I'm a big guy but I want a bike...?

Question

I'm not big as in tall, as I'm only about 5'8, but I weigh about 380, maybe less, but I want to buy an affordable bike to lose some weight and have fun, not to go jump and mountain bike or anything, but I need to know what I should look for. By affordable I mean less than 500, but I'm open to suggestions for a little more than that.

Answer 1

sf1224 puts you on the right track.  Look for a hybrid bike, possibly a mountain bike but trade out the tires for smooth cruiser tires.  It'll cut down the running friction.  Maybe add a wider seat.

I don't think 380 is really going to overload a bike, but you could consider getting a wheel built from a 40-spoke hub and rim.  It's not that big a deal.

And for $500 or less, you can get a nice bike to do what you want.

Answer 2

You need to head to your local bike shop and talk with them about your budget and the type of riding you want to do.  For the time being, you might want to stay away from a racing oriented shop, though.  Your general purpose bike shop should be able to give you good advice.

Bicycle wheels are quite strong, given their light weight.  The best advice is to go for a bike with tough wheels.  You are going want a wheel with 36 spokes.  Perferably, they'll be heavy gauge spokes.  Don't get a bike with super light weight racing wheels or a reduced spoke count, or you'll be buying new wheels pretty soon.

Hope this helps and I hope you have lots of fun with your bike..

Answer 3

I would suggest you go down to your local bike store. They can give you some good advice on what's right for you, and your budget.

Answer 4

make one