We all know the importance of choosing a form-fitting electric bike. If you’re a heavy rider, choosing a wrong electric bike size may often result in problems with poor posture or even challenges in pedaling and riding safely.
Unfortunately, if you’re heavy person then you might have a challenging time finding an option that suits your riding needs.
But the good news is, we’ve compiled a detailed guide highlighting everything you need to know about choosing an the best electric bikes for heavy riders.
Editor’s 1st Choice
RadRunner 2
Overall Rating:
- Riders Weight Limit | 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Motor | Robust 750 W motor
- Range | Up to 45+Miles per Charge
- Battery | 48V, 14 AhLithium-Ion Battery
- Speed | 22 mph
Learn More!
Editor’s 2nd Choice
700 SERIES
Overall Rating:
- Riders Weight Limit | 275 lbs (125 kg)
- Motor | Powerful 750w geared hub motor with 60nm torque
- Range | 30-50 miles depending on rider weight, terrain, incline, level of assist
- Battery | 48V14ah Reention Rhino, 52x Samsung 35E Cells, Smart BMS
- Speed | 26 mph
Learn More!
Editor’s 3rd Choice
Ride1Up LMT’D
Overall Rating:
- Riders Weight Limit | 275 lbs (125 kg)
- Motor | 750W Geared Hub Motor with 100NM Torque
- Range | Up to 30-50 Miles per Charge
- Battery | 48V, 14Ah Reention Eel Pro Samsung Cells
- Speed | 28 MPH Pedal Assist and 20 MPH Throttle
Learn More!
Heybike Explore Electric Bike
Overall Rating:
Editor’s Choice- Affordable Electric Bikes for Heavy Riders
Table could not be displayed.How to Choose Electric Bikes For Heavy Riders?
Just when people had begun losing interest in riding bikes, manufactures came up with a new concept, catering to electric bikes for heavy riders.
The electric bikes for heavy riders offer an exciting way to lose weight and keep fit, all at the same time enjoying the convenience of riding without getting fatigued.
However, not every e-bike is suited for overly heavy individuals.
To choose the right electric bike, you need to consider several factors, including:
Weight Capacity
Weight capacity is crucial when selecting an e-bike for heavy people.
The weight limit determines the load which an e-bike is capable of carrying.
You should avoid overburdening your e-bike as you might compromise its overall performance.
Now, if you weigh 300 pounds, you should purchase an electric bike rated above 300 pounds, ideally 350 or 400 pounds.
Sure, while it’s still possible to use a lower-rated bike, you would only but compromise on its structural integrity.
Electric Bikes Net Weight and Riders Weight Capacity / Limits
There’re several reasons why you should consider the weight limit of an electric bike before making a purchase.
Frame Design
Frames for e-bikes for heavy people should be sturdy enough to withstand the extra force and weight.
Avoid flimsy bike frames as they’re likely to break down easily.
Powerful Braking System
The greater the weight, the stronger the brakes needed to bring the e-bike to a halt.
Ideally, I would prefer the new style disc brakes as they’re robust and last for long.
Also Related:
Pedal Assist vs Throttle – Which One Should You Choose?
Comfortable Bike Geometry
The geometry of a bike mostly refers to the structure of the bike frame and the riding position.
For an electric bike handling a large weight, especially in the middle section, it’s necessary to ride in a more upright position as this enhances the overall comfort.
Wide Wheels
Typically, wheels are associated with drag, but they can also affect the performance of an e-bike.
A heavy person on slim and under-inflated tires can severely affect the performance by consuming the power pretty quickly.
On the other hand, fat tires built alongside a sturdy and upright frame can easily handle more weight, and will provide a much smoother ride.
#1. Radrunner 2
If you’re in the market for an electric bike that can be adapted to almost all your riding needs, check out Radpowerbikes’ Radrunner. The bike comes fitted with mechanical disc brakes, a 750-watt geared hub-motor, integrated lights, an integrated rear rack, and a lot of other cool features.
This moped-style e-bike can support up to 300 lbs of weight. That’s 20% more than the average e-bike can hold up.
Pros
- The bike comes with 3-inch wide tires perfect for riding in almost any weather condition. These wide tires also smoothen out bumpy rides by absorbing some of the energy released when the treads come in contact with surface irregularities.
- The Radrunner is a versatile electric bicycle. While It’s originally designed to carry out heavy-duty tasks, it can still be used as an off-road vehicle or adapted for commuting purposes.
Cons
- The Radrunner does not have a suspension system. Its front forks are rigid and it also doesn’t have a rear shock absorber.
- It is a large electric bike. The Radrunner weighs about 61 lbs (29 kg) and has a moped-style design. Now, that’s a lot of weight to deal with if all you’re looking for is a road or commuter e-bike.
Main Features:
- Riders Weight Limit | 300 lbs 136 kg
- Motor | Robust 750 W motor
- Range | Up to 45+Miles per Charge
- Battery | 48V, 14 AhLithium-Ion Battery
- Speed | 22 mph
#2. Ride1Up 700 Series
The Ride1Up 700 series is a 500W electric bike equipped with a 48V 14Ah battery. The bike allows riders to switch between nine different levels of pedal-assist.
This e-bike’s frame can support up to 275 lbs (125 kg) of weight (25 lbs short of the Radrunner).
Pros
- The e-bike is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes. Hydraulic brakes are generally more efficient than mechanical disc brakes. They also last longer and require less maintenance.
- It’s a Class 3 electric bike. What this means is, the Ride1Up 700’s motor will provide assistance up until speeds of 28 mph (45 kph) before the controller starts regulating the amount of power it sends to the motor.
Cons
- The e-bike comes fitted with a 160mm brake rotor. Considering the bike’s top speed and maximum payload capacity, 160mm seems a bit small. A 180mm brake rotor would have been better suited to riders’ needs.
- It does not have a rear suspension system. Electric bikes with rear suspensions are more likely to perform better on trails than those without.
Main Features:
- Riders Weight Limit | 275 lbs (125 kg)
- Motor | Powerful 750w geared hub motor with 60nm torque
- Range | 30-50 miles depending on rider weight, terrain, incline, level of assist
- Battery | 48V14ah Reention Rhino, 52x Samsung 35E Cells, Smart BMS
- Speed | 26 mph
#3. Ride1Up LMT’D
This e-bike has been designed from the ground up for the urban commuter who wants to get around town in style without breaking the bank. It features a sleek design, a hydraulic disc-braking system, and a high torque and high performance motor.
Read the full review of the Ride1Up LMT’D Electric Bike
This e-bike’s frame is capable of supporting up to 275 lbs of weight. The good thing is it is not as heavy as most commuter e-bikes.
At 53 lbs (24.04 kg), the Ride1Up LMT’D isn’t the lightest bicycle on the planet, however, it weighs considerably less than most e-bikes in its class.
E-bike Name |
Power Rating |
Net Weight |
---|---|---|
750W |
53 lbs (24 kg) | |
750W |
73 lbs (33 kg) | |
750W |
65 lbs (30 kg) | |
500W |
75 lbs (34 kg) | |
750W |
62 lbs (28 kg) |
Pros & Cons of Ride1Up LMT’D
Pros
- It is a powerful e-bike.
- It is equipped with many high-end components (hydraulic brakes, air forks, etc.).
- Ride1Up runs this service that connects potential buyers to independent bike owners who voluntarily provide their bikes for test rides.
- The bike is not as bulky as other e-bikes with semi-integrated batteries.
Cons
- The bike doesn’t come with necessary accessories like fenders and lights.
- Based on our field test, the brakes seem to be a little noisy.
Main Features:
- Riders Weight Limit | 275 lbs (125 kg)
- Motor | 750W Geared Hub Motor with 100NM Torque
- Range | Up to 30-50 Miles per Charge
- Battery | 48V, 14Ah Reention Eel Pro Samsung Cells
- Speed | 28 MPH Pedal Assist and 20 MPH Throttle
You might be interested in: Turboant Thunder T1/N1
The Turboant Thunder is the strongest e-bike on this list. This electric bike is rated for a maximum payload capacity of 330 lbs (150 kg).
To propel all that weight, Turboant equips all Thunder models with 750-Watt brushless geared motors. And providing the power needed to drive the e-bike forward is a 48V 14Ah Samsung/LG battery fitted into the bike’s down tube.
Pros
- Riders can lock the bike’s throttle to prevent accidentally activating it. This makes a huge difference when you’re pedaling up a steep hill or just riding off-road – accidentally revving the motor could throw you off the bike.
- The bike comes with front and rear lights. You don’t have to worry about purchasing about purchasing aftermarket lights that won’t integrate well with the bike’s system.
Cons
- The Turboant Thunder weighs 72.8 lbs (33 kg). That’s about 10 lbs (4.5 kg) more bulk than you’d find on either of the other bikes.
- Another downside to purchasing the Turboant Thunder is its size. Its frame is not collapsible so you’re going to need a large space to store it.
- The Turboant Thunder doesn’t come with a rack, which is kind of disappointing considering it costs more than the other two bikes listed in this article.
Main Features:
- Riders Weight Limit | 264lbs (120 kg)
- Motor | 750 W with 80 Nm max torque
- Range | 60 miles depending on rider weight, terrain, incline, level of assist
- Battery | 48 V × 14 Ah
- Speed | 26 mph
Also Related:
Best Electric Bike for Short Riders – Turn Your Height To Your Advantage
What Is the Maximum Weight for an Electric Bike
The maximum weight for an electric bicycle is a safe payload limit that promotes the best structural and electrical functionality of the bike.
Most of the popular e-bikes out there (cargo e-bikes included) are rated for maximum payload capacities between 250 (113.4 kg) and 350 pounds (159 kg). However there are regular e-bikes, like the Zize Leaf XG, that can support up to 550 lbs of weight.
Can Overweight People Ride Ebikes
Overweight people typically weigh between 200 (90 kg) and 300 lbs (136 kg). This weight range falls well under the payload limits of most electric bikes.
So, yes, overweight people can ride electric bikes. However, not all electric bikes rated for heavy payloads can operate at optimal performance when pushed to their limits. This is why you have to consider factors like power output, shock absorption, etc before purchasing electric bikes designed for heavy riders.
Also Related:
Bike Weight Limits – Does Weight Matter When Buying a Bike?
What Is Payload Capacity Ebike
An electric bike’s payload capacity is the total amount of weight — rider, passenger(s), and/ cargo — the bike can support without putting too much strain on its mechanical and electronic components.
So, if a rider weighs 150 lbs (68 kg) and he hauls a 50-pound (23 kg) toolbox with him to work, the total payload on the bike would be roughly 200 pounds (90 kg). If his e-bike has a maximum weight rating of 250 lbs, loading it up to 260 lbs (118 kg) could cause damage to its components.
Best Electric Bike for 300 lbs Man
Most average electric bikes will support a 300 lbs rider (even if they’re not rated for such weight). However, cycling is not just about holding up the rider’s weight.
There are a lot of reasons why people buy electric bicycles. Acting as a chair that holds up their weights is definitely not one of them.
So, in this section, we’ll be listing some of the best electric bikes for heavy riders of 300 lbs with a focus on performance.
Editor’s 1st Choice
Trek Rail 9.9 XTR
Overall Rating:
- Riders Weight Limit | 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Motor | Bosch Performance Line CX
- Range | N/A
- Battery | Bosch PowerTube 750Wh
- Speed | 20 mph
Editor’s 2nd Choice
Radwagon 4
Overall Rating:
- Riders Weight Limit | 350 lbs (158 kg)
- Motor | 750W Geared Hub Motor
- Range | Up to 45+ miles
- Battery | 48V, 14 AhLithium-Ion Battery
- Speed | 20 mph
Editor’s 3rd Choice
Juiced Scorpion X
Overall Rating:
- Riders Weight Limit | 275 lbs (125 kg)
- Motor | 750W Rear hub motor
- Range | Up to 55+ miles
- Battery | 52V 15Ah 780Wh
- Speed | 28 mph
Best Electric Bike for Heavy Riders of 400 lbs
If you weigh 400 lbs (181 kg), there are certain features that an e-bike must have in order for it to meet your requirements. One of these features, and probably the most important, is a powerful motor.
Aim for electric bikes with nominal power ratings between 500 and 750 Watts. Below are some heavy-duty electric bikes for heavy riders equipped with powerful motors.
Editor’s 1st Choice
Eunorau G20
Overall Rating:
- Riders Weight Limit | 400 lbs (200 kg)
- Motor | 500W DAPU Mid-Drive motor
- Range | 30 miles
- Battery | 48V/11.6Ah Samsung Lithium-ion
- Speed | 20 mph
Editor’s 2nd Choice
T4B Carriage Trike 3
Overall Rating:
- Riders Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg)
- Motor | BAFANG 500W Front Drive Electric Brushless Motor
- Range | 35 miles
- Battery | 48V14.5Ah Sumsung Cells Battery
- Speed | 20 mph
Editor’s 3rd Choice
Addmotor Motan M-330
Overall Rating:
- Riders Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg)
- Motor | Bafang 48V*750W Front Hub Brushless Motor
- Range | 45-55 Miles with PAS 1
- Battery | 48V*14.5Ah Lithium Panasonic Batteries
- Speed | 22 mph
Best Electric Bikes for Heavy Riders of 500 lbs
There aren’t many electric bikes out there that can hold up loads exceeding 450 lbs (204 kg). We did, however, discover an e-bike brand dedicated to creating battery-powered bicycles for heavier riders.
At Zize Bikes, heavy and obese riders can find electric bikes rated for maximum loads of up to 550 (249.4 kg) lbs. Their e-bikes are fitted with high-end components that perform optimally even when strained by heavier weights.
Are electric bikes good for heavy riders?
Yes, electric bikes are a great option for heavy riders. However, it is important to pick an e-bike that has a sturdy frame and has ability to handle your weight. Most electric bikes can handle up to 220-300 pounds or 100-140 kg weight. Few can accommodate riders weighing up to 350 pounds (160 kg). But for anything beyond that, there are Zize electric bikes and electric cargo bikes.
How to choose an e-bike as a large rider?
When choosing an e-bike, consider the following factors:
Weight limit: Make sure the e-bike you choose can support your weight.
Frame: Look for an e-bike with a sturdy frame that can handle your weight.
Motor: Mid-drive motors are recommended for heavier riders who plan to ride on hills.
Riding style: Consider your riding style and the type of terrain you will be riding on.
Electric trikes and electric cargo bikes: If you need to carry more weight, consider electric trikes and electric cargo bikes.