Best Bikes For Plus Size Riders | PedalChef

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The Olympics routinely shows the world plus-size athletes: throwing the shot put, boxing, wrestling, and lifting enormous amounts of weight.

Yet, there is a persistent myth that heavier people don't exercise or lead active lives. It makes finding equipment like bikes a serious challenge. These bikes have a well-built frame, good tires, higher load capacity, and quality components.

The best bikes for plus-size riders are:

  1. Sunny Health & Fitness Recumbent
  2. Schwinn Discover
  3. Sixthreezero EVRYjouney
  4. Zize The Yonder
  5. Addmotor Fat Tire 750
  6. Aventon Aventure,

The world of health and fitness, can be exclusive. Nobody says it outright. Instead, they quietly make equipment and facilities designed for petite bodies, and "whoops" you don't fit. It's aggravating and unfair. Thus, you often have to source your own active gear to do the stuff you love. It takes time to hunt everything down.

Thus, I've traveled the land of bicycles to find the top rides for plus-size cyclists. I've looked at stationary bikes, cruisers, hybrid and all-terrain, mountain bikes, and e-bikes. There are cute frames, sleek designs, and rugged rides. Whatever you need, there is a bike out there that will take you where you want to go.

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4 Best Stationary Bikes For Plus Size Riders

Stationary bikes are a brilliant way to keep fit or recover from an injury. They also allow you to get a workout in no matter the time of day or weather. Plus, you can watch TV or listen to your best tunes without the hassle of traffic and pedestrians. So regardless of why you want to train at home, there is a stationary bike for you.

1. Cyclace Exercise Stationary Bike

Cyclace Exercise Stationary Bike
Cyclace Exercise Stationary Bike

The Cyclace Exercise Bike is a strong and durable build with excellent adjustability. The seat adjusts in four directions: up, down, forward, and back. It also has two-way handlebars with four different grips, helping you find the position that works best for your body. The 36lb flywheel is strong but has an emergency stopper should an emergency occur.

This bike isn't fancy, but it is comfortable and can give you a challenging workout.

Pros Of Cyclace

  • 4-way adjustable seat
  • Sturdy
  • It fits people as tall as 6'5

Cons Of Cyclace

  • Limited features
Bike Weight Max Weight User Height Flywheel
86.5lbs 330lbs 5'1-6'5 36lbs

2. Exerpeutic Gold Heavy Duty Foldable Exercise Bike

Exerpeutic Gold Heavy Duty Foldable Exercise Bike
Exerpeutic Gold Heavy Duty Foldable Exercise Bike

Experpeutic Gold has two heavy-duty foldable stationary bikes suitable for riders up to 400lb: upright and recumbent. Both fit riders 5'2-6'5 and have 8 levels of magnetic tension, access to personalized fitness apps, and comfy seats, although only the recumbent comes with the cushioned backrest. A great choice for people with compact living spaces.

Pros Of Exerpeutic Gold

  • Foldable
  • Comfortable seats
  • Personalized program apps

Cons Of Exerpeutic Gold

  • No pre-set programs
Bike Weight Max Weight Resistance Levels
51.6, 55lbs 400lbs Magnetic Tension 8

3. LABODI Exercise Bike

LABODI Exercise Bike
LABODI Exercise Bike

The LABODI Exercise Bike has a 35lb flywheel paired with a belt-drive, which makes it incredibly quiet. The seat has 4-way adjustability: up, down, back, and forwards. The non-slip handlebars adjust up and down. It also has a handy flat bracket rack that can hold a 10.2-inch tablet. The LCD monitor can track time, distance, calories, heart rate, speed, and RPM.

The bike's resistance has a substantial range, providing a good workout for beginners and those already in excellent shape. However, it is done with a knob, so there are no easy-to-program settings allowing you to switch between levels quickly.

Pros Of LABODI

  • Quiet
  • 4-way adjustable seat
  • Durable build

Cons Of LABODI

  • The resistance system is basic and doesn't have specified levels
Bike Weight Max Weight Flywheel Resistance
35lbs 330lbs 35lbs Friction from felt brake pad and tension knob

4. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike

Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike

The Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Stationary Bike is a cross-trainer that also works your arms. It has a comfortable and supportive seat, taking the strain off knees, hips, and the lower back. The bike is also a solid, steel build that allows riders to feel secure as they push the peddles.

Sunny Health & Fitness is a belt-drive system. It uses magnetic resistance to provide 8 levels for a varied workout. It comes with a pulse sensor and a digital monitor that tracks speed, time, distance, and calories.

Pros Of Sunny Health & Fitness

  • Large seat with backrest
  • Moveable arms
  • Sturdy, steel frame

Cons Of Sunny Health & Fitness

  • Low number of resistance levels and programs
Bike Weight Max Weight Resistance Resistance Levels
94.8lbs 350lbs Magnetic 8

4 Best Cruisers And Hybrid Bikes For Plus Size Riders

Cruisers and hybrid bikes can take you from city streets to nicely groomed paths. They are often more comfortable than mountain bikes for people with joint aches and bad backs. The geometry puts the cyclist in a more upright position, taking the strain off hips, knees, and lower back. They often have more comfortable seats, too.

1. Clydesdale Draft Bike

Clydesdale Draft Bike
Clydesdale Draft Bike

The Clydesdale Draft is an all-terrain bike with a titanium frame built for tall riders. It comes in five sizes: L (5'10-6'2), XL (6'1-6'4), XXL (6'3-6'7), 3XL (6'6-6'9), and 4XL (6'9-7'). But they prefer you to send in your measurements so they can guide you on the best size. The bike can handle up to 450lbs and has handlebars built for wide shoulders and cranks made for taller riders.

Pros Of Clydesdale Bike

  • Cranks designed for tall people
  • Beautiful design
  • Handles gravel, road, and touring

Cons Of Clydesdale Bike

  • Expensive: excellent fit isn't cheap
Bike Weight Max Weight Brakes Suspension Gears
23-25lbs 450lbs Hydraulic disc Enve Carbon Fork 2 x 11-speed

2. Diamondback Haanjo 3 All-Terrain Bike

Diamondback Haanjo 3 All-Terrain Bike
Diamondback Haanjo 3 All-Terrain Bike

The Diamondback Haanjo 3 is an affordable all-terrain that fits riders 5'4-6'4. It is an excellent road bike, and while not specifically made for the forest trails, it does surprisingly well. In addition, its geometry puts riders in a more upright position, which makes it more comfortable for people with certain back issues.

However, if you are after slightly something different than what the Haanjo offers, all of Diamondback's frames handle up to 300lbs, including carbon frames and full-suspension models.

Pros Of Diamondback Haanjo 3

  • Smooth transition between gears
  • Handles a nice variety of terrain
  • Well-priced

Cons Of Diamondback Haanjo 3

  • Not one of Diamondback's full-suspension offerings
Bike Weight Max Weight Brakes Suspension Gears
25.1lbs 300lbs Mechanical disc N/A 18-speed

3. Schwinn Discover Bike

Schwinn Discover Bike
Schwinn Discover Bike

The Schwinn Discover is an excellent option in the lowest price range. It's a hybrid, so it can handle gravel and sandy paths when not on city streets. It has comfortable swept-back handlebars with an adjustable stem, providing better body positioning. In addition, there is a handy built-in rear rack making it perfect for commuting and doing errands.

An excellent treat is the SRAM drivetrain, and the shifting is quick and smooth. However, the front suspension is on the soft side; thus, bigger bumps will be felt.

Pros Of Schwinn Discover

  • Comfortable ride
  • Nice range of gears
  • Durable build despite the low price

Cons Of Schwinn Discover

  • Plastic components, such as pedals and fenders
Bike Weight Max Weight Brakes Suspension Gears
35.5lbs 300lbs Rim Front Fork 21-speed

4. Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men's & Women's Hybrid Bike

Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men's & Women's Hybrid Bike
Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men's & Women's Hybrid Bike

The Sixthreezero EVERYjourney Hybrid Cruiser comes in a woman's and men's version. They are designed to keep the body aligned, making them comfortable and accessible for people with body conditions such as arthritis and chronic back pain. The pedals are positioned slightly forward to allow full leg extension yet can put both feet flat on the ground at a stop.

The EVRYjourney range is pretty broad and tends to fit people 5'4-6'4, although the women's is 5'-6'. It has a leg over models and has step-thru designs, including a sturdy tricycle.

Pros Of Sixthreezero EVRYjourney

  • Flat foot stop position
  • Ergonomically designed
  • Well priced

Cons Of Sixthreezero EVRYjourney

  • The bike doesn't have leeway with the weight limit. At 300lbs and over, it starts to show the strain.
Bike Weight Max Weight Brakes Suspension Gears
36.5lbs (W)
43.26lbs (M)
300lbs Rear V-brakes Spring Seat 3 or 7-speed

6 Best Mountain Bikes For Plus Size Riders

Mountain bikes tend to have the widest selection for heavier riders. The sturdy frames and rugged, wide tires are built for durability and strength. Mountain bikes also tend to prioritize quality suspension. If you find a mountain bike that fits you perfectly, but you are more of a street rider, talk to a bike shop about alternative tire options.

1. Cannondale Trail 7 Mountain Bike

The Cannondale Trail 7 is an affordable mountain bike that offers pretty good value for money. Its hydraulic disc brakes and geometry allow riders to tackle some fairly respectable intermediate trails.

However, while its brakes punch well above its price range, other components do not. Yes, the gears are Shimano, but they are the most entry-level, as are the derailleurs. So you will have to treat this bike with care to keep the derailleurs going.

Pros Of Cannondale Trail

  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Good geometry for intermediate trails
  • Affordable

Cons Of Cannodale Trail

  • Derailers are entry-level
Bike Weight Max Weight Brakes Suspension Gears
32.9lbs 330lbs Hydraulic Disc Front 24 - Speed

2. Kona Process 153 29 Mountain Bike

 Kona Process 153 29 Mountain Bike
Kona Process 153 29 Mountain Bike

The Kona Process mountain bike has full-suspension. It also performs well on climbs and is fun to ride downhill. The brakes are solid, but they could be better given what you're paying. But the geometry fits bodies well, making riders feel at home. This isn't the most dynamic mountain bike out there, partly due to its weight. But for heavier riders, the sturdiness comes as a plus.

Pros Of Kona Process

  • Good geometry
  • Performs well on steep inclines
  • Great tires

Cons Of Kona Process

  • The brakes should be better at this price
Bike Weight Max Weight Brakes Suspension Gears
34.4lbs 300lbs SRAM G2 Rear: RockShox Super Deluxe
Fork: RockShox Lyrik
12-Speed

3. Mongoose Dolomite Mountain Bike

Mongoose Dolomite Mountain Bike
Mongoose Dolomite Mountain Bike

The Mongoose Dolomite is a mountain bike priced in the lowest rung that fits people 5'6-6'. It's a bit heavy and there is no suspension, but the components are sometimes better than the price would have you expect. Also, the brakes have some respectable stopping power, and the tires really hold, giving you confidence and stability.

The Mongoose Dolomite is a good buy for somebody interested in mountain biking but uncertain if it will really be for them. It will allow you to have fun and see what the sport is about without having to plunge serious money into the sport.

Pros Of Mongoose Dolomite

  • Strong Steel Frame
  • Dual disc brakes are effective
  • Tires are stable with excellent grip

Cons Of Mongoose Dolomite

  • Some entry-level components
Bike Weight Max Weight Brakes Suspension Gears
48lbs 350lbs Dual Disc None 7-Speeds

4. Zinn B.I.G. 29er Mountain Bike

Zinn B.I.G. 29er Mountain Bike
Zinn B.I.G. 29er Mountain Bike

Zinn B.I.G 29er Mountain Bikes are more of a concept than a product. You measure yourself per their specifications, then contact them to get fitted and tell them your stats, including your weight. Then they'll make sure you have a mountain bike that will suit your body and be a fabulous ride. These bikes are brilliant for people who are tall and heavy.

Pros Of Zinn B.I.G.

  • The frame will fit you
  • Don't shimmy at high speeds
  • Lightweight yet tough

Cons Of Zinn B.I.G.

  • Custom-fit comes at a price
Bike Weight Max Weight Brakes Suspension Gears
Depends Depends Depends Yes Depends

5. Zize The Yonder Mountain Bike

Zize The Yonder Mountain Bike
Zize The Yonder Mountain Bike

Zize's The Yonder fits people from 5'8-7' and can carry up to 550lbs, yet it is only 53lbs. The tires are 3-inches wide, keeping you well balanced and cushioned. The wider seats come with shock absorption and are double-clamped to the post to prevent obnoxious wiggling. The wide handlebars suit bigger shoulders, making it a comfortable ride.

Definitely, a bike to look at if you are a taller, plus-size rider.

Pros Of The Yonder

  • Fantastic tires
  • Quality components
  • A saddle that is comfortable and will stay in place

Cons Of The Yonder

  • Custom bikes take time to build and deliver
Bike Weight Max Weight Brakes Suspension Gears
53lbs 550lbs Hydraulic disc None 10-speed

6. Zize Bikes A New Leaf XG Mountain Bike

Zize Bikes A New Leaf XG Mountain Bike
Zize Bikes A New Leaf XG Mountain Bike

Zize's A New Leaf fits riders 5'6 – 7' and has a carrying capacity of 550lbs. This is closer to a hybrid bike than a proper mountain bike. It can be for riding around town and hitting less challenging trails. You get a slightly lighter bike but lose a gear. The tires are also narrower, at 2.1-inches, but still stable and cushy, just better suited for multi surfaces.

Pros Of A New Leaf

  • Does well on hills
  • Multi-terrain
  • The welds on the steel frame are built to last

Cons Of A New Leaf

  • The custom builds take time to build and deliver
Bike Weight Max Weight Brakes Suspension Gears
50lbs 550lbs Hydraulic disc None 9-Speed

6 Best E-Bikes For Plus Size Riders

E-bikes are amazing. They are especially fabulous if you live in a hilly area and pushing up them is not your idea of a good time. They are also a great way to do errands and buy a few groceries. But let's be honest: e-bikes are just plain fun. Add a little peddle assistance, and you can hit higher speeds without busting a lung, sailing the wind with pure adrenaline joy.

1. Addmotor Fat Tire Motan M-560 750W E-Bike

Addmotor Fat Tire Motan M-560 750W E-Bike
Addmotor Fat Tire Motan M-560 750W E-Bike

The Addmotor Fat Tire is a sturdy build with a powerful motor. It has for modes: full-throttle, pedal-assisted, walking mode, and normal bike. It can reach up to 23mph, and the battery can last up to 55-65 miles before recharge.

This build is made for taller riders: 5'10-6'6. Its fat tires are sturdy and provide excellent balance. They can even take on light snow. However, this bike's suspension is limited to the fork, which is disappointing. This is not a big deal on smoother surfaces, but you might wish for a bit more comfort on the rougher trails.

Pros Of Addmotor Fat Tire

  • Excellent all-terrain tires
  • Good battery range and power
  • Bright headlights

Cons Of Addmotor Fat Tire

  • Limited suspension
Bike Weight Max Weight Suspension Max Distance Max Speed
90lbs 300lbs ADDSHOX Front Fork 55-65 miles 23mph

2. Aventon Aventure E-Bike

Aventon Aventure E-Bike
Aventon Aventure E-Bike

The Aventon Aventure comes in three sizes: small (5'1-5'7), Medium (5'7-5'11), and large (5'll – 6'4). Its suspension is limited to the front fork, but many have found that the tires provide more than enough extra cushion, especially if you deflate them a smidge. It has excellent brakes and can pick up the pace, reaching 28mph with pedal assist.

The Shimano Acera 8-speed drivetrain provides plenty of options. However, the pedal-assist can take some adjustment, as it can feel a bit abrupt. On the other hand, its battery is pretty good. It has a range of 27 miles on a single charge for no pedaling, but at the lowest pedal assist can obtain up to 53 miles.

Pros Of Aventon Aventure

  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Step-thru frame option
  • Water-resistant

Cons Of Aventon Aventure

  • Acceleration can be a bit abrupt
Bike Weight Max Weight Suspension Max Distance Max Speed
73lbs 400lbs 80mm travel suspension fork 27-53 miles 20mph, but can be modified to 28mph w/ pedal assist

3. Bulls Copperhead HD Wave E-Bike

Bulls Copperhead HD Wave E-Bike
Bulls Copperhead HD Wave E-Bike

The Bulls Copperhead HD Wave is a class-1,10-speed e-bike with 4-pedal assisted levels. The hardtail has an eye-catching step-thru frame, wide tires, and doesn't weigh a ton. Its knobby tires are perfect for those that want to have some fun on the trails (and it is fun).

Despite the step-thru frame, the bike is stiff and strong and can handle it. Nor is it an accident. The designers wanted to make mountain riding accessible, and that's exactly what they've accomplished.

Pros Of Bulls Copperhead HD Wave

  • MT-4 Hydraulic brakes
  • Step-thru frame
  • Handles like a fun mountain bike

Cons Of Bulls Copperhead Wave

  • Not a good choice for those wanting headlights or full-throttle
Bike Weight Max Weight Suspension Max Distance Max Speed
56.1lbs 330lbs 120mm front & rear 40 miles single battery
80 miles dual battery
20mph

4. Blix Packa Genie 750W E-Bike

The Bix Packa Genie is a cargo e-bike that fits heights 5'1-6'3. It has hydraulic disc brakes, Kevlar puncture-resistant tires, 7-speed shifts, a full-throttle option, and LED lights. Unfortunately, its rider weight capacity is on the low side, making it only a plus-size bike for shorter cyclists. However, its cargo carrying capacity is fantastic with lots of options.

Pros Of Blix Packa Genie

  • Kevlar puncture-resistant tires
  • Excellent brakes
  • Nicely wrapped wires and cables

Cons Of Blix Packa Genie

  • The driver's weight is limited to 250lbs
Bike Weight Max Weight Suspension Max Distance Max Speed
78.5lbs 250lbs rider
150lb rear cargo
None 80 miles 20mph

5. DJ Fat Bike 750W E-bike

DJ Fat Bike 750W E-bike
DJ Fat Bike 750W E-bike

The DJ Fat bike is for riders 5'6-6'6; thus, it is only a plus-size bike for shorter cyclists. It is nice for trail riding, especially if you have back problems. But it runs smoothly on pavement. The thick tires offer stability and grip. It has a light for evening rides, full throttle for when you are tired, and has suspension. A good bike at an affordable price.

Pros Of DJ Fat Bike

  • Durable
  • Well priced
  • Good acceleration

Cons Of DJ Fat Bike

  • Long charging time
Bike Weight Max Weight Suspension Max Distance Max Speed
73.9lbs 275lbs Mozo 80 miles 20mph

6. Riese & Muller Supercharger GT Vario HS 1,50W E-Bike

Riese & Muller Supercharger GT Vario HS 1,50W E-Bike
Riese & Muller Supercharger GT Vario HS 1,50W E-Bike

The Riese & Muller Supercharger GT Vario is built for touring and has an incredible battery to go the distance. Thus, if you are in the hunt for a commuter bike, this one is probably more than you need. But if you are dreaming of doing some long summer rides, then this is an excellent choice.

The battery is powerful and will go the distance. The lights are made to be used, both to help drivers see you and you see at night. Plus, it is comfortable, which is essential for long hauls. Also, its official speed and what you can actually accomplish with pedal assist are two very different things. You might find you can inch this thing closer to 30 – good times.

Pros Of Riese & Muller Supercharger GT Vario

  • Magura MT4 disc brakes
  • Bright headlights
  • Long battery life with plenty of power

Cons Of Riese & Muller Supercharger GT Vario

  • Expensive
Bike Weight Max Weight Suspension Max Distance Max Speed
70lbs 300lbs Hardtail 40-120 miles 20mph