LAST UPDATED: March 5, 2021
Best Fat Tire Bikes (Review & Buying Guide) in 2021
Rock the fat tire bicycle and go where the others can’t.
The Review Team
The Drive and its partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Read more.
PUBLISHED ON March 5, 2021
Wouldn’t it be nice if you could ride your bike on dirt trails through the woods, in snow in the winter, and on sandy beaches in the summer? A traditional bike could technically work, but it’ll be tough and feel like work. A fat tire bike is an innovative alternative that will give you the stability and traction that you’re craving. These bikes have tires that are larger than 3.8-inches wide. They’re easy to ride, and you don't have to worry about the terrain or conditions. This guide will help you find the best fat tire bikes available on the market.

Why Trust Us
All of our reviews are based on market research, expert input, or practical experience with most products we include. This way, we offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
Benefits of Fat Tire Bikes
- Fun. These bikes are fun and easy to ride. You have more balance and control than skinny tires, letting you ride how you want, either fast and aggressive or slow and casual, and allowing you to enjoy the experience.
- Comfort. The larger tires mean that you have a bigger cushion to ride on. Those tires absorb most of the bumps, which takes the pressure off of your hands and back. Some bikes also have front suspension that gives you additional shock absorption for the smoothest ride possible.
- Versatility. Unlike specific road or mountain bikes, your fat tire bike is incredibly versatile. The durable frame and large tires make these bikes easy to ride on gravel, rocks, dirt, sand, snow, pavement, and mud. So wherever you want to go, you can.
Types of Fat Tire Bikes
Single Speed
These bikes are similar to other single speed bicycles with one chain and cog. This type of bike is great for the person who wants to take a casual or leisurely cruise. The lack of gears means you’ll have to work more if you’re going to go faster or ride up hills. This style isn’t standard on fat tire bikes because most people want to go on an adventure with their bike, and a single-speed drivetrain isn’t very useful for that.
Multiple Speed
These bikes have multiple gears that you can switch between while riding, making it easier to pedal and ride in a wide variety of conditions and terrain. Look at the number of gears the bike has. The more gears there are, the easier it is to move through the resistance levels and tackle a broader range of elevations. You’ll find it easier to take off from a stop with this type of bike since you can lower the resistance.
Electric
Electric bikes have grown in popularity over recent years, and fat tire bikes are perfect for this innovative technology. A small motor and a powerful battery will assist you when pedaling, letting you work less and travel further. Their downside is that these bikes tend to be heavier than others, which can be an issue since fat tire bikes are already considered heavy.
Top Brands
DJ Bikes
As a family-owned business based in Calgary, Canada, DJ Bikes focuses on building quality bicycles, including folding bikes, fat bikes, and road bikes. Its focus is to provide biking enthusiasts with the best price so that anyone can enjoy the sport.
Ecotric
Bicycles fabricated by Ecotric incorporate research, development, and innovation. The product line features e-bikes that can provide intelligent urban transportation. The company has become a leader in the market, with over 10,000 bikes sold in the United States.
Mongoose
Founded in 1974, Mongoose is one of the leaders in the bicycle market. The company initially began with a focus on BMX products. However, over the years, the product line has expanded to include mountain and urban bikes.
Fat Tire Bikes Pricing
- Under $500: You can buy a quality fat tire bike in this price range. It won’t have an electric motor. The bike style may or may not have gears and will have tires either for road or off-road riding.
- $500 to $1,000: Bikes in this range may or may not have electric assist. They will have more features, sturdier builds, and more durable materials. You’ll find use-specific bikes in this range.
- $1,000 and up: These high-end bikes will have electric assist, carbon fiber frames. They’ll also come with several innovative features, such as folding, baskets, and lights.
Key Features
Tire Tread
All fat tire bicycles have one thing in common. The tires are noticeably larger than other bikes. However, there are several types of tires available in the “fat” style. Slick tires are smooth, making them perfect for flat terrain and pavement. Studded tires have a tread pattern on them, making them suitable for trails, sand, and rocky terrain. Snow tires have a tread and stud pattern that gives you grip when riding on the snow.
Tube or Tubeless
Fat bike tires are designed to be more durable than regular bike tires. This makes them able to withstand puncture and abrasion better. If you buy a tire with tubes, you’ll find they last longer because of the increased durability. However, fat tire bikes tend to be quite heavy, so choosing a tubeless option can help you reduce weight.
Frame Material
Choosing the right frame material can reduce the weight of your bike. However, it also needs to be durable. Carbon fiber frames are incredibly lightweight but also costly, as you already know with car parts. Aluminum and steel are other standard options. However, steel is heavy, and aluminum can bend. Aluminum is the most affordable option while still being relatively lightweight.
Other Considerations
- Price. How much do you want to spend on your fat tire bike? Just like other bicycle styles, there’s one available at all price ranges. However, you may compromise on features and quality with the lowest-priced bikes. Determine your budget and buy the best quality bike within that limit. You may not need the most expensive bike on the market if it has features you won’t use.
- Quality. Buy a bike that uses high-quality materials and a reliable construction method. If you plan to go trail riding or use it in extreme conditions, you need a bike that’s durable enough to withstand your use. Low-quality bikes will quickly fail. Look at the quality of the chain, the welds on the frame, and the corrosion resistance.
- Suspension. Not all fat tire bikes have a suspension. The fatter tires do absorb some of the bumps and jarring. For the most comfortable ride, you’ll want a suspension to absorb what the tires don’t. Look for a bike with suspension on the front forks for reduced stress on your arms and shoulders. Some newer models come with full front and back suspension systems for the smoothest ride.
Best Fat Tire Bikes Reviews & Recommendations 2021
Go further and enjoy your ride more with the 500-watt brushless rear motor. It gives you the option of pedaling on your own, assisted, or using pure electric power. Using only the battery and motor, the bicycle has around an 18.5-mile range and a top speed of 23 miles per hour. Riders that weigh up to 265 pounds can safely ride this bike. It comes 90 percent pre-assembled and has ergonomic handlebars, an adjustable seat, and anti-slip tires. The wheels on this bike are 26 x 4 inch fat tires.
Go further and enjoy your ride more with the 500-watt brushless rear motor. It gives you the option of pedaling on your own, assisted, or using pure electric power. Using only the battery and motor, the bicycle has around an 18.5-mile range and a top speed of 23 miles per hour. Riders that weigh up to 265 pounds can safely ride this bike. It comes 90 percent pre-assembled and has ergonomic handlebars, an adjustable seat, and anti-slip tires. The wheels on this bike are 26 x 4 inch fat tires.
This sporty fat tire bike comes in either sleek black or white for the carbon steel frame. It has disk brakes for powerful stopping power. An Iron Shoulder shock absorber in the fork reduces vibration for increased comfort on bumpy or uneven terrain. The bike comes with 26-inch wheels, a Shimano 21-speed transmission system, and double disk brakes. The 48-pound bike arrives 85 percent assembled, with the front wheel, handlebars, and pedals needing assembly. Riders weighing up to 440 pounds and between five feet three inches and six feet can safely ride this bicycle.
Unfortunately, the assembly can take some time, requiring 20-30 minutes of work before you can ride. You’ll also need to rotate the front fork 180 degrees before installation, or it won’t be in the right position and hinder the bike’s performance.
This sporty fat tire bike comes in either sleek black or white for the carbon steel frame. It has disk brakes for powerful stopping power. An Iron Shoulder shock absorber in the fork reduces vibration for increased comfort on bumpy or uneven terrain. The bike comes with 26-inch wheels, a Shimano 21-speed transmission system, and double disk brakes. The 48-pound bike arrives 85 percent assembled, with the front wheel, handlebars, and pedals needing assembly. Riders weighing up to 440 pounds and between five feet three inches and six feet can safely ride this bicycle.
Unfortunately, the assembly can take some time, requiring 20-30 minutes of work before you can ride. You’ll also need to rotate the front fork 180 degrees before installation, or it won’t be in the right position and hinder the bike’s performance.
Look good on and off the road with this fat tire bike that comes with a black or white frame. It has supersized 26-inch wheels and an impressive 21-gear system. The knobby tread on the tires helps them excel when riding on mud, sand, and other soft terrain. The wheels for the tires are lightweight and durable with alloy wheel construction. The bike comes 85 percent assembled. Riders that weigh up to 440 pounds and are between 5 feet 3 inches and 6 feet tall can safely ride this bike. You’ll find the ride smoother and comfortable thanks to the front suspension rear disk brakes, and stable foot placement.
Unfortunately, the bike is cumbersome at 62 pounds, making it difficult to control for smaller riders.
Look good on and off the road with this fat tire bike that comes with a black or white frame. It has supersized 26-inch wheels and an impressive 21-gear system. The knobby tread on the tires helps them excel when riding on mud, sand, and other soft terrain. The wheels for the tires are lightweight and durable with alloy wheel construction. The bike comes 85 percent assembled. Riders that weigh up to 440 pounds and are between 5 feet 3 inches and 6 feet tall can safely ride this bike. You’ll find the ride smoother and comfortable thanks to the front suspension rear disk brakes, and stable foot placement.
Unfortunately, the bike is cumbersome at 62 pounds, making it difficult to control for smaller riders.
The Mongoose Juneau 26-Inch Fat Tire Bike has 26-inch fat all-terrain tires that can tackle both snow and sand. The tires are mounted on 3-inch-wide drilled alloy rims, which provide stability in a range of different conditions. The bike features rigid suspension and is designed for riders who are 5 feet 4 inches to 6 feet 2 inches tall. It has an aluminum frame with hydro-formed tubing, 16-speed Shimano trigger shifters, a Shimano drivetrain, and front and rear disc brakes. Overall, this bike is very responsive, provides quick and precise gear changes, and stops well in all conditions. Users report that it is well-built, sturdy, lightweight, a lot of fun to ride, and a good option for the casual rider.
However, it can be a little difficult to assemble, and you may need to watch an online tutorial for assistance. It doesn't come with a kickstand, and the seat isn't very comfortable.
The Mongoose Juneau 26-Inch Fat Tire Bike has 26-inch fat all-terrain tires that can tackle both snow and sand. The tires are mounted on 3-inch-wide drilled alloy rims, which provide stability in a range of different conditions. The bike features rigid suspension and is designed for riders who are 5 feet 4 inches to 6 feet 2 inches tall. It has an aluminum frame with hydro-formed tubing, 16-speed Shimano trigger shifters, a Shimano drivetrain, and front and rear disc brakes. Overall, this bike is very responsive, provides quick and precise gear changes, and stops well in all conditions. Users report that it is well-built, sturdy, lightweight, a lot of fun to ride, and a good option for the casual rider.
However, it can be a little difficult to assemble, and you may need to watch an online tutorial for assistance. It doesn't come with a kickstand, and the seat isn't very comfortable.
Take the kids with you on your fat tire riding adventures with this smaller version of the adult bikes. It has a steel frame, sporty BMX styling, and 16-inch wheels that are 4.25 inches wide. The bike is ideal for riders between three and five years old or 38 to 48 inches tall. Riders can safely take this bike on and off the road for versatile enjoyment. It’s a single-speed drivetrain making it easy to ride. There are steel calipers on the rear for braking power, and it has a rigid suspension. You can adjust the seat height so the bike will grow with your child.
Unfortunately, the braking system could be better and stronger. However, if you replace the brake pads, this will significantly improve this issue.
Take the kids with you on your fat tire riding adventures with this smaller version of the adult bikes. It has a steel frame, sporty BMX styling, and 16-inch wheels that are 4.25 inches wide. The bike is ideal for riders between three and five years old or 38 to 48 inches tall. Riders can safely take this bike on and off the road for versatile enjoyment. It’s a single-speed drivetrain making it easy to ride. There are steel calipers on the rear for braking power, and it has a rigid suspension. You can adjust the seat height so the bike will grow with your child.
Unfortunately, the braking system could be better and stronger. However, if you replace the brake pads, this will significantly improve this issue.
Take your bike anywhere with its ability to fold into a compact size. The frame is made of aluminum to keep it lightweight, with the entire bike weighing 57 pounds. Assisting you is a powerful 750-watt Bafang motor with a peak power of 1,000 watts. The motor is paired with a high-quality Samsung battery. That’s enough power to help you up steep hills with ease and reach a top speed of 20 miles per hour. Other features include a Mozo suspension fork, Shimano seven gear system, and Tektro brakes. The tires are 20 inches with a width of 4 inches.
However, at 57 pounds, this bike is heavy. It will be difficult for most people to carry, making it less than ideal for commuters.
Take your bike anywhere with its ability to fold into a compact size. The frame is made of aluminum to keep it lightweight, with the entire bike weighing 57 pounds. Assisting you is a powerful 750-watt Bafang motor with a peak power of 1,000 watts. The motor is paired with a high-quality Samsung battery. That’s enough power to help you up steep hills with ease and reach a top speed of 20 miles per hour. Other features include a Mozo suspension fork, Shimano seven gear system, and Tektro brakes. The tires are 20 inches with a width of 4 inches.
However, at 57 pounds, this bike is heavy. It will be difficult for most people to carry, making it less than ideal for commuters.
Hop on this sporty mountain-style fat tire bike and cruise with its large 26-inch wheels. It has an attractive black and bright black color scheme for the frame and wheels. There are seven speeds to switch through with the twist shifters. They’re paired with a Shimano rear derailleur to make this bike versatile for all types of riding. Dual disk brakes will give you plenty of braking power. The steel frame and knobby style of tires give the bike strength, stability, and durability for more aggressive riding adventures. Riders between the height of 5 feet 4 inches and 6 feet 2 inches can safely ride this bike.
The larger size of this bike could make it harder to ride for smaller or shorter riders. The frame is made of steel, making the bike heavier than other options on this list.
Hop on this sporty mountain-style fat tire bike and cruise with its large 26-inch wheels. It has an attractive black and bright black color scheme for the frame and wheels. There are seven speeds to switch through with the twist shifters. They’re paired with a Shimano rear derailleur to make this bike versatile for all types of riding. Dual disk brakes will give you plenty of braking power. The steel frame and knobby style of tires give the bike strength, stability, and durability for more aggressive riding adventures. Riders between the height of 5 feet 4 inches and 6 feet 2 inches can safely ride this bike.
The larger size of this bike could make it harder to ride for smaller or shorter riders. The frame is made of steel, making the bike heavier than other options on this list.
Ride this bike over sand and snow with its 20-inch fat four-inch tires. It comes with an easy to read display screen, headlight, battery indicator lights, and horn. The throttle control is conveniently located on the handlebar. The bike weighs 56 pounds and folds down for easier transport. The frame is an aluminum alloy for strength and reduced weight. It can carry riders that weigh up to 325 pounds. There’s also an added luggage rack on the bike for cargo. You can reach a top speed of 27 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest bikes on this list. There are three levels of assistance plus a seven-speed Shimano gear system.
One potential issue is that all of the cables are hidden in the frame, making it difficult to work on should your bike need maintenance. The digital display isn’t intuitive and can be hard to navigate.
Ride this bike over sand and snow with its 20-inch fat four-inch tires. It comes with an easy to read display screen, headlight, battery indicator lights, and horn. The throttle control is conveniently located on the handlebar. The bike weighs 56 pounds and folds down for easier transport. The frame is an aluminum alloy for strength and reduced weight. It can carry riders that weigh up to 325 pounds. There’s also an added luggage rack on the bike for cargo. You can reach a top speed of 27 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest bikes on this list. There are three levels of assistance plus a seven-speed Shimano gear system.
One potential issue is that all of the cables are hidden in the frame, making it difficult to work on should your bike need maintenance. The digital display isn’t intuitive and can be hard to navigate.
This bike is ready for the mountain trails with a sturdy carbon steel frame, 26-inch diameter and 4-inch wide fat tires. It also has a front chain gear, 21-speed grip shifter, and unique disk brakes. Riders that weigh up to 440 pounds and are between 5 feet 5 inches and 6 feet 2 inches tall. The tires make this bike stand out with their oversized knobby tread, high wear resistance, and non-slip gripping ability. You can comfortably ride this bike on snow, dirt, mud, and city roads. The front fork is thicker to give you increased shock absorption.
One downside of this bike is that it requires you to assemble it upon arrival. While it comes with all of the parts, hardware, and tools you need, the assembly can take 20-40 minutes. This will put a hamper on your ability to begin riding right away. The handlebar is also a fixed height.
This bike is ready for the mountain trails with a sturdy carbon steel frame, 26-inch diameter and 4-inch wide fat tires. It also has a front chain gear, 21-speed grip shifter, and unique disk brakes. Riders that weigh up to 440 pounds and are between 5 feet 5 inches and 6 feet 2 inches tall. The tires make this bike stand out with their oversized knobby tread, high wear resistance, and non-slip gripping ability. You can comfortably ride this bike on snow, dirt, mud, and city roads. The front fork is thicker to give you increased shock absorption.
One downside of this bike is that it requires you to assemble it upon arrival. While it comes with all of the parts, hardware, and tools you need, the assembly can take 20-40 minutes. This will put a hamper on your ability to begin riding right away. The handlebar is also a fixed height.
The Hiland 20 Inch Kids Fat Tire Mountain Bike is designed for children who are 42 to 56-inches tall. It features 20-inch fat tires that are suitable to ride on roads, trails, sand, and snow. It has a high-quality steel frame that's available in blue, silver, or white; a Shimano TY300D 7-speed shifter that provides optimal control; and a double disc brake system. The bike is 85 percent assembled out of the box, and it includes all required tools to finish the setup. All you need to do is attach the handlebar, front wheel, saddle, and pedals. It's a good option for growing children and is suitable for kids between 7 and 11 years old.
One downside is that you may need to adjust the front brake, as it may be out of alignment. Also, it's a little heavy for its size, so it can be hard to manage for young children.
The Hiland 20 Inch Kids Fat Tire Mountain Bike is designed for children who are 42 to 56-inches tall. It features 20-inch fat tires that are suitable to ride on roads, trails, sand, and snow. It has a high-quality steel frame that's available in blue, silver, or white; a Shimano TY300D 7-speed shifter that provides optimal control; and a double disc brake system. The bike is 85 percent assembled out of the box, and it includes all required tools to finish the setup. All you need to do is attach the handlebar, front wheel, saddle, and pedals. It's a good option for growing children and is suitable for kids between 7 and 11 years old.
One downside is that you may need to adjust the front brake, as it may be out of alignment. Also, it's a little heavy for its size, so it can be hard to manage for young children.
Tips
- Buy a bike that is the right size for you or is adjustable. Just like any bike, you need to be in the correct body position for a comfortable ride.
- Clean your bike after riding. The frame and components may be durable, but you don’t need to test that by leaving abrasive or corrosive debris and residues on it.
- Periodically check and oil your chain like you would with a motorcycle. This will keep it moving smoothly and make it easier to ride the bike.
FAQs
Q: Are fat bikes good for beginners?
Yes, they are! The larger tires make the bike easier to balance and more stable. The slower nature of the fat tires on pavement makes them suitable for someone learning the basics. The versatility of the tires lets them ride on a wide variety of terrain.
Q: Can you ride a fat tire bike on pavement?
Yes, you can! For the best experience, use smooth tires on your bike. These will roll the best on the smooth and flat surface of the pavement. The larger tire will give you a slower riding experience than on a mountain or road bike.
Q: Are fat tire bikes fast?
Generally, no. The larger tires with low air pressure and heavier frame make them slower on the road. However, their design makes them easier to ride on trails, sand, and snow, making them faster overall than other bikes that struggle to perform in these riding conditions.
Final Thoughts
You can’t go wrong with the Ecotric Electric Fat Tire Bike with its powerful motor and impressive top speed. For a more affordable option, the PanAme Fat Tire Mountain Bike doesn’t disappoint with its Iron Shoulder absorber and Shimano 21-speed gear system.