I am looking for a bicycle I can ride for exercise in an effort to loose weight and improve my general fitness. So far, I have been unable to find any bicycles rated for my size.
Tags: electric bicycle, lb man, fitness, weight, United States, Hospitality Recreation, exerciseWhere Can I Find a Bicycle Which Is Sturdy Enough for a 350 Lb Man to Ride?
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I should think most steel framed bikes will take up to 250lbs, but you’ll probably want something with small wheels – you get maximum strength from a small frame and small wheels.
The weight ratings are a bit conservative; bear in mind that a lot of people carry luggage on their bikes which add considerably to the load. I think you might have to buy a custom built or custom modified frame though. Not cheap, but
it would give you the best quality ride.
You might also consider a tricycle if you have trouble balancing; Moultons are built to order and are exceptionally high quality – unfortunately they have a price tag to match, but they look cool.
Try a stationary bike. I’ve not seen too many real bikes built for that kind of weight. You can always ask the guys at your local bike store – ask them to recommend a bike for someone of that caliber.
However, I imagine that a stationary bike is stronger than a real bike (at least for supporting weight). Get a stationary bike, or go to a gym that has one. Once you start to lose weight, you can find a proper bike (if still interested).
Have fun!
The most important things for you will be a sturdy set of wheels and a strong seatpost. I’d recommend a steel frame.
You’ll have to pay extra for some wheels, and that will be expensive, but you have to realize that even most “good” wheels won’t handle your weight well (or at all) unless you ride easy on pretty smooth surfaces. Look for a wide downhill rim with 36 or 48 spokes. You want a rim that’s at least 32mm wide. The Azonic Outlaw wheelset is great and affordable at about $250. You could get a set of Halo Combat wheels for a little less. Any bike shop can order these for you from the distributors. The Bontrager Big Earl wheels are also stout, and any Trek dealer can get them. Wide tires with higher pressure are the best idea. 2.25″ at least, bigger if your frame will handle them. You can get wide tires in a smooth street tread or any number of knobby trail treads.
You might want to get a saddle with steel rails instead of mag or ti, just so it’ll be less likely to bend if you have your weight on the back when you hit a big bump.
The other parts of the bike will be just fine and if you keep at it you’ll be getting lighter from week to week anyway, so any worries about weak parts will become less of a concern.
Another idea if you can’t find or afford a bike that will hold up, would be to take up swimming or walking for awhile until you drop 100 pounds or so. By that time most bikes will hold up much better for you.
Good on you for getting started! Bikes r good 4 u….!
)
there are not many bikes that will support that weight. however, you might want to try a stationary bike first, until your not too heavy. i can understand that you want to lose weight. also, if you want too, you can do one of those weight lose programs. good luck!!
The Kona hoss should do the job for you. It is designed for clydesdale class riders. I believe it is rated to 400lb (for normal riding)
http://www.awcycles.co.uk/brands/Kona/Hoss/10111/index.aspx
Another option is to drop these guys a line. they make bikes rated to 550 lb
http://www.supersizedcycles.com/
Buy a mountain bike but ride it on paved roads. Mountain bikes are made to take a lot of abuse, but since you weigh so much, stay on roads to minimize strain on your bike.
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