Would this bike be ok for someone who is a few lbs over 300?

http://kansascity.craigslist.org/bik/1017538430.html

Really for exercise/riding around neighborhood.

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8 comments untill now

  1. edward w @ 2009-08-02 13:45

    NO! Not if you want it to last…this is dept store JUNK! and definitely not for the price being asked, as I would not pay $12 for this crap. You are 300 lbs and this bike will not last one or two days under you…sorry to be blunt but you asked and I know and I am sure that others will chime in here shortly and back me up on this one! (Bob A) You need to spend a couple hundred more and although you can find deals on Craigslist, this is not one of them! Go find a Local bike shop and let them fit you properly to a bike that they recommend for your weight and size….!!!! Yes you will spend more $ but if you want to get fit on a bike then you want one you do not have to push. Stay away from this Bike shaped object please!!! I would not wish this BSO on my worst enemy and looking at the pictures, unless you know how to rebuild this BSO then please avoid it and not to mention the ad just looks shady”…..

  2. just dont break it, i wouldnt start out going uphill and fast

  3. No, this is one of the worst bikes for what your needs are. They are selling a junky department store bike at pretty much full retail price, and I can’t even figure out what the size of the frame is (26" is a standard size for the wheel, not the frame, I’ve yet to see a 26" frame for a giant guy)

    This bike itself is very heavy, and you won’t enjoy the riding as much if you get a decent bike. The cheap dual-suspension makes the bike even slower by sapping the pedaling force. Not mentioning department bikes such as this would break down after about 50 miles riding.

    Regarding your weight, all decent bikes are built to support your weight and more. Even the skinny road bikes can support your weight. What I would recommend you to do is go to a bike shop and ask questions, and research on what type of bike that suits you.

  4. thecheapbikeshop @ 2009-08-02 13:45

    No, it is not a good choice. Let me explain…. this is a bit of a long explanation…

    Outside of being a department store bike that are available new for not much more than the seller is asking there are other important reasons:

    1) A bicycle with front and/or rear suspension such as the one you are looking at is designed for people 140 to 170 pounds. A 300 pound person would flatten the springs and cause great stresses on the pivots which would seriously shorten the life of the bike;

    2) The drivetrain (gears and such) will not handle the extra torque a person of that girth might place on them;

    3) The bike is heavy in weight but all the components are light-duty which will cause constant maintenance, in turn discouraging the rider from using the bike. Upgrades and repairs would easily cost more than the bike.

    So, what would a clydesdale (an affectionate name for heavy riders) do?

    I suggest that the focus be placed on a bike, similar to a Diamondback Response ($350 range) that can be had used for $150 or so, maybe a bit more. Ultimately, you want a bike that has NO rear suspension and a more durable drivetrain. Then, visit a bike shop and have the front suspension fork replaced with a rigid one (keep in mind the weight limits and the fact that suspension isn’t for comfort, it is to keep the wheel on the ground for better handling). Have the wheels retensioned too. All this should cost a total of about $250.00 if you can find a suitable used bike. Very well worth it.

    As the rider starts to lose weight and reaches the 180-200 pound range then the front shock can be reinstalled but the springs may have to be upgraded to handle the extra weight.

    Now, the price may seem steep but in reality it is just a few days pay, and far less than a treadmill or other item, plus you get to enjoy the Great Outdoors.

    If you have any further questions I’d be happy to help. Email me at input@thecheapbikeshop.com

  5. You don’t want that bike, it’s a cheap one made for Walmart and other department stores. The shocks on that bike are going to eat up any energy that you put into pedaling. For your weight you want to look at a good hardtail bike like the Kona Hoss. You don’t want to buy any bike that is sold in department or sports stores.

  6. bikeworks @ 2009-08-02 13:45

    Um, if you are just staying around the neighborhood, might I suggest a good pair of walking shoes rather than a bicycle? My guess is that the 300 pound person would more likely walk than ride anyway.

  7. go to a real bike shop for your bike not walmart

  8. I am 300 pounds and I rail on my bikes so whoever says a 300 pound guy cant ride needs to come to my neck of the woods. I ride a On One hardtail with a Pike fork, and I have a Giant Team DH for the slopes. All I can say for you big guy is to start out on a solid hard tail with good wheels and brakes and get the fork set up for your weight when you get to the point where you’ll be using it alot. You may be in a different boat then me as I am 6’3″ 305 and have 19% bodyfat and workout 5 days a week. Good luck! Specialized is your best safe bet for a starter bike.

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