Recently i have been looking for a road bike. and I weight about 280lbs. any suggestions for a good bike?

Question

Recently i have been looking for a road bike. and I weight about 280lbs. any suggestions for a good bike?

Answer 1

There are incredible bikes if your funds are unlimited.

Like M R stated, touring bikes are a logical choice for a larger rider.  Their stronger frames and wheels are designed to take the punishment of carrying heavy loads long distances on roads of varying condition.  Although there aren't as many choices as found among traditional road bikes, many mfrs do offer them.  Some still use steel frames/forks.

Cyclocross bikes might be another option for you.  Though not as sturdy or robust as a typical tourer, they're designed for punishment.  If you're not looking for a bike to mount fenders and racks on, a cyclocross bike will feel lighter and sportier and will allow the use of wider range of tires.

At 280, you're not huge, but you will put additional stress on bikes that are designed with the smaller, average rider in mind.  The staff at your LBS should steer you in the right direction.  If they only want to show you light carbon frames with low-spoke-count "race" wheels, check out another shop.

Answer 2

Well, my personal favorite is Bianchi, their frames are not aluminum so you will feel less of the road surface, and they are generally great bikes.  

Anouther tip would be to look around in your area at bike shops, I got mine from "Freeze Thaw" which is an excellent store that assembles bicycles from recycled parts, so you can really get exactly what you need, and it was rather inexpensive, under $500.

Answer 3

At 280 lbs you likely want to look at bikes you are sure can handle you weight. If you want a true road bike look at touring bikes. They should have more robust wheels etc. If you're looking for any type of roadable bike most hybrids should work fine for you.

Answer 4

I will offer this bit of advise.

I run 70x28 tires on my tandem.  I weight 220 lbs. and my rear seater weighs 125 lbs.  Tandem weighs around 45 lbs.  I get good life out of my tires.  

Bike is currently shod with Continental Grand Prix 3000 tires.

I air up the tires every time we head out for a ride.

I carry two spare tubes, patch kit and spare tire.  At times it is easier and faster to just change the tire and tube after a flat.  

You do not NEED a mountain bike for your weight.  You do not need a wide rim/tired hybrid.  The lighter the tire/tube/rim combo, the easier it is to pedal.  

BTW, I run a 36 spoke wheel on the front and a 40 spoke wheel on the back.  Keep in mind the two Phil Wood hubs cost more than most people spend on their bicycle.

Good Luck