Best Folding Bikes For Heavier People

A common misconception about cycling is that there are weight and height restrictions on bikes. This is not the case! No one is too tall, too large, too short, too light, or too heavy to ride a bike, even a folding bike! While folding bikes may look like they are designed for smaller people, it is possible to still have the convenience and space-saving of a folding cycle and be tall or larger than the “average” person. People are sometimes doubtful that the small size and foldable frame of a folding bike may not withstand their weight, but bike manufacturers have accommodated for that!

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What’s size got to do with it anyway? Most folding bikes can accommodate cyclists up to 6 and a half feet tall and most bike manufacturers recommend not exceeding a weight of 220 pounds. However, every brand is different and has different restrictions and limitations. There is no standard. What do you do if you are heavier or taller?

First of all, there is a folding bike for you! If you are taller or heavier, it would be self-destructive and not very comfortable to opt for a folding bike with 16 inch wheels. If you’re in the market for a folding bike, opt for one with 20 inches wheels or larger! This provides more support and makes you look less clown-like while riding!

What To Look For

Look for a bike with a diamond-shaped frame instead of the standard single tube frame. This provides more support! Some bikes designed for heavier riders feature two thick brackets by the bottom bracket. This provides extra security, durability, and stability for the rider. Look for a folding bike with an optional telescopic seat post to allow for longer legs and torsos. Most of these telescopic posts extend an extra seven or more inches past the traditional folding bike seat post. Another important factor in fitting a folding bike is the handlebar height and shape. Opt for a folding bike with handlebars that can be moved up and down. If you can’t find one, look for these shaped handlebars to fit your specific frame:

• S-type handlebar: These are straight and flat. S-shaped handlebars are the lightest, but do not offer any rise. S-type handlebars are best suited for small to medium height riders.
• M-type handlebar: About 4 inches taller than the S-type handlebar, the M-type sits higher to accommodate taller riders. This also is more of a classic handlebar style.
• H-type handlebar: This handlebar is the most upright of the handlebars and is the longest. This is made to fit the tallest of cyclists.
• P-type handlebar: These have two different drip heights, at 34 and a half for a lower height and 40 and three fourths at the tallest height. Having different height options on the same folding bike allows you flexibility to move from stance to stance. P-type handlebars are the best suited for those who want the ability to move their handlebars up and down to accommodate both casual and intense cycling.

Best Folding Bikes For Heavier People

Montague Paratrooper Mountain Folding Bike

This 24 speed folding bike features a variety of frames to accommodate any size rider. This bike offers a 20 inch frame or an 18 inch frame and a wheel size of 26 inches. Riders taller than 5 feet 11 inches are recommended to get the 20 inch frame. The Paratrooper is a full size mountain bike, with a pretty small compact size. Designed for cyclists with a weight up to 250 pounds, riders have found that with its tested frames, this bike can accommodate weights up to 300 pounds. Lighter than average mountain bikes, the Paratrooper also is extremely sturdy and can endure lots of hard-hitting biking. If you intend to purchase this bike for commuting, you may want to get a set of road tires to fit this bike because the Paratrooper’s wheels are more designed for rough terrain. While the handlebars aren’t adjustable, you can buy an adjustable stem for the handlebars to customize it to your desired height!

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Montague Boston 8 Speed Folding Full Size Commuter Bike

For a commuter folding bike with narrow lightweight wheels and responsive handling on urban terrain, look no further than the Montague Boston 8 Speed Folding Full Size Commuter Bike. With its more attractive design and medium sized folding package, this bike features 8 speeds for all of your commuting needs. The Boston has 3 frame sizes: 17 inch frame for short cyclists, a 19 inch frame for people between 5 foot 3 inches and 5 foot 10 inches, and a 21 inch frame for those who are 5 foot 11 inches to 6 foot 4 inches. This Boston 8 Speed can hold up to 300 pounds, making it ideal for a heavier and taller biker. This full-size foldable bike also features extendable handlebars to accommodate riders of all sizes. You can adjust the handlebars without tools very quickly! While the wheels handle well on pavement, the Montague Boston 8 Speed Folding Full Size Commuter Bike does not handle gravel or potholes as well.

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Brompton S1E Single Speed

The Brompton S1E is a pretty small folding bike, with its 16 inch wheel. This folding bike is also lightweight and small when folded. Although with its 16 inch wheels, this bike may not be best suited for people on the larger end of the spectrum. It rides smoothly and features very stable steering. The Brompton S1E Single Speed uses a steel frame, making extremely durable and heavy-duty. Although with its smaller wheels this small folding bike can’t compete with more high-preforming bikes with bigger wheels, the Brompton S1E has no problem reaching high speeds. You may have to put in the work to reach high speeds though, with lots of pedaling and force to propel the bike. This bike handles well on paved roads, but not as well on potholes or off-road terrain. The great thing about the Brompton S1E is that it is completely customizable! The handlebars, gears, saddle, suspension, tires, and seat post are all customizable!