For riders who want to extend their bike season or travel surfaces that aren’t traditionally cycle-friendly, fat tire bikes open up a world of possibilities and terrain to explore. Here, we outline the best fat tire bikes for all seasons.

　　The magic of fat bikes lies in the wide tires, which run at low pressure and provide floatation and traction on snow, sand, and soft surfaces. Plus, fat tires are stable and they also act like suspension, absorbing bumps on the road, trail, glacier, or beach. Traditionally used for riding on snow or sand, fat tire bikes are also a great option for adventurous riding across rugged landscapes with varying surfaces or simply exploring back roads and trails where skinnier tires wont go.

　　Fat tire bikes are among the simplest forms of mountain bikes, but these days, they come in a range of frame materials, geometries, and builds to suit varying needs and preferences. Rigid frames, suspension forks, dropper posts, non-electric vs. electric — there are more options than ever before. This much variety can make it challenging to find the best fat tire bike, but were here to help.

　　Our experts have been testing fat tire bikes for years, and this guide covers 10 of the best models that weve tried. Whether youre looking for something to keep you riding through winter, a versatile option for year-round adventures, or an electric model to take you farther and faster, weve got recommendations for you. To see all of the models we tested at a glance, check out our comparison chart. If you need more help deciding what you need, be sure to check out the buyers guide and FAQ section at the end of this article.

　　Editors Note: We updated our fat tire bike buyers guide on May 1, 2024, with four new models, including the top-rated Ari Kings Peak, the value-packed electric Aventon Aventure.2, and Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus, as well as the Best e-bike for hunting, the Bakcou Storm. We also made some edits to reflect product name and price changes.

　　The Best Fat Tire Bikes of 2024 Best Overall Fat Tire Bike: Ari Kings Peak Best Budget Fat Tire Bike: Kona Wo Best Splurge Fat Tire Bike: Revel Big Iron Most Versatile Fat Tire Bike: Otso Voytek Best Electric Fat Tire Bike: Aventon Aventure.2 Ebike Best Budget Electric Fat Tire Bike: Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus Best Electric Fat Tire Bike for Hunting: Bakcou Storm Best Overall Fat Tire Bike Ari Kings Peak Specs Frame material Carbon Fork Carbon Wheel size 27.5 x 4.5 Sizes available S, M, L, XL

　　

　　Pros Great builds at reasonable prices Great looking Upgrade options when buying Confident handling on everything from dirt to snow Delivered to your home with minimal setup required Cons Wide Q-factor Berne Broudy The brand formerly known as Fezzari recently rebranded to a simpler name — Ari. Despite the name change, Ari continues the tradition of making awesome, well-priced bikes across all genres of cycling, including the Kings Peak fat bike ($2,499 $2,999). With a fresh Ari logo and a couple of new color options, the Kings Peak is the best overall fat bike we tested and a great value too.

　　The Kings Peak has a full carbon frame and fork that not only looks great but helps to keep the weight of this behemoth down to a respectable 31 pounds for the size large we tested. The folks at Ari gave it a relatively modern geometry that could definitely be considered progressive for a fat bike. The 67-degree head tube angle, 75-degree seat tube angle, and reach of 470mm (size large) are similar to what youll find on some of todays trail mountain bikes. This gives the Kings Peak a familiar, comfortable feel, and undoubtedly adds to its overall high level of stability and confident handling.

　　Like most fat bikes, the Kings Peak rolls on SunRingle Mulefut wheels. The 27.5-inch rims have an 80mm width and are paired with massive 4.5-inch Maxxis Colossus tires. This wheel and tire combo rolls great and provides ample flotation for use on snow and sand while also performing respectably on singletrack trails ranging from smooth to rough and chunky. When testing this bike in the late spring, the snow was melting and the local trails were quite patchy, and the Kings Peak transitioned seamlessly between dirt and snow surfaces.

　　Ari sells the Kings Peak as a frame only for $1,499, so you can build it up how you like, or it comes in two complete build options. Since Ari Bikes sells directly to the consumer, the prices are quite reasonable for the quality components you get. We tested the Comp build, which retails for $2,499, and added a dropper post to increase our riding enjoyment (there are numerous upgrade options at checkout). This build is stellar for the price with components including the great 12-speed Shimano SLX drivetrain, good wheels and tires, and a nicely appointed cockpit. They also sell the Elite build for $2,999, which comes with a GX Eagle drivetrain, TRP Trail Evo brakes, and a PNW Rainier dropper post.

　　For the serious adventure riders and bikepackers out there, the Kings Peak frame is equipped with lots of mounts on the frame and fork for bags and accessories. The open front triangle is also nice and spacious for fitting frame bags. It would be easy to gear up with this bike for extended adventures in the desert or the frozen tundra.

　　If youre looking for a proper fat bike for winter or adventure riding, we think the Ari Kings Peak is one of the best youll find. Its modern geometry makes it super-capable and confidence-inspiring to ride while the quality builds and reasonable prices make it a great value.

　　Check Price at Ari Bikes Best Budget Fat Tire Bike Kona Wo Specs Frame material Aluminum Fork Aluminum Wheel size 26 4.8 Sizes available S, M, L, XL

　　

　　Pros Affordable Deore drivetrain is reliable and works well Neutral handling works well in snow Cons Heavier weight No dropper post Limited frame and fork mounts Berne Broudy If winter rambling is your jam, you might be surprised to learn that Kona has one of the most capable foul weather and ferocious terrain fat bikes out there — penny for penny. The Kona Wo ($1,800) — and its more expedition-minded big brother, the Woo — brings a formidable physique and a completely serviceable component group to tackle any challenging environment.

　　While $1,800 may not qualify as cheap (nothing is with bikes these days), it certainly falls into the budget category among fat bikes. And for that price, Kona packs tubeless-ready, 26 × 4.8-inch treads (Schwalbe Jumbo Jim or Vee Tire Snow Avalanche) onto an aluminum frame and fork.

　　The geometry is semi-relaxed for a fat bike. It’s not as playful or aggressive as a high-end fatty like Why Cycles’ Big Iron, but it’s not overly relaxed either. Overall, the Wo rides fairly neutral relative to other fat bikes, which is exactly what we need them to do.

　　And that neutrality carries on throughout the component spec and feature set. The 1x gearing pairs a 10-speed Microshift Advent X derailleur with a 28-tooth chainring — it’s better than bargain basement, but it leaves room for an upgrade if you want to build it up for slightly better performance. Hydraulic Tektro brakes offer a slice of premium performance that we were pleasantly surprised to see. That said, you’ll have a tough time getting too much speed with any gruppo, as our XL tester came in north of 30 pounds.

　　Beyond that, the frame is pretty clean — two bottle mounts and that’s it. For more versatility and customization for packs or racks, you’ll have to level up to the Woo. But for the ride quality for the money, the Kona Wo is stable, fun, and reliable — well suited to low-pressure, mellow-paced rambles rather than fast, aggressive expeditions.

　　Check Price at Kona Bikes Best Splurge Fat Tire Bike Revel Big Iron Specs Frame material Titanium Fork Carbon Wheel x tire size 27.5 x 4.5 Sizes available S, M, L, XL

　　

　　Pros Great ride quality Mountain bike-esque handling Adjustable geometry Stunning good looks Cons Expensive Big wheels and tires can be slow to get spinning Berne Broudy Formerly known as Why Cycles, Revel Bikes recently consolidated their brands under the Revel name. Fortunately, they didnt change the Big Iron, their beautiful titanium-framed fat bike. The best bike is the most fun bike, and Revel’s Big Iron ($4,799) is a ton of fun, super versatile, and made to last forever. The ride feels like a modern mountain bike — playful, poppy, and fast. Its sold as a frame only for $2,499 or with a superb GX Eagle build thats currently on sale for $3,359, which is a steal.

　　Titanium not only looks incredible but is nearly half the weight of steel. It has a better strength-to-weight ratio than aluminum and superb vibration damping, which, along with the ENVE Carbon Fat Fork, gives the ride a unique, silky feel. The Big Iron’s 27.5-inch wheels and 4.5-inch tires absorb uneven terrain better than the smaller wheels on many other fat bikes, though they take a bit more effort to spin up to speed.

　　The 4.5-inch tires give this bike superb traction in soft snow and icy trails. The adjustable dropouts on the rear end let us adapt geometry to adjust the ride feel from fast and snappy to long and stable for different missions or to accommodate different wheel sizes. The bike has a nice low standover height, which makes it easy to get on and off. The rest of the geometry is modern but far from extreme, and perfectly in line with this bikes intended use.

　　The Big Iron is a functional work of art, as well-suited to playfully skidding along snow-covered singletrack as for tackling an epic bikepacking mission. Much like a modern mountain bike, the Big Iron has a longer reach, with a wide bar and short stem for confident handling and better ride comfort on long rides. The frame design lets us add a maximum-travel dropper post on the Big Iron to make technical terrain easier. But there was still plenty of room for a frame bag for bikepacking missions along with numerous bosses on the frame and mounts for a rear rack and fenders.

　　The GX Eagle build is also stellar with its namesake GX Eagle drivetrain, SRAM G2 R brakes, and a Crankbrothers Highline dropper post. This bike is well sorted and ready to take on any fat bike mission you are, on snow or not. So, if youre willing to spend a bit more for the Revel Big Iron, we seriously doubt youll be disappointed.

　　Check Price at Revel Most Versatile Fat Tire Bike Otso Voytek Specs Frame material Carbon Fork Carbon Wheel size 27.5 x 3.8 (can also run 26 and 29) Sizes available S, M, L, XL

　　

　　Pros Lightweight More nimble than most fat bikes Narrower Q-factor for more regular feel Custom configurator allows you to choose parts you want Cons Comparatively limited tire clearance Berne Broudy With cross-country race geometry and the ability to take any size wheels — from 26-inch wheels with 4.6-inch fat tires to 29-inch wheels and plus-size or standard mountain bike tires — Otso’s Voytek  (starting at $3,195) is the multitool of bikes. It’s ready for riding, racing, touring, and adventures of every kind all year round.

　　One of the biggest challenges of fat bikes is that riding long distances can make your knees hurt. That’s because many fat bikes have much wider cranks than normal mountain bikes to accommodate 4-inch and wider tires. Otso’s Voytek has the narrowest crank width (called the Q-factor) available. The brand achieves it with a custom offset chainring, a dedicated 1x drivetrain, and a creative chainstay design. The result is a bike that puts minimum stress on your knees and handles like any great mountain bike hardtail because your feet aren’t spread so far apart.

　　One of the reasons the Voytek is such a fun and responsive ride is its fast, stable, flexible geometry. According to Otso, the bike is designed with a longer top tube and the shortest chainstays of any fat bike. That’s paired with a 68.5-degree headtube angle for responsiveness, stability, and a racy feel.

　　It can also accommodate a 120 mm suspension fork for rugged terrain or for riders who opt for a second wheelset and run this bike as a hardtail mountain bike when they’re off snow and sand. The Voytek’s chameleon-like characteristics come from a tuning chip at the rear dropout that allows riders to change the Voytek‘s wheelbase up to 20 mm while raising or lowering the bottom bracket by 4 mm. With the chip set in the forward position, the Voytek has aggressive, responsive geometry with the feel of a race hardtail. With the chip in the rear position, the bike is stable, steerable, and easy to manage loaded or in snow and ice. A middle position gives this bike an all-mountain feel.

　　There are more than a dozen ways to set up the Voytek, and you can explore the options using a handy tool on Otso’s website. The Voytek can run multiple wheel sizes — including 27.5-inch wheels with plus-size MTB tires or 26-inch wheels with 4.6-inch fat tires — and Otso’s rigid carbon fork or a suspension fork with up to 120 mm of travel. The EPS-molded carbon frame of the Voytek takes an internally routed dropper post.

　　The base build comes with a wide range of gears on a Shimano SLX 12-speed drivetrain, and Otso gives you the option to build your bike up how you like with their custom configurator. At 25.4 pounds, it’s also the lightest fat bike we tested and lighter than many regular mountain bikes.

　　Check Price at Otso Cycles Best Electric Fat Tire Bike Aventon Aventure.2 Ebike Specs Frame material Aluminum Fork 80mm travel suspension fork Wheel x tire size 26 x 4.0 E-bike class 3 (top speed: 28 mph) Motor 750W rear hub Sizes available Step-over and step-through

　　

　　Pros Reasonable price Capable of class 3 speeds up to 28 mph Comes with rear rack, fenders, integrated lights Good range with 720Wh battery great on a wide range of surfaces Cons Heavy Not great on super rough trails or snow Berne Broudy With the explosion of electric bikes on the market in recent years, there are now lots of fat tire e-bikes to choose from. Of course, many of them are pretty darn expensive, but there are quite a few brands making models that come in under the $2,000 mark. The Aventon Aventure.2 ($1,799) is one them, and arguably the best reasonably priced fat tire e-bike you can buy.

　　What sets the Aventure.2 apart from similarly priced fat tire e-bikes is its class 3 capability, which gives it a top pedal-assist speed of 28 mph. It also has a throttle to whisk you along at up to 20 mph without even needing to turn the cranks. It comes with a big, 720Wh battery that provides an impressive range on a single charge. Like most similar bikes, it comes with fenders and lights, but it also comes with a rear rack, and it has a total weight capacity of up to 400 pounds.

　　With 4 pedal assist settings, you can choose the level of support thats right for the terrain and situation, whether thats keeping up with traffic around town or casually cruising on a gravel road near your camp spot. The 750W rear hub motor has plenty of power, and the torque sensor gives it a more natural feeling of power delivery.

　　The Aventure.2 comes in two frame styles — step-over and step-through. Each frame style comes in two sizes, Regular and Large. With those options, riders between 411 and 64 should be able to get a good fit. Unlike non-electric fat tire bikes, it has more relaxed and upright geometry and seated pedaling position. This ends itself well to the power it has and the type of terrain its best suited for.

　　What really sets the Aventure.2 apart from standard electric bikes are the big, 4-inch wide knobby tires. Add the 80mm suspension fork to the equation, and this bike really helps to smooth out rougher surfaces, and it works really well on gravel roads and smoother singletrack trails. At the same time, it does great on paved roads and bike paths, making it a highly versatile bike that can function as a commuter and adventure bike for mixed surfaces.

　　The biggest drawback of the Aventon is its weight. At 77 pounds, its heavy and difficult to transport. That weight also affects its handling, and we cant recommend it for tackling properly technical mountain bike singletracks. Its also a lot to push should you encounter spots that you cant ride.

　　Still, if youre looking for a powerful fat tire electric bike to expand your horizons, the Aventon Aventure.2 is a great, reasonably priced option to consider.

　　Read review: Aventon Aventure.2 Review: Rugged, Fat-Tire E-Bike Gets Improved Assist, Double the Range

　　Check Price at Aventon Best Budget Electric Fat Tire Bike Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus Specs Frame material Aluminum Fork 60mm travel RST suspension fork Wheel x tire size 26 x 4.0 Eibike class 2 (top speed: 20 mph) Motor 750W rear hub Sizes available High-step and step-through

　　

　　Pros Reasonable price Works well on a range of surfaces paved, gravel, smoother trails Comes with lights, fenders, and suspension fork Powerful motor Good range Cons Not great for rough and rocky trails or use on snow Cold temperatures reduce battery life and range Berne Broudy Rad Power Bikes was one of the first to market with a quality, affordable, fat-tire electric bike and helped to popularize what has become a common option from other brands. Made for rec path rambles, sandy beach soirées, groomed nordic trails, and winter commuting, the RadRover 6 Plus ($1,599) is the latest version of this fat tire cruiser. With 4-inch-wide rubber, this affordable and dependable e-bike gives you an extra boost for cruising along the beach, gravel roads, or around town.

　　It has a 750W geared hub motor and a 672Wh battery. With pedal assist, this bike rolled for 25 to 45 miles per charge during testing.

　　It’s worth noting the battery didn’t last as long in the cold. Rad doesn’t recommend riding this bike under -4 degrees Fahrenheit, as colder temperatures can damage the battery.

　　The RadRover’s seven-speed Shimano drivetrain and 80Nm torque geared hub motor powered us up steep hills. It got us up to speed quickly and relatively quietly despite the bike’s hefty 73-pound weight. It’s a Class 2 electric bike, so it will only assist you to 20 mph, unlike the class 3 Aventon described above. Yes, you can go faster, and on downhills, you likely will. But over 20 mph, the speed will have to come from your legs or gravity. Because it has both pedal assist and a throttle, riders without the stamina for extended pedaling can venture farther. Post-ride, the RadRover 6 recharges in 5-6 hours plugged into a standard wall socket.

　　Some fat bikes are made for singletrack and other less-traveled roads. This one is more at home on smooth trails, gravel roads, and paved paths. Its upright geometry makes it a great bike for cruising, but, along with its heavier weight, doesnt make it a great option for serious technical trail riding. The RadRover 6’s fat tires are extremely stable, which helps riders feel confident on a wide range of surfaces all year round as long as it isnt too rough. With step-thru and high-step frames offered, riders between 52 and 62 should be able to find the right fit.

　　The most recent update to the RadRover gave it a more streamlined frame design that includes a semi-integrated battery. It still comes with integrated lights and fenders and Rad Power has a robust selection of accessories so that you can dial it in for your specific needs. Still, its well-equipped to handle changing weather and lighting conditions right out of the box.

　　For riders seeking a fun, utilitarian electric fat tire bike, the affordable Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus is a great option to consider. This versatile model can pretty much do it all, from commuting around town to far-flung weekend adventures, no matter the season.

　　Check Price at Rad Power Bikes Best Electric Fat Tire Bike for Hunting Bakcou Storm E-Bike Specs Frame material Aluminum Fork 120mm travel RST Renegade suspension fork Wheel x tire size 26 x 4 E-bike class 3 (top speed: 28 mph) Motor Bafang M620 Ultra mid-drive, 160Nm torque Sizes available M, L

　　

　　Pros Burly off-road fat tire bike for rugged terrain Full suspension Very powerful mid-drive motor Can upgrade to larger batteries for upcharge Comes with fenders and rear cargo rack 5 color options including camo Cons Heavy Expensive Berne Broudy Weve tested a whole bunch of e-bikes for hunting, and the Bakcou Storm ($5,599) happens to be our favorite of the bunch. While it certainly isnt cheap, its far more affordable than an ATV or side-by-side. Plus, its quieter, more fun to ride, and can get you more places, too. With front and rear suspension, 4-inch wide tires, a super powerful mid-drive motor, multiple battery size options, and a 300-pound total weight limit, this bike is ready to get you to your favorite far-off hunting spots and back again.

　　Compared to the more budget-friendly electric fat tire bikes described above, the Bakcou Storm is quite a bit more advanced. Its much more like a higher-end electric mountain bike, just with 4-inch-wide tires. The rear suspension and 120mm travel fork also help to make it more capable of handling seriously rough and rocky terrain. The slightly more aggressive geometry also lends itself to better handling in those situations.

　　The Storm comes equipped with a powerful Bafang M620 Ultra mid-drive motor with a nominal 1000W output and 160Nm of torque. Those are some serious numbers, so it makes sense why its referred to as the diesel engine of electric bike motors. The torque sensors give it a natural feeling ride, and its certainly no slouch when you want to get it up to speed. The standard battery option (835Wh) provides ample juice and range for most peoples needs, but Bakcou also offers upgrades (between $200 and $400) to get bigger batteries and go even farther.

　　If youre in the market for the best e-bike for hunting, the experts at Bakcou have made it and its called the Storm. Whether youre just making approaches on dirt roads or traversing rugged mountain terrain, the Bakcou Storm is ready to take you there. It also comes in 5 color options including camo.

　　Check Price at Bakcou Best of the Rest Best Fat Tire Bike for Adventure Riding and Bikepacking Salsa HeyDay! Specs Frame material Carbon Fork Carbon Wheel x tire size 26 x 4.6 Sizes available XS, S, M, L, XL

　　

　　Pros Adjustable dropouts Can work with all three wheel sizes Lots of frame and fork mounts for bags, racks, and accessories Stable Also comes in aluminum for less Cons Not the lightest especially for a carbon frame Only one build option for carbon frame Berne Broudy The best bikepacking experience is when you’re riding a light and stable bike with the flexibility to set it up how you like it. This rack-ready, geometry-adjustable, super-configurable carbon fat bike checks all the boxes. The Salsa HeyDay!s ($3,299) high-modulus carbon frame is light and stiff, but it won’t rattle your teeth out when navigating endless miles of brake bumps along the Alaska Highway. The carbon is layered to make the bike efficient to pedal but shock-absorbing too.

　　The HeyDay! comes with 26-inch rims and 4.6-inch tires, but the tires and wheels can be configured in almost any way you want them. Its 45NRTH Dillinger custom-studdable tires gave us incredible traction on every surface from sand to glacier ice. Because we mostly ride fat bikes in winter conditions and our home trails are often icy, we studded them immediately.

　　The HeyDay! comes with a full-carbon Kingpin Deluxe Fork that’s light and durable with loads of accessory mounts for bags and bottles.

　　The bike has options for two dropout positions — one compatible with 26-inch wheels and 4.6-inch tires, which is what the bike comes with. The second position accommodates larger wheels. And for the rider who wants more control and the ability to change the bike’s ride feel incrementally, Salsa sells an infinitely adjustable dropout kit.

　　The HeyDay! has a reasonably slack 69-degree headtube angle and relatively narrow Q-factor cranks. Cables are routed internally to keep them out of the weather. And though the bike comes as a 1x, it can also be set up with a 2x or single-speed drivetrain. Currently, the only build offered is the Deore 12, which features the reliable Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain. Salsa also makes an aluminum frame version that comes with MicroSHIFTs Advent 9-speed drivetrain and goes for a shockingly low price of $1,699.

　　The HeyDay! really got our attention when riding fully loaded. Short chainstays make the bike feel energetic, and the low bottom bracket was stable even with all our camping gear on board. Combined with a slight dip in the top tube, it made getting on and off the bike a stress-free affair. The HeyDay!’s center of gravity is farther back than on some bikes. The steering was responsive even in soft conditions.

　　The Salsa HeyDay! comes with 26 × 4.6-inch tires. We prefer a larger wheel and tire for winter riding, and we plan to swap what came on the bike before our next tour. Bonus: When fat tires aren’t needed, you can run this bike with 29er mountain bike wheels and 2.3 to 3.0-inch tires to make it an adventure bikepacking rig for all seasons.

　　$2,899 at REI Giant Yukon 1 Specs Frame material Aluminum Fork Carbon Wheel x tire size 27.5 x 4.5 Sizes available S, M, L, XL

　　

　　Pros Well-balanced geometry Versatile Great value Cons Limited frame and fork mounts SRAM NX drivetrain Berne Broudy The Giant Yukon 1 ($2,400) is among the most well-rounded and versatile fat bikes on the market. With a sturdy aluminum frame and a stiff yet responsive carbon fork, the Yukon 1 thrives on all sorts of terrain where a fat bike is the logical choice.

　　Thanks to the included dropper post, this fat bike is able to climb comfortably and descend with nimble agility. We especially appreciate the Yukon’s spot-on frame geometry, which provides noticeable balance and predictable handling at high speeds. In general, the design features of the Yukon 1 prioritize versatility above all else. The moderately long 1,171mm wheelbase and 460mm chainstays make for a stable ride that remains maneuverable on descents.

　　Like most fat bikes, the Yukon was designed primarily for moderate terrain. Its 27.5-inch wheels and high-volume tires eliminate chatter on semi-bumpy trails and packed snow, but it probably isn’t the best choice for rock hopping and large drops. The frame can fit two water bottles, and theres a set of mounts for a top tube bag. The front triangle can also easily accommodate a frame-mounted bag and there are threaded mounts on the legs of the fork too.

　　Our only real complaint about the Yukon is the SRAM NX drivetrain, which works well enough but isnt the most reliable or smooth. Still, the Giant Yukon 1 is a great option to add to the quiver to keep the cranks turning through the winter months. It also happens to look fantastic and sells for a fair price.

　　Check Price at Giant Borealis Crestone Specs Frame material Carbon Fork Rigid carbon or suspension fork options Wheel x tire size 27.5 x 3.8 (works with 26 and 29 as well) Sizes available S, M, L, XL

　　

　　Pros Lightweight Agile handling Lots of build options Fair pricing Cons Geometry seems a tad conservative Berne Broudy If you mourn the end of mountain bike season and count the days until you can once again snake down a ribbon of singletrack, you’re going to love this bike. With a wide range of build options and somewhat conservative fat bike geometry, the Borealis Crestone (complete builds between $2,169 to $4,499) is about as classic as a fat bike gets.

　　Borealis calls the Crestone its “tried and true flagship model.” It ships with 26-inch wheels but is compatible with 27.5 and 29-inch wheels, giving it the potential to be a four-season, singletrack-slaying, snow-shredding, sand-stomping hardtail. We tested it with a 100mm suspension fork, an option that enhances its comfort and inspires confidence to ride singletrack and rough terrain the way you normally wouldnt on most fat bikes.

　　For a fat bike, the high-quality carbon components — including the frame, handlebars, and seat post — keep the total package relatively lightweight. Internally routed cables keep the aesthetics clean and tidy. Lizard skin protectors on the down tube and drive-side chainstay prevent damage to the carbon frame.

　　Though most fat bikes don’t come with a suspension fork, certain riders simply can’t stay away from the big hits. While it may have a steeper, 70-degree head tube angle, the 100mm of travel provides the confidence and comfort to tackle rougher terrain. Suspension forks can’t take bags or bottles, but our experience was there’s plenty of space to store gear on this hardtail even without fork mounts. If you dont need or want front suspension, Borealis sells the Crestone with a rigid carbon fork as well.

　　The Borealis Crestone is sold in an array of complete builds ranging in price from $2,169 to $4,499, or you can choose your own components in their custom configurator.

　　Check Price at Borealis Comparison Chart

Fat Tire Bike Model	MSRP	Frame Material	Fork	Wheel x Tire Size	E-Bike class	Motor
Ari Kings Peak	$2,499	Carbon	Carbon	27.5 x 4.5	n/a	n/a
Kona Wo	$1,799	Aluminum	Aluminum	26 x 4.8	n/a	n/a
Revel Big Iron	$4,799	Titanium	Carbon	27.5 x 4.5	n/a	n/a
Otso Voytek	$3,195 and up	Carbon	Carbon	27.5 x 3.8 or 26 x 4.0	n/a	n/a
Aventon Aventure.2	$1,799	Aluminum	80mm suspension fork	26 x 4.0	3	750W rear hub
Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus	$1,599	Aluminum	60mm suspension fork	26 x 4.0	2	750W rear hub
Bakcou Storm	$5,599	Aluminum	120mm suspension fork	26 x 4.0	3	160Nm mid-drive
Salsa HeyDay!	$3,299	Carbon	Carbon	26 x 4.6	n/a	n/a
Giant Yukon 1	$2,400	Aluminum	Carbon	27.5 x 4.5	n/a	n/a
Borealis Crestone	$2,169 and up	Carbon	Rigid carbon or suspension	27.5 x 3.8	n/a	n/a

Scroll right to see more specs. Why You Should Trust Us The team at GearJunkie consists of adventurous folks who love to ride bikes. From mountain to gravel, fat tire, and electric, we know that having the right tool for the job can make the experience more enjoyable and enhance our performance. Testing gear is also our thing, and weve been striving to provide our readers with honest and trustworthy product recommendations based on real-world testing and experience for years.

　　For our fat tire bike buyers guide, weve combined the knowledge and experience of testers Berne Broudy and Jeremy Benson. Berne is a full-time writer, gear tester, and long-time contributor to GearJunkie. She is a passionate outdoorswoman who enjoys all types of outdoor sports including all genres of cycling. Hailing from Vermont, Berne trades skinny tires for fat bike treads every year when winter takes hold and she has been testing and reviewing them since 2021. In addition to fat bikes, Berne has tested a huge range of other gear including backcountry skis, mountain bikes, electric chainsaws, bike racks, and rooftop tents.

　　Jeremy Benson is an editor at GearJunkie and has been professionally testing and reviewing bikes of all kinds for the past 8 years. He is an obsessive mountain and gravel bike rider and racer who does everything he can to maintain his fitness through the winter months without riding indoors. Living in the mountains of California, he took to riding fat bikes years ago. In the past six years, Benson has tested over fifteen different models of non-electric and electric fat tire bikes for various online publications. He has also contributed to numerous other buyers guides including hitch bike racks, bike repair stands, and mountain bike grips.

　　How We Tested Fat Tire Bikes This buyers guide is the result of several years of real-world testing and personal experience. After researching the best fat tire bikes on the market, we rounded up our selection of 10 models and took them to task on everything from groomed nordic trails, snowmobile tracks, ribbons of dirt singletrack, fire roads, bike paths, and paved roads. Each model was tested for months of real-world use to identify its strengths and weaknesses while examining important characteristics like handling, geometry, components, and most importantly, how they perform when the rubber meets the snow, dirt, and sand. For the electric models, we also considered their motor systems, battery capacities, e-bike controls, top speed, and features while testing their range and performance on a wide range of surfaces.

　　

　　Berne Broudy testing fat tire bikes with her trusty trail dog; (photo/Broudy-Donahue Photography) Buying Guide: How to Choose a Fat Tire Bike Though humans have been riding on wide-wheeled bikes over snow and sand for a long time, modern fat tire bikes are a relatively recent addition to the cycling world. In the 1970s and ’80s, some riders handcrafted “fat bikes” by welding two or three rims side by side to increase surface area contact with the ground.

　　Now, fat bikes are a common sight in just about any mountain town. Iconic bikepacking routes such as the Alaska Highway are seeing more fat bike traffic than ever before.

　　The benefits of fat bikes are simple, obvious, and totally rad. Fat bikes can ride on snow, mud, and sand, accessing terrain that other bikes cannot. With a trusty fat bike, your cycling season can extend into the cold, snowy winter months or provide the ability to travel across surfaces that have previously been off-limits.

　　As fat bikes become more popular each passing year, more manufacturers and models are introduced to the market. While this increase in options is great for consumers, it also complicates the selection process.

　　From carbon components to front-suspension forks, non-electric to electric, and even your intended use, there are many factors to consider when making a fat bike purchase. Additionally, fat bikes represent a major financial investment, so you want to be sure you’ve made the best possible choice.

　　In this handy guide, we’ll explain the key considerations that should go into any fat bike purchase.

　　Frame: Materials and Sizing

　　

　　The Ari Kings Peak comes with a sleek carbon fiber frame and fork. The size large frame fit our six-foot-tall tester perfectly; (photo/Jeremy Benson) Most fat bike frames are made from either carbon fiber, aluminum, or steel, and sometimes titanium. All material options have pros and cons, though carbon fiber is generally considered the premium frame material for fat bikes. Carbon is much lighter than aluminum or steel, which can significantly improve speed and responsiveness. However, improved performance comes with a cost, and carbon frames are quite a bit more expensive than steel or aluminum. Similarly, titanium is also expensive but it looks incredible and provides a better ride quality than aluminum or steel.

　　Just like any other bike, the size of a given fat bike refers to the dimensions of its frame. Because overall comfort is a key consideration when picking a bike, fit and sizing are somewhat subjective. We recommend choosing the most appropriate frame size for your height, and the manufacturers geometry and sizing charts are a great place to start. A frame that is too small can decrease stability and mechanical efficiency. A frame that is too large may be uncomfortable and difficult to handle.

　　Every fat bike manufacturer will have a slightly different sizing system. Whenever possible, we recommend you try out the bike in person to ensure that the frame is the correct size for you.

　　Wheels and Tires

　　

　　Fat tires are the defining feature of fat tire bikes. The added width and low pressures help them float over and provide traction in conditions that skinnier can (photo/Jeremy Benson) Depending on your local terrain, a fat bike may be all you need to absorb the bumps in the trail, regardless of the season. Most fat bikes come with aluminum rims, which are relatively cheap and easy to manufacture. However, if you’re looking to maximize performance and minimize weight, carbon rims are an upgrade that may be worth the investment.

　　Compared to road and mountain bikes, fat bikes have super wide rims. The wider the rim, the wider the tire you can fit on it. The wider the tire, the better you’ll be able to float across soft surfaces like snow and sand. Most fat bike rims are between 65 mm and 90 mm wide.

　　Many fat bikes can run multiple different wheel sizes and tire options. Most bikes that can accommodate varying wheel sizes have an adjustment that lets you reposition the rear wheel to maintain the ride feel when you switch wheel sizes. If fat tires have too much drag for your taste, purchase a second wheelset and some narrower tires, and your fat bike can be transformed according to the conditions or your specific needs. It is important to note that the maximum tire width a frame can handle usually changes when the wheel size changes.

　　Fat bike tires come in a wide range of styles. For muddy conditions, look for a knobby tire with deep tread. In urban environments, a smoother tread will be most efficient. If you know youll be encountering icy conditions on the trails or on your daily commute, studded tires can be a huge benefit.

　　

　　If youre riding on slick roads or icy trails, studded fat bike tires can add a significant amount of traction and confidence; (photo/Adam Ruggiero) It’s important to remember the signature soft and bouncy feel of fat bikes is a result of their high-volume tires. Because most fat bikes don’t have much (or any) built-in suspension, soft tires are essential for a comfortable ride. Your fat bike tires are kind of like the struts on a car — they’re built to absorb impact and conform to the surface to provide stability and grip.

　　Compared to road and mountain bikes, fat bike tires require low air pressure. For general trail riding, stick to somewhere around 12 to 15 psi. Of course, you can always adjust your tire pressure depending on what kind of surface you’re riding on. Riding on snow, tire pressures below 10 psi are often necessary to get the best traction. Dont be afraid to experiment to find what works best for you and the conditions

　　Non-Electric vs. Electric

　　

　　The Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus is an electric fat tire bike thats an affordable option for everything from paved roads to smoother singletrack trails; (photo/Jeremy Benson) For many years, non-electric fat tire bikes were the only game in town. Mostly, they were used by serious cyclists who wanted to extend their riding into the winter months on snow or adventurous riders who wanted to tackle surfaces like sand and desert rambles. Riding over snow, sand, and soft conditions is still the primary purpose for most people who ride fat bikes.

　　Recently, with the explosion in popularity of electric bikes, many brands have begun producing electric fat tire bikes for recreational use and even for hunting. These are quite similar to non-electric fat bikes in that they have extra wide tires, but they also come equipped with batteries to power motors that provide pedal assistance. While fat tire e-bikes can be used to ride on firm snow and beach sand, they generally seem best suited to riding gravel and dirt roads, smoother trails, and pavement. Because of their fatter, knobbier tires, they are far more suitable for off-pavement use than electric bikes with skinnier and smoother tires, and they are a great option for those who want to venture off-road or on mixed surfaces with some pedal assistance.

　　Not surprisingly, the addition of batteries, motors, and beefed-up frames and components means that electric fat tire bikes typically weigh much more than non-electric fat bikes. For comparison, most non-electric fat bikes weigh in the neighborhood of 30 pounds while electric models like the Aventon Aventure.2 and the Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus weigh over 70 pounds. Of course, with pedal assistance, the weight isnt that big of a deal, but should you need to push or pedal the bike without assistance, it can be pretty tough. Likewise, loading the bike onto a bike rack can be pretty challenging.

　　Components and Group Set

　　

　　Fat bike is generally a bit less rough than regular mountain biking but your bikes components are subject to a different type of abuse. Quality drivetrain components will typically handle it better; (photo/Jeremy Benson) A bike’s group set is the collection of parts that make up the drivetrain. The components within the group set include the crankset, shifters, bottom bracket, front and rear derailleurs, cassette, brakes, and chain. All complete fat bikes come with a group set that’s been pieced together by the manufacturer. Many bikes can be customized upon purchase, so don’t be dissuaded if the stock setup isn’t on par with your personal wants and needs.

　　Bicycle gears work much like a car’s — except your body is the motor. Fat bike gears are used to efficiently cover a range of gradients, speeds, and terrain types. Lower (easier) gears will turn your rear wheels less per crank than higher (harder) gears. Fat biking often involves both crawling up hills and speeding down singletrack, so it’s important to select a group set with a gearing range that meets your needs.

　　Just because a bike has lots of gears doesn’t mean it has a bigger or better gear range. Most fat bikes have a single chainring and a 10, 11, or 12-speed cassette for a total of 10 to 12 gears that work well across a broad range. Single-ring drivetrains are relatively easy to use and simple to maintain, as they do not require a front derailleur.

　　If you’re new to fat biking, we generally suggest you find a good quality fat bike and start off with the stock components. You can always make changes and upgrade certain parts as you develop preferences over time.

　　Seatposts

　　

　　Lots of fat bike riding takes place on mellow terrain like this groomed trail, so you dont necessarily need a dropper post. If you like to push the limits, however, it could be a very worthwhile upgrade; (photo/Chelsey Magness) For beginner fat bike riders, a seat post’s only job is to support your saddle and keep your body in a comfortable and efficient position. As your riding progresses, however, you may want to consider upgrading your standard seat post to a dropper post.

　　A dropper post allows for mid-ride seat height adjustments. The ability to change your seat height on the fly can be especially helpful when riding on terrain with lots of gradient variation. With the push of a lever, a dropper post allows you to alter your body position in response to the terrain ahead. Dropper posts have come down slightly in price in recent years and are an excellent upgrade, especially for mountain bikers who are used to using them already.

　　Q-factor A big difference between fat bikes and mountain bikes is the Q-factor. That’s the distance between the outer surfaces of the crank arms, which determines how far apart your pedals and your feet are when you ride. Given the need to accommodate wider tires in the frame of fat bikes, the cranks often need to be spaced wider to clear the chainstays of the bike, resulting in a wider Q-factor.

　　If you regularly ride normal mountain or road bikes, then youre likely accustomed to a narrower Q-factor. Getting on a fat bike can be a noticeable difference with a much wider stance, but most people adapt to it pretty quickly. Some fat bike models, like the Otso Voytek and the Salsa HeyDay!, have comparatively narrow Q-factors that have a more normal feel than most other fat bikes. If you’ve had knee pain or a knee injury, a bike with a narrower Q-factor might feel better, especially if you plan to do longer rides.

　　Bikepacking

　　

　　If youre considering using your fat bike for bikepacking, look for a frame that provides lots of threaded mounts for bags and accessories on the frame and fork. The Ari Kings Peak has lots of options; (photo/Jeremy Benson) Thanks to their go-everywhere capabilities, fat bikes have become very popular for bikepacking, especially for those trips into adventurous off-road terrain like the desert. If you plan to use your fat bike as a mobile base camp on multiday trips, be sure to look at models that are compatible with accessories, saddlebags, and other crucial bikepacking components. These days, there are a lot of options for bikepacking bags, including frame, saddle, handlebar, and fork-mounted, so you can load up your rig and head off the grid.

　　Price and Quality High-quality fat bikes with plentiful features are a joy to own and ride. As you’re considering which bike to buy, it’s important to realize there is a relationship between price and quality. Though top-end models will come with an initial hit to the pocketbook, a more expensive bike will typically have longer-lasting and higher-performing parts.

　　You may be able to upgrade to a more affordable bike down the line, but it may end up costing you more than it would have if you had invested initially. With that said, we’ve included fat bikes on this list that should fit into a wide range of budgets.

　　

　　Dirt, snow, a mix of both? A great thing about fat bikes is how versatile they can be; (photo/Jeremy Benson) FAQ Do I need a fat bike with suspension? For many riders, fat tires that run at low tire pressure eliminate the need for extra suspension. If you plan to ride in arctic temperatures, keeping your bike as simple as possible may enhance your riding experience. Fat bike-specific suspension forks are designed to work in cold temps.

　　If you plan to ride your fat bike on rougher terrain or singletrack trails, a suspension fork will make your bike feel smoother and more capable and will be easier on your arms, shoulders, and back. A suspension fork can typically be added aftermarket to most fat bikes.

　　If you’re riding in technical terrain, you might also consider buying a fat bike with a dropper post or adding a dropper to your new or existing fat bike. A dropper lowers your saddle and lets you move the bike underneath you when the riding gets steep or spicy. It also lets you change your position in any terrain.

　　

　　If you want to get rad on your fat bike, a suspension fork might be a huge benefit; (photo/Broudy-Donahue Photography) What wheels and tires do I need? The tires you need will depend on the conditions that youre planning to ride in. The wider the tires, the more float you’ll have on snow or sand. But wider tires are heavier and have more resistance, called drag. Not all bikes can take the widest tires. If you want max float, make sure to buy a bike that can handle wide tires.

　　If you’re going to bike in icy conditions, studded tires make a ton of sense. Some tires come studded, and you can stud some non-studded tires yourself. If your bike doesn’t come with studded or studdable tires, you’ll need to replace them if you want ice-gripping studs.

　　Should I run my fat bike tires tubeless? For snow and sand riding, running your fat bike tires at absurdly low pressures — we opt for around 5 to 8 psi — will give you maximum traction and control. But running such low pressure can make a tube inside your bike tire vulnerable if you hit a rock or sharp root as you’re cruising along.

　　For technical riding, we like to set our tires up tubeless with sealant inside instead of a tube. Ask your bike shop if your tires are tubeless-compatible. To convert tires, you’ll need a fat bike-specific rim strip, valve, sealant for each wheel, and a tubeless-compatible tire.

　　Should I use clipless or flat pedals for fat biking? Both clipless pedals and flat pedals have advantages and disadvantages. Clipless pedals can be more efficient, but if you’re riding in soft conditions like sand and snow, they can get clogged and be hard to clip in. In very cold conditions, the metal cleat on the sole of your shoe can conduct cold to your feet and often get frozen up with snow and ice.

　　With flat pedals, you can wear standard footwear, including well-insulated winter boots instead of clipless-compatible shoes. While they’re not quite as efficient, they also allow for quick dismounts, which can be key for slippery conditions.

　　What else do I need to start fat biking? Fat biking, especially in the winter, can require specialized gear to stay warm and make it more enjoyable. This guide to the fat bike basics provides some helpful tips if youre looking to get started.

　　Buy apumpwith an accurate gauge at very low pressures. For winter riding and sand riding, experiment with tire pressure to see what gives you the best grip and control.

　　That number will change if you add weight to your bike on a tour, for example. A good pump, or a pump plus a tire-pressure guage, will help you determine the proper tire pressure for various riding conditions.

　　You also need agood helmetand somewinter-ready layers.

　　What is the difference between a fat bike and a mountain bike? Though mountain bikes and fat tire bikes can be used for similar kinds of riding, they have several major differences. First, fat bikes have much wider and higher-volume tires. Whereas modern mountain bikes get their suspension from forks and shocks, fat bikes generally rely on their cushy wheels for a smooth ride.

　　Another key difference between fat bikes and mountain bikes is the Q-factor, which is the distance between the outer surfaces of the crank arms. This determines how far apart your pedals and your feet are when you ride. Fat bikes almost always have a wider Q-factor, resulting in a wider stance on the bike.

　　If you’ve had a knee injury or pain, look for a bike with a narrower Q-factor to provide some relief. A narrower Q-factor can be especially helpful if you plan to embark on longer rides as it tends to be more comfortable for extended periods of pedaling.

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