There’s a fact that most of the bikes available online are designed for riders under 225 pounds and of course, they’re not sturdy enough for heavy riders who commonly weigh up to 350 pounds. This becomes a massive problem for them when choosing a new bicycle.
That’s why I rounded up to this review list of 12 best bikes for big guys.
Are Fat Bikes Worth It?
Fat bikes are definitely worth it, especially for heavy riders for some good reasons:
They hold up well under extra loading weight and unlike regular bike types that usually wind up broke in the very first month of use.
The extra width of the tires plays a huge role in enhancing the bike’s shock absorption and cushioning when you ride it over uneven or bumpy terrains. As a result, it feels smoother and comfier.
Fat bikes deliver a more reliable riding feel for heavy riders than that on a slim-profile one. Not to say that it’s good to look.
Brands of The Best Bikes for Big Guys
Buying from a good brand is always more peaceful in mind than that of an unknown brand. If you want to learn more about brands of the best bikes for big guys, here are some:
Schwinn
Needless to a big talk, Schwinn is surely one of the best brands for bicycles. With their over 100 year’s expertise in designing and manufacturing bikes of all types, along with great customer service and warranty policies, you should try their products at least once in life.
Ancheer
Ancheer is a good choice for those who are keen to buy their very first e-bike. Their products are known for top-notch power, performance, and strength. There are some lines specifically designed for heavy riders that have received lots of positive feedback from customers.
Merax
If you’re looking for the best value bike for the money, then don’t skip this brand. Aside from providing high-quality bicycles at very competitive price ranges, they are renowned for smooth riding experience and good customer services.
Firmstrong
Firmstrong is a proud US-born company based in California so buyers can rest assured about the quality of their products. If only allowed describing their bikes using only three phrases, I would choose “durability”, “long-lasting”, and “easy to use”.
What Are The Best Bikes for Big Guys to Buy?
From an avalanche of options, I have come up with a list of 12 best bikes for big guys, including product names, what they are best for, and their highlight strengths.
- Best Overall: Mongoose Hitch Men’s Fat Tire Bike
“Ideal for riders in a tight budget; Deliver smooth sailing experience on most terrains; Offer reliable and powerful stopping power; Look nice and attractive; Easy to assemble”
- Best Fat Bike for Big Guys: Mongoose Dolomite Fat Tire Mountain Bike
“Very easy and smooth to change gears; Able to climb up hills or conquer other any off-road trail; Ride with extreme comfort and safety”
- Best Mountain Bike for Big Guys: Mongoose Impasse Men’s Mountain Bike
“Lightweight, easy to maneuver, and fast; Enhance your safety during the ride; Ride over uneven and bumpy surfaces smoothly with great traction; Easily reach faster speeds”
- Best Trail Bike for A Big Guy: Mongoose Malus Fat Tire Bike
“Deliver exceptional control out on the trails; Able to conquer almost surfaces like a champ; Change gears smoothly; Lightweight yet strong and powerful”
- Best Dirt Bike for A Big Guy: Schwinn Protocol Mountain Bike
“Perfect for casual riding on dirt roads; Deliver less complicated maintenance jobs and optimum gearing; Easy to shift and lightweight; Ride quietly”
- Best Road Bike for A Big Guy: Schwinn Phocus 1600 Road Bike
“Easy to assemble; Extremely lightweight and fast; Deliver superior stopping power; High-quality and functional components for decent durability”
- Best Electric Mountain Bike for Big Guys: ANCHEER Electric Mountain Bike
“Versatile enough to meet different riding needs; Able to reach 22 to 40 MPH per change; Quick and convenient to charge; Allow you to ride it with decent comfort; Durable yet lightweight”
- Best for The Money: Merax Finiss 26″ Mountain Bike
“Ride smooth as butter on bumpy roads; Easy to set up, lightweight, and sturdy; Reliable and fast to shift between gears; High controllability and maneuverability”
- Best Commuter Bike for Big Guy: Firmstrong Cruiser Bike
“Deliver step-above comfort levels, perfect for extended rides; Form a more relaxed riding gesture for no pressure points on your back and joints; Offer a well-cushioned ride to save your butts from feeling numbed; Very affordable”
- Best Starter Bike for A Big Guy: Schwinn Bonafide Mountain Bike
“Easy to assemble; Deliver decent durability and top-notch shock absorption; Able to conquer various terrains with smooth riding experience; Reliable and under a very good warranty policy”
- Best Adventure Bike for Big Guys: DJ Fat Bike
“Meet respective standards recognized in both Canada and the US; Powerful and the battery can be dismounted for fast charging; Decent comfort, support, and shock absorption; Prevent overcharging efficiently; Quiet and smooth during the ride”
- Best Hybrid Bike for Big Guys: Diamondback Mountain Bike
“Versatile and easy to handle different riding surfaces; Great shock absorption and deliver smooth riding experience; Lightweight, easy to control, and sturdy; Quick handling over obstacles during the ride”
Best Bikes for Big Guys Comparison Chart 2021
Take a glance at this comparison chart if you want to quickly filter the best bike for big guys that also meets your needs, preference, and body weight.
Top 12 Best Bike for Big Guys Reviews In 2021
Here are detailed reviews of my 12 best bikes for big guys. Keep reading!
Best Overall: Mongoose Hitch Men’s Fat Tire Bike
Pros
- Ideal for riders on a tight budget
- Deliver smooth sailing experience on most terrains
- Offer reliable and powerful stopping power
- Look nice and attractive
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- The brakes aren’t good
The Mongoose Hitch Men’s is a first-class sports bike for big guys that you can find at this affordable price.
Its heavy-duty steel frame handles well a maximum loading weight of 400 pounds and the ultra-fat wheels offer smooth sailing on most terrains. It’s like throwing stuff up at you! The dual disc brakes give reliable stopping power when you’re downhill riding.
I love the paint with a glossy finish that winks nicely when exposed to the sun.
Take note that this bicycle requires some minor assembly, such as the front wheel, handlebars, and saddle. But don’t worry, they’re very easy to do.
Product Specs
Weight | 48 pounds |
Dimensions | L x W x H 64.5 x 33 x 11 inches |
Weight Capacity | 400 pounds |
Frame Material | Steel |
Wheel sizes | 26″ x 4 1/4″ wheels |
Highlight Features | front and rear disk brakes
Alloy 4″ wide wheelset 4 1/4″ knobby tires |
To learn more about this bikes, please watch this review video:
See also:
- Top 14 Best Mountain Bikes Under 500 Reviews In 2021
- Top 20 Best Hybrid Bikes Under $500 Reviews In 2021
- Top 19 Best Cruiser Bikes Review In 2021
- Top 15 Best Hitch Bike Racks Reviews In 2021
Best Fat Bike for Big Guys: Mongoose Dolomite Fat Tire Mountain Bike
Pros
- Very easy and smooth to change gears
- Able to climb up hills or conquer other any off-road trail
- Ride with extreme comfort and safety
- Best for 350-pound overweight female and male riders
Cons
The instructions are a bit fiddly
With the Mongoose Dolomite Fat Tire Mountain Bike, your off-road trail performance will be significantly improved.
While the steel alloy rims keep the overall weight down for added speeds, its dual disc brakes and beach cruiser pedals ensure your safety as well as comfort during the ride.
There are 7 speeds in the rear derailleur to choose from with easy shifting so that you can easily conquer various terrains, including hilly areas.
Combined with two ultra-fat tires of 4” in width, the smooth-riding experience is well optimized.
Take note that its adjustable threadless headset is only perfect for riders from 5’6” to 6’.
Product Specs
Weight | 59 Pounds |
Dimensions | 42” x 72” x 28” |
Weight Capacity | 350 pounds |
Frame Material | Steel |
Wheel sizes | 26” x 4” wheels |
Highlight Features | twist shifters
Rear derailleur with seven speeds front and rear disc brakes beach cruiser pedals Threadless headset supersized all-terrain knobby tires |
To learn more about this bikes, please watch this review video:
Best Mountain Bike for Big Guys: Mongoose Impasse Men’s Mountain Bike
Pros
- Lightweight, easy to maneuver, and fast
- Enhance your safety during the ride
- Ride over uneven and bumpy surfaces smoothly with great traction
- Easily reach faster speeds
Cons
- The rear suspension is a little bouncy
Out of many potential contenders, this is the best mountain bike for big guys at this competitive price point. What sets it apart from other counterparts is the safety dual disc brakes, SRAM twist shifters, and 21-speed rear derailleur.
Particularly, it rides over bumpy terrains as smoothly as a sharp knife cutting through butter, all thanks to the element suspension fork.
Another noteworthy feature is its suspension frame which is made of aluminum, not steel, also meaning that it’s extremely lightweight.
Compared to some bikes at the same price point, this one rides a lot faster. But rest assured, it still gives you good control due to the ultra-large 29” wheels
Product Specs
Weight | 46.7 pounds |
Dimensions | LxWxH 57 x 9 x 31 inches |
Weight Capacity | 250 pounds |
Frame Material | Aluminum |
Wheel sizes | 29-Inch Wheels |
Highlight Features | quick release front
SRAM twist shifters 21 speed rear derailleur Element suspension fork Aluminum suspension frame |
Best Trail Bike for A Big Guy: Mongoose Malus Fat Tire Bike
Pros
- Deliver exceptional control out on the trails
- Able to conquer almost surfaces like a champ
- Change gears smoothly
- Lightweight yet strong and powerful
Cons
- Shifting downward to any gear below the 4th is a bit difficult
The Mongoose Malus Fat Tire Bike is an obvious choice to give you unparalleled control out on the trails. The secret lies in its mountain handlebars and alloy ahead stem.
Along with that, its knobby tire size is expanded up to 4-1/4” on a supersized beach cruiser frame with some clearance, allowing the bike to ride smoothly on almost surfaces, whether snow, dirt, or sand.
It is also built with practical dual disc brakes and 7-speeds with a rear derailleur.
In a nutshell, if you’re looking for the best trail bike for big guys, don’t hesitate to pick this.
Product Specs
Weight | 48 pounds |
Dimensions | LxWxH 9.06 x 61.42 x 29.92 inches |
Weight Capacity | 350 pounds |
Frame Material | Steel |
Wheel sizes | 26 Inches |
Highlight Features | mountain handlebar & Alloy a-head stem
4-inch alloy rims Fat, knobby 4-1/4-inch wide mountain tires Rear derailleur |
To learn more about this bikes, please watch this review video:
Best Dirt Bike for A Big Guy: Schwinn Protocol Mountain Bike
Pros
- Perfect for casual riding on dirt roads
- Deliver less complicated maintenance jobs and optimum gearing
- Easy to shift and lightweight
- Ride quietly
Cons
- The seat isn’t comfy
With all its benefits, I believe that the Schwinn Protocol Mountain Bike is a great dirt bicycle for big guys.
It highlights signature alloy crank for less complicated maintenance jobs while optimizing gearing. The strong and lightweight alloy rims provide great support to its fat tires, making every riding a lot more durable.
Like most other bikes for big guys on my list, this one features front, and rear mechanical disc brakes, meaning that it can stop powerfully yet safely in most cases.
But what impressed me this most is its 24- speed trigger shifters for not only smooth shifting but also an ultra-wide gear range out on dirt roads. A huge bonus is it makes no noise at all.
Product Specs
Weight | 44.4 pounds |
Dimensions | 55 x 27.9 x 8.45 inches |
Weight Capacity | 250 lbs. |
Frame Material | Steel |
Wheel sizes | 26” |
Highlight Features | Schwinn alloy crank
Light and strong alloy rims Front and rear mechanical disc brakes 24-speed trigger shifters |
Best Road Bike for A Big Guy: Schwinn Phocus 1600 Road Bike
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Extremely lightweight and fast
- Deliver superior stopping power
- High-quality and functional components for decent durability
Cons
- The pads that come with the bike need improvement
- The trap is clumsy to use
If assembly a bike is one of the most difficult parts for you then rest assured, this road bike is a breeze at that.
Out of the box, its brakes and gears are well adjusted while the tires are fully inflated.
It is also one of those rare road bikes constructed with a premium carbon fiber fork and signature Schwinn aluminum frame, which helps cut off some extra weight for a faster riding experience.
To ensure your safety, it is built with Promax alloy dual pivot caliper brakes.
Some other notable features are the high-profile alloy double-wall rims, Micro shift integrated shifter/brake lever, and Shimano Claris 16 speed derailleur.
Product Specs
Weight | 31 Pounds |
Dimensions | 51 x 28 x 8 inches |
Weight Capacity | 250 pounds |
Frame Material | Aluminum |
Wheel sizes | 700c Wheels |
Highlight Features | Alloy crank
Promax alloy dual pivot caliper road brakes paired spokes & High profile alloy double-wall rims Micro shift integrated shifter/brake lever & Shimano Claris 16 speed derailleur Carbon fiber road fork |
To learn more about this bikes, please watch this review video:
Best Electric Mountain Bike for Big Guys: ANCHEER Electric Mountain Bike
Pros
- Versatile enough to meet different riding needs
- Able to reach 22 to 40 MPH per change
- Quick and convenient to charge
- Allow you to ride it with decent comfort
- Best for 300-pound riders
Cons
- The battery doesn’t seem to last long
- The front brakes do not come adjusted
If you want to take your adventure to the next level, the ANCHEER Electric Mountain Bike is just what you need.
Not only a normal mountain bike, but it’s also able to work as an assisted bicycle or e-bike, due to three riding modes. You can choose from its LED four-speed intelligent meter button for the desired electric-assist power.
At e-bike working mode, it can reach 22 to 40 MPH per change based on specific terrains. A big bonus is its 36V 10Ah lithium-ion battery is removable for quick and convenient charging.
If you’re wondering about the frame’s durability, rest assured! It is crafted from strong aluminum with double-walled rims for superior sturdiness.
Product Specs
Weight | About 52 lbs. |
Dimensions | 52 x 25 x 10 inches |
Weight Capacity | 300 lbs. |
Frame Material | Aluminum alloy 6061 |
Wheel sizes | 26 Inches |
Highlight Features | 3 working modes
The light, strong Aluminum Alloy frame front and rear mechanical disc brakes, professional 21-Speed gears, and a high- strength front suspension fork removable 36V 10Ah Lithium-Ion battery |
To learn more about this bikes, please watch this review video:
Best for The Money: Merax Finiss 26″ Mountain Bike
Pros
- Ride smooth as butter on bumpy roads
- Easy to set up, lightweight, and sturdy
- Reliable and fast to shift between gears
- High controllability and maneuverability
Cons
- Its shock absorption needs improvement
In my opinion, the Merax Finiss 26″ Mountain Bike is 100 times better than any department store bicycles at the same price tag.
It is lightweight yet solid, easy to assemble, and rides smooth as butter on bumpy roads.
While offering 21-speed gearing options to choose from, it is very reliable and fast to shift between gears.
About the dual disc brakes, once tuned properly, they work far better than traditional V brakes in terms of both ease of use and stopping power. The compact 19” frame size is another plus, especially for beginners, to manage the bike better.
Easy to manage, fast to change gears, lightweight yet sturdy, and reliable to ride, Merax Finiss 26″ Mountain Bike is definitely the best for the money.
Product Specs
Weight | 33 lbs. |
Dimensions | 55 x 29 x 8 inches |
Weight Capacity | 330 lbs. |
Frame Material | Aluminum |
Wheel sizes | 26″ |
Highlight Features | Suspension Fork 80mm Travel
Shimano 21-speed Derailleurs and Shifters Heat Treated Aluminum 19″ Mountain Frame |
To learn more about this bikes, please watch this review video:
Best Commuter Bike for Big Guy: Firmstrong Cruiser Bike
Pros
- Deliver step-above comfort levels, perfect for extended rides
- Form a more relaxed riding gesture for no pressure points on your back and joints
- Offer a well-cushioned ride to save your butts from feeling numbed
- Very affordable
Cons
- It rattles a little bit
I highly recommend this commuter bike for those big guys from 5’4” to 6’4” in height due to its adjustable stem and saddle.
But what truly makes it the best commuter bikes out of a bunch is the superb comfort level.
Aside from the upgraded wide handlebars with synthetic leather grips and oversized seat with dual spring, its steel frame is extended up to 19” for extra room between you and the handlebars.
Combined with 26” ultra-wide wheels, it offers an enhanced relaxed riding experience. Plus, the knobby tires deliver a well-cushioned ride.
Product Specs
Weight | 43 pounds |
Dimensions | L x W x H 57.01 x 27.01 x 7.99 inches |
Weight Capacity | 350-pound |
Frame Material | Steel |
Wheel sizes | 26 Inches |
Highlight Features | wide handlebars with synthetic leather grips
Oversized seat with dual springs Balloon tires 19-inch extended steel frame thick top tube design
|
To learn more about this bikes, please watch this review video:
Best Starter Bike for A Big Guy: Schwinn Bonafide Mountain Bike
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Deliver decent durability and top-notch shock absorption
- Able to conquer various terrains with a smooth riding experience
- Reliable and under a very good warranty policy
Cons
- The cassette wobbles slightly
Don’t fret if you’re just a beginner seeking the best bike for your oversized body because I’ve got this one for you – the Schwinn Bonafide.
It comes with 80% pre-assembly and the remaining tasks are a breeze to finish, as long as you follow the instructions. Although it is a bit overpriced, your purchase will be under a very reliable warranty, plus, it feels robust.
The high-profile double-wall rims combined with a powerful Schwinn suspension fork and premium aluminum frame not only leverage the bike’s durability but also deliver top-notch shock absorption.
For an extra smooth riding experience, it is built with 2.25” wide knobby tires. The Shimano EZ Fire trigger shifters with 24-speed gearing is a big plus, as it enhances the bike’s versatility to ride over more terrains with ease.
Product Specs
Weight | 39 Pounds |
Dimensions | (L x W x H): 71.00 x 26.00 x 44.00 Inches |
Weight Capacity | 350 pounds |
Frame Material | Aluminum |
Wheel sizes | 29 Inches |
Highlight Features | a 5-year limited warranty
2.25-inch-wide knobby mountain tires High profile double-wall alloy rims Durable Schwinn alloy cranks 24 speed Shimano EZ Fire trigger shifters |
To learn more about this bikes, please watch this review video:
Best Adventure Bike for Big Guys: DJ Fat Bike
Pros
- Meet respective standards recognized in both Canada and the US
- Powerful and the battery can be dismounted for fast charging
- Decent comfort, support, and shock absorption
- Prevent overcharging efficiently
- Quiet and smooth during the ride
Cons
- The fender is weak
While DJ is a Canadian brand, meaning that you’ll receive the best support and service when in need, this bike line is high-quality and reliable.
Not only its Mozo suspension fork, aluminum frame, Tektro brakes, or Shimano gears but also the 750W Bafang motor appear to be durable, especially when compared to the price.
They all meet respective standards recognized by customers and industries in both Canada and the US.
Once fully charged, this e-bike can reach up to 1000W starting power and reach up to 20 MPH. All-in-all, for those who are after the best adventure bike for big guys, this fits the bill.
Product Specs
Weight | 57 lb. |
Dimensions | 62.6 x 32.28 x 10.04 inches |
Weight Capacity | 210 pounds. |
Frame Material | Aluminum |
Wheel sizes | 26 Inches |
Highlight Features | Detachable 48V LG battery & 750W Bafang motor
suspension & front headlight Tektro brakes, Mozo suspension fork |
To learn more about this bikes, please watch this review video:
Best Hybrid Bike for Big Guys: Diamondback Mountain Bike
Pros
- Versatile and easy to handle different riding surfaces
- Great shock absorption and deliver a smooth riding experience
- Lightweight, easy to control, and sturdy
- Quick handling over obstacles during the ride
Cons
- The front brake cable isn’t tightened enough to be used right out of the box
While there are myriad hybrid bikes out there, the key element making this outstanding and becoming my top pick for big guys is its 24-speed combination, including 8 gears in the back and 3 in the front to choose from.
Plus, it absorbs shock like a champ, thanks to the SR Sun tour XCT fork.
Compared to others, this one is quite lightweight and easy to control but the aluminum hardtail frame and butted tubing still ensure the bike’s sturdiness for safe rides.
It also gives you quick handling over obstacles due to the 27.5” wheels.
Product Specs
Weight | 32.19 Pounds |
Dimensions | 60 x 31.5 x 9 inches |
Weight Capacity | 300 lbs. |
Frame Material | 6061-T6 aluminum |
Wheel sizes |
27.5 Inches |
Highlight Features | 24-speed combination
SR Suntour XCT fork 27.5-inch wheels Custom formed and butted tubing Hand-built 6061-T6 aluminum alloy hardtail frame |
To learn more about this bikes, please watch this review video:
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Bike for Big Guys In 2021
Wheels and tires
For big guys, this is an essential feature to consider because it offers extra cushion during the ride.
While regular tires are prone to be flattened or lose air quickly when in use, fat tires seem to fit this description nicely. They don’t give up under heavyweight and accompany the pressure of overweight men.
The ideal tire or wheel size a big rider should choose is from 2.25” wide or thicker (some models even up to 4.25”, like the Mongoose Malus Fat Tire Bike).
Remember, the thicker the tire/wheel, the better the cushioning for a smoother riding experience.
Weight capacity
This is the second essential feature that any overweight rider should keep in mind.
The specialized bicycles for this body weight range is usually from 250 to 300 pounds, built from higher-quality components with beefier design. There are some models with a weight capacity of up to 400 pounds.
Is a bike featuring more weight capacity heavier? Not at all! While many people think that the higher the weight capacity of a bike, the heavier it will be. In fact, this element depends on the bike’s materials.
If it’s made of steel then yes, your bicycle might be a little bit hefty. If it features an aluminum or carbon fiber frame, the bike is obviously as light as a feather but still strong enough to handle up to 400 pounds of loading weight. However, it will be costlier.
Brake
Traditional rubber-based brake-pad-looking rim brakes won’t be able to handle big riders because they’re too weak.
From that point, I suggest going for front and rear disc brakes to ensure safety for both the rider and surrounding people. Take note that, on specific bikes, their braking system will be differently designed so you should carefully learn and read other customers’ reviews.
Besides, it’s good to choose those disc brakes claimed to meet quality standards and even thoroughly tested by the 3rd party for reliability.
FAQs
What is the best bike for a heavy rider?
The best bikes for a heavy rider are:
- Mongoose Hitch Men’s Fat Tire Bike
- Mongoose Dolomite Fat Tire Mountain Bike
- Mongoose Impasse Men’s Mountain Bike
Are fat bikes harder to ride?
Not at all. On tricky surfaces, fat bikes float very smoothly. However, on the pavement, asphalt, and other normal terrains, they are harder to pedal than standard road bikes due to their heavyweight.
What is a good bike for a 300-pound man?
My recommendations are:
- ANCHEER Electric Mountain Bike
- Diamondback Mountain Bike
Can you lose weight riding a bike?
Yes, you absolutely can.
Moderate cycling in 60 minutes can burn around 300 calories or more based on the intensity level that you choose.
According to the Harvard Health Letter, a 155-pound rider if steadily riding his/her bike in 30 minutes at the speed of 12 mph to 14mph can burn up to 298 calories.
What is the weight limit for a 26-inch bike?
The weight limit for a 26” bike is 250 pounds. This includes mountain, BMX-style, all-terrain, and cruiser bikes.
My Top Pick
In the end, my top pick of the best bike for big guides is the Mongoose Hitch Men’s Fat Tire Bike for some good reasons.
First off, it’s a breeze to assemble, which is good for all riders, both beginners and pros. Secondly, it rides smooth and fast on most terrains while still offering reliable stopping power. And the best part is its affordable price tag as well as the attractive design.
That’s all for this review roster. Which one do you love the most? Have you made your decision yet? Let me know in the comment section down below!