8 Best Electric Bikes For Heavier Riders in 2025
Some electric bikes are more suitable for larger individuals than others. I invested more than 30 hours to figure out the best electric bike for heavy riders, and I think the best choice is the RadRunner Plus – a super powerful and sturdy electric bike suitable for cyclists up to 300 lbs.
What makes an excellent electric bike?
Motor placement: The placement of the motor is important for the performance of the bike. The best models come with a mid-placed hub motor.
Pedal power assistance: The pedal power assistance should be smooth and responsive. The harder you push down on the pedal, the more power assistance the motor should provide.
Battery range and charging: The battery should last for a reasonable distance, typically between 25 and 50 miles, and the charging time should be reasonable as well.
Weight Capacity: Always check the manufacturer’s recommended weight capacity limits.
Best Overall: RadRunner Plus
Type: Utility Bike | Weight Capacity: 300 lbs. | Range: 45 miles | Motor Power: 750W
What’s good 👍
- Suspension fork with lockout and preload adjustment: Provides versatile shock absorption and adaptability to different terrains.
- Compatible with many accessories: Offers flexibility and customization options for riders.
- Powerful 750W motor: Ensures good torque and hill-climbing capabilities.
- Puncture-resistant wide tires: Reduces the chances of flats, providing a smoother and more reliable ride.
What’s not so good 👎
- Very heavy: Can be cumbersome, especially for transport and storage.
- Not the fastest on the list: May not be the top choice for those prioritizing speed.
Designed for riders weighing up to 300 pounds, this RadRunner Plus has many features and benefits that recommend it beyond weight capacity.
This high-performance bike comes fully loaded with upgrades and accessories, plus a 750W geared hub motor and 48V, 14 Ah lithium-ion battery delivering up to 45 miles on a single charge.
For riders who struggle to mount bikes due to their weight, this RadRunner Plus has a 16.5-inch “stand-over” height, making getting on and off a breeze.
The 7-speed drivetrain delivers the functionality and flexibility needed to conquer all terrain, including hills.
Puncture-resistant tires forestall emergency flats, and reflective sidewall tire stripping notifies the world of your presence better than traditional spoke-mountain reflectors.
This electric bike features an elevated rear seat, footpegs, and a protective wheel skirt in case you chauffeur your favorite people around.
The durable front suspension fork is no wimp when conquering dicey terrain, and riders can keep tabs on their stats via the backlit LCD featuring a USB port to charge their devices.
Budget Pick: Co-op Cycles CTY e1.1
Type: Hybrid eBike | Weight Capacity: 300 lb. | Range: 40 miles | Motor Power: 250W
What’s good 👍
- Affordable Price Point: Compared to other high-end e-bikes, the CTY e1.1 comes at a lower price, making it a great entry-level option for individuals new to electric-assisted bikes.
- Motor Assistance: The motor provides significant assistance, especially on hills, and even at its lowest setting, it offers a helpful boost, making riding easier and more enjoyable.
- Lightweight: Weighing 45 pounds, this bike is relatively light for an electric-assisted bike, which makes it easier to transport and handle.
- Comfortable Ride: Owners find the bike comfortable for daily commuting and even for longer rides up to 40 miles in a day.
- Ease of Charging: The CTY e1.1 has a quick charging system and a removable battery, which is convenient and user-friendly.
- Good Lighting System: Comes with a strong front white light and a rear, steady red light, ensuring good visibility for safer riding.
- Stable and User-Friendly: The bike’s weight distribution and user-friendly power assistance make it very stable and easy to ride on local streets and trails.
What’s not so good 👎
- Lack of Extras: The bike doesn’t come with added extras like fenders and luggage racks, which might necessitate additional purchases for those looking for these features.
- Seat Comfort: Some riders find the seat uncomfortable for longer rides and might need to invest in a replacement for better comfort.
- Chain Ring Size: Some users have expressed the need for a bigger chain ring to reduce spinning at higher speeds.
- Higher Gear Missing: A few riders missed having a higher gear for a more varied cycling experience.
- Not Suitable for Long Hours of Cycling: Although great for family cruises and daily commuting, it might not be the ideal choice for individuals looking to go on longer cycling adventures.
Co-op Cycles CTY e1.1 electric bike offers an affordable entry point to the e-bike world while still providing top-notch functionality.
The motor provides reliable assistance even on challenging terrains like hills, even at the lowest setting, and its relatively lightweight design at 45 pounds makes it easy to transport and handle.
Users love the bike’s comfort on daily commutes and extended rides. Its Pirate Black shade and functional features–strong lighting, bell, and key-locking battery–add to its appeal.
The bike lacks extras like fenders and luggage racks. Some users are concerned about the seat’s comfort on prolonged rides.
Video review of Co-op Cycles CTY e1.1:
Best for the trails: Cannondale Moterra Neo 5
Type: eMTB | Weight Capacity: 300 lbs. | Motor Power: 250W | Range: 60 miles
What’s good 👍
- Motor and battery cleanly integrated into the downtube: Provides a sleek and unobtrusive design, enhancing aesthetics and possibly improving aerodynamics.
- Lightweight and agile ride: Allows for easier maneuvering and quicker response, especially beneficial in technical terrains.
- Versatile Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain: Offers a wide range of gearing options, accommodating various terrains and riding conditions.
What’s not so good 👎
- Short seat tube limits riders to a 150mm dropper post: Restricts the range of seat adjustments which can affect ride comfort and performance.
- Expensive: Less accessible to a larger audience due to its high cost.
While not the most expensive e-bike on our list, this Cannondale Moterra Neo 5 will set you back some serious Benjamins. In return, expect excellence.
This aluminum unisex mountain bike is not lightweight at 52.5 pounds, but would you expect less from a Cannondale product designed to accommodate heavy riders?
This Class 1 pedal-assist e-bike comes equipped with a Shimano STEPS DU-E7000 250W motor and a removable lithium-ion battery that charges in about 6.5 hours.
The Cannondale Moterra is no slowpoke. You can log 20 mph when you take her out, operate the bike in pedal-assist mode, and reach a distance of 60 miles without depleting the battery.
There are some features that heavy riders who like to climb mountains prefer in their bikes. They like fast-rolling, large-volume 29er tires, a wide handlebar, and trail-ready components that help them on their rides.
However, experienced cyclists consider the low center of gravity, progressive geometry, and short chainstays the most important features as they contribute to a more efficient ride every time.
The Shimano Steps DU-E7000 motor won’t disappoint, and the 504Wh e-Tube battery integrates neatly into the down tube where a weather-sealed cover keeps components dry.
The intuitive Shimano switch feature invites you to change assist modes on the go without removing your hands from the handlebars, and the easy-to-read display panel keeps you in the loop about speed, battery level, mode, and more.
The Shimano Deore 10-speed rear derailleur and cassette offer smooth shifting across multiple gears, and the Shimano Deore hydraulic disc brakes deliver stopping power.
Video review of Cannondale Moterra Neo 5:
Best for 400lb man: Xtracycle eStoker
Type: Cargo Bike | Weight Capacity: 400 lbs. | Motor Power: 250W | Range: 50 miles
What’s good 👍
- Steel frame: Provides a smoother ride by dampening rough spots, enhancing the overall comfort and durability of the bike.
- Upright riding position: Allows for better visibility and a more comfortable posture, especially during long rides.
- Child-friendly: Designed with features that make it great for carrying kids, ensuring safety and comfort for both the rider and the child.
- Double-leg kickstand: The super stable wide design ensures that the bike remains upright and stationary when parked, reducing the risk of it tipping over.
What’s not so good 👎
- Price: Comes with an eye-watering price tag, which may make it less accessible for some potential buyers.
For cyclists living their life in the “best of everything” lane, these eStoker tops wish lists.
Built to accommodate riders weighing up to 400 pounds, this 64-pound e-bike is more than a two-wheel wonder; it’s a transportation system with the capacity to get you where you need to go in style.
Fabricated with 4230 Chromoly (frame and fork), the eStoker features the brand’s signature Xtracycle Comfort Handlebar with ERGON GP10-S-SD 30x130mm grips. Shoppers choose from stem options (S, M, or L) that best suit their physiques.
The Xtracycle Comfort Saddle gives riders three seat post options (S, M, or L) plus a 34.9mm bolt-on seat collar.
The Shimano brand name is everywhere: Hydraulic brake levers, front brake, rear brake, and 180mm front and rear rotors.
Shimano shifters and rear derailleurs get cyclists through 10 speeds.
Got kids? Add-on components include a Hooptie child enclosure; MagicCarpet full-sized deck pad; U-Tubes footrests; 2 Cargo Bay panniers, and a carry handle.
The single PowerPack 500wH battery is driven by a state-of-the-art 2A 100-240V Bosch compact charger, and Herrman’s front and rear lights won’t let you down on the darkest night.
Access the Bosch Purion E-assist display for readings means there is no shortage of extras that don’t come standard with competitor products, including LT2 V-racks, plus LT2 FlightDeck, Edgerunner Fenders (while supplies last); EdgeRunner Wheelskirts, and LockPocket pouch to secure small items.
The price is hefty, but if you have the bucks and weigh up to 400 pounds, you may not care.
Read more: Electric Bike vs Car – Can an E-Bike Replace Your Car?
Video review of Xtracycle eStoker:
Best family eBike: RadWagon 4
Type: Cargo Bike | Weight Capacity: 350 lbs. | Range: 45 miles | Motor Power: 750W
What’s good 👍
- Powerful 750W motor: Specifically designed to handle steep hills with ease, ensuring optimal performance even in challenging terrains.
- 7-Speed Shimano drivetrain: Paired with 5 levels of assistance, it offers a wide range of speed options and ensures smoother transitions between different terrains.
- Car replacement: This bike can genuinely serve as an alternative to a car, suitable for both short commutes and longer journeys.
- Customizable: Offers plenty of options for personalization, allowing users to tweak and adapt the bike according to their preferences and needs.
What’s not so good 👎
- Mechanical disc brakes: These may not offer the same level of stopping power and durability as hydraulic disc brakes, especially in wet conditions.
- Lack of suspension fork: Without a suspension fork, the bike may not absorb shocks as effectively, potentially leading to a less comfortable ride on bumpy terrains.
The RadWagon 4 was not only named the Best Electric Cargo Bike of 2020 by ElectricBikeReview.com editors, but it’s one of the least expensive models for heavy riders on this list, so if you’re shopping on a budget, you’re welcome to compare this product to our #1 pick, the Rad Power RadRunner Plus.
Nicely tricked out and ready to accommodate riders weighing up to 350 pounds, users refer to this model as the strongest, most versatile RadWagon yet.
Improvements and upgrades include smaller, innovative new tires developed by in-house engineers to achieve a lower center of gravity.
The new patent-pending frame design invites men and women on board to tap multiple points of adjustability, including the telescopic seat post and adjustable handlebars.
Whether you’re running a delivery service or you’re a parent with kids who are perpetually on the go, expect a comfortable mount and ride courtesy of the stand-over height that is 2.4 inches lower than its predecessor.
Further, the 750W geared hub motor won’t disappoint as you put up to 45 estimated miles per charge on the bike via the 48V, 14 Ah lithium-ion battery.
The RadWagon’s Battery Pack is equipped with genuine Samsung 35E cells, known for being the most energy-dense on today’s market. Charge time takes no more than 6 hours, so when the kids are ready to go, the bike will be, too.
Video review of RedWagon 4:
Best off-roader: RadRover 6 Plus
Type: Fat Bike | Weight Capacity: 275 lbs. | Range: 25-45 miles | Motor Power: 750W
What’s good 👍
- 750W Bafang Geared Hub Motor: A powerful and efficient motor that provides robust performance, ensuring quick acceleration and the ability to tackle various terrains.
- Puncture-Resistant Tires: These tires enhance durability and reduce the likelihood of interruptions during rides, giving riders peace of mind when navigating through different terrains.
- Front and Rear Fenders: Designed to protect riders from water splashes and debris, ensuring a cleaner and more comfortable ride, especially in wet conditions.
- Affordable price tag: Provides great value for its features, making it accessible to a wider range of potential buyers.
- All-new hydraulic disc brakes: Offering superior stopping power and reliability, these brakes ensure enhanced safety and control during rides.
What’s not so good 👎
- Charger output: The charger only delivers 2 amps, which might result in longer charging times compared to higher-amperage chargers.
This RadRover 6 Plus is designed to be ridden by men and women who tip the scales at up to 275 pounds.
Promoted as the “go anywhere, do anything” e-bike, this machine is comparably priced and bears the label of a well-respected company.
What can it do for you? You’ll immediately discover that the RadRover 6 seamlessly blends rugged capabilities and exceptional comfort, a benchmark of the model that happens to be the brand’s flagship e-bike.
This beautifully constructed e-bike comes equipped with 4-inch fat tires, 750W custom Geared Hub Motor, and a 589-672 Wh Lithium-Ion Battery engineered to deliver an estimated 45 miles on a single charge.
The RadRover 6’s display keeps a rider apprised of battery life, the Pedal Assist Level, USB charging port, and you can even calculate what the company likes to call “how many miles you didn’t drive this year and how much money you saved on gas” thanks to the odometer reading!
The wattmeter keeps you in the loop about how much power your motor is outputting, and you can set the speedometer to current speed, max speed, or average speed.
It’s your ride. Your choice — though we recommend max speed most often.
Video review of RadRover 6 Plus:
Best premium ride: Riese & Müller Superdelite
Type: Urban Bike | Weight Capacity: 350 lbs. | Range: 130 miles | Motor Power: 500W
What’s good 👍
- 130 miles of range: Provides a substantial distance on a single charge, ideal for longer rides or multiple short trips without the need to recharge frequently.
- Bosch Performance Line CX: A top-tier and highly reliable motor system ensuring optimal power delivery and efficiency.
- ABS disc brakes: Advanced braking system that enhances safety, preventing wheel lockup and skidding, especially in slippery conditions.
- 350 lbs weight capacity: This can comfortably support heavier riders or additional cargo, making it versatile and robust.
- Tailored for tall riders: Specifically designed to accommodate very tall individuals, ensuring a comfortable and ergonomic ride regardless of height.
What’s not so good 👎
- Price: Comes with an eye-watering price tag, which might be a significant barrier for potential buyers.
Riese & Müller Superdelite is a masterpiece in the world of electric bikes. It’s probably one of the best eBikes for heavy riders ( up to 350 lbs ) who want to spend a lot of money on their ride ( starts at $9,079 ).
But what you get for this amount is just out of this world. Let’s start with the battery range of 130 miles on a single charge which is unheard of in the eBike world.
You also get a very powerful high-end Bosch Performance Line CX and a pair of very capable disc brakes with ABS ( just like your car ).
Riese & Müller Superdelite is built to be very durable due to its high-quality materials and components. The bike’s frame is suitable for tall riders 5’5” and above.
In conclusion, if you can afford this bike, get it. It will easily replace your car without any problems.
Video review of Riese & Müller Superdelite:
Best for Touring: Ride1UP Turris
Type: Touring e-Bike | Frame Material: Aluminum | Motor: 750W | Range: 25-45 miles
What’s good 👍
- Powerful Motor: The Ride1Up Turris is equipped with a potent 750W rear hub motor, ensuring a fast and smooth ride.
- Versatile Design: With its urban-style geometry, MTB tires, and fork suspension, this bike stands as a great all-rounder for various terrains.
- Quality Tires: The Booster Pro tires on the Turris are excellent for tackling gravel or dirt roads, expanding the bike’s usability.
- Comfortable Riding Position: Riders can enjoy a comfortable posture, making for a less fatiguing experience even on longer rides.
- Affordable Pricing: The price point is relatively low for an electric bike, making it a more accessible option for many.
What’s not so good 👎
- Distracting Suspension Fork: Some riders might find the suspension fork to be unnecessary and distracting, perhaps affecting the overall riding experience.
- Limited Range: The range on the Turris is relatively low ( on average, 30-35 miles ), which could be a downside for those looking to go on longer rides.
- Not Suitable for Wet Roads: There might be some challenges riding the Turris on wet roads, limiting its usability in adverse weather conditions.
Ride1Up Turris is an eBike that caters to comfort without compromising on responsiveness. Its upright geometry allows for a comfortable riding position on varying terrains.
Vittoria Terreno Dry Gravel Tire is designed to provide a reliable grip on both city roads and gravel and dirt trails.
The Turris e-bike is equipped with a robust 750W rear hub motor that delivers ample power for conquering steep inclines with ease.
The hydraulic disc brakes provide well-controlled stopping power, ensuring a safe and controlled riding experience.
Despite its adventure-ready design, this bike still maintains an urban flair, making it a versatile option for both daily commuting and weekend getaways.
However, it’s important to note that the bike has a relatively low range, averaging around 30-35 miles. For longer journeys, riders should plan accordingly.
Video review of Ride1Up Turris:
How to choose an electric bike for heavy riders
KEY
POINTS
- Most people spend between $1200 and $2500 on an electric bike.
- Aim for big rims, lots of spokes ( 32 spokes minimum ), and big tires.
- Get a Type 1 ( pedal assist ) e-bike so you can do cardio.
- If you’re above 250 lb., buy an electric bike with at least a 500W motor.
Most bikes are not built strong enough for obese people. There is a genuine risk of injury to the rider if the bike or tire crumbles because of the weight.
Heavy cyclists may be reluctant to tackle hills and tough terrains because they’re not confident that an ordinary bike would be capable of supporting them without breaking down.
Overweight people rely on cars because they are convenient and don’t strain the skeletal systems and other parts of the body that are debilitated due to weight gain.
As a result, they often eschew bikes and put up insurance, gas, maintenance, and depreciation because they aren’t aware of bikes engineered for heavy riders.
Read More: Best Electric Bikes for Hunting
E-bikes offer assisted biking features so heavy riders can slowly become acclimated to riding a bike.
Thanks to battery power and the ability to start slow and pick up speed, E-bikes often motivate these inactive people and encourage them to get out of the house and become more engaged with people and nature.
What is the best class e-bike for heavy riders?
There are 3 main types of eBikes on the market, according to Wheel World editors, who break them out as follows:
TYPE 1 E-Bike: Pedal Assist. As the name implies, a rider must pedal to engage the motor.
Type 1 e-bikes are the closest versions of regular bicycles, but the motor is the driving force that senses when a rider pedals and kicks in to push the bike more expeditiously.
Related read: How to Choose an Electric Bike – Complete Buying Guide
“It feels like you have the best tailwind of your life permanently,” adds Wheel World, and while products may or may not have throttles, the maximum speed is still 20mph, so no driver’s license is required to pilot one.
TYPE 2 E-Bike: Throttle Only These rides rely on throttle only, so the way to power the bike up is to crank up that throttle, and off you go. A throttle allows you to speed up as you turn a corner, which increases your bike’s traction.
Go easy on the peddling, and you’ll suck the battery dry as you travel at a max speed of 20 MPH. No driver’s license is needed to ride one, either.
TYPE 3 E-Bike: Pedal Assist 28mph This pedal-assist type is the fastest “legal” e-bike on the market.
These e-bikes can attain a maximum speed of 28mph. Type 3 e-bikes are identified as bicycles despite their ability to reach higher speeds, but no driver’s license is required.
That stated helmets are required, and riders must be at least 17.
What kind of brakes do eBikes for heavy riders have?
Electric bikes come with a variety of braking systems, all of which have advantages and disadvantages, according to ElectricCityBikes.com.
Your choices will most often be rim or disk brakes, “and they can be hydraulically actuated or using a low-tech cable ( mechanical ).
If you intend to ride in areas where weather conditions are iffy, go with disc brakes because they will give you the best-stopping power under all sorts of conditions.
Keep in mind that disc brakes offer much better stopping power than rim brakes, which means they are a better choice for heavy riders.
If you want to learn more about disc brakes, read our dedicated article on the topic.
What is the most comfortable e-bike seat?
In one of our articles about bike saddles, we asked the question, “Do I need a bicycle seat [made] for an overweight person?” Yes, you do.
Among the problems a cyclist can encounter if he or she is heavy and sits atop a regular saddle are:
- Soreness, pain, numbness, boils, and other physical ailments will likely plague you.
- Since manufacturers are currently making saddles just for people with weight issues, why would you settle for an ordinary style?
- Upgrading a traditional saddle for one designed for heavy people can revolutionize your ride, making it more comfortable, fun, and, dare we say, bearable.
Breathability can be a major bonus due to heat build-up when riding long distances.
Which bike wheels and tires are best for heavier riders?
For cyclists who depend upon other riders for good advice, forums like RoadBikerReview.com can be invaluable.
One thread launched by an overweight man eager to get back on his bike to knock off pounds elicited a lot of feedback, but none was as valuable as this succinct response: “Big rims, lots of spokes (32 spokes minimum depending on how/where you ride) and big tires. Handmade for sure, or you [will] spend money on maintenance all the time.”
A man of few words. But for heavy bike riders, those words can make all the difference!
Do electric bikes have a weight limit?
Just like regular bikes, electric bikes do have a weight limit. Typically, most bikes’ weight limit is 250-350 lbs.
Keep in mind that weight capacity includes the rider + all gear carried on the bike and the rider’s body in most cases.
Most e-bike manufacturers post capacity on their product description pages, and if they don’t, check with an expert to make sure the e-bike you love can’t handle someone who tips the scales at your weight.
In our selection, we have electric bikes with a weight capacity starting at 250 lbs. ( GHOST Hybrid Square Trekking B1.8 ) and going up to 400 lbs ( Stoker X1 ).
Are fat bikes suitable for heavy riders?
Absolutely! Fat bikes are great for big and tall guys because they have a high weight capacity and feel sturdy.
One of the best-selling bikes for heavy riders of all time is the Mongoose Dolomite.
Is a 250W e-bike powerful enough for heavy riders?
Generally speaking, yes. Because you will use the bike in pedal-assist mode, 250W is more than enough.
If you plan to use your bike in throttle mode – get one with at least a 500W motor. Most of the electric bikes in this article come with 750W motors.
