Best Bikes for Plus-Size and Overweight Women in 2023

In-Depth Analysis Led Us to Mongoose Malus Mountain Bike: Our thorough examination, combining expert reviews, personal experiences, and feedback from a diverse group of bikers, has led us to crown the Mongoose Malus Mountain Bike as the superior choice for plus-size women. Recognizing its exceptional performance for overweight, obese, and heavy riders, we have identified this model as the pinnacle of comfort and reliability. Despite the Mongoose Malus standing out, our research also unveils a variety of excellent alternatives available in the online market.

Our Rigorous Review Process: Delving into the specifics, our article details six distinct bike models, each meticulously evaluated for their suitability for plus-size and overweight women. Our review process focused intensively on key aspects such as size, weight capacity, frame material, and braking systems. Moreover, we delved deep into real-world performance by analyzing reviews from fellow bikers, ensuring our recommendations are grounded in actual user experiences.

Why Mongoose Malus Tops Our List: Following a comprehensive analysis of all data collected, the Mongoose Malus Mountain Bike emerged as the top recommendation for plus-size women. Its standout features include a robust 300 lbs weight capacity, a sturdy frame built for durability, and reliable disc brakes for enhanced safety.

Discover More About Mongoose Malus and Other Top Picks: For a detailed look at the Mongoose Malus Mountain Bike and to explore other top-rated bikes that cater specifically to plus-size women, continue reading below.

Our Picks for Best Bikes for plus-size women

Best Bike for Plus-Size Women: Mongoose Malus Adult Fat Tire Mountain Bike

Key Features

• Frame: Robust 18-inch steel frame, supporting over 300 lbs, ideal for plus-size riders.
• Wheels: Large 26-inch wheels provide stability and ease in navigation.
• Gearing System: Versatile 7-speed shifter for smooth transitions across terrains.
• Braking: Reliable front and rear disc brakes ensuring safe and confident stops.
• Tires: 4-inch wide mountain tires offering comfort on rugged surfaces.
• Additional Features: 4-inch alloy rims and an alloy a-head stem with a mountain handlebar, catering to diverse preferences with multiple color options.

Expert Review: Tailored for Comfort and Durability

Our comprehensive review underscores the Mongoose Malus as a top contender in mountain bikes for plus-size women. Emphasizing comfort and durability, this model is engineered with an 18-inch steel frame and 26-inch wheels, making it suitable for both speed and leisurely rides. The suspension system adeptly handles rough terrain, while the disc brakes provide reliable stopping power. The 7-speed shifter enhances ride customization, ensuring a pleasant experience across various landscapes.

User Satisfaction and Practicality

The Mongoose Malus is renowned among heavy riders for its sturdy build and excellent performance, particularly noted by users over 300 lbs. Its popularity stems from its ability to combine functionality with comfort, making it a preferred choice for plus-size cyclists.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Its steel frame is durable and can carry more than 300 lbs.
• Fat tires for enhanced comfort on uneven terrains.
• Adjustable riding difficulty with a 7-speed gear system.
• Dependable front and rear disc brakes for controlled speed reduction.
• High user satisfaction, especially from riders over 300 lbs.

Cons:

• Weighing approximately 45 pounds, the bike can be challenging to transport.

---

Best Electric Bike for Overweight Female: 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
• 300 lbs load capacity

Our Review

The DJ Fat Power electric bike comes with a comfortable seat and wide handlebars, making it easy to stay in control. This bike model has 4-inch wide fat tires and a 19-inch aluminum frame that can carry heavy weight comfortably. Its puncture-resistant fat tires ensure stability even during off-road cycling.

This bike model is also a great fit for those looking for an eco-friendly mode of transportation. The model has a 250-watt motor that helps to power the pedals, making it easy to get up to speed. The motor is also very quiet, so you won’t disturb your neighbors when you’re riding around. In addition, the bike has a large battery that can last for up to 40 miles on a single charge. This is ideal for commuting or running errands around town.

Overall, with its 300 lbs weight capacity we believe the DJ Fat Power electric bike is a great option for plus-size women looking for a reliable and environmentally-friendly mode of transportation.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• The 19-inch aluminum frame can handle heavy weight and fits riders on the larger/heavier side. 
• 4-inch wide 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 Tektro brakes are high quality and efficient.

Cons:

• The current price on Amazon is decent for an electric bike but it might not be worth it if you don’t necessarily need a motor on your bike.

---

Best Tricycle for Plus-Size Ladies: Sixthreezero Body Ease Comfort Tricycle

Key Features

• Front and rear handbrakes
• 59 cm x 48.5 cm basket
• Twist shifters
• 7-Speed Derailleur
• 1.95-inch tires 
• 300 lbs load capacity

Our Review

Comfort and stability is very important when shopping for a bike as a plus-size woman. Because of its ability to provide both of these two attributes, sixthreezero EVRYjourney 26 Inch 7-Speed Hybrid Adult Tricycle with Rear Basket bike takes its spot on the Best Bikes for Plus-Size women list.

This bike features a step-through frame that makes it easy to get on and off, and the padded seat and upright riding position make it ideal for leisurely rides around the neighborhood. The bike also comes equipped with a front basket, perfect for carrying groceries or picnicking supplies. The geometry of its frame and its 1.95″ tires are able to absorb vibration and provide ease during the rides.

Best of all, the Sixthreezero Body Ease Comfort Bike is available in a variety of colors to suit any style, making it a great choice for both stylish women. Whether you’re looking for a new way to get around town or just want a leisurely ride on a beautiful day, the Sixthreezero Body Ease Comfort Bike is sure to meet your needs.

One disadvantage is the fact that some riders have reported that the fenders of this tri-cycle model are wobbly and flimsy.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• The step-through frame makes it easier for riders to dismount and mount
• 59 x 48.5 cm basket enables riders to carry their belongings while riding
• Its 3 wheel structure provides stability while accelerating, decelerating and stopping
• the geometry of the frame and 1.95”  tires absorb vibration

Cons:

• the fenders are wobbly and flimsy.

---

Best Electric Tricycle for Overweight Women: Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Electric Adult Tricycle

Key Features

• 250-Watt motor
• 26-inch wheels
• 1.95-inch semi-slick tires
• Rear basket
• Aluminum frame

Our Review

The Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Electric Adult Tricycle is a great choice for those looking for an easy and fun way to get around town. This electric tricycle features a 250-watt motor that assists in pedaling, making it a breeze to get up hills or just cruise around. Thanks to its 250-watt motor you can go up to 40 miles in full-electric mode and up to 60 miles in pedal assist mode.

The EVRYjourney also has a large basket on the front, perfect for carrying groceries or running errands. In addition, the tricycle comes equipped with a comfortable seat and adjustable handlebars, so large riders s can find their perfect fit. Overall, the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney is a great option for plus-size women in search of an electric tricycle that is both stylish and functional.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• This bike model can be used in 3-modes: full throttle, pedal-assist, and motor off
• Its step-through frame makes it easier for heavy riders to get on and off the bike.
• Its basket enables riders to carry their belongings with them comfortably.
• Its 3-wheel structure ensures stability for heavy riders

Cons

• The price is decent compared to other electric tricycles. This bike may not be worth it if you are not planning to use it for commuting.

---

Best Hybrid Bike for Heavy Women: Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bike

Key Features

• 28-Inch wheels
• 21-speed with rear derailleur
• Matching Fenders
• 18-inch aluminum frame
• Linear pull brakes
• Swept-back upright handlebars
• Rear carrier
• 300 lbs load capacity

Our Review

The Schwinn Discover is a popular hybrid bike, and for good reason. It’s not expensive, versatile, and relatively easy to ride. The Discover is a great choice for anyone who wants to get around town without spending a lot of money, or for those who are looking for an alternative to driving.

The comes in a variety of colors which makes it a good fit for stylish plus-size women. It has a comfortable seat and upright riding position, and the frame is made of durable aluminum that can carry heavy weight. The Schwinn Discover also comes with a suspension fork and front and rear brakes, making it a great choice for those who want a safe and reliable ride.

Overall, the Schwinn Discover is a great value for the price, and it’s a great choice for plus-size women who wants an affordable, versatile bike.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• The 18-inch aluminum frame can carry heavy weights.
• The 28-inch wheels make the bike suitable for large women. 
• It’s fenders to keep dirt off the rider.
• Swept-back upright handlebars and it’s padded seat ensures a comfortable ride.

Cons:

• The bike weighs around 35-40 lbs, which is a little heavy to lug around.

---

Best Road Bike for Plus-Size Women: Schwinn Phocus 1600 Drop Bar Road Bicycle 

Key Features

• 700c wheels
• 16-speed Shimano Claris shifters
• 22-inch aluminum frame
• 250 lbs load capacity
• Alloy Crank
• Carbon fiber road fork
• High profile alloy double wall rims
• Dual pivot caliper brakes

Our Review

Our top pick for best road bike for plus-size women Schwinn Phocus 1600 comes with 22-inch aluminum frame and carbon fiber fork. Its aluminum frame makes it lightweight and durable at the same time. This bike model weighs around 30 pounds and is easy to carry it around. The 21-speed Shimano gear system is also great for hills, and the bike comes with front and rear derailleurs for precise shifting. It’s Promax alloy dual pivot caliper road brakes ensure secure stops.

The bike does require some assembly, but the instructions are clear and easy to follow. Overall, the Schwinn Phocus 1600 is a great value for the price, and it would make a great fit for heavy women looking for a road bike.

Pros:

• 700c wheels and 22-inch frame are a good fit for tall riders.
• The parts and the materials used in the frame are light and durable. This bike model has a high chance of withstanding the test of time.
• Weighing around 30 pounds, the bike is easy to carry around.
• Promax alloy dual pivot caliper brakes ensure secure and stable stops.
• 16-speed Shimano Claris shifters provide smooth gear changes and an adjustable riding experience.

Cons:

• The tires of this bike is not as good as fat tires in terms of absorbing bumps on uneven terrain. 

---

Best Indoor Bike for Plus-Size Women: 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

The Schwinn IC4 is an excellent indoor bike for overweight women looking to get in shape. With its impressive 330 lb weight limit, it can easily accommodate larger riders, and the magnetic resistance mechanism ensures a smooth, quiet ride. The bike itself is also relatively lightweight at 106 lbs, making it easy to move around and store when not in use.

One of the key features that sets the Schwinn IC4 apart is its compatibility with popular fitness apps like Peloton and Zwift. These apps offer a wide range of virtual classes and workouts, allowing you to mix up your routine and stay motivated. The bike also has 100 micro-adjustable resistance levels, so you can customize your workouts to suit your specific fitness goals.

In addition to its fitness-focused features, the Schwinn IC4 also includes a Bluetooth-enabled heart rate armband monitor, media/device holder, and USB charging station. These added conveniences make it easy to stay connected and entertained during your workouts.

Overall, the Schwinn IC4 is the best indoor bike for overweight women looking to get in shape. It offers a range of features to help you achieve your fitness goals and improve your cardiovascular health, all from the comfort of your own home.

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 Plus-Size Women

There are many factors to consider while choosing a bike that will support plus-size women and provide an enjoyable experience. Below we listed these factors and explained what you should look for to ensure that you make the right decision.

Brand

Bike brands that we find to be the best for plus-size women are: 

• Mongoose
• Diamondback
• Priority Bicycles
• Schwinn
• Raleigh
• sixthreezero

The brads listed manufacture bikes that are very durable and unlikely to wear down easily under your weight.

Number of Gears

A good gear system and a high number of gears become very important when the rider is overweight and needs to cycle uphill, which can be very challenging. Having a good number of gears is preferred as it enables the riders to adjust the difficulty of cycling.

Bike Size

As heavy women tend to be taller, it’s very important to ensure that the frame size fits the height of the rider. If there is not enough space between the rider and the ground or the handlebar and the saddle, the rider can feel very uncomfortable while cycling. We would suggest you check your bike size with the help of a professional or your local bike shop. However, there are also some online calculators available for you to use:

1. https://www.competitivecyclist.com/Store/catalog/fitCalculatorBike.jsp
2. https://www.omnicalculator.com/sports/bike-size
3. https://www.bergfreunde.eu/bike-frame-size-calculator/

We also have an article about “how to set find your bike size?” feel free to check that out as well.

Brakes

The heavier the rider is the stronger brakes you would need to stop the bike. If the rider weighs more than 300 lbs, the regular rubber-based rim brakes can be very unreliable and could perform badly when you need them. Therefore we suggest heavy riders to pick a bike with disc brakes, ideally hydraulic ones like Tektro and Shimano. Disc brakes perform well in any weather condition. The reason rim brakes may be preferred over disc brakes is that rim brakes are more affordable. Nonetheless, you should always check whether the brakes were tested with riders on the heavier side.

Tires and number of spokes

Big and wide tires are better for overweight women. Big and durable tires will provide extra suspension that heavy riders need. In addition to this tires with a larger diameter makes cycling over bumpy surfaces smoother and provide extra comfort for plus-size riders.

In addition to the tire size, the number of spooks the bike wheels has is also important. The more spooks the bike has more load the bike can carry. The good thing about tires is that they can easily be changed. So if you choose a bike ride and realize that you would like to tire size is too large or small for you, you change them easily.

Saddle

Another factor to consider is how comfortable the saddle is. If you don’t have the correct saddle your butt would heart not only while cycling but after cycling as well. It’s important for oversized riders to pick a bike with a comfortable, smooth, and large saddle. Like tires, you can change the saddle of your bike easily if you end up making the wrong decision.

In addition to the saddle itself, saddle height is also critical for an enjoyable cycling experience. The optimal saddle height has a lot to do with your size as well. An easy formula to use is LeMond Formula:

Saddle Height=Inseam Length*0.833

Inseam Length is the distance from the uppermost part of your thigh to your ankle. We have a full guide on how to set your saddle height fell free to check it out here.

Durable Frame

In our opinion, the most critical component of the bike is its frame. The best bike for a plus-size woman should be able to support a lot of weight and that means a durable frame. The frame should be resistant to fatigue as well to stand the test of time. The main attribute of the bike that determines its weight capacity is its frame material. We would recommend choosing a bike with an Aluminum or steel frame as opposed to carbon. Aluminum and steel are stronger than carbon.

Style

The attributes we mentioned earlier are important for your cycling experience. But what about style? color and design of the bike is very critical as well. We would strongly suggest you to buy a bike that you find esthetic and in the color you like.

FAQ

Is Cycling Suitable for Overweight Women?

Yes cycling is suitable for overweight women. The critical part here is to make sure that you are riding the bike that can carry your weight so you can avoid injuries.

Is Cycling Beneficial for Overweight Women?

Cycling is a great exercise for overweight women because it is low-impact and can be done at a pace that is comfortable for them. Additionally, it is easy to find gentle routes that are not too challenging. Cycling is also beneficial because it helps to build muscle and burn calories, both of which are important for weight loss. In addition, cycling is a low-impact form of exercise, which means that it is easy on the joints. For women who are overweight, this is an important consideration because excess weight can put a strain on the joints and lead to pain. Finally, cycling is an enjoyable activity that can be done with friends or family, which makes it more likely that women will stick with it in the long term. In conclusion, cycling has numerous benefits for overweight women, making it an ideal form of exercise for those trying to lose weight. For more information about the benefits of cycling please check our article.

Is There a Difference Between Men’s and Women’s Bikes?

Interestingly, there is some scientific evidence to support the claim that women’s and men’s bikes are indeed different. Studies have shown that women tend to have shorter torsos and longer legs in proportion to their height than men. As a result, women may feel more comfortable on a bike with a shorter top tube and a higher seat. In addition, women tend to have narrower shoulders, so handlebars that are closer together may be more comfortable for them. Of course, these are just generalities, and every rider is different. Ultimately, it’s important to choose a bike that feels comfortable for you, regardless of whether it’s marketed as a “women’s” or “men’s” model.

What type of bike is best for heavy women?

Fat tire bikes or mountain bikes are the best bikes for heavy women thanks to their strong frames and wide tires. In addition, these two bike types of e-bikes may be preferred by overweight women as well as e-bikes enable riders to decide how much they want to cycle and riders can keep going without cycling.

Why do overweight women need special bikes?

Overweight women have a few extra considerations when it comes to biking. First, they need a bike that can accommodate their weight. Standard bikes are designed for people who weigh no more than 190 pounds, so they may not be able to support an overweight man. Second, overweight women need a bike with a wider seat. This will provide more support and prevent pain in the buttocks and thighs. Third, they need a bike with a higher weight limit. This ensures that the bike will not break under the strain of an overweight rider. Finally, they need a bike with higher gears. This allows them to pedal more easily, even when carrying extra weight. With these features and the features we mentioned earlier in mind, overweight women can find bikes that are designed specifically for their needs.

Our Verdict

Cycling is a great hobby for everyone and being a plus-size woman is not necessarily a limit.

The best bike for a plus-size woman is one that fits her specific needs and riding style. Some plus-size women prefer road bikes, while others prefer mountain bikes. The most important factor is to choose a bike that is sized appropriately for the rider.

In this article, we listed 6 bike models which we believe are the best bikes for plus-size women and our top pic is Mongoose Malus. With its durable frame, fat tires, and aluminum frame we believe it’s the best bike out there for overweight women.

If Mongoose Malus is not matching with your style feel free to check the other bike options we listed. If you are looking for bikes within your budget check out the following articles Best Hybrid Bikes under 500, Best Hybrid Bikes under 1000and Best Road Bikes under 200

We hope that you enjoyed this article and cycle simply!