When you purchase through links on our website, we may earn a commission. Affiliate disclosure.
Are you a heavier rider who is looking for an electric bike? If so, you’re in luck! In this article, we will take a look at 12 of the best electric bikes for heavy riders. We’ll discuss what factors to consider when choosing an electric bike, and we’ll also recommend a few models that are ideal for heavier riders. I’ve included e-bikes that are available in the UK, EU and USA.
Average adult weights in the UK and the US are very similar. When I got back into cycling on an e-bike, I weighed in at around 136 kg / 300lbs. Even now, after losing a fair bit of weight, I’m still on the heavy side at 105 kg / 231 lbs. For the best part, most e-bikes seem to have a maximum rider weight set at around 120kg / 264 lbs. So, anything over that would constitute a heavier rider. Thankfully, there are now plenty of e-bike options for heavy riders. And, it’s not uncommon to see electric bikes with 400 lb maximum weight limits.
Choosing the right e-bike for a heavier rider
Heavier riders will have some things to consider when buying an electric bike. Things like motor power, battery size, brakes and frame material all need to be considered. Where you live and the kind of terrain you’re riding on will also be a factor. If you live in a flat area without any big hills, then power and battery range is less important. But, if you live in a hilly area, other factors come into play. You’ll need more power and low gearing for the climbs and good brakes for the descents.
- Weight capacity: The first and most important consideration for heavy riders is the weight capacity of the electric bike. Most electric bikes have a weight capacity of around 120 kg / 264 lbs, but some models can accommodate riders up to 400 lbs. It’s important to check the weight capacity of the bike before purchasing it to ensure it can accommodate your weight.
- Frame material: The material used for the frame of the electric bike can have a significant impact on its durability and stability. Heavy riders should look for a bike with a sturdy frame made from high-quality materials such as aluminium or steel. This will ensure that the bike can handle the added weight and provide a smooth and stable ride.
- Motor power: The biggest factor for any heavier rider is the power-to-weight ratio. A 75kg rider, riding a 22kg e-bike, is going to find the assist much more noticeable than say a 130kg rider. A heavier rider will inevitably need to work harder on the climbs when riding a motor of equivalent power/torque/gearing. Conversely, on the flats and descents, a heavier rider will be at less of a disadvantage. For this reason, the motor power of the electric bike is an important consideration for heavy riders. A stronger motor with more watts will be better equipped to handle the added weight of a heavy rider and provide a smoother and more efficient ride. Look for a bike with a motor power of at least 500 watts to ensure a smooth and stable ride.
- Local e-bike laws: If you’re in the UK or Europe, the laws only allow for 250-watt maximum continuous output. However, most legal e-bikes will produce around 500-600 watts of peak power. For example, I was testing a 250w electric bike last year that showed over 700w on the watt meter, when under load climbing hills. But, on the flat power settled back to 250w.
- Battery Capacity: Battery range can be significantly affected if you’re a heavier rider. You’ll likely use more power, and therefore drain the battery faster. The battery capacity of the electric bike is an important factor for heavy riders to consider. I would aim for a battery with a capacity of around 960Wh or above. Did you know when most manufacturers give a battery range estimate, they base it on a 70 kg rider, riding in the lowest assist level on flat roads? Hardly a real-world range estimate!
- Suspension: Although the suspension isn’t really necessary, it can certainly improve rider comfort. Heavy riders can put more stress on the suspension of an electric bike, which can cause discomfort and instability. Some cheaper e-bikes have suspension which isn’t fit for purpose. To ensure a smooth and stable ride, look for an electric bike with a strong suspension system, that’s preferably adjustable or has a lock-out feature. In addition, a good quality suspension seat post can have a positive effect on muting the jarring effects of potholes.
- Gearing: This is only important if you anticipate riding up very steep hills. Unless the motor is very powerful, you’ll need a big cassette at the back for tackling anything above 15% gradient. Most cheaper hub drive e-bikes have a 14-28 tooth gear range at the back, which isn’t low enough for tackling steep climbs – I know this from experience as there’s an abundance of 20% climbs where I live. If you are riding steep hills, look for something with a wide-range cassette of at least 11-40 and above. A smaller front chainring would also be advisable – a 36-tooth will limit top speed, but make hill climbing a hell of a lot easier.
- Brakes: The braking system of the electric bike is an important safety feature for heavy riders. Look for an electric bike with high-quality brakes, such as hydraulic disc brakes, for better-stopping power and modulation. The way you use the brakes is important as well – if I’m tearing down a -20% hill, I use the cadence braking technique which is simply rapidly pumping the brakes at their bite point – this can prevent overheating, and is basically how ABS works.
- Wheels and Tires: Tough wheels are a must. When I first started riding again, broken spokes became a real problem for me, as the wheels weren’t designed to take my weight. Ideally, you want a bike with fairly chunky rims and tires. Not only will bigger tyres improve comfort. But, they’ll also reduce the risk of broken spokes. Find out the pros and cons of fat tire e-bikes.
- Cost: The cost of an electric bike can vary greatly, with some models costing several thousand pounds/dollars. While it’s important to consider the cost, heavy riders should prioritize the quality and durability of the bike over the price. Investing in a high-quality electric bike will ensure a safer and more enjoyable ride.
- Frame Style: Finally, there are comfort factors to think about when choosing an electric bike – such as saddle and frame size. As a general rule, you should be able to stand over the frame of the electric bike with around 25cm of clearance. If you can’t, then the frame is likely too big for you and you should look for a model with a smaller frame size. Step-through frames are particularly good because the low standover height makes it much easier to get on and off the bike.
Best electric bikes for heavy riders in 2023
Now that we’ve taken into account all of the factors to consider when choosing an electric bike, it’s time to recommend some models! All of the e-bikes featured below have a maximum weight limit of 136kg or higher. They use either a powerful hub or mid-drive motors and have higher-capacity batteries.
Cube Kathmandu SLT 750
Best touring e-bike for heavy rider
| Motor | 250-watt Bosch CX Performance-Line Motor 85Nm |
| Battery | 750Wh |
| Range | Up to 100 Miles |
| Top Speed | 15.5 mph / 25km/h |
| Brakes | Shimano Hydraulic Disc Brakes |
| Gearing | Shimano XT 12-Speed |
| Suspension | Rockshox Front Suspension |
| Weight | 25.9 kg |
| Max Load | 135 kg |
The Cube Kathamndu SLT 750 is the perfect e-bike for the heavier rider. It’s a fully-loaded hybrid e-bike, featuring the powerful Bosch CX motor with a long-range 750Wh battery, the Cube certainly ticks all the boxes. Plus, there’s an impressive gear range with a 12-speed drivetrain and 10-51 cassette. The Kathmandu is built for comfort whether you’re commuting to work or taking on more adventurous rides. Other features include Rockshox air suspension forks, 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes and suspension seat-post. This is the e-bike I would buy if I could afford one!
Buy the Cube Kathmandu EXC 750 from Tredz
Available from Fitstore24 (EU Shipping)
Specialized Turbo Vado 3.0
| Motor | Specialized 2.0E 250-watt Mid-Drive Motor |
| Battery | 530Wh |
| Range | Up to 85 Miles |
| Top Speed | 15.5 mph / 25km/h |
| Brakes | Shimano Hydraulic Disc Brakes |
| Gearing | Shimano 9-Speed |
| Suspension | Suntour Front Suspension |
| Weight | 26 kg (estimate) |
| Max Load | 136 kg / 300 lbs |
| Availability | Specialized direct (UK) Specialized (USA) |
The Specialized Turbo Vado 3.0 benefits from an upgraded motor and decent 530Wh battery capacity. This latest motor has been designed specifically for Specialized by Brose and provides up to 50Nm of torque which will be great for climbing hills. The Vado 3.0 also has Shimano 1 x 9 gearing with a wide-range cassette, further improving its climbing ability.
For comfort, there’s a Suntour Mobie A32 air suspension fork. Plus, there are high-volume 650b x 2.3″ tires for added comfort and traction. I have a friend who owns last year’s model and they can’t sing its praises enough! The Vado is designed to handle tarmac or more rugged terrain and is perfect for heavier riders. A highly recommended e-bike from a well-known brand.
Rad Power Radrunner 2
Best utility e-bike for heavy rider
| Motor | 250-watt or 750-watt (US) Rear Hub Motor |
| Battery | 672Wh |
| Range | Up to 45 miles |
| Top Speed | 20 mph or 15.5mph / 25 km/h (UK and EU) |
| Brakes | Mechanical Disc |
| Gearing | 7-Speed |
| Suspension | Front Suspension |
| Weight | 34.9 kg / 77 lbs |
| Max Load | 136 kg / 300 lbs |
| Availability | Rad Power (US) Rad Power (UK / EU) |
The Rad Power Radrunner 2 is a great option if you’re looking for an e-bike that can be adaptable and can carry things you usually wouldn’t be able to fit. With options to fit a front rack, centre storage box and loads of other accessories, the Radrunner 2 is an incredibly versatile machine! Plus, it has a capacity of 136kg making it suitable for heavier riders. This bike uses a 250w or 750w (US) rear hub motor so will only be suitable for more undulating terrain, but at €1499 it’s excellent value for money.
Trek Allant +7
Best step-through e-bike for heavy rider
| Motor | Bosch CX Performance Line Mid-Drive Motor 250-watt |
| Battery | Bosch 500Wh |
| Range | Up to 100 miles |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Brakes |
| Gearing | Shimano 9-Speed |
| Suspension | Suntour Mobie 25 Suspension Fork |
| Weight | 21.5 kg / 47.4 lbs (excluding battery) |
| Max Load | 300 lbs / 136 kg |
| Availability | Visit Trek for more info or Cycles UK (625Wh version) |
I’ve included the Trek Allant +7 as one of my friends has one of these and it’s enabled her to ride further and take on more challenging routes than ever before. I have ridden this e-bike a few times and I’m impressed with the comfort and ‘magic carpet’ ride quality. The Allant +7 also uses the Bosch CX motor, which flattens out steep hills. The Trek is an impressive machine and feels very tough. The e-MTB mode on the Bosch motor adapts to your riding and gives you optimum assistance without needing to switch between modes. You can read my Trek Allant +7 review here.
Cyrusher Ovia 🆕
| Motor | 750-watt Bafang Hub Motor |
| Battery | 52v 17Ah |
| Range | 45 miles |
| Top Speed | 28 mph – Limited to 25 km/h for EU and UK |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc Brakes |
| Gearing | 7-Speed |
| Suspension | Front Suspension for with Air Rear Suspension Shock |
| Weight | 32 kg (estimate) |
| Max Load | 330 lbs |
| Availability | Visit Cyrusher (UK / EU / USA) |
New for 2023, the Cyrusher Ovia shares a lot of the same technology with their Ranger e-MTB. It’s a full-suspension step-through e-bike with fat tires, and an impressive 52v 17Ah battery. The Ovia is designed to be comfortable and easy to ride, thanks to the easy-entry frame, upright riding position and comfortable saddle. In addition, there’s a full complement of accessories, including mudguards, a pannier rack, a big headlight and a kickstand. If you’re looking for a big and comfortable step-through e-bike, cable of being ridden on varied terrain, the Cyrusher Ovia is well worth considering.
Magicycle Deer 🆕
Best new e-bike for heavy riders in 2023
| Motor | 750-watt Rear Hub Motor (1100-watt Peak Power) |
| Battery | 52v 20Ah |
| Range | 60 – 80 miles |
| Top Speed | 28 mph |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc Brakes |
| Gearing | 7-Speed |
| Suspension | Front Suspension with Hydraulic Lock-Out and Rear Suspension |
| Weight | 41 kg |
| Max Load | 400 lbs |
| Availability | Visit Magicycle for More Info |
New for 2023, the Magicycle Deer is billed as an SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle). It’s a feature-packed fat tire electric bike that’s rated to carry up to 400 lbs. From the powerful 750w rear hub motor (with 1100w of peak power), to an impressive 52v 20Ah battery, the Magicycle Deer is a lot of e-bike for the money. In addition to a powerful motor and battery, the Deer features beefy front suspension forks, rear suspension and hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors. It’s also available in a regular or step-through frame design, increasing its appeal to riders of all ages. You can even adapt it to carry cargo if you wish, thanks to the large pannier rack. The Magicycle Deer will be a great option for those looking to explore the countryside. Read the full article.
Jeep E-Bike
Best full-suspension e-bike for heavy rider
| Motor Type | Bafang Ultra Mid-Dive Motor 1000-watts (1300w peak) |
| Battery | 696Wh |
| Range | 22-44 miles (claimed) |
| Top Speed | 28 mph |
| Suspension | 150mm RockShox Monarch RL | 140mm QK Inverted Air-Suspension |
| Brakes | Tektro 4-piston hydraulic |
| Gearing | SRAM 9-Speed |
| Weight | 70 lbs |
| Max Load | 136 kg / 300 lbs |
| Availability | Available from QuietKat |
You know when an iconic company like Jeep put their name on an electric bike it’s going to be something special! The Jeep e-bike doesn’t disappoint. This full-suspension fat tire e-bike is built to take on the roughest terrain. Featuring the Bafang Max Ultra motor that produces over 1500w of peak power and a 696Wh battery. Other features include SRAM 1 x 9 gearing and Rockshox air suspension. If you’re a heavier rider looking for a capable all-terrain machine, there’s not much better than this. The Jeep also features on my updated list of the best fat tire e-bikes in 2023.
Himiway Cobra Pro
| Motor | Bafang M620 1000-watt Mid-Drive |
| Battery | 48v 20Ah |
| Range | 60 – 80 Miles |
| Top Speed | 28 mph |
| Brakes | Hydraulic |
| Gearing | Shimano 10-speed |
| Suspension | Front Inverted Suspension Forks Rear 4-Bar Linkage Shock |
| Weight | 88 lb |
| Max Load | 400 lbs |
| Availability | Visit Himiway or Buy from Amazon |
If you’re looking for an electric bike that can handle all-terrain riding and weekend off-road adventures, the Himway Cobra Pro is an impressive machine. Featuring a powerful Bafang M620 mid-drive motor, that produces 160Nm of torque and a peak power of 1300 watts. The Cobra Pro is a rugged e-bike, with a max load of 400 pounds, it’s the perfect option for a heavier rider that’s looking for an electric bike capable of going places others can’t. The Bafang M620 is a great motor and uses a torque sensor to provide the rider with smooth, responsive and intuitive e-assist.
Hub motor version also available in the UK
Cyrusher XF800
| Motor | 750-watt Bafang Hub Motor |
| Battery | 48v 13Ah |
| Range | 20 – 40 miles |
| Top Speed | 28 mph |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc Brakes |
| Gearing | 7-Speed |
| Suspension | Front Suspension for with Rear Suspension Shock |
| Weight | 34 kg |
| Max Load | 150 kg / 330 lbs |
| Availability | Visit Cyrusher (UK / EU / USA) also available from Amazon |
I’ve included the Cyrusher XF800, as I have previously owned one of these for a few months. It’s a solid, well-made e-bike and just glides across the road surface. Motor performance is very strong with a peak power of around 1300 watts from the Bafang hub motor. Braking performance is also good and they never let me down, despite living in one of the hilliest areas of the country. Based on my personal experience with the XF800, I’d have no problem in recommending it. For more information, read the full Cyrusher XF800 review.
Check out my YouTube video review
Rad Power RadWagon 4
Best cargo e-bike for heavier rider
| Motor | 250-watt or 750-watt (US) Rear Hub Motor |
| Battery | 672Wh |
| Range | Up to 45 miles |
| Top Speed | 20 mph or 15.5mph / 25 km/h (UK and EU) |
| Brakes | Mechanical Disc |
| Gearing | 7-Speed |
| Suspension | None |
| Weight | 34.6 kg / 76.7 lbs |
| Max Load | 350 lbs |
| Availability | Rad Power (US) Rad Power (UK / EU) |
Rad Powers’ best-selling cargo e-bike has been a firm favourite since it was released a few years back. Not only can it carry things you wouldn’t fit on a regular e-bike. You can also ride it safely in the knowledge it’s designed specifically for carrying increased weight. The motor is a dependable 750-watt rear hub motor (250-watt UK / EU), that’s perfect for riding on the flat or up moderate hills. The 48v 14Ah battery will give a realistic range of between 25 – 45 miles, depending on how much assist is used. If you’re looking for an e-bike that can carry more than a regular bike, the Radwagon 4 is one of the best-value cargo e-bikes available.
Magicycle Cruiser
Best hardtail fat tire e-bike for heavy rider
| Motor | 750-watt Rear Hub Motor |
| Battery | 52v 15Ah |
| Range | 35 – 55 miles |
| Top Speed | 20 mph (default) 28 mph (unlocked) |
| Brakes | Mechanical Disc Brakes |
| Gearing | 7-Speed |
| Suspension | Front Suspension Fork |
| Weight | 76 lbs / 34.5 kg |
| Max Load | 350 lbs |
| Availability | Visit Magicycle or Check on Amazon |
The Magicycle Cruiser features a big 52v 15Ah battery, a powerful 750-watt motor and a comfortable riding position. Designed with rider comfort in mind, the Magicycle will be a great option for daily commuting, or weekend leisure riding. It’s a well-thought-out e-bike, with a sloping top tube for increased standover height and fixing points for a front cargo rack. In addition, the Magicycle Cruiser has all the accessories you’d expect, including a mudguard, pannier rack, lights and kickstand. If you’re looking for a comfortable hardtail fat tire e-bike, the Magicycle ticks all the right boxes and is great value at under $1700.
Wallke H6
Best folding e-bike for heavy rider
| Motor | 750-watt Rear Hub Motor |
| Battery | 1680Wh |
| Range | 80 – 170 Miles |
| Top Speed | 32 mph |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc Brakes |
| Gearing | 8-Speed |
| Suspension | Front Suspension and Twin Rear Shocks |
| Weight | 90 lbs |
| Max Load | 350 lbs |
| Availability | Check on Amazon |
The Wallke H6 is a beast of a machine! Featuring the biggest battery found on an e-bike in this price range. It’s currently only available in the US, which is a shame, as I’d love to get my hands on one of these for a full review. The Wallke is a heavy-duty folding electric fat bike, that is loaded to the hilt with features. For comfort, there’s a suspension fork up front with twin shock absorbers at the rear. There are hydraulic brakes for stopping power and a powerful 750-watt rear hub motor that produces 1400 watts of peak power and will usher the H6 to a top speed of 32 mph. If maximum battery range and performance are important factors, the Wallke H6 has both and is well worth considering.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a selection of 12 of the best electric bikes for heavy riders. All of the e-bikes featured above are versatile and can be ridden on or off-road. My personal favourite is the Cube Kathmandu SLT 750, it has an excellent specification and features the latest 12-speed Shimano drivetrain.
Regardless of what you decide, e-bikes are a game-changer. Whether you’re looking to be more active or you’re just after a cheaper way to get from A to B, an electric bike is a great option.
If you need any help or advice choosing your next e-bike, please feel free to leave a message in the comments section below.
Ciao grazie dell’articolo. Io sto cercando un bici a pedalata assistita da usare per andare al lavoro e nel tempo libero. Deve quindi essere una bici versatile. Sono donna “pesante”, alta 1,71 e attualmente purtroppo peso 120 kg. Dovrei guidarla sia in città che sugli sterrati (mare) e sulle salite collinette e salite urbane anche con importante pendenza dal 15 al 30 % penso. Deve avere parafanghi possibilmente sellino un po grande tipo “ciao” o “garelli” o sellino lungo perchè quelli smilzi sono decisamente troppo scomodi per le donne che si sa… avere le gomme ampio raggio e grandi ma non immense, quel che basta per una buona aderenza e grip, possibilmente manubrio non tagliato dritto, ma ti po urban, almeno un portapacchi (meglio se uno anteriore e uno posteriore). Non mi piacciono i modelli mountain bike soprattutto per via del manubrio dritto che non riesco a guidare. Sarebbe meglio avesse il telaio conformato per le donne, ma posso accettare anche quelle che hanno la barra centrale, purchè non troppo prossima alla sella. COme costi max 1000 € Pensi che possa trovarsi in Italia un prodotto così? Non ho messo altre specifiche tecniche perchè non me ne intendo assolutamente. Ti ringrazio se potrai darmi una mano. Saluti.
Ciao Federico,
L’Ado A26S XE si adatterebbe ai tuoi scopi. Proviene da un marchio con una buona reputazione ed è disponibile all’interno dell’UE ed è completamente conforme all’UE. Il manubrio è comodo con un design arretrato e ha una capacità di carico massima di 120 kg. Ecco un collegamento al sito web di Ado. https://www.adoebike.com/product/ado-jingle-step-through-ebike/
Cordiali saluti,
Tony
Tony,
I’m looking for a foldable bike that will accommodate my 270 boyfriend and fit in our rv. Can u help?
Hi Danielle,
The Wallke H6 would be a good option. It’s foldable and is rated at 300lbs weight capacity. It’s also quite powerful and has a large battery capacity for longer range. It’s available from Amazon or direct from their website.
Hola Tony, quisiera que me recomendases una bicicleta eléctrica “todoterreno”, con una autonomía mínima de 100km. que tenga la suficiente fuerza para subir cuestas con una persona de 110 kilos de 1,85 de estatura y que se ajuste a un presupuesto de 2.000€. La utilizaría para ir al trabajo y para hacer ejercicio por el monte. Un saludo y muchas gracias.
Hola,
Creo que la bicicleta eléctrica más adecuada para tus necesidades sería la bicicleta eléctrica de montaña rígida Decathlon Rockrider E-ST900. Tiene un potente motor Brose mid-drive y una batería de 500 Wh. He montado esta bicicleta (mido 185 cm y peso 102 kg) y hace que subir colinas empinadas sea muy fácil (máximo probado 15% -20%). Es posible obtener 100 km de la batería, aunque si se usa la potencia máxima, entonces el alcance se reduciría significativamente.
Saludos,
Tony