Do you have the right bike for your body weight and size? If you are not sure, shop and ask around. Check with the shop if they know the maximum weight load of the bikes supplied.
Look at the specification of the bicycle to verify material used.
Most bicycles frames are made of high-tensile steel (hi ten steel) which is heavier or aluminum which is lighter. Chromoly frame bike are also available. This material is lighter than hi ten steel but stronger.
Look at the specification of the wheels. Look at the number of spokes holes. It is common for bikes to have 28, 32 or 36 spokes wheel. The Apollo unit shown here has 32 spokes holes with double wall rims. The higher in number of spokes will help support the weight of a heavier rider. That is why 40 or 48 spokes wheels are used on tandems meant for two riders. Look at the way the spokes are laced onto the rim. Spokes that are distributed evenly across the circumference of the rim are considered more durable. The double walled rim will also help as it will significantly increase the strength of the wheel.
If you are not sure if you will take up cycling seriously or you lack confidence that the bicycle can take your weight load, consider buying a high-ten steel bike to start as it tend to be cheaper than an aluminum or chromoly frame bike. Moreover, most heavy duty bike are made of hi ten steel. As hi ten steel will bend before it breaks, you will also get a prior warning if the bike has been overloaded.
Check out bicycles like the old style double beam bike. The additional top bar add strength to its capacity. The upright handle bar which is curved closer to your body will allow you to sit more upright. That will reduce the stress on your wrists as you no longer have to lean forward and put your weight on them as you ride.
As old style bikes are single speed, it would be best not to ride in areas that requires you to ride uphill as that can be hard on your knees. It will be awkward if you have to get down from your bike to push it up. Also, avoid cycling against the wind as you will have to exert more energy to ride which will shack you out before you could enjoy the ride.
Get your shades on before you start riding to avoid eye contact with fellow road users who could be checking you out which may make you feel self conscious.
Tight cyclist pants can also be worn under your regular baggy pants.
An extra thick gel saddle cover will also help reduce the pain of a sore bottom after a long ride.
If it does not help, you will have to get yourself a wider saddle.
Unless your are cycling on a fat bike, avoid potholes whenever possible and if you hit one, lifting your butt off the saddle will reduce the pain and take the pressure off your back wheel. So, saying, it would be best to invest in a pair of metal pedals as the plastic ones commonly supplied may not be able to hold up to your weight as you stand on them.
Meantime, you may also want to read, "The Escapades of an Overweight Cyclist" by Graham Butt, which hopefully, will give you the boost you need to start cycling yourself.
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