Amsterdam: Amsterdam has introduced restrictions on the use of “fatbikes” in one of its busiest public parks after growing complaints over safety risks and reckless riding behavior.
Fatbikes — electric bicycles fitted with oversized tires and designed to resemble small motorcycles — have become extremely popular among children and teenagers in the Netherlands. While many riders view them as a fast and stylish mode of transport, critics say they have turned cycle lanes and pedestrian areas into dangerous spaces.
These electric bikes are capable of reaching speeds of up to 60 km/h when illegally modified, far above the legal speed limit of 25 km/h.
Growing Complaints From Cyclists and Residents
Known globally for its cycling culture and flat terrain, the Netherlands has long relied on bicycles as a primary means of transportation. However, traditional cyclists in Dutch cities increasingly see fatbikes as a nuisance because of their speed, size, and aggressive riding patterns.
Residents in Amsterdam have also raised concerns over groups of fatbike riders speeding through streets and public spaces, often creating chaos on crowded cycling paths and sidewalks.
A petition against the riders gathered more than 2,400 signatures, with residents complaining that sidewalks were beginning to resemble racetracks and public spaces no longer felt safe.
Ban Introduced in Vondelpark
In response, city authorities have decided to ban fatbikes from Vondelpark, one of Amsterdam’s most visited parks frequented by locals, tourists, cyclists, and roller skaters.
City official Melanie van der Horst said complaints related to fatbikes had surged dramatically in recent years.
“Earlier we received around 20 complaints about fatbikes. Now we are dealing with more than 2,000 complaints,” she said.
Authorities say the growing popularity of fatbikes among children has become a major safety concern. Officials warned that many bikes are illegally modified to travel at speeds between 50 and 60 km/h, increasing the risk of serious accidents.
Van der Horst highlighted the danger by pointing to cases involving very young riders.
“Imagine an 11-year-old riding a large modified fatbike at 50 km/h. That is extremely dangerous,” she said, adding that several children had already been hospitalized following fatbike accidents.
Fines to Begin Next Week
Starting next week, anyone caught riding a fatbike inside Vondelpark will face fines. Children aged between 12 and 15 will pay half the penalty, while riders under 12 will not be fined, though their parents will be informed.
Many visitors to the park have welcomed the move, although some believe stricter age limits rather than a full ban would have been a better solution.
