Bicycles for Large Women

Benefits of Bicycling

There are many health and economic benefits to riding a bicycle. For starters, it is a great form of exercise and a good way to see all that Mother Nature has to offer. Because it's not an real strenuous activity, many people bike on a regular basis because it is fun. When done as part of a regular exercise program, bicycling can:

• Reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke and other chronic diseases
• Help shed excess weight
• Develop muscle tone and balance
• Help develop a more positive self-image and mental outlook
• Reduce stress
• Increase life expectancy

The economic and environmental benefits of bicycling include:

• Saving money on gas
• Putting less wear and tear on your automobile
• Reducing air pollution
• Reducing the amount of harmful gas emissions such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide and methane
• Reducing noise pollution
• Eliminating the chance of getting caught in traffic

Features to Consider When Buying a Bike

There are many factors to consider when shopping for a new bike, especially one for a plus-sized woman. Besides buying one that is safe, it must also be comfortable. Because just like a pair of shoes, if the size isn't right, you won't wear them again. Here are some things to consider when shopping for bicycles for large women:

• Style: While there are many styles of bikes on the market, not every one is make for a woman of size. A professional bicycle specialist or salesperson will be able to help you determine which is best for you. A lot depends on where and how often it will be ridden. Styles of bicycles include:
  • Mountain: Rugged for off-road use; have fat knobby tires, flat handlebars and low gears
  • Hybrid: Cross between a mountain and a road bike; has treaded narrower tires, flatter handles and higher gears than a mountain bike
  • Cruiser: Single-speed or multi-speed cycles built for cruising
  • Comfort: Specialized mountain bikes or hybrids that sit more upright, have softer seats and low gears
  • Recumbent: Allow people to ride in reclining position with feet first
  • Tandem: Built for two or more people
  • Road: Built for pavement riding; has thinner tires and drop handlebars
• Weight: Not every bike is made for women of size. Check with the bicycle salesperson or manufacturer for weight limitations.
• Height: The length of your inseam is the best determinant in choosing a frame size. This height will also determine how comfortable you are gripping the handles.
• Tires: Wider, treaded tires are easier to balance on and provide a more comfortable ride.
• Seat: A wider, softer saddle is more comfortable and will support a larger person better than a smaller, harder one.
• Gears/speed: Unless you will be riding over many different terrains and hills, you probably won't need more than just a few speeds.

Where to Find Bicycles for Large Women

Locally, you will probably be able to find a good bike at a bicycle shop or sporting goods store. If you want to see some that are available, take a look at these online stores:

• Super Sized Cycles has several types of bicycles, recumbents and oversized tricycles for large persons.
• Agoura Cycles has a variety of bicycles made specifically for women.
• Rei-Outlet.com sells several bikes designed for larger women.

Try Before You Buy

Also just like a pair of shoes, try out a bike before you buy it. Sit on the seat, test the brakes and take it for spin around the store. Make sure you check out the warranty and ask about a trial period too.