Weight limits for electric bikes are usually set in the 220-300 pound range. Some models are designed to carry cargo and weigh even more, about 550 pounds.

Electric bikes come in a variety of sizes and weight capacities and are being used by young and old alike. It's fun to ride around the city or on a leisurely bike path. They are great for commuting and are considered a good source of exercise even with car assistance. Here's what you should know about the uptrend.

Electric bicycle weight limit

Different types of road e-bikes have different weight limits, so the manufacturer's recommendations must be followed to ensure rider safety and bike performance. Here is a list of popular road e-bikes and their weight limits:

Volt Pulse -- Commuter electric bike with weight limit of 220 LBS

DJ City Bike (Check it out on Amazon) -- A solid electric bike that weighs 220 LBS.

Raleigh Redux IE -- Commuter electric bike with weight limit of 250 LBS

SwagTron Bandit (see Amazon) - can weigh up to 250 LBS and is a strong beast. Good for cruising on paved and muddy trails.

Haibike SDURO -- Mountain road e-bike with weight limit of 250 LBS

Trek Super Commuter +9 -- Commuter road e-bike with weight limit of 300 LBS

Addmotor MOTAN 1000 Watt Electric Bike (see Amazon) - has a stylish, unique paint process and a weight limit of 350 LBS.

Addmotor Motan Tricycles - Electric tricycles with weight limit of 450 LBS.

The importance of weight limits

Weight limits for road e-bikes are important for several reasons:

Safety - road e-bikes need to be able to slow down safely when going down hills or stopping suddenly in traffic, and adhering to weight limits will ensure proper performance of the bike. Excess weight can wear and damage brakes, rims, spokes and saddles.

Performance - When an electric bike is at its maximum weight capacity, it reduces the rider's travel and speed

Choose a bike for heavy riders

Unfortunately, most road e-bikes on the market are only suitable for weight limits up to 225 pounds, which is a problem for heavier riders seeking a form of exercise or for riders transporting heavy loads.

Riders need to consider the following when buying an road e-bike. A big problem is that weight limits are not always obvious, so buying requires contacting customer support and reading actual customer reviews to determine the specific weight limit for the bike.

When buying a heavier electric bike, buyers can consider the following:

Bicycle Frame - The frame is the most important component of any bicycle. When looking for a heavy-duty electric bike, it is best to choose a metal frame over the more common carbon frame. Metals such as aluminum or steel are very durable, lightweight and inexpensive.

Bicycle wheels - When looking for suitable bicycle wheels for heavy riders, it is best to choose a 26 "wheel over a 29" wheel because smaller wheels tend to be sturdier

Cycling Styles - Some cycling styles are better suited to heavy riders than others. Road bikes require more bending, which can be uncomfortable for riders

Hybrids or mountain bikes allow riders to sit more upright, which is more comfortable and better suited for larger riders.

Number of spokes - The rear tire should have at least 24 spokes. 32 or 36 spokes help make the tire stronger and less likely to bend under pressure

Tip: Avoid department store bikes - The bikes you find in department stores may be shiny and cheap, but they are unlikely to be durable and reliable.