Bikes for Big Guys - 2012 Edition

Bikes for Big Guys: 2012 Edition

Warm weather is here, and you’re probably ready to get out there and enjoy it in a variety of ways. If riding a bike is one of those ways, there are a few things you need to consider before heading down to the local Wal-Mart and buying the first bike you see. Last year, we wrote an article with tips and information on what to look for when purchasing bikes for big guys, so this year’s list is a supplement to that. Many of the bikes you’ll find in this article were suggested by people in the industry, or by bike enthusiasts just like you. Without further ado, here are a few bikes for big men that you should take a look at.

The Steely, by KONA

The Steely, by KONA

Steely, by Kona $1349

Joe Shlabotnik, Sales Exec at Kona tells us that the Steely features a heavy duty durable steel frame with strong wheels that would be a great choice for the larger than average guy. These days, most bikes are made with carbon fiber and aluminum. The Steely takes us back a few decades to a time when bikes were made from steel. Directly from the Kona website: “Best summarized as the classic 26-inch-wheel steel hardtail built for the modern rider, the Steely is a throwback to wheely-dropping, gnar-loving freeriders of the late 90’s.”

The Honzo, by Kona

The Honzo, by Kona

Honzo, by Kona $1799

Another bike from Kona made with a durable frame made from a type of steel, the Honzo, is a beastly mountain bike that will work well for a bigger guy. These Kona bikes are made to last, and they’ll withstand whatever you throw at them. If you’re a mountain bike enthusiast, the Honzo could be exactly what you’re looking for. According to Kona, the Honzo features, “a beyond-vogue slack 68-degree headtube angle, low bottom bracket and short chainstays, the Honzo is all about getting radical on a technical singletrack near you.”

Flite 747, by KHS

Flite 747, by KHS

Flite 747, by KHS  $1699

The KHS Flite 747 was designed by Lennard Zinn of Zinn Cycles specifically for big and tall riders. According to Twisted Spoke, the Flite 747 is made for riders in the 6’4″ to 6’6″ range who weigh up to 250 pounds. The tighter steel frame on the bike also offers greater stability at higher speeds, which is more of an issue when you’re a larger rider. This is another bike you’ll have for years to come.

Worksman bikes for big guys

Worksman bikes for big guys

Worksman Cycles $349 and up

We mentioned Worksman Cycles in last year’s article, and we’re offering them up again because they’re just that good. The company makes bikes for industrial use, and they’re made to last. You’ll find customers with Worksman cycles that are older than they are and they’re still in good working condition. The Worksman INB is the most popular industrial bicycle in North America, and with good reason. With a powerful frame and the thickest spokes on any bicycle (.120), this bike will stand up to anything you can throw at it. The INB can handle up to 400 lbs as is, but they recommend you customize your bike to include sealed crank bearings, kevlar belted tires, puncture resistant tubes for the best possible riding experience. This bicycle starts at $349.

If an adult tricycle is more your style, you’re in luck. The Worksman Mover Industrial Tricycle can handle riders up to 500 lbs. Though loved by enthusiasts, this trike is used by companies such as Ford, Boeing, and Exxon Mobil to move large packages and parts across warehouses. The Mover Industrial Tricycle starts at $839. Remember that you can greatly customize your Worksman cycle to your exact specifications.

These are just a few of the great bikes for big guys on the market right now. In the coming weeks, we’ll bring you more companies that specialize in helping people of size get out there and get riding. Did we miss anything? What kind of bike do you ride? Give us your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below. 

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