While the world of eBikes is always advancing, currently there are not so many models that are designed for heavier weights.
Average e-bikes generally state that their maximum weight limit is less than 250lbs, sometimes considerably less than this.
It seems such a shame, as getting out on an e-bike can be a fantastic option for people that are above this weight.
It is an excellent way to exercise while minimizing the strain on the joints. If you are building up your fitness levels or working on a weight loss programme, having the extra assistance of the electric motor can be a great motivator.
Below, we’ll give our reviews of the best electric bikes for heavier riders that each support at least 285 lbs, up to 330 lbs.
Best Electric Bike for Heavy Riders Comparison
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How We Classified These Bikes as Being Best for Heavy Riders
We looked at several different features when considering which e-bikes to review. Of course, as a starting point, they had to be models that could carry over 250lbs.
We looked at the frame shapes. A step-thru frame can be much more comfortable to mount if you have restricted mobility as a result of your weight.
A lot of bikes that can accommodate heavier weights are budget brands that have cumbersome frames. By picking something that is not the most basic that offers a higher specification, you will have more versatility. If you are using it regularly, you will want something that can handle more as your fitness levels increase.
You want it to have good suspension, and the wheels should be designed to handle the additional weight too. Fat-tire bikes are often popular choices for heavier individuals.
The saddle should be supportive, and there may be extra suspension in the seat post.
Good brakes are essential. The average stopping distance becomes greater the heavier the rider is.
We also looked at the motor and battery. Mid-drive motors can be useful; providing smoother power and acceleration, especially on hills. This is advantageous when the bike is carrying more weight. The more the motor has to work, the quicker it will drain the battery. So a powerful battery is helpful too.
We always recommend double-checking with the manufacturer on their most recent models and their maximum weight capacities before making a purchase. This information is not always disclosed, and it can be conflicting too.
Consider an E-Bike Conversion Kit for Additional Options
If you can’t find a model that suits your needs and weight, you could consider installing an e-bike conversion kit.
By fitting the motor and battery onto an existing standard bike frame designed for heavier riders, you can create an electric bike.
You can fit these kits yourself but be aware that it can be technically challenging and it can be easier to pay for a professional in your local bike shop to do this.
It can be quite a technical task, so only attempt it yourself if you have done your research and feel confident.
Be Aware of the Electric Bike Classes
Don’t forget to check the Class of the bike you are considering too. The laws vary depending on the country you are in. Sometimes models that are being advertised as traditional best electric bikes that have a heavier weight capacity turn out to be ones that do speeds above 28mph. This means they are not generally going to be road legal.
Check out the People For Bikes website, which is a handy resource for gaining a better understanding of these, sometimes nuanced, regulations.
In general, the Classes are broken down as follows within the United States:
Class 1 e-bikes
- Max speed of 20mph
- Pedal-assist motor only
- In some areas, the motor can be no bigger than 250w
- Generally no restrictions on where they can be used in the US
Class 2 e-bikes
- Max speed of 20mph
- Pedal-assist mode or thumb throttle function
- Motor no greater than 750w
Class 3 e-bikes
- Max speed 28mph (often referred to as speed pedelecs)
- Pedal-assist function only
- Motor no greater than 750w
- There are restrictions in certain States on where these can be used – always check
Learn More: Read our eBike insurance reviews.
Reviews of the Best e-Bikes for Heavy Riders
Specs
| Type of Bike | Class 2 (pedal-assist and throttle on demand) |
| Motor | Bafang 750W |
| Battery | LG 48V 10.4AH |
| Max Speed | 19 mph |
| Max Distance | 19 miles without pedaling |
| Brakes | Logan HD-E500 Hydraulic Disc |
| Charging Time | 4.5 hours |
| Bike Weight | 63 lbs |
| Max Weight Capacity | 300 lbs |
| Price | $2,499 |
What We Loved
This bike is versatile. The fat tires will make for a more comfortable and supportive ride. The aluminum alloy frame is solid and can support up to 300lbs in weight. This makes for a bike that will work for off-roading and also city commutes.
The powerful mid-drive motor has some oomph for getting you up those steep ascents with decent acceleration.
The hydraulic disc brakes mean you will have more responsive stopping time, even if you are flying downhill.
Why it Might Not Work For You
This bike doesn’t have any suspension so, if you are off-roading, the fat tires are the only thing offer a bit of a buffer. It will also be harder on the bike if you are doing a lot of rough trail riding.
At 63lbs this bike is heavy. A lot of the bikes designed to carry more weight do have a more robust frame, so this is not too extreme in comparison with some of the other bikes reviewed.
Verdict
This is a versatile and affordable bike that offers good value for money and will allow you to use it for commutes and cruising. If you want to be more adventurous, it is well-suited to off-roading too.
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Specs
| Type of Bike | Class 2 (pedal-assist and throttle on demand) |
| Motor | 500W high-speed brushless gear motors |
| Battery | 36V 12Ah lithium-ion battery |
| Max Speed | 20 mph |
| Max Distance | 35 miles |
| Brakes | Dual Mechanical Disc Brakes |
| Charging Time | 6 hours |
| Bike Weight | 50 lbs |
| Max Weight Capacity | 330 lbs |
What We Loved
If you are on a very tight budget or are looking for a basic entry-level bike, then the Ancheer electric mountain bike could tick the boxes.
It is reasonably light for the price, at only around 50lbs but it still can take up to 330lbs in weight, more than most of the other bikes we have reviewed.
Why it Might Not Work For You
It doesn’t have a high specification so you will not benefit from any suspension, responsive hydraulic brakes or bigger named brand motor. This is really to be expected when you are paying less than $800.
You are not going to get outstanding after-sales support with this online-only company. There is no proper warranty, so you are taking a gamble.
Verdict
If you don’t plan to push the bike with long rides, steep climbs or frequent rough terrain, then this is a good starter model. Don’t expect too much, though.
>> Tap Here to Read More Reviews and See Today’s Price on Amazon.com <<
Specs
| Type of Bike | Class 2 (pedal-assist and throttle on demand) |
| Motor | Bafang 500w rear hub motor |
| Battery | 48V 10.4Ah Samsung lithium battery |
| Max Speed | 20 mph |
| Max Distance | 50 miles |
| Brakes | Tektro Auriga hydraulic disc |
| Charging Time | 6 hours |
| Bike Weight | 55 lbs |
| Max Weight Capacity | 285 lbs |
| Price | $1,999 |
What We Loved
Surface have a good reputation, and they offer excellent after-sales support and a two-year warranty.
Considering the price, the Colt 604 has a high-specification. It has hydraulic brakes and a powerful 500w motor which are particularly useful when traveling at speeds. The adjustable suspension fork and gel saddle also mean you will have a more comfortable ride.
Although this is a high-step frame, it is angled downwards making it easier to mount if you have mobility restrictions.
Why it Might Not Work For You
Despite the high specification on the rest of the bike, the tires are not the highest quality or most heavy-duty. If they are carrying extra weight, it means they may not last as well.
This bike only carries up to 285lbs in weight so it is not going to support the loads that some of the models reviewed here will.
Verdict
This hybrid bike works well for commuting, and it could even manage some gentle trails. For the price, it offers excellent value for money, and the specification is higher than a lot of the other bikes reviewed.
>> Tap Here to Read More Reviews and See Today’s Price on BikeBerry.com <<
Specs
| Type of Bike | Check the local laws for this bike as it falls between Class 2, 3 and even 4 |
| Motor | 750W BAFANG High Torque Gear Motor |
| Battery | 48V 13Ah (624Wh) Samsung Cell Li-ion Battery |
| Max Speed | 28 mph |
| Max Distance | 35 miles |
| Brakes | F/R Tektro Hydraulic Disc Brake |
| Charging Time | 4 hours |
| Bike Weight | 70 lbs |
| Max Weight Capacity | 330 lbs |
| Price | $2,399 |
What We Loved
This is another bike that can handle up to 330 lbs in weight. The tires and the saddle are larger than normal, providing extra support and comfort.
The hydraulic brakes are another bonus, helping to reduce the extra stopping distance created when you add more weight.
The 750w motor will also help provide efficient power and acceleration, especially if you are tackling hills.
The fat, grippy tire style also means this bike will work for off-roading and flashy commuter trips.
Why it Might Not Work For You
Although it is listed as being Class 3, you should check your local laws. This could potentially even be a bike that requires licensing. It goes up to speeds of 28mph, but it still has a throttle function. Usually, the throttle is only found on Class 2 bikes that can reach 20mph before the motor cuts out.
The bike has an unusual low rise, motorbike inspired saddle position, with the handlebars being elevated higher. Some people might not find this such a comfortable riding style.
There is no suspension in the Cheetah so any off-roading will not be quite so comfortable and it will put additional strain on the frame.
It is also the heaviest bike, so not so easy for lifting onto bike racks or carrying up stairs.
Verdict
Unless you plan to restrict your riding to private trails, then you should check your local electric bicycle classification regulations to avoid any disappointment.
Other than that, it is a very sleek but functional bike that, given its unique design and higher specification, is surprisingly good value.
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Specs
| Type of Bike | Class 2 (pedal-assist and throttle on demand) |
| Motor | Bafang 500w front hub motor |
| Battery | 48V/15.6Ah Lithium-ion |
| Max Speed | 20 mph |
| Max Distance | 35 miles |
| Brakes | Mechanical Disc brakes |
| Charging Time | 6 hours |
| Bike Weight | 70 lbs |
| Max Weight Capacity | 320 lbs |
What We Loved
This is another bike that is built to carry additional weight – up to 320lbs. For heavier cyclists, there is still often enough leeway for you to take advantage of the large rear rack for transporting things too.
The three-wheel trike style offers additional stability, and it can be more comfortable for those with limited mobility or joint problems.
The bike has a powerful motor and a good battery, and this is a bonus when carrying more weight.
The bike has a front suspension fork, suspension seat post and large, grippy fat-tires, this helps to ensure a very comfortable ride.
Why it Might Not Work For You
This bike is not built for speed demons. It is cumbersome and, because it lacks hydraulic brakes, care would need to be taken with stopping distances. Taking it up to its top speed could be a bit of a hairy ride!
It is a basic model, but it is still not the cheapest, so you are not getting a genuine bargain.
While it will cope with road surfaces that are not the smoothest, this trike is not designed for off-roading.
Because of its weight, it will be more effort to use pedal power alone on this trike. So if you want to minimize your use of power-assist modes, then you may want to select a lighter model.
Verdict
If you are looking for stability and comfort, the Emojo Caddy cargo bike could work well. Don’t expect it to be quick off the mark though, and stick to roads rather than trails.
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