What is a Dutch Bike?
The Dutch may not have invented the bicycle, but a visit to the Netherlands will quickly prove that the Dutch invented and continue to perfect cycling culture. Bikes are everywhere, and riders take all shapes, sizes, and ages. Biking is in Dutch blood!
All Dutch-style bicycles share a few unique qualities designed to make cycling practical, enjoyable, and above all, a regular part of life, from work to the weekend. Let’s see what sets Dutch bikes apart from other bikes…
Step-Through or Low-Step Frame
Most traditional Dutch bikes feature a low, or step-through-style frame, which allows for easy mounting and dismounting as well as a comfortable, casual upright riding position. This design is especially handy for riders who carry cargo, ride in more formal or rigid attire, or pedal routes where stopping is frequent.
Upright Posture
The upright seating position of the Dutch bike is an unmistakable feature and one with a ton of rider benefits.
- Weight is shifted onto the legs and hips, reducing pressure on the neck and back, creating a more comfortable ride.
- Visibility is improved for the rider, not only in the immediate vicinity but also in the distance, as the rider’s sightline is extended.
- Sitting up taller allows the rider to be more easily seen by motorists, pedestrians, and other cyclists.
Fully Loaded and Ready to Ride
Dutch bikes typically come with everything a rider needs including a headlight, tail light, bell, storage rack, kickstand, and rear-wheel lock. The bikes are very utility-driven and are designed to meet (nearly) every possible need a person might have, and also reduces the demand for car-based trips and errands. The rear rack is especially handy for carrying cargo or attaching additional accessories like panniers or even small children!
All-Weather Features
Weather, in the Netherlands, ranges from summery to snowy, with salt-tinged air present in every season. With this in mind, Dutch bikes are designed to suit all weather conditions, with a few special features. These include:
- Front and rear fenders
- Skirt and mudguards
- A covered chaincase
- Using rust-resistant materials like aluminum
These features not only protect the bike from the elements, but they also help keep the rider clean and comfortable, and able to wear regular clothes while biking, even to the office.
Ride Like The Dutch, Even on Hills
The Netherlands are famously flat, and for this reason, Dutch bikes are typically on the heavier side, with a single, or limited speeds. Here at Gazelle North America, we use top-of-the-line electric bike systems to make every hill feel as flat as Holland. Using low gears and high assist levels neutralizes inclines and puts joy into every cycling experience.
Ready to experience the fun, convenience, and sheer delight of riding like the Dutch?
