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+--- Thread: ebike for a bigger guy? (/showthread.php?tid=11)
ebike for a bigger guy? - cyberEbike - August 22, 2025
I'm a big guy around 280lbs at 5'10.
Would my weight be a huge factor in reduction of the battery range?
Just wondering if some brands are better or worst in that department.
Thanks
RE: ebike for a bigger guy? - dayrunner - August 24, 2025
I'm just spitballing here but I would guess 5% to 20% max as per my gut feeling. No more than that. Probably depending on quality of the battery as well.
RE: ebike for a bigger guy? - CityGuy - August 24, 2025
I get where you’re coming from with the estimate, but it’s a lot more complex than that. Rider weight does make a real impact because the motor has to move that extra mass against rolling resistance, hills, and wind drag. For someone at 280 lbs vs 160 lbs, the energy use difference can be well above 20% depending on terrain and assist level.
Also, battery “quality” doesn’t really change range - a 500Wh pack is a 500Wh pack. What matters most are weight, terrain, speed, and how much assist you use. So while your gut feeling isn’t totally off, it undersells how much those extra pounds can matter. Still, plenty of bigger riders get great use out of ebikes - just consider a larger battery if range is a top concern.
RE: ebike for a bigger guy? - dayrunner - September 4, 2025
Weight can be significant factor, similar to the terrain factor (uphills). It would be less impactful on flat terrain. Found some reading here:
https://yasyas.com/blogs/news/rider-weight-affect-e-bike-range
https://ebikedelight.com/factors-affecting-how-far-you-can-go-on-an-electric-bike/#Rider_Weight_and_Load
RE: ebike for a bigger guy? - BigGuy - September 17, 2025
+1 on this discussion! Currently wrestling with similar question.