10 Best Fat Tire Bikes

If you’ve ever tried to ride a standard bike in snow, sand, or mud, you know that it can be difficult to maintain traction — and that’s when the best fat tire bikes can keep you riding for longer. These bikes use wide tires to boost traction and help you float over a wide range of adverse conditions. That means that you can continue biking in the winter or in the rainy season. Or, use a fat tire bike to minimize slipping when you’re biking on slickrock. As you’re checking out different models, consider the width of the tires; usually, they range from 3.8 inches to 5 inches or wider. Then, decide what type of suspension is best for your planned rides, and choose a frame material that’s right for your riding style.

Related review: 10 Best Downhill Mountain Bikes

1. Mongoose Dolomite

 

Ride comfortably in any conditions on the Mongoose Dolomite. This affordable fat tire bike is a great way to get started in the sport. The frame is fabricated from steel, so it’s strong enough to withstand intense off-road riding. Then, there’s the Shimano rear derailleur, which gives you the power to choose from seven different speeds — that way, you can manage any incline. We love the threadless headset, which adjusts to create a comfortable ride for your height. This unique design suits riders between 5 feet 6 inches to 6 feet tall.

 

2. Framed Minnesota 2.0 Women’s

 

 

Ride to work in the snow and ice aboard the Framed Minnesota 2.0. With its aluminum alloy frame and sealed bottom bracket, this women’s fat tire bike is strong and durable enough for street or off-trail riding. The X7 front derailleur and X-Glide Drive shifters give you the power to transition from high to low gear with a quick flick of your hand. We love the Velo saddle, which is padded and soft for comfortable riding in all conditions. The framed Minnesota fat tires are perfect for snow and ice; you can also use them in the mud.

 

3. Takara Nobu Fat Bike

Affordable and easy to ride, the Takara Nobu is a great fat tire bike for new riders. You’ll love the sturdy frame, which gives you the confidence to handle a huge variety of terrain types. Rely on the 4-inch fat tires to provide plenty of flotation, and use the convenient dual brakes to stop smoothly in slippery conditions. This bike is made with Shimano derailleurs and shifters, enabling you to pick the right gear for a range of slopes.

 

4. Mongoose Malus

 

The Mongoose Malus is the best fat tire bicycle, particularly for people who are new to riding in the snow and mud. It’s all about the 4-inch tires, which are wide enough to help you glide over a huge range of surfaces. The knobby surface gives you excellent traction, and the beach-cruiser frame is a breeze to maneuver. Plus, with its high-clearance design, you can feel comfortable on a variety of trail types. With seven gears and a Shimano derailleur, this bike is ideal for city riding and gentle trails. The beach cruiser pedals feel comfortable and stable under your feet.

 

5. Framed Minnesota 1.2

 

 

When you’re in the market for an affordable fat tire bike, the Framed Minnesota 1.2 is a great option. This bike is designed with the needs of the rider in mind. The fun starts with the welded aluminum frame, which is ultra-strong but light enough to control on flats and hills. Plus, since the material is rust-resistant, you don’t have to worry about corrosion when you ride through the rain and over ice. The tapered head tube makes it easy to customize this bike with your favorite type of front fork. We love the 4.25-inch tires, which are made to float effortlessly across any surface.

You may also like: 10 Best Gravel Bikes

6. ECOTRIC Fat Tire Electric Bike

Enjoy the rush of fat tire biking on this ECOTRIC fat tire bike. Use it in manual mode to navigate any type of trail condition. Or, switch into an electric mode when you need a bit more help on steep slopes or sandy surfaces. At max, the electric motor can help you reach speeds of 20 miles per hour. No matter which mode you choose, the 4-inch tires give you plenty of traction. The ergonomic design keeps you comfortable, and the 58-pound frame feels sturdy for riders up to 260 pounds.

 

7. SAIGULA Fat Tire Bicycle

 

 

Rugged and tough, the SAIGULA fat tire bike looks as powerful as it feels. Hills feel easier on this bike, thanks to the seven-speed design. Glide over ice or snow on the 4-inch tires, and rely on the front and rear brakes for safe stopping in a variety of weather conditions. The sturdy front fork creates a stable feeling while it soaks up the vibrations of rough trails or roads.

 

8. ECOTRIC Fat Tire Folding Electric Bike

 

This ECOTRIC bike combines the convenience of a folding bike, the go-anywhere power of a fat tire bike, and the comfort of an electric bike — all in one compact model. Hop aboard for your daily commute in any weather; the 4-inch tires have your back. The seven-speed gear adjusts to suit different inclines, and the compact motor helps you go up to 20 miles per hour when speed is of the essence. Once you reach your destination, simply fold down the frame for easy storage.

 

9. Diamondback El OSO Nino

 

Does your child want to get into winter biking? The Diamondback El OSO Nino is a fun fat tire bike for kids. Each element of this bike is built to keep smaller riders comfortable and safe. The high-tensile steel frame is super-tough so it can take anything your little rider can throw at it. A Shimano drivetrain provides reliable shifting between seven speeds, and the disc brakes give your child the confidence and control they need.

 

10. DJ Fat Bike

Go anywhere, any time with this DJ fat bike. It’s equipped with an electric motor, giving you extra assistance to power through intense riding conditions. In fact, with up to 1000 watts at your disposal, you don’t have to dread long, steep grades. The aluminum frame helps reduce weight, and the Tektro brakes bring the bike to a smooth, effortless stop even in the snow or mud.

A great fat tire bike can extend your riding season into the winter and spring. The trick? Finding the best fat tire bikes for your biking style, trail conditions, and skill level.

Related review: 10 Best Touring Bikes

By BCR Staff

November 2019