Can you recommend a bike for a heavyweight?

[25yearsnhsworker]

I have recently been using the santander hire bikes. My partner used one yesterday and said its no wonder you struggle on these they are so heavy.
I have been reluctant to buy a bike as I feel I would buckle the wheels

Any tips for a solid but easier to ride lighter bike?

Most bikes will take your weight I'd have thought, go and talk to someone in a bike shop if you are worried.
I was 17st after xmas and had my 3yr old on a bike carrier another 2.5stone and had no issues at all.
If you are looking for something with suspension I'd recommend paying abit more and getting something with air suspension as it's easily adjusted for different weights.
But really I'd say get the bike you want or think you will want based on your riding style rather than your weight.

Most bikes are fine for riders up to 120kg or so, and some for heavier.
As an example, here are the weight limits for Liv bikes - Giant's women's range.
www.tredz.co.uk/help-advice/product-help/sizing/brand/liv
I agree with the PP - you need to decide what type of bike you want first, then once you've got a shortlist check the weight limits.
Good luck - hope you find something you enjoy riding.

Friend weighs about 200 lbs (at least 5 stone overweight) & rides a bike you could lift with 1 finger. Carbon fibre bikes are amazing.

Agree it's about the bike having the stability you feel confident with. Hybrids might be a good bet.

Thanks everyone.
Once shops reopen I will view some.

Bike shops are deemed essential @25yearsnhsworker so most are open now. You might have to make an appointment and they might not have much stock in at the moment unfortunately but there should be at least some shops open.
Good luck - I hope you find something you love.