When choosing or renting a bike, it is important to check its load capacity, i.e. the maximum weight the bike can safely carry. Unless you weigh only 60 kg, you should pay particular attention to this figure. The load capacity of a bike affects not only its durability but also your safety.
Why is it important to keep the load capacity of the bike?
If you overload the bicycle, the wear and tear and possible damage to the components will accelerate. Cracked wires in the wheel spokes are the most common problem, but in worse cases the frame or fork can crack, which is already a serious hazard. Higher loads also mean more wear on tyres and brakes - not only do they wear out faster, but they can also struggle to stop a heavier bike.
What all affects the overall weight?
When you ride, you don't just weigh what the scale shows when you step on it. You need to add your clothes, backpack, water bottle, cell phone, wallet, tools, and possibly other gear. For longer trips, this weight can increase by several dozen kilograms.
What is the normal load capacity of bicycles?
Mountain, cross, road and trail bikes tend to have a load capacity of around 120 kg.
Trekking or BMX bikes can usually carry 140-150 kg.
The load capacity of a bike depends on the frame material, the size of the bike and the design of the fork and wheels. Models with higher load capacities are not common, but can be found.
💡 Beware of different manufacturers' data! Some give the load capacity including the weight of the bike, others just the net load capacity for the rider and load. So when choosing, check carefully what a particular number means.
Electric bikes and carrying capacity
The situation is more complicated for electric bikes - the motor and battery increase the weight of the bike, which can reduce carrying capacity. However, manufacturers usually quote values with this already factored in.
Another thing to think about is the higher battery consumption of heavier riders. Every extra kilo means more strain on the motor and a shorter range. A reduction in weight can mean a difference in range of up to 10 kilometres.
Carrier capacity
If you plan to carry luggage, think about the carrier capacity:
- the rear carrier can usually carry 25 kg.
- the front carrier has a load capacity of around 10 kg.
This means that the carriers are not designed to carry additional passengers.
How do you adjust your bike for the extra weight?
- Wider tyres will help distribute the weight better and increase stability.
- Riding on rough terrain requires a greater margin in carrying capacity.
- Adjusting for road speed will help reduce the risk of excessive brake wear.
✅ Final tip: A bike is a great way to reduce weight. With a sensible combination of exercise and better eating, you can lose up to a kilo a week. Not only will you ride better with less weight, but you'll also extend the range of your e-bike. 🚴♂️