
Weight Limit: 300 lbs

Firmstrong Bruiser Man Beach Cruiser Bicycle
Best Comfort Bike for Big Guys
Weight Limit: 300 lbs

Best Bike for Big Guys: Mongoose Malus Adult Fat Tire Mountain Bike

Key Features
- 26-Inch wheels
- 4-inch wide fat tires
- 7-speed with rear derailleur
- 18-inch steel frame
- Twist shifters
- Mechanical front and rear disc brakes
Our Review
Durability and comfort are key when shopping for a bike as a heavy rider. Because of its ability to provide both of these features, The Mongoose Malus Fat Tire bike takes the top spot on our best bike for big guys list. This 18-inch, supersized beach cruiser bike frame is made of steel, which is very durable. It has 7-speed options and comes with a rear derailleur, which allows for smoother shifts in gear. It’s good to have multiple gears when you’re a heavy rider because you can easily adjust the level of difficulty when going uphill.
This bike also comes with 4-inch wide, fat tires, which are fairly thick. Fat tires are better for large riders because they have enough air pressure to accommodate the heavyweight. They also make rides, especially those on uneven terrain, extra smooth by providing more cushioning. In other words, with this bike, you won’t have to stick to gravel roads or compromise comfort as a heavy rider. Additionally, this model’s front and rear disc brakes are pretty effective in shortly bringing the bike to a halt even with the added momentum that comes from extra weight. It’s fairly easy to control this bike thanks to its alloy a-head stem and mountain handlebar.
Overall, this model can be described as a durable and comfortable bike for big guys. The assembly is pretty straightforward and many users above 300 lb reported they were happy with this product. This bike will easily go over uneven terrain such as unpaved roads, cobblestones, small rocks etc, and will not wear down easily under the weight thanks to its steel frame and bulky tires.
One disadvantage is that it weighs 45 pounds. It’s certainly not the lightest bike you can purchase. Several users additionally reported having to replace the saddle with another one since they found the original saddle to be too narrow and/or uncomfortable so you might have to make some modifications to achieve an optimal level of comfort.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- The heavy-duty steel frame is sturdy and durable.
- The fat tires will go over uneven terrain easily and accommodate heavy riders while also providing comfort with extra cushioning.
- 7-speed options allow you to adjust the difficulty of your ride.
- The bike comes with front and rear disc brakes, providing above average speed control.
- Many users weighing over 300lb reported they are happy with the bike.
Cons:
- This bike weighs around 45 pounds, which is pretty heavy. This bike might not be the best option for people who want to be able to carry it around.
- The crankset is not very high quality and can rattle. One mitigating factor is that it can be replaced with a better one.
Best Bike for Big Guys with High Budget: Zize Yonder Bike




Key Features
- Chromoly frame
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes
- 26-inch wheels
- 3-inch wide tires
- Shimano Deore, 10-speed Rapidfire Shifters
Our Review
Per our research and experience, Zize Yonder Bike is the best bike for big guys that are willing the pay more than $2,000. The key spec to consider while choosing a bike for a big guy is the weight limit. When it comes to weight limits Zize Yonder bike increases the bar with its 550lbs weight limit. The material that is chosen at this bike design is being used on aircraft landing systems (Thrust me I am an engineer 😊). Its relatively high number of spokes and extra-wide hubs increase the strength of the wheel.
Zize Yonde with its extra-wide pedals distributes the force to a wider area while giving a sense of security to its rider. This bike model has 10-speed options that make it easier for large riders to adjust the cycling difficulty and adapt to varying trains.
It’s wide 26 x 3.0 inch tires are going to be a game-changer when it comes to riding on uneven terrain. Not only will they give you a smoother ride, but their rugged tread and tough grip will also help prevent punctures and slips.
And speaking of heavy riders, the Zize Yonder bike’s high-strength cranks can handle increased pedaling force, so you won’t have to worry about putting too much strain on them.
Now, let’s talk about the seat. The wider, shock-absorbing seat is attached to a double-clamped seat post, which means it will stay securely in place no matter how bumpy the ride gets. And believe me, when you’re a big guy, having a comfortable seat is crucial for enjoying your time on the bike.
The wide, upright handlebar is attached to a substantial, adjustable stem that allows for an upright cycling position. This means you’ll be able to take in all those great country views without having to strain your neck or back.
The one disadvantage of this bike model is its weight with its 55-pound weight this bike model is the heaviest bike on our list. Also compared to the other options we have listed this is the priciest one but also one of the few bikes in the market that is specifically designed for big guys.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Extra-wide pedals to make it easier to ride.
- Hydraulic disc brakes that ensure strong stopping power
- 10-speed options allow you to adjust the difficulty of your ride
- Users weighing over 400lb reported they are happy with the bike.
Cons:
- Weights around 55 lbs.
- More expensive than an average mountain bike.
Best Mountain Bike for Big Guys: Mongoose Argus Trail Adult Fat Tire Mountain Bike




Key Features
- 26-Inch wheels
- 4-inch knobby fat tires
- Rapid Fire 2 x 8 shifters and derailleurs
- Medium 18-inch Aluminum Hardtail frame
- Mechanical front and rear disc brakes
Our Review
Mongoose Argus Trail Adult Fat Tire Mountain Bike with its lightweight yet durable aluminum hardtail frame, is our top pick for Best MTB Bike for large guys who like to explore the amazing bike trails out there. As you can see, it is pretty similar to the Mongoose Malus bike I mentioned in a lot of ways. It has mechanical front and rear disc brakes, which will help you stop quickly and efficiently. The 4-inch knobby fat tires allow smoother rides even on uneven terrain, including grassy and rocky bike trails and dirt roads. The quality and thickness of the tires are sources of extra comfort for the heavy rider.
This bike comes with rapid-fire 2 x 8 shifters, so you can really adjust your riding experience and switch to lower gears when climbing uphill. Having a wide range of gear is important, especially for heavy riders who might need the lower gear settings when riding uphill.
Basically, the larger riders who like to explore mountain trails will appreciate this durable yet lightweight bike with its fat tires that can handle pretty challenging terrains. This bike weighs around 30 pounds, much lighter than the Mongoose Malus bike so it’s much easier to carry it over unrideable obstacles out in the wild if need be.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- The aluminum hardtail frame is lightweight without compromising durability.
- The 4-inch wide knobby tires allow for smooth and comfortable rides on uneven terrains.
- The rapid fire 2 x 8 shifters provide a wide range of gear options.
- Mechanical disk brakes bring the bike to a halt quickly and efficiently.
- The bike weighs around 30 pounds, which is pretty light for an 18-inch fat tire bike.
Cons:
- The original saddle is a bit on the skinny side. If you plan on going on long rides you might have to replace the saddle with a wider one to make your rides more comfortable.
Best Road Bike for Big Guys: Schwinn Phocus 1600 Drop Bar Road Bicycle




Key Features
- 700c wheels
- 16-speed shifters
- 22-inch aluminum road frame with carbon fiber road fork
- High-profile alloy double wall rims
- Dual pivot caliper brakes
Our Review
Our top pick for the best bike for big guys comes with 700c wheels and a 22-inch aluminum road frame with a carbon fiber fork. The material is lightweight and durable. The bike weighs around 30 pounds. So it’s relatively easy to carry it around when necessary and can go fast without too much exertion. The bike’s frame and tire size allows a tall rider to cycle with comfort. In fact, many tall riders who purchased and rode on this bike reported the bike’s size was a good fit for them. It is also relatively easy to assemble.
The bike comes with 16-speed shifters, which allow the rider to gear down on challenging terrains when their weight makes pedaling more difficult. The Schwinn Phocus also features dual pivot caliper brakes. The two pivot points increase the leverage and result in more efficient, secure, and comfortable braking. An added bonus for large riders who need extra powerful brakes to come to a halt quickly and in a controlled way.
Basically, the Schwinn Phocus is the ideal bike for tall guys due to its durability, size, and high-quality parts. One drawback is that road bikes, just in general, assume a more crouched riding position compared to, say, hybrid or mountain bikes. Therefore, a road bike might not be very comfortable for tall riders who are not used to this riding position and who want to go on long rides on this bike. A fat tire bike will be more suitable for such riders. Fat tires are also better at absorbing bumps on uneven terrain and providing a smoother riding experience. This bike is most suitable for taller riders who wish to cycle on paved roads or other relatively even terrain and in the city.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- 700c wheels and 22 inch frame are fit for a tall rider.
- The parts and the materials used in the frame are high quality so this bike has a high chance of withstanding the test of time.
- Weighing around 30 pounds, the bike is relatively easy to carry around.
- 16-speed shifters provide smooth gear changes and an adjustable riding experience.
Cons:
- This road bike might not be very comfortable for riders not used to the more crouched road bike riding position.
- The tires will not be as good as fat tires in terms of absorbing bumps on uneven terrain.
- Even though the dual-pivot caliper brakes are superior to single-pivot brakes, they are still rim brakes and perform worse than disc brakes in bad weather conditions. So if you want to have a bike that will exhibit premium performance in wet weather, this is not the model for you.
Best Hybrid Bike for Big Guys: Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bike




Key Features
- 28-Inch wheels
- 21-speed with rear derailleur
- 18-inch aluminum frame
- Linear pull brakes
- Swept-back upright handlebars
- Rear carrier
Our Review
This Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bike with its 18-inch aluminum frame and 28-inch wheels is our top pick for the best hybrid bike for big guys and gals. The aluminum material ensures the bike is durable and holds up under your weight. The bike has an elegant design and comes with a front suspension. It has a 21-speed SRAM grip shifter and rear derailleur, allowing for a truly adjustable and efficient riding experience. This comes in handy, especially on upward-sloping terrain where large riders will have an easier time climbing uphill by gearing down.
This Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bike also features Promax alloy linear-pull brakes. These brakes are quite powerful, which is good to have for heavier riders. They allow you to come to a halt quickly and efficiently. The design has swept-back upright handlebars and a padded seat. These features are sources of extra comfort for the rider. The design of the handlebars allows the rider to ride in a relatively upright position, which large riders tend to appreciate. This bike also has a rear carrier and fenders to keep dirt off the rider, which makes it convenient for urban riding.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- The aluminum frame is strong and durable.
- The 18-inch frame and 28-inch wheels make the bike suitable for a large rider.
- It’s a good urban bike with its rear carrier and fenders to keep dirt off the rider.
- Swept-back upright handlebars and padded seat allow for a comfortable ride.
Cons:
- The bike weighs around 35-40 lbs, which is a little heavy to lug around.
- The linear pull brakes (V-brakes), are not as powerful as disc brakes when it comes to handling bad weather conditions and the resulting mud. If you want to be able to ride securely come rain or shine, you should probably opt for a bike with disc brakes.
Best Electric Bike for Big Guys: DJ Fat Bike 750W 48V 13Ah Power Electric Bicycle




Key Features
- 26-inch wheels
- 4-inch wide fat tires
- 7-speed with Shimano rear derailleur
- 19-inch aluminium frame
- Tektro brakes
- Fits riders 5’6″ to 6’6″ tall
- Bafang rated 48V 750W rear motor
Our Review
There are many advantages to having an e-bike as a large rider. The main advantage is that if you get tired, you can utilize the motor to do the hard work. This becomes useful, especially on upward-sloping terrain, where you have to really exert yourself to climb as a heavy rider. This e-bike comes with 4-inch wide fat tires that will withstand the extra weight comfortably. Thanks to the quality puncture-resistant fat tires, the rider has control and stability even when off-road cycling. Its 19-inch aluminum frame is durable and suitable for a large rider. This bike, in fact, fits riders 5’6″ to 6’6″ tall.
The bike has 7-speed options and Shimano rear derailleur for an adjustable riding experience. The gear system comes in handy, especially on uneven terrain. The Tektro brakes are high quality and effective in stopping the bike quickly. Now if you find yourself getting tired cycling, you can just go ahead and engage the Bafang-rated 48V 750W brushless rear hub motor. The bike comes with high-quality 48V 13Ah Samsung or LG brand batteries and compatible chargers. The riding range for it is between 40 and 60 km, which is pretty decent. It certainly allows you to take a break from exerting yourself while riding and makes uphill climbs easy.
We can pretty much declare this product to be a high-quality, heavy-duty, and sturdy e-bike. It provides a controllable, comfortable riding experience and withstands the extra weight easily. The current price tag is not bad for an e-bike but probably not worth it for someone who’s looking for a commuter bike or to ride leisurely. This bike is really for riders who mean business and want to explore the trails.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- The 19-inch aluminum frame is sturdy and fits riders on the larger/heavier side.
- 4-inch wide fat tires handle uneven terrains such as cobblestones and rocky trails easily.
- The 7-gear Shimano shifting system is a good feature for riders who like to adjust the difficulty of their riding experience, especially on sloped terrain.
- The bike comes with a Bafang-rated watt 48V 750W brushless rear hub motor and high-quality 48V 13Ah Samsung or LG brand batteries with a riding range between 40 and 60 km.
- The Tektro brakes are high quality and efficient.
Cons:
- The current price is decent for an e-bike but it might not be worth it if you don’t necessarily need a motor on your bike.
- This e-bike weighs around 73.9 lbs (33.5 kg). It’s pretty heavy to lug around, which makes it somewhat inconvenient for urban riding.
Best Bike for Big Guys on a Budget: Mongoose Dolomite Men’s Fat Tire Mountain Bike




Key Features
- 26-Inch wheels
- 4-inch wide knobby fat tires
- 7-speed with rear derailleur
- 17-inch steel frame
- Twist shifters
- Mechanical front and rear disc brakes
- Fits adult riders 5′ 6″ to 6′ tall
- Weight limit: 350 lbs
Our Review
The Mongoose Dolomite Men’s Fat Tire Bike, despite being a heavy-duty fat tire bike, comes with a price tag that doesn’t break the bank. It has 26-inch wheels and 4-inch wide knobby tires that smoothly roll over uneven terrain like small rocks or bumpy roads. The front and rear disc brakes are strong and efficient. The 17-inch steel frame is sturdy and durable. The bike fits adult riders 5′ 6″ to 6′ tall and has a weight limit of 350 lbs. The bike comes with lightweight yet strong alloy rims and beach cruiser pedals. The high-quality parts allow for a secure and comfortable ride where you don’t have to stick to paved roads only.
The rear derailleur with 7-speeds makes climbs easier and twist shifters allow for easy, smooth gear changes. To summarize, this bike is sturdy and comfortable and it doesn’t limit the rider to smooth terrains. The price tag makes it quite affordable for how heavy-duty and high-quality it is. It’s also quite aesthetically pleasing if that kind of thing is important to you.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- The 17-inch steel frame is sturdy and will bear the extra weight of a heavy rider easily. The weight limit for this bike is 350 lbs.
- The 4-inch wide all-terrain knobby tires are good at absorbing bumps on uneven terrain.
- The front and rear mechanical disc brakes are efficient, which makes your ride more secure.
- 7-speed options with rear derailleur allow the rider to adjust the difficulty and make climbs easier when needed.
- Thanks to the twist shifters, the rider can easily and smoothly shift gears.
- Many large riders and reviewers praise this bike as a good option for large riders.
- It’s a good entry-level fat tire bike.
- The saddle is sufficiently cushioned and wide.
Cons:
- Weighing more than 45 lbs, this bike is pretty heavy. Therefore it might not be the best option for people who want to be able to lug it around, especially in urban settings.
Best Beach Cruiser for Big Guys: sixthreezero Around the Block Men’s Cruiser Bike




Key Features
- 26-inch wheels
- 2.125-inch wide cruiser tires
- 19-inch steel frame
- 7-speed Shimano rear derailleur
- Fits riders 5’ to 6’ 4” tall
- Sweeping cruiser handlebars
- Front and rear V-brakes
Our Review
CycleSimply’s top pick for the best beach cruiser bike for big guys is sixthreezero Around the Block Men’s Cruiser Bike. Sixthreezero is a good bike manufacturer when it comes to making bikes that last. The 19-inch frame steel frame is sturdy and fits riders 5’ to 6’4” tall. The bike can come with 1, 3, 7, or 21-speed options, based on the buyer’s preference. I picked the 7-speed model as it’s typically enough for riders who do not do a lot of uphill climbing on their bikes. The bike comes with Shimano rear derailleur, which allows for smooth gear changes.
The cruiser frame is ergonomic and, along with the sweeping cruiser handlebars, supports an upright and relaxed position while riding. Cruiser bikes are more comfortable in general for this upright riding position they assume and it makes an even bigger difference for large riders. The bike comes with a dual-spring seat to provide additional comfort.
The 2.125-inch wide cruiser tires are good for riding on paved/gravel roads but will not absorb bumps as well as fat tires do. So this bike is good for riding on paved surfaces but not uneven terrain or bumpy paths. The bike has front and rear V-brakes, which are efficient but do not perform as well as disc brakes do in bad weather conditions. To summarize, this is a very good cruiser bike due to its high quality components, comfort and durability. However, it’s not ideal for wet weather or bumpy roads. This bike is best for people who are planning on riding on paved or relatively smooth surfaces when the weather conditions are not terrible.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- The 19-inch frame is durable and fits relatively large riders.
- There are different gear options the rider can pick from while purchasing (1,3,7 or 21-speed).
- The rear derailleur is good for smooth gear shifts.
- The bike comes 85% assembled and the rest of the assembly is pretty easy.
- The upright riding position assumed by the cruiser frame and the sweeping cruiser handlebars makes rides more comfortable.
Cons:
- The 2.125-inch wide cruiser tires are not as good as 4-inch fat tires at absorbing bumps, making this bike less fit for riding on uneven terrain such as unpaved mountain trails. However, for urban riding purposes, this shouldn’t be too big a problem as 2.125” is still a pretty decent width.
- The V-brakes on this bike are not as powerful as disc brakes when it comes to handling bad weather conditions and the resulting mud. If you want to be able to ride securely come rain or shine, you should probably opt for a bike with disc brakes.
Best Comfort Bike for Big Guys: Firmstrong Bruiser Man Beach Cruiser Bicycle




Key Features
- 26-inch wheels with aluminum rims
- 2.125-inch wide tires
- 19-inch steel frame
- 7-speed Shimano derailleur
- Front and rear handbrakes
- Fits most riders 5’4” to 6’ 4” tall
- Weight limit: 350 lbs
- Wide cruiser bike handlebars
Our Review
The spot for the most comfortable bike for big guys in our list belongs to Firmstrong Bruiser Man Beach Cruiser Bicycle. The 19-inch cruiser frame is made of steel and it is pretty durable. The bike fits most riders 5’4” to 6’4” tall and has a weight limit of 350 lbs. The bike comes with 26” aluminum rims and stainless steel spokes. The 2.125-inch wide, grippy whitewall tires are good at absorbing small bumps, offering a smooth riding experience. But the tires are, of course, not the only reason I picked this bike as the most comfortable bike for big guys.
This Firmstrong cruiser’ dual-spring comfort cruiser saddle is one of its strong selling points for us. The saddle is, as the name would suggest, quite comfortable and provides good support for your bottom. The wide cruiser handlebars allow the rider to control the bike with ease. The frame assumes a relaxed and upright riding position, which is an extra source of comfort. The bike also comes 80% assembled and has a very cool, sleek design. The black matte frame of the 7-speed version of this bike earns it the “Best Design” title in our list as well.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- The 19-inch frame is durable and sturdy, fit for a big guy.
- The dual-spring saddle is quite comfortable.
- The cruiser frame assumes a relaxed and upright riding position, which is another source of comfort.
- The bike is aesthetically pleasing due to its sleek design and matte black color.
- The bike comes 80% assembled and it’s pretty easy to assemble the rest.
- The brakes are responsive and secure.
Cons
- This bike is considerably heavy at 43 lbs. So it would be challenging to lug it around, especially for urban riding purposes.
Best Indoor Bike for Big Guys: Schwinn IC4
Key Features
- 330 lb weight limit
- Magnetic resistance mechanism
- 106 lb weight
- Compatible with Pelaton and Zwift apps
- 100 micro-adjustable resistance level
- Bluetooth-enabled heart rate armband monitor
- Media/device holder
- USB charging station
Our Review
Our choice for the best indoor bike for big men is Schwinn IC4. It is one of the most popular indoor bikes out there thanks to its technological infrastructure and great design. This bike can carry heavier riders compared to what’s available in the market. It is not as expensive as Pelaton but has many of the features that Pelaton has.
Schwinn IC4 offers excellent value with its price point, very silent magnetic resistance as well as Bluetooth connectivity. This bike is suitable for overweight men who are looking for durability and a smooth and silent indoor cycling experience.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Value for money
- Compatible with common apps
- Can carry heavy riders
- Has a tablet holder
- Light and Durable
Cons
- Relatively hard to assemble
- Lack of built-in workouts
Guide to Buying a Bike for Big Guys
There are several factors to pay attention to when picking a bike that will easily support heavier riders and provide comfort. Below I list these factors and explain what to look for to make the right pick.
Durable Frame
Potentially, the most important component of the bike when it comes to bearing weight is its frame. A bike for a large rider should be able to support a lot of weight and that means it needs to have a durable and sturdy frame. The frame should be able to stand the test of time. An important factor here is the material. I would recommend going for a premium aluminum or steel frame as opposed to carbon. Aluminum and steel are stronger, more durable materials and will therefore support heavy bikers more easily.
Saddle
An important component to look for is a comfortable, smooth, and wide saddle, which will accommodate a heavy rider without causing discomfort. The good thing about saddles is you can replace the saddle on a bike with another one relatively easily if you find that it doesn’t fit your needs. Another important detail is saddle height, which you can adjust after purchasing the bike. Your optimal saddle height has a lot to do with your size as well. A quick and easy formula to use, known as LeMond Formula, is
Saddle Height=Inseam Length*0.833
You can read our full guide on finding your optimal at our article: saddle height.
Tires and number of spokes
Big riders are better off with bigger, wider tires. Large, durable tires will provide the extra cushioning that heavy riders need and will have enough air that the rider can adjust the pressure to accommodate their weight. In addition, tires that are larger in diameter (like 700c), travel over uneven terrain more smoothly and provide extra comfort to heavy riders. Larger tires also typically come with more spokes than regular tires. The number of spokes is significant because the more spokes a tire has, the more weight it can easily support. Riders on the heavier side should get tires that have at least 24 spokes. The good thing about tires is that similar to saddles, they can be switched if you feel your bike’s tires are not ideal for you.
Brakes
The heavier the rider, the stronger the brakes need to be to bring the bike to a halt. If the rider is over 300 lb, the regular rubber-based rim brakes can be very unreliable and could perform poorly when you most need them to work, especially in wet weather. Therefore, you should opt for disc brakes, ideally hydraulic ones like Tektro and Shimano, when picking a bike for a large rider. Disc brakes are consistently good in wet or dry weather. The reason why rim brakes are sometimes preferred over disc brakes is that rim brakes tend to be more affordable than disc brakes. You should also inquire as to whether the brakes meet quality standards and whether they were tested with subjects on the heavier side.
Bike Size
Because heavy riders also tend to be taller, it’s also important to make sure the frame size fits the height of the rider. If the rider doesn’t have enough clearance from the ground or enough distance between the steering wheel and the saddle, the ride can be really uncomfortable. I recommend learning your bike size with the help of a professional in person. However, you can also find your bike size using the online calculators listed below:
- https://www.competitivecyclist.com/Store/catalog/fitCalculatorBike.jsp
- https://www.omnicalculator.com/sports/bike-size
- https://www.bikeexchange.com/promo/bike-size-calculator
- https://www.bergfreunde.eu/bike-frame-size-calculator/
We have a full guide on finding the optimal bike size for yourself, which you can access here: How to find your bike size?
Number of Gears
A good gear system with a high number of gears becomes an important factor when the rider is heavy and needs to cycle uphill, which can be a bit of a challenge. Having a good number of gears helps adjust the level of difficulty and ease it when necessary.
Brand
Bike brands that I find to be the best and most comfortable for large riders are:
- Zize
- Mongoose
- Diamondback
- Priority Bicycles
- Schwinn
- Raleigh, and
- sixthreezero
These brands produce bikes that are also pretty durable so you know you’re getting a product that is unlikely to wear down easily under your weight.
FAQ
Why do overweight men need special bikes?
Large riders need to make sure the size of the bike and its components fit their larger frame and accommodate their weight so they can cycle safely and comfortably. Their bikes also need to be more durable so it does not break apart after using it for a short while.
Why are fat tire bikes ideal for large men?
Heavy riders tend to benefit from fat tire bikes since fat tires are capable of holding a lot of air pressure, which can be adjusted and will support heavier weights more easily if need be. They will also provide a smoother riding experience when cycling on uneven terrain.
What type of bike is best for heavy men?
Fat tire bikes are ideal for heavy riders for the aforementioned reasons. Hybrid, cruiser, and mountain bikes can also be good options for large riders since they allow for a more upright riding position compared to road bikes. Heavy and/or tall riders are typically more comfortable in upright riding positions compared to having to be hunched over due to their large frame.
Do bikes have a weight limit?
Yes, they certainly do and this is the most important feature to pay attention to if you’re a heavy person shopping for a bike. It might not be readily visible in which instance you would have to talk to someone from customer support or a salesperson to find out. Most bikes’ weight limit ranges between 275 and 300 lb but can go up to 350 lb based on the quality of materials and components used.
Is cycling beneficial for overweight people?
Cycling has many health benefits, one of which is helping people get in shape and lose weight. The amount of calories you burn depends on a number of factors including your height, the duration of your exercise, and whether you are exercising on a stationary bike or cycling outside. According to healthline.com, 125-pound individual cycling outside for 30 minutes at a moderate pace burns 240 calories. For heavier individuals, this number goes up. To read our full article on the benefits of cycling, head on over to 13 Benefits of Cycling – Health, Sex Life and More.
Our Verdict
Cycling is a great fitness activity to indulge in and being a large person is not necessarily a limit.
In this article I listed what I believe to be the best bikes for big guys and our top pick is Mongoose Malus Adult Fat Tire Mountain Bike. Check it out if you like durable, heavy-duty bikes that don’t limit you to smooth terrains. We picked Mongoose Malus Adult Fat Tire Mountain Bike as the best bike for plus-size women as well. Feel free to check that article out to find out about our picks for overweight women.
If fat tire bikes are not your thing, feel free to check out the other options I included. If you are looking for a bike with a specific budget I as the Cyclesimply team listed the best ones for multiple price points: Best Hybrid Bikes under 500, Best Hybrid Bikes under 1000, and Best Road Bikes under 200
I hope this article helps you find your bike and happy cycling!