What MTB for big blokes(Heavy)

[Gate closer]

Some advice please. My mate is shopping for a MTB for his son who is besides a big bloke is also carrying a fair amount of excess weight. He weighs in at over 140kg and is about 5 foot 10 tall. What brands are reknowned for being able to carry this kind of weight? I am talking beginner level here.

[Brian Fantana]

I would recommend a custom build.  You will need strong wheels, and in many cases, complete bikes come with wheels that will not be up to the task.

 

If you are on a tight budget I would recommend a steel hardtail frame with suitable weight limit with a strong long travel fork (120-140mm), and strong wheels.  Why don't you visit Tool-Up cycles.  They do custom builds and will definitely be able to give you a quote for a suitable bike.

 

If budget allows you can go full suspension, just make sure that there are not any weight limits for that specific frame.

 

Also don't skimp on quality when it comes to the saddle, seatpost, stem and handlebar.

[johanpre44]

Mikes Bikes in Greenside also recommend steel frames for heavy riders. Problem is that a custom build is expensive, but you can maybe buy a donor bike with alloy frame and use as much parts as possible on the steel frame. Cheapest steel frame is probably the Momsen STR29 (~R4500), problem is that this is almost the price of a budget bike.