Fietsersbond is concerned about fat bikes
Fat bikes are known for their fat and wide tires. Despite the fact that the fat bike has not yet taken over the electric bicycle in the Netherlands and Belgium, the popularity of fat bikes is increasing. The Fietsersbond does not seem to be happy with this rise of the fat bike.
What is a fat bike?
Glide more smoothly over obstacles and on different surfaces: the fat bike is especially for lovers of off-road cycling. Extra thick tires are required for this. That is why the fat bikes have tires from 96 mm to 12.7 cm. In some cases, the tires are even thicker. To fit the fat tires, the frame, fork and wheels have been specially designed.
With the fat bike you can reach speeds of up to 25 kilometers per hour. This is laid down in European legislation. With an optional throttle lever, it is possible to boost your bike a bit. After boosting, speeds of 30 kilometers per hour can be achieved. Nevertheless, it appears that speeds of 45 kilometers per hour can be achieved with the throttle. No driver’s license is required to drive the fat bike and there is no helmet requirement. The young generation in particular is catching on to this bike for this reason.
Why are there concerns about the fat bike?
The Cyclists’ Union is particularly concerned about the possibility of increasing the fat bike. Because of the electric motor on this bike, you don’t hear them coming. And they often go twice as fast as a regular e-bike, which can reach speeds of up to ‘A dangerous thing that is under little supervision’.
Moped riders will soon be obliged to wear a helmet. This does not apply to the fat bike. That is why the popularity of this bike seems to increase even more. Veilig Verkeer Nederland is also concerned about this souped-up bike. Once again it is emphasized that a tuned up e-bike is not insured.
Alternative to the fat bike
Are you 18 years or older and do you have a driver’s license? Then the speed pedelec, a fast variant of the electric bicycle, is a good alternative to fat bikes. With this e-bike you receive pedal assistance up to 45 kilometers per hour.
An example of a speed pedelec is the Gazelle Ultimate Speed S10 2022. With this speed pedelec from the well-known bicycle brand Gazellen, you can cover longer distances quickly and relaxed. The mid-engine of the Bosch Performance brand ensures that you can reach speeds of up to 45 kilometers per hour.
Want to see the entire range of speed pedelecs from Fietsvoordeelshop.nl?
