The advantages of an e-bike for overweight people: It offers you greater stability, safety, and a higher permissible total weight. The electric motor also makes riding easier and supports you on longer distances.
In this article, we'll show you which models are a good choice for you and why material properties and frame size are important. You'll also get helpful tips and learn about the everyday benefits of an e-bike for overweight people.
How do I find the right e-bike for me?
An e-bike for overweight people is particularly suitable for heavier and taller people. The higher the body weight, the more important the e-bike's stability is. This doesn't always mean that an e-bike has to be specially designed for overweight people. Some manufacturers have opted for a higher permissible total weight and a stable construction for their regular models, making them ideal for heavier people. Frame stability and the material used are also important for a stable e-bike.
What are the key factors in choosing an e-bike for overweight people?
Permissible total weight: The total weight depends on three factors: the weight of the rider, the weight of any additional luggage, and the weight of the e-bike itself. These combined values determine the permissible total weight.
If you've calculated the total weight and it's higher than the manufacturer's specified values, you should choose a different model or ask the manufacturer directly how much flexibility you have. Many models and brands have a permissible total weight of 130 kg. Our MYVELO models can carry up to 130 kg, meaning the weight of the bike doesn't need to be included.
Material – be on the safe side with aluminum or steel
To ensure the e-bike's stability and safety, some manufacturers opt for reinforced aluminum or steel frames. An aluminum frame guarantees a comfortable ride for overweight or muscular riders. This provides good grip on bumpy trails and allows you to navigate your bike safely. Our MYVELO trekking bikes Ibiza, Milano, and Nizza, as well as our Rio folding bike, feature a hydroformed aluminum frame.
Note: A high body weight increases the load and leverage on the frame, fork, bottom bracket, and wheels. Opting for sturdy models with aluminum frames will mitigate this effect without significantly increasing the frame weight.
An aluminum frame is often made of an aluminum alloy, which can exhibit different material properties through heat treatments and compositions. The frames are formed into the desired geometry using techniques such as welding or hydroforming.
Hydroforming: A manufacturing process in which a high-quality aluminum frame is produced in a closed mold. After the aluminum is inserted, the mold is filled with a water-oil mixture. The aluminum is pressed into the desired shape under extremely high pressure. This process has the advantage of work-hardening the aluminum, which gives the material additional stability.
The aluminum alloy makes the frame lightweight yet extremely stable. Another advantage of an alloy is its corrosion resistance.
Frame size – important for additional safety and comfort
If you're looking to buy an e-bike for overweight people, you should consider not only the material but also the size. The frame size of your bike plays an important role in ensuring that long rides are particularly comfortable and safe. There are several methods for determining the frame size.
One option is to measure your inseam. To do this, stand upright against a wall, take a book between your legs, and place it close to your crotch. Once you've positioned the book correctly, measure the distance between the book and the floor. With a correct measurement, your inseam is on average between 60 and 100 cm. Once you've determined your inseam, you'll need several factors to calculate a guideline for the correct frame size.
An easier method is to determine your frame size based on your height. Many manufacturers, including us at MYVELO, use the sizes S, M, L, and XL. This allows you to determine the correct e-bike size from the comfort of your own home.
- Frame in S: 150-165 cm height
- Frame in M: 165-180 cm height
- Frame in L: 180-195 cm height
- Frame in XL: 195-210 cm height
Once you've found the right frame size, you should take a closer look at the features of the different models. Depending on your riding style, the length of the route, and the terrain, it's helpful to make an individual selection.
Equipment – these features will help you
An e-bike consists of many individual parts: the motor, battery, gears, and brakes are arguably the most important. A powerful 250 W mid-drive motor is ideal for urban riding and weekend excursions. Hydraulic disc brakes ensure safety, and a 504 Wh battery increases the range.
Tip: A comfortable saddle is a must for an XXL bike . If you're heavier, a wider saddle is especially good. If your desired e-bike doesn't have one, the saddle can be replaced in just a few steps.
Tubeless tires are a good choice for wheels. Tubeless tires offer greater puncture protection, as these models don't have an inner tube. Instead, the tire contains a sealant that instantly seals a small puncture, for example. If you also opt for high-quality wheels with tread, you'll be safe on a wide range of surfaces.
Reinforced wheels & wide tires
Wider tires (e.g., 2.4 inches) increase comfort and safety. Spokes and rims should be designed to carry heavy loads.
Tip: An e-bike with wide tires ( fat bike ), like our Rio, Zurich, Palma or Berlin folding bikes, ensures a smooth ride because the wheels have more contact surface.
The advantages of an e-bike for overweight people
An e-bike is a great way for overweight people to incorporate exercise into their daily routine. Thanks to the support, the bike is an ideal companion on the way to work, shopping, or on long tours through mountainous terrain.
Advantages of an e-bike for heavier riders:
- makes cycling easier with electric assistance
- promotes movement in everyday life
- offers helpful support on long and hilly routes
- has a sturdy frame that ensures stability
E-bikes are also a great advantage for people with joint problems or who are overweight, as they are easier on the joints than running or jogging.
E-bikes offer overweight people a fantastic way to get moving again and achieve their fitness goals – without overexertion. Thanks to the electric assistance, distances can be covered that would otherwise be unimaginable. This gently introduces the body and mind to regular activity, which is especially important for long-term maintenance.
Riding an e-bike when overweight – is it healthy?
Definitely! Riding an e-bike is a joint-friendly cardio workout that has a positive effect on:
The electric motor enables movement, even if your fitness is not (yet) optimal – this motivates and strengthens you.
The effectiveness of an e-bike is demonstrated by its training effect . Studies show that regular e-bike riding can increase your endurance and strength . Overweight people also benefit, as they can perfectly adjust their training intensity. You can find out more in our article "E-Bike Training Effect: Get Fit with an Electric Tailwind ."
E-bikes are also revolutionizing fitness by bridging the gap between exercise and motivation. Those who quickly reach their limits with a conventional bike will experience how effortless even longer rides can feel with an e-bike. This gentle introduction is ideal for overweight people who want to sustainably improve their health. Read more in our article "How E-Bikes Can Revolutionize Your Health and Fitness ."
Last but not least, the e-bike also helps with calorie consumption , which is especially important if you're overweight. The consistent load throughout the ride burns a surprising number of calories – even with the motor switched on. Depending on your riding style and assistance, the calorie consumption on an e-bike can be comparable to that of a regular bicycle. You can find more details in our article "How Your E-Bike Helps You Burn Calories ."
With an e-bike, losing weight is not only possible but also fun. It's a true all-rounder that combines fitness, motivation, and the joy of exercise.
You should know this information
An e-bike for overweight people is suitable for people who are overweight (e.g., obese) or for tall people who naturally have a higher body weight due to their height. E-bikes are an excellent way to incorporate additional exercise into your daily routine. They are specifically designed to accommodate the additional weight and offer greater stability and safety. The e-bike should meet the following criteria:
- powerful 250 W mid-engine
- hydraulic disc brakes
- Long-range battery
- sturdy and reinforced aluminum frame
If the models also have a comfortable, wide saddle or can be retrofitted with one, your e-bike is perfectly equipped. Don't wait any longer and discover the advantages of an e-bike in everyday life.
