You don’t have to give up on the joy of cycling just because you are a heavy and big guy. Don’t worry about breaking the spokes or saddles that are too small for you. Mountain biking is a great sport for heavy riders and there are many manufacturers who build bicycles capable of sustaining a weight of 300 pounds and above.
To get started with your mountain biking experience, you need to take into account a few things such as your age, height, and experience in cycling. Let’s not forget that everybody deserves to enjoy the fun of cycling outdoors, regardless of their physical stature. The key lies in selecting the perfect mountain bike that suits the rider’s statistics and experience.
Finding the best mountain bike for heavy riders is certainly not a walk in the park. There are so many things you need to check, compare, and decide. We know it can baffling for the beginners who have just stepped into the world of mountain biking. To make your task easier, we have done the market research for you.
Our team has spent hours extensively scouring the Internet for the best mountain bikes suitable for the big buys. We have handpicked a few based on research, comparisons, analysis, and customer reviews. Read on to find a detailed review of each product.
If you are too busy to read until the end, we recommend Mongoose Dolomite Fat Tire Men’s Mountain Bike (learn more) that comes with aluminum suspension frame to maximize comfort and performance. If you are a beginner at mountain biking, you may replace the factory-made 29-inches wheel with 26-inches to get a hang of riding on tough trails.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Weight Limit | Dimensions | Weight | |
| #1. Schwinn S29 Mens Mountain Bike | 250 pounds | 56.5 x 29.25 x 8 inches | 43 pounds | Shop Now |
| #2. Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike | Up to 290 pounds | 55 x 27.9 x 8.45 inches | 44 pounds | Shop Now |
| #3. Mongoose Impasse Men’s Mountain Bike | 300 pounds | 57 x 9 x 31 inches | 44 pounds | Shop Now |
| #4. Mongoose Dolomite Fat Tire Men’s Mountain Bike | 300 pounds | 61 x 30.1 x 10.25 inches | 59 pounds | Shop Now |
| #5. Diamondback Bicycles Hook Mountain Bike | up to 300 pounds | 59 x 31 x 9 inches | 49 pounds | Shop Now |
| #6. Diamond Back Bicycles Overdrive | around 320 pounds | 60.63 x 30.71 x 10.24 inche | 45 pounds | Shop Now |
| #7. Diamond Back Bicycles Recoil 29er Full Suspension Mountain Bike | 300 pounds | 61.5 x 34 x 12.5 inches | 35 pounds | Shop Now |
| #8. Kent T-29 Men’s Mountain Bike | around 250 pounds | 58 x 29.5 x 7.5 inches | 41 pounds | Shop Now |
1. Schwinn S29 Mens Mountain Bike
If you are looking to start mountain biking but are apprehensive due to your weight then check out the Schwinn S29, which is designed in a way to conquer the trails. The outer bike frame is made from sturdy and reliable aluminum dual-suspension that can sustain heavyweight.
Equipped with a front suspension fork and a rear shock, you can easily take on any mountain trail no matter how challenging. On a rugged terrain, this provides ultimate bump absorption and ensures a safe trail riding. The 18-inch/medium frame easily accommodates tall riders with height ranging between 5’9″and 6’2″.
The front and rear mechanical disc brakes are built to provide quick stopping and steady speed control during descents. We are impressed with the extra-wide dual-wall alloy rims that wrap around the 2. 1-inch wide mountain tires to provide enhanced stability.
Product features and specifications
- Weighs 47 pounds
- 29-Inch Wheels
- Front and rear mechanical disc brakes
- Aluminum Frame and Suspension
- 21-speed Shimano EZ-Fire trigger shifters
- Schwinn alloy triple cranks
- Shimano 7-speed freewheel
User/ Customer reviews
Most users have said that the cycle comes well-packaged and almost assembled, so you just need to attach the front wheel and handlebars to get on the road. Those who have gone over 400 miles on the bike have said that it does a good job at absorbing shocks on a rugged terrain. People who are close to 6 inches height and over 200 pounds weight find this bicycle easy to use.
Conclusion
This is an excellent mountain bike for beginners and the sturdy construction makes sure it can handle a lot of weight. Although it comes almost assembled, the bike needs some tuning to adjust as per your specific requirements. Once done, this is a solid bike that will give you several miles of great outdoor experience. Overall, this is a great investment.
#2. Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
Our second best mountain bike for the big guys also come from the Schwinn family that has an experience of making bicycles for more than a century. Their Schwinn Protocol comprises of a sturdy aluminum full suspension frame equipped with a front suspension fork for responsiveness and reliability.
The bike comes with 24-speed Shimano EZ-Fire trigger shifters and rear derailleurs that give riders a wide gear range along with effortless shifting of gear on the trail. The front-rear brakes are powerful and enable riders to come to a crisp halt in all conditions.
The 3-piece cranks along with double-walled alloy rims are lightweight, yet strong to ensure that your bike can sustain good amount of weight without being too heavy to glide on. We are impressed with the overall construction f the bike that gives you good speed and reliability without requiring a lot of maintenance.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 55 x 27.9 x 8.45 inches
- Weighs 44.4 pounds
- 24 speeds with Shimano EZ-Fire shifters
- Promax front and rear disc brakes
- Schwinn alloy crank
- Light and strong alloy rims
User/ Customer reviews
Big guys find this bike easy to install out of the box and ready to get on the trail without losing any time. Users feel that the cycle rides really well and the full suspension does a good job at absorbing shock on the sidewalks and bumpy road. A few users have warned that the seat can be a little uncomfortable if you ride for long.
Conclusion
This is a great looking mountain bike that delivers a good performance and does not burn a hole in your pocket. We suggest getting a more comfortable saddle if you plan to go on long road trips. Overall, this investment will last you for several enjoyable rides. Well worth the money spent.
#3. Mongoose Impasse Men’s Mountain Bike
This men’s mountain bike by Mongoose is designed to help people of all size and statures to leave behind their daily life and take the road less traveled. With a hard-wearing aluminum suspension frame, you get optimum comfort and great performance on rough and hilly terrain.
The manufacturer claims that there’s nothing you can’t do on a Mongoose and we can’t agree more. The element suspension fork smoothes out the impacts from bumps and gives you better control on trail. With the 21-speed Shimano rear derailleur and SRAM twist shifters, changing the gears feel much easier.
Getting to the wheels, we are happy with the alloy material used, with the quick release front capability that gives more control to the rider. The alloy front and rear disc brakes help you come to a quick stop when needed. Please bear in mind that the bike comes disassembled and you will need some standardized imperial wrenches for assembly.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 57 x 9 x 31 inches
- Weighs 44 pounds
- SRAM twist shifters
- Aluminum suspension frame
- Element suspension fork
- Alloy front and rear disc brakes
- Alloy wheels with quick release front
User/ Customer reviews
Users more than 200 pounds and over 6 feet in height have used the mountain bike to comfortably ride on city parks, gravel roads, rails, and the woody trails with equal ease. Some customers have claimed that this one of the cheapest mountain bikes money can buy, however you must have realistic expectations.
Conclusion
This is a well-made mountain bike for beginners and if you maintain it well, it can last for a long time. Although it may not have the fancy features and options of a high-end expensive model, the attractive looks and performance make it a great choice.
#4. Mongoose Dolomite Fat Tire Men’s Mountain Bike
So, here’s again another one by Mongoose and this time it’s the Dolomite Fat Tire Mountain Bike that promises to help you conquer any off-road trail with ease. The bike comes partially assembled and you will need to attach handlebar, front wheel, seat, and pedals before you take it for a ride.
The supersized knobby tires provide a lot of stability and help you glide along with ease on all types of terrain. It comes equipped with a Shimano rear derailleur with seven speeds that make it easier to climb hills. The twist shifters enable riders to smoothly switch gears while riding.
The lightweight yet sturdy alloy rims keep the weight down while ensuring that it can easily accommodate heavy riders. The beach cruiser pedals, plus front and rear disc brakes add more fuel to performance and ensure the biker’s safety too.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 68” x 23” x 41”
- Weighs 59 pounds
- Partial assembly required
- Conquers any off-road trail
- High-tensile steel framed
- Shimano rear derailleur with 7 speeds
User/ Customer reviews
Users feel that this is a perfect beginner bike for trail riding and is perfectly suited for anyone who plans to gradually upgrade their riding game. Most heavy people are impressed with the essential components of the bike including the frame, tubes, wheels, tires, and seat that deliver a decent performance on regular roads and rocky trails too.
Conclusion
This Mongoose mountain bike is an absolute attention getter with thick tires, wide tire rim, several reflectors, and a metallic dark blue paint. For the big guys, this bike gives a kind of reassurance for a smooth and nice ride on all types of terrain. Overall, we feel this bike is for those who want both good looks and an awesome performance.
#5. Diamondback Bicycles Hook Mountain Bike
If you are on the heavier side of the scale and you wish to have just one bike that can take on all types trails then check out the Hook. For the beginners, this is can be a solid support to back you on adventure trails and help you explore new realms. The SR Suntour XCM travel suspension fork effortlessly handles all types of hurdles.
Equipped with a low-slung and modern exterior frame, the Hook looks as good as its siblings from the Diamondback Bicycles family. Short at the back, long in the front, easily maneuverable, and low, the Hook feels smart and on-spot for the tight yet rock trails. The powerful mechanical disc brakes let you stop quick at any point.
The durable and quick-rolling wheels add a lot of stability to the mountain bike. More than any other feature, we find the affordability of the bike truly impressive. Despite the amazing performance, speed, and power, the makers have kept the price low to enable more beginners to enjoy cross country or mountain biking.
Product features and specifications
- Weighs 49 pounds
- The reliable aluminum hardtail frame
- SR Suntour XCM travel suspension fork
- SRAM single ring 1×8 drivetrain
- Powerful Tektro Aries
- Durable DB SL-7 Doublewall 27.5″ wheels
User/ Customer reviews
Most big guys feel that the bike is easy to assemble if you have assembled bikes in the past, and there are no loose parts or misfits. Users feel the bike frame is well built and solid, with well-rounded components that provide more power and stability to the bicycle. A few customers have warned that the user manual is not good with instructions and needs improvement.
Conclusion
The Hook is undoubtedly one of the best entry-level mountain bikes money can buy, and it fares well even for the heavy people. However, as you advance your skills and feel the need for more power and control, you may want to upgrade to a better and more expensive model. For the price, this is definitely a great deal!
#6. Diamond Back Bicycles Overdrive
Heavier people feel skeptical to be on a lightweight bike, so here the Diamond Back Bicycles Overdrive that promises to give you the much needed assurance. Whether you are looking for a solid bike to take on the single-track, participate in the cross-country races or enjoy your climbing on a hilly terrain, this bicycle can handle all that with ease.
This heavy duty MTB comes almost fully assembled and you just need to add a few attachments before you can head to the trail. Those who like to enjoy long rides on their bike will appreciate the durable aluminum frame that makes the bike lightweight and easy to ride
The RockShox FS30 TK fork promises to give you enhanced comfort, while the SRAM SX 1×12 drivetrain ensures simple and easy shifting of gears. Fitted with the Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, the bike enjoys a lot of stopping power and can come to a crisp halt at any time.
Product features and specifications
- Weighs about 45 pounds
- Durable and lightweight aluminum frame
- RockShox FS30 TK fork
- Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes
- SRAM SX 1×12 drivetrain
User/ Customer reviews
Heavy people and even those over their 40s find it easier to start mountain biking with this Diamond Back bicycle that comes nearly preassembled. Most users have said that the factory bike is stiff and it’s better to invest in a more comfortable seat if you plan to go on long rides. Customers love this bike not only for the cool graphics but solid front suspension and 29-inches tires that make bumps disappear.
Conclusion
The Overdrive 29 3 is certainly the one to go with if you are heavier than an average bike rider and wish to go trail riding. With quick brakes, efficient shifting, and an attractive appearance, the MTB has everything you are probably looking for in the best bike. Overall, we feel this investment will certainly not disappoint you.
#7. Diamond Back Bicycles Recoil 29er Full Suspension Mountain Bike
If you are looking for more power then here’s another one from Diamondback Bicycles that stood tall in our review and research on mountain bikes for full-bodied people. This is a hand-built heavy duty 4-inch travel 6061 T-6 full-suspension 29er frame made from aluminum alloy.
The mountain bike comes with an optimized single pivot having sealed cartridge bearings for a butter-like smooth ride even on zig-zag and rugged terrains. It also adds a lot of durability to the bike and helps it last longer for several enjoyable rides on-road or up-hill.
We are impressed with how well the SR Sun tour XCT 100Mm suspension fork and Kindshock coil rear shock handle the challenges on trails. The 3×8 speed drivetrain by Shimano also aids in easy and reliable shifting with the help of 24 gears. Furthermore, the Tetra Aires mechanical disc brakes help the bicycle come to a crisp stop.
Product features and specifications
- Kenda Honey Badger 29 x 2.2″ tires
- Shimano 3×8 speed drivetrain
- Tetra disc brakes
- Kindshock coil rear shock
- 4-inch travel single-pivot suspension platform
- DB Recoil 6061 T-6 aluminum frame
User/ Customer reviews
Heavy people have given rave reviews to the solid built and great looks of the bike which comes at a lower price than the ones you can find in the local bike shop. Those who are taller and heavier find this bike a perfect fit for them to effortlessly take on any trail. Users are also pleased with the 29-inch wheels that take on the biggest holes, roots, and rocks on the trail with ease.
Conclusion
This mountain bike by Diamondback feels slightly heavier than a competitor bike at its range but you can tweak this by replacing a few factory components to meet your needs. At this price range, this is an excellent bike that gives more power and control to the riders when taking on a difficult trail. Overall, it delivers an outstanding price to performance ratio.
#8. Kent T-29 Men’s Mountain Bike
If you are seeking smart specs in a bike that can sustain heavy weight in difficult terrains then this men’s mountain bike by Kent is another great option. During review we found that this model is perfectly suited for both beginner and intermediate riders looking for a sturdy bike capable of sustaining heavy weight.
The bike sports a lightweight 6061 heat-treated aluminum frame which makes it suitable for mountain biking but does not take away its strength and solid-built. Fitted with durable Shimano shifters and derailleurs, the heavy duty bike optimizes on its power to give users a stable ride both on-road and trails.
As a more beginner’s bike, it arrives nearly 85% assembled, and you just need to install the handlebar, front wheel, and pedals. Pump up the terrain-ready knobby tires that provide a great grip on any terrain. Don’t forget to get it inspected in local bike shop after assembly before you head for your first ride.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 58 x 29.5 x 7.5 inches
- Weighs 41 pounds
- Lightweight 6061 heat-treated aluminum frame
- Shimano RS25 Shifters and TZ31 Derailleurs
- Lightweight alloy 29-Inch rims
- 29 x 2.1-inch knobby tires
- 170mm crankset with 28, 38, 48 tooth rings
User/ Customer reviews
Most users have expressed their pleasure over this well-engineered bike that’s easy to assemble and serves as good as a top-class mountain bike, within budget. As per the customers, the bike frame feels solid and anyone looking for a good workout machine will find it useful. A few users have mentioned a high pitch noise produced at low speed, but this can be changing the factory.
Conclusion
This Kent men’s mountain bike is lightweight and agile, making it easier to handle even on the most difficult terrains. Steel crankset, aluminum frame, knobby tires and lightweight rims – all come together to create a perfect balance on all types of surfaces. Overall, we give thumbs up to this product.
Buying Guide: Tips To Choose The Best Mountain Bike For Big Guys
It’s a fact that most of the regular or heavy duty mountain bikes available online or local bike stores are not suited for the heavier rider. In most cases, they are not sturdy enough to sustain more than a certain weight limit, resulting in the components breaking apart after a few uses.
Bike frame
This perhaps one of the most critical parts that hold together the remaining bike components, so it should be built and tested with a heavyweight rider. We suggest a metal frame than a carbon one to be on the safe side. The steel or aluminum frame is by far the most durable, lightweight, and cheap.
Bike wheels
The 29 inch wheels are a good choice as they are faster and agile but for beginners we suggest the 26 inches wheels for more stability. So, you may replace the factory wheels and get a smaller version when you are just starting out and then upgrade to 29-inches when you feel more confident.
No of spokes
A bike’s durability is also determined by the type of wheel, rims, and the number of spokes. For heavy people, we suggest a bike with at least 24 spokes in the rear wheel. The front spokes don’t matter as much and you may go up to 32 or 36 spoke wheels. Avoid wheels made of 16 spokes or 18 spokes as they are more suitable for lightweight riders.
Weight capacity
Unfortunately, the mountain bikes we have selected above also have a weight limit and most can sustain up to 300 pounds. If you are heavier than that and you also have the money, we would suggest that you talk to a bike shop to get a custom Chromoly built bike with thicker walls and large-diameter tubes.
Cycling gear
When choosing a bike according to your body weight, don’t forget the cycling gear you will be wearing and the accessories that you may carry. For example, cycling shoes, helmet, and gloves may also add to the weight. Plus, you may carry a few bike tools to make small repairs in the middle of the road or trail, if needed.
Related Questions
What is a good weight for mountain bikes
Due to their rugged structure and thick tires, the mountain bikes tend to be on the heavier side in the bicycle industry. They sport durable structures and advanced mechanics to handle the roughest and tough terrains. The ideal weight of the mountain bikes are 29 pounds.
Are electric bikes good for heavy riders?
The electric mountain bikes are gaining much popularity for enabling cyclists to ride like a superman (woman), but again – are they good for the heavy people? While most e-bikes are rated suitable for up to 250 pounds, we found the Yiilove Electric Bicycle Electric Mountain that can sustain up to 300 pounds weight. The double-layer aluminum alloy wheels contribute to its sturdiness and stability.
Are tri-cycles safer
If you are too heavy to feel comfortable on a two-wheeler bike, maybe you can consider an MTB trike that gives you more stability on any surface. Besides heavy people, this is also a great option for the elderly as it minimizes the risk of falling, and still enables you to enjoy the outdoors.
See Also:
7 Best Bike Seats for Overweight Person
Rigid Vs Suspension Fork For Commuter (Here’s The Difference)
10 Best Mini Exercise Bike For Elderly
