Best Type of Bikes for Plus-Sized Men

Just because you might be a little bit bigger than an average-sized man doesn't mean that you can't do things that an average-sized man can. For instance, cycling. Contrary to what you may believe, there are plenty of bikes available for plus-sized men, and in this post, we're going to discuss some of the best options in detail.

The bottom line is that cycling is flat-out fun - no matter what type of body you have. And if you can learn to love cycling, then it won't even seem like you're exercising. In this post, we'll cover why cycling is so important for exercise, features to look for in a bike for bigger people and some of the best bikes that are currently on the market today. Read on to learn everything you need to know about the best type of bike for plus-sized men:

The Importance of Exercise for Plus-Sized Men

Bike riding is simply flat-out great exercise. Unlike jogging, bike riding is a low-impact exercise, meaning that it's easy on your joints. What's more is that it's a great cardio workout, capable of helping you burn around 400 calories per hour. In addition to being low-impact and a great cardio workout, it can also help strengthen muscles and improve your posture. Regular exercise and cycling can also help minimize the risk of developing certain diseases.

But the benefits don't end there. Cycling is also great for your mental health. It can help you sleep better, put you in a better, more positive mood, and even help improve sexual health and wellness. This is largely because exercise releases endorphins to your brain, which won't just help you feel better, but improve your mood, self-esteem, aid in your concentration and more. All of these benefits are why exercise - and specifically biking - have become such an important part of many Americans' health and wellness plan.

And perhaps the best news of all - biking is for everyone! Whether you're slim, average sized or plus-sized, there's a bike model for you and a trail for you awaits. You just need the initiative to seek it.

In the next section, we'll discuss some of the features to look for in a bike for plus-sized men. Later on in this piece, we'll talk about some of the best options for plus-sized men that you can buy today.

Features to Look for

What features should you look for in a bike if you're plus-sized? Here's a closer look:

Larger, Stronger Wheels

When it comes to wheels, slim and slender aren't likely to provide adequate support for a plus-sized man. So what size wheels should you be looking for in a bike? Try at least 26 inches, though wheels also come in 27.5 and 29 inches as well. In addition to being more supportive overall, these larger wheels also offer riders more control and stability while riding. There are also fat tire bikes that you might consider, which tend to offer more support than conventional bicycles.

When it comes to wheels, you'll need to look beyond the conventional 16 or 18 spoke wheels and for at least 24 spokes on the wheels, especially the rear one. Generally speaking, the greater number of spokes, the stronger and more supportive the wheel.

Strong Frame

Materials matter when it comes to bike frames, and not just for durability and the potential to last for long periods of time. A strong frame can also help support excessive weight. And while you might think that space age materials like titanium and carbon fiber would be the preferred materials of choice for this, you might be surprised to learn that steel and aluminum are among the strongest that you can find on the market today. So make sure that when you're shopping for bikes, you pay attention to the material that the frame is made of.

Speaking of frames, material isn't the only big factor that you should be considering. The style of frame is also important when selecting a bike if you're a bigger person. We suggest looking for a model with a step through frame. Also known as an "open" or "drop" frame, it features a low tube or cross bar. The big benefit is that it makes it easier for riders to mount and dismount. Bikes with step through frames also tend to be more durable and sturdier overall.

Increased Weight Capacity

If you're a plus-sized man, you can't just assume that any bike model that you like is going to offer adequate support. All bikes come with a maximum weight capacity and it should go without saying that you want to find one that can support your weight. Many bikes will offer support for up to 300 pounds and some even support up to 400 pounds. The bottom line is to make sure that you're selecting a bike with a weight capacity that is able to support your weight, both for your safety while riding and to ensure you're able to maximize your investment.

Select the Type of Bike that's Right for You

Contrary to what you may think, there are plenty of bike styles to choose from these days. And many offered styles are appropriate for plus-sized men. A few that you may consider include:

• Electric: Electric bike models are great for a few reasons. For instance, while we noted the importance of exercise and general well-being, one nice thing about electric models is their pedal assist and full throttle feature, which can complement pedaling or give riders a break from pedaling should they get tired. As riders get into their riding routines, this electric assist can come in incredibly handy. Eventually, riders may even be able to wean themselves off of using it as their fitness levels improve.
• Tricycle: Tricycles aren't just for toddlers, they come in adult models as well. And there are benefits to adding a third wheel to your bike. For instance, they tend to support a greater overall weight. Additionally, adult tricycles offer more control and stability when riding.
• Fat tire bikes: Like we mentioned earlier, fat tire bikes tend to offer more support for greater weights, but the larger wheels also help make them more stable for bigger riders. This can give riders peace of mind that they'll be more in control as they navigate trails, roads and sidewalks during their journey.

There are many other types of bike styles that you can select from - make sure that you select the style that's appropriate for your body type and for your intended riding.

Get Fit for Your Bike

No two people are the same, which is why it's important to get properly fit tested for the bike you're in the market for. You can do this at any bike shop or even simply by just entering in some data into an online fit tester. Getting fit tested is important for a few reasons. One, it helps to ensure that the bike you're riding is ergonomically suited for you so your ride is comfortable. And two, a proper fit helps prevent injuries, increase riding efficiency and improve your overall performance when riding. Don't purchase a bike without knowing whether it's right for your fit, regardless of how much you like it.

Best Bikes on the Market for Plus-Sized Men

Now that we've covered some of the features to look for in a bike if you're plus-sized, it's time to discuss some of the best bikes for bigger people on the market today.

Mongoose Malus Fat Tire

Bikes with fat tires tend to support a greater amount of weight. They also tend to make for a smoother overall ride, especially when you take it off the pavement. The Mongoose Malus Fat Tire bike is just one example of such a bike for plus-sized men, as it's able to support a weight limit of up to 350 pounds. With a steel frame and 26-inch fat tires, this is a great entry level option for a bigger person. You can't beat the price, either, as it's available for under $500.

SixThreeZero Men's in the Barrel Beach Cruiser

If you're looking for a bike for bigger people that's a bit more stylish than some of the others that we've included on this list, then the Men's in the Barrel Beach Cruiser could be the perfect fit for you. Featuring a wide saddle and steel frame, the bike can support a weight limit of up to 300 pounds. It's ideal for leisure riding, and it is lightweight and easy to take with you wherever you go. You can't go wrong with this beach cruiser, and SixThreeZero is a reputable brand that has a bike for just about everyone, no matter what your body type is.

Schwinn Meridian Adult Tricycle

If you don't think a conventional two-wheel bike would suit your body type and riding preference, the good news is that there are plenty of three-wheel options - and the third wheel generally means it's able to support a greater amount of weight. The Schwinn Meridian is an ideal option, able to support up to 400 pounds. It features an aluminum, step through frame, which makes it easy to mount and dismount. And its 26-inch wheels help it navigate rough terrain. The seat post and handlebars are adjustable, making them more flexible than other bike models. And you can't go wrong with a brand name such as Schwinn.

Merax FT323 MTB Mountain Bike

Looking to get off the pavement and onto the trails? The Merax FT323 MTB Mountain Bike can support a maximum weight of up to 400 pounds, thanks largely to its 6061 heat-treated alloy frame. With a full suspension to absorb shock and impact, responsive brakes and gears, and 26-inch wheels to allow for a smooth ride, this bike is great for bigger people - no matter whether they want to go off the trail or stick to the pavement.

Ancheer Orange Sunshine Electric Mountain Bike

We mentioned above how there are plenty of different types of bikes you may select from, and electric is one such option. The Ancheer Orange Sunshine is one model that you may look to consider if you're looking for adventure in a ride, but want some help. The Orange Sunshine features a 350 watt motor and 36 volt battery that can power you up to 40 miles per charge. It features an aluminum frame, double-walled rims and a smooth overall ride.

Our Top Pick for Plus-Sized Men: SixThreeZero Men's in the Barrel Beach Cruiser

When it comes to value, quality and support, you can't go wrong with the Men's in the Barrel Beach Cruiser from SixThreeZero. But keep in mind that this is just one option from SixThreeZero that can adequately support plus-sized men. The beach cruiser is a fun, exciting ride that can support riders up to 300 pounds. It's also flexible and portable, able to be taken wherever it is that you're going so that you can enjoy it anywhere and everywhere.

Contact SixThreeZero Today

For more information on the best bikes for plus-sized men, contact SixThreeZero today. As a leading manufacturer of all different types of bike and bike accessories, we specialize in crafting a bike for everyone. After all, cycling itself is for everyone. Contact us today for more information and to get started with a new bike.