AzTallRider

Hi folks,

My nephew is well over 300#, and I promised I would help him find the right bike to get going cycling. I've sifted through the index threads to get a general idea of what is important, but am hoping for some specific brand/model recommendations. I'm thinking what most of the manufacturers are calling "Fitness" bikes is what he needs: flat bars, 3x9 gearing, able to take 35+ tires, built to last.

The tough part is of course the wheels. Having destroyed a wheel as I lost pounds, and knowing how much heavier he is than I was, I'm wondering if it is even possible to buy off the rack for him, without replacing the wheels immediately or having them rebuilt? The index threads point to rebuilding as a good approach. But I'm thinking of buying the bike, as a gift, and having it delivered direct to him. I would love to find an off-the-shelf solution that won't disintegrate out from under him.

So... any brands to focus on? Any of them known for providing solid wheels out-of-the-box? Any specific pre-made wheels that hold up well. As we all know, broken spokes and wobbling wheels really and truly suck. And of course just having 36 spokes doesn't mean it's a quality wheel. I had 32's when I got started, and popped spokes like popcorn. Replacement was also 32 (hand built using great components) and stayed perfectly true.

Thanks in advance for any specific suggestions.

billmc40

Well I just ordered a Trek 7.3FX. I am at about 295 pounds. I really wanted the 7.5 but the local LBS reccomended the 7.3 due to the wheel set. Said it would be better for a large guy. I ride a 2009 Trek 7300 with the same wheel set and have never had a problem.
BillMc

jethro56 

+1

GeoBigJon

I picked up my Specialized Sirrus Elite Disc on the first and have been logging miles almost daily, shooting for 200 this month. I was at the 300 pound mark myself, last I weighed I was 296. I am amazed at how comfortable the bike is, grips, bar ends, and saddle rock compared to my Trek MTB. I haven't had any issues so far with the bike, wheels included. I would take a look at the Sirrus line offered from Specialized.

nfmisso

You could get him a set of Peter White's wheels and a bike....

Slackerprince

Love my Sirrus Comp. It's a 2009 with carbon seatstays, which I like.
I just moved the spacers, so the bars are lower.
It's my go-to bike, lately.
I'd recommend.
I think the Treks are worth a look, as well.