Top 10 best fat bikes: main features, recommendations for choosing, pros and cons

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Fat bikes or bicycles with large wheels are suitable for those who often ride on uneven terrain, mountains, mud or slush. Despite its unusual appearance, the vehicle is quite popular due to its unique driving characteristics. These bikes have certain advantages and disadvantages that you need to consider before purchasing.
Specialty stores offer various models from popular manufacturers of fat bikes. Therefore, it is recommended to carefully study customer reviews and familiarize yourself with the main characteristics of specific models in order to choose the highest quality, lightest and most convenient product.
Rating of the best fatbikes
Rush Hour Traction Disc AL
A comfortable bike, which is not afraid of steep descents and ascents, is intended for extreme riding on rough terrain. The frame is made of aluminum alloy, which is corrosion resistant. The rigid fork helps to absorb road vibration, takes the load off the hands.
The design is equipped with a comfortable cushioned adjustable saddle. Fatbike is distinguished by fast acceleration, effectively copes with minor road bumps. The transmission has 7 speeds, which allow you to choose the desired rhythm of movement. Before installing components on a bicycle, they are tested for strength, proper functioning and compliance with accepted standards. The brake system is quite reliable, provides an instant stop regardless of the conditions.
Weight, kg | 19 |
Pedal design | classical |
brakes | Pleasure |
Number of speeds | 7 |
Design features | Neco B910 touring bottom brackets, Shimano MF-TZ21-7 starter cassettes, curved handlebars, fenders, footrest |
- ease of use;
- reliable frame;
- fast acceleration;
- ease of care;
- comfortable grips;
- comfortable saddle;
- reliable tires;
- Has fenders and footrest.
- poor quality pedals.
Bought this bike as a gift. I note ease of use, fast acceleration. Also, the pluses include the presence of a solid frame, easy climb uphill, effective absorption of various road bumps. Satisfied with the choice made.
Prevention and cleaning of the bike should be carried out from time to time. Before the trip, you need to check the pressure in the tires, their appearance, rotation and gear shift, brake strength. At the end of the season, it is important to re-lubricate, check and replace stretched chains, worn bearings and other consumables.
Forward Bizon (2018)
A powerful fatbike with high-quality amateur equipment, which is designed to overcome muddy sections of the road, driving in the most difficult weather and terrain conditions. The fork and frame are made from durable, lightweight aluminum alloy using state-of-the-art technology.
A comfortable fit is provided by the FWD MTB seat. High-quality passage of the path is guaranteed by 26-inch wheels with reliable tires CST C-1752. The 8-speed transmission makes it easy to get up and down hills. Efficient disc brakes bring the bike to a stop in no time, no matter the situation. Comes with a comfortable footrest. Fatbike will be an excellent option for riding on a country road and through the streets of the city.
Weight, kg | 16.2 |
Pedal design | Platforms |
brakes | Pleasure / Tektro MD-M280 |
Number of speeds | eight |
Design features | Kenli BBs, Shimano Altus CS-HG31-8 cassettes, curved handlebars |
- reliable frame;
- light weight;
- have wings;
- susceptible brakes;
- wide tires;
- reliable hitch;
- convenient gear shifting.
- squeaks in the wheels.
Reliable and maneuverable fatbike. Confidently keeps the road on the ground and in the mud. Lighter in weight than many mining steel models, I liked the ease of maintenance. I recommend this bike to everyone, the best choice in combination price / quality.
Stels Navigator 680 MD 26 V040 (2018)
A well-thought-out fatbike, which is distinguished by high cross-country ability and high-quality attachments. It can ride on sand and snow, which makes it possible to ride it all year round. The frame is made of durable aluminum, which means that the total weight of the product is 16 kg. It has a well-thought-out mountain bike geometry, but with thicker tubes. Equipped with a rigid fork, which is also made of aluminum.
The Stels saddle provides a comfortable fit and is height adjustable. Comfortable handlebars with soft grips ensure easy handling of the handlebars. 26-inch wheels are equipped with durable aluminum rims. Wide tires improve the bike’s maneuverability on bad roads. Mechanical disc brakes guarantee instant stopping no matter what the situation. Aluminum pedals are able to withstand significant loads. The kit also includes reflectors. The model is suitable for riding on various roads.
Weight, kg | 16.26 |
Pedal Design | classical |
brakes | Cruisers / 160mm |
Number of speeds | eight |
Design features | Walking carriages Cartridge, walking cassettes Shimano CS-HG31-8, curved handlebar, bicycle bell |
- nice design;
- reliable tires;
- strong frame;
- high maneuverability;
- effective brakes;
- there is a bike bell;
- convenient gear shifting;
- quality assembly.
- sometimes the brakes squeal.
I wanted to find an inexpensive all-terrain fatbike. This bike was recommended by friends. Very maneuverable off-road, also confidently holds the road on sand and snow. It is convenient to drive, the brakes are sensitive, the components are of high quality. I recommend to everyone.
Welt Fat Freedom 2.0 (2019)
The fatbike is distinguished by increased maneuverability and Shimano amateur equipment. The frame is made of aluminum, which ensures the lightness of the whole structure and increased wear resistance. The vehicle is equipped with a rigid fork that helps to cope with any road vibrations.
The racing seat is adjustable and the grips can be fixed. Wide tires allow you to ride on mud, sand or snow. Durable wheels with tires easily cope with uneven ground surfaces. The transmission is equipped with a 9-speed shift mode. Disc brakes respond instantly no matter the situation. Fatbike is suitable for sports riding and off-road training, as well as for measured riding on bike paths in the city.
Weight, kg | 17 |
Pedal design | Platforms |
brakes | Sports / Shimano |
Number of speeds | 9 |
Design features | Walking carriages, walking shifters Shimano walking cassettes Shimano HG-200-9, curved handlebar |
- light weight;
- ergonomic seat;
- light tires;
- strong frame;
- reliable brakes;
- convenient gear shifting;
- build quality.
- grips wear off quickly.
I really liked the bike. Gears shift easily, build quality is good, brakes are responsive. I note a smooth ride, excellent cross-country ability on sand and snow. During the entire period of use, there were no breakdowns. Satisfied with the choice made.
Stark Rocket Fat 20.1D (2019)
Comfortable fatbike that is designed for children from 5 to 9 years old with Shimano starter equipment. The frame is made of durable aluminum, which greatly reduces the weight of the structure and ensures the durability of the bike. The rigid fork guarantees a smooth ride on even surfaces.
The handlebar and saddle are adjustable according to the height of the child. Robust 20″ wheels provide proper maneuverability. Wide tires guarantee flotation in the most extreme situations. The transmission, which consists of 7 speeds, helps to control the movement of the fat bike in the required mode. Disc brakes provide instant stopping no matter the conditions. The vehicle is suitable for training and off-road trips.
Weight, kg | fourteen |
Pedal design | classical |
brakes | Pleasure / YX DB-01, 160mm |
Number of speeds | 7 |
Design features | Microshift TS3807 Starter Shifters, Kangdi KD-711 Starter Cassettes, Neco B911E Cartridge Walking Carts, Curved Handlebar, Footrest |
- light weight;
- soft rolling;
- effective brakes;
- strong fork;
- comfortable gear shifting;
- there is a footboard;
- strong frame;
- build quality;
- screeching brakes.
We bought such a fatbike on the advice of friends. I really liked the design, the frame is comfortable, the roll is soft. The paint finish is of good quality. I also note durable wheels, bought wings and a bike bell. There were no breakdowns during the period of operation. I recommend paying attention.
Before driving, you need to adjust the seat and handlebars according to your height. After that, you should ride a fatbike first on a flat road in order to get used to the chosen model. It is not recommended to go too fast, as fat bikes are not designed for high-speed traffic.
Forward Bizon Mini 24 (2019)
All-terrain fatbike, which is designed for driving around the city and off-road. The lightweight aluminum frame is strong and lightweight. Such material has high corrosion resistance and flexibility, does not deform from rust. The suspension fork has 50 mm of travel and softens any road bumps.
The transmission, which consists of 7 gears, will allow you to easily drive up the mountain and easily drive on asphalt. Disc brakes are extremely sensitive, doing their job well even in high humidity. Wide tires guarantee excellent maneuverability in the most extreme situations. Large 24″ wheels fitted with double rims.
Weight, kg | fifteen |
Pedal design | Platforms |
brakes | Touring Power BX-351, 160mm |
Number of speeds | 7 |
Design features | Microshift TS38 Starter Shifters, Kenli Cartridge Walking Carts, FWD KDF-711 Starter Cassettes, Curved Handlebar |
- strong frame;
- big wheels;
- light weight;
- convenient gear shifting;
- reliable tires;
- susceptible brakes;
- nice design;
- comfortable seat.
- no wings included.
Comfortable and high quality fatbike. The frame is strong, the coating is stable. In addition, I will highlight effective rim brakes, convenient gear shifting. Everything works flawlessly. Extremely pleased with the choice made.
Stark Fat 26.2 HD (2019)
Extremely manoeuvrable fatbike with Shimano amateur equipment. The basis of the vehicle is a reliable and lightweight frame made of aluminum, which ensured increased wear resistance. The rigid fork helps absorb road vibration and eliminates a lot of stress from your hands.
The model is equipped with a comfortable, carefully cushioned saddle. Reliable tires on 26-inch wheels provide increased flotation, regardless of the conditions. The transmission is equipped with 7 gears, which make it easy to overcome the slopes. Disc brakes ensure instant stopping, pedals are capable of withstanding a significant load. Suitable for driving on any road, regardless of the weather.
Weight, kg | 16 |
Pedal Design | Platforms |
brakes | Touring / Tektro HD-M285, 180mm |
Number of speeds | 21 |
Design features | Shimano SL-M310 Shifters, Neco B911 Cartridge BBs, Shimano CS-HG200-7 Starter Cassettes, Curved Handlebar |
- ease of use;
- ease of care;
- reliable frame;
- fast acceleration;
- comfortable grips;
- comfortable saddle;
- reliable tires;
- there are fenders and footboards.
I bought this fatbike after reading reviews online. Extremely comfortable and practical bike. I’ve been driving for 2 months, bought front and rear lights and a more comfortable seat. In general, everyone is satisfied. The frame is extremely strong and lightweight. I recommend to buy.
Stels Pilot 280 MD 20 V020 (2018)
A bike with excellent maneuverability that makes it easy to deal with difficult forest areas. The sturdy frame, which is made of aluminum, is characterized by light weight and durability. The steel rigid fork guarantees absorption of road vibration and takes off load from hands.
20-inch wheels are distinguished by high cross-country ability due to wide and tenacious tires. The 7-speed transmission makes it easy to select the desired rhythm of movement (for steep descents and for long climbs). The Tektro mechanical disc brake system brings the fatbike to an immediate stop in an emergency.
Weight, kg | 14.1 |
Pedal Design | classical |
brakes | Cruisers / 160mm |
Number of speeds | 7 |
Design features | Shimano Tourney SL-RS36 RevoShift starter shifters, Cartridge BBs, Shimano MF-TZ21-7 starter cassettes, straight handlebars |
- light weight;
- comfort in operation;
- reliable brakes;
- rigid fork;
- ergonomic saddle;
- big wheels;
- nice design.
- screeching brakes.
Great fatbike, my son enjoyed riding it for a whole season. I note high cross-country ability, powerful wheels, reliable paintwork. I will single out a convenient gear shift, contact pedals. During the entire period of operation, there were no breakdowns, although I traveled on different surfaces. I recommend to buy.
Black One Monster 20D (2019)
A reliable fatbike that is optimally suited for city and off-road driving. The frame is made of carbon steel, making the design durable and reliable. The rigid fork guarantees a smooth ride on a flat road and reduces the load on the rider’s hands.
A comfortable saddle and a comfortable handlebar reduce the burden on the rider during long rides. The mechanical disc brake system instantly responds to commands, which will allow you to effectively control the course of the bike on difficult surfaces and during maneuvers. Wide tires guarantee proper maneuverability in the most extreme situations. Transmission of 6 gears will allow you to control the movement in the required rhythm. Suitable for training and walks in the city.
Weight, kg | 16 |
Pedal design | Platforms |
brakes | Pleasure / Apse ADC-11 |
Number of speeds | 6 |
Design features | Shimano SL-RS35-6 starter shifters, DNP LY-1006CFCJ starter cassettes, curved handlebar, footrest |
- soft move;
- good maneuverability;
- strong frame;
- convenient gear shifting;
- reliable tires;
- nice design;
- fast acceleration;
- poor quality pedals.
I selected a high-quality and reliable fatbike for my son. I saw this model online and decided to buy it. I note the presence of 6 speeds, reliable tires, effective brakes. The ride is smooth, the controls are simple and straightforward. A great option for learning and walking in the city, park. I recommend paying attention.
Stark Rocket Fat 24.2D (2019)
Teenage fatbike with a nice design and excellent road performance. The frame is made of high-quality aluminum and has a masculine geometry, which will improve the bike’s cross-country ability on difficult sections of the track. Equipped with a rigid steel fork, which is ideal for city driving.
Disc brakes provide timely stopping regardless of the situation. The 8-speed transmission helps you select the desired driving mode. Wide tires guarantee high maneuverability on off-road, on sand or snow. Pedaling on a fatbike is extremely comfortable and does not consume much effort. Suitable for driving on any type of road in different weather conditions.
Weight, kg | 14.1 |
Pedal Design | Platforms |
brakes | Touring / Zoom DB-280, 160mm |
Number of speeds | eight |
Design features | Shimano SL-M310 Walking Shifters, Neco B911E Cartridge Walking BBs, Shimano CS-HG200-8 Walking Cassettes, Curved Handlebars, Footrest |
- build quality;
- reliable tires;
- susceptible brakes;
- soft move;
- fast acceleration;
- pleasant appearance;
- wide steering wheel;
- ergonomic seat.
- screeching brakes.
I bought a fatbike after reading reviews on the forums. I will highlight a nice design, convenient gear shifting, soft reel. The fork effectively copes with various bumps in the road. I advise you to buy.
Fat bike riding tips
Those who are considering buying a fat bike should consider a few guidelines before purchasing a vehicle. This will make it possible to ride a bike correctly and easily. The main ones are:
- Before the trip, you need to adjust the seat and handlebars according to your height.
- First, you should ride a fat bike on flat roads to get used to a particular model. Even professionals must first ride on asphalt, at least for 1 hour.
- You should not move too fast, as bicycles with large wheels are not designed for high-speed riding.
- In a situation where you need to climb an icy mountain, you need to get off the fat bike, and then overcome the obstacle on foot.
- When riding, it is important not to forget about protective bike helmets, gloves and knee pads.
How to choose a fatbike
Like any other types of sports equipment, fat bikes differ from each other in various characteristics. They need to be considered during the selection:
- Wheels. The thickness of the wheels will determine the convenience of the entire process of movement. The larger the tire, the lower the pressure per unit surface and the easier it is to ride over rough terrain. In addition, narrow wheels are more susceptible to drowning in snow or mud than thick ones. Wide bikes need larger discs and hubs: they are made of metal, and therefore the overall weight of the structure will increase significantly compared to city and mountain bikes. The wheel diameter is determined by the height of the fatbike and the height of the cyclist, the minimum dimensions are 26 inches.
- frame and transmission. It will not be possible to put large wheels with tires on an ordinary bicycle — the narrow frame does not allow. In the fatbike, it is widened, the rear triangle is changed, the fork is reinforced. As a brake, clamping mechanical or hydraulic discs are used, which are able to reduce speed and stop massive wheels even on slopes or off-road. To transfer traction to the wheel, a low gear is provided — it holds the coupling of complex surfaces and wheels without significant effort.
- The weight. The mass of the construction of many fat bikes often varies in the range of 14-17 kg. Wheels — are the main weight component — about 3-4 kg. The frame weighs approximately 2 kg, the fork, due to the lack of shock absorption, makes it possible to save money — instead of the standard 2-2.5 kg, it weighs less than 1 kg.
- Fat bike dimensions. When choosing the size of a bike, you can’t make a mistake — it will be inconvenient to move with a too small model due to the limited movement, and an extremely large one will be massive and unmaneuverable on rough terrain. You can also determine the appropriate frame dimensions by measuring the inside of the leg from groin to heel. In this way, it is possible to know the distance from the seat to the pedal more accurately, since the proportions of people can be different.