Helmet requirement for fatbikes or is it just an e-bike?
An interesting debate is currently taking place in The Netherlands. Both the fatbike and the e-bike have their place in society, but an unfair distinction is being created while the fatbike is essentially an e-bike with some external differences.
This blog post is an attempt to reveal the parallels and differences between both bikes and show that the fatbike is simply an e-bike.
Fatbike, a separate category or not?
The e-bike has proven how technology can revolutionize the cycling world. With its electric motor and battery, the e-bike provides an extra boost that makes cycling easier.
The e-bike has been praised for its contribution to sustainable mobility by reducing the need for motor vehicles. The fatbike, although often seen as a separate category, follows the same sustainability principles and differs only in design and tire type. Both bikes can generate exactly the same speed and power and contribute to a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional transportation.
The differences
An e-bike typically has standard tires similar to those of regular bikes. The frame of an e-bike can vary depending on the type (e.g., city bike, mountain bike, etc.).
A fatbike, on the other hand, has wide tires, typically between 3.8 and 5 inches wide, making it easy to ride on sand, mud, and other rough terrains. Additionally, a wider tire is much more stable than a narrow one. The frame of a fatbike is also usually stronger to support the weight of the wider tires and the stresses of rough terrain.
The similarities
Both e-bikes and fatbikes are equipped with an electric motor with a maximum continuous power of 250 watts, powered by a battery. This motor can assist with pedaling up to a speed of 25 km/h, reducing the rider's effort.
Both fatbikes and e-bikes are versatile and can be used for commuting and recreational riding. They offer electric assistance, which can be helpful for people who need to cover longer distances, climb hills, or simply want to reduce the effort of pedaling.
In short, the difference between a fatbike and an e-bike is solely in the type of tires and design features.
Safety
There is much debate about the safety of fatbikes, and we recognize the issues on bike paths, but these are rarely caused by fatbikes that comply with regulations.
The fatbike itself is not the issue. If produced according to legal rules and all guidelines and certifications, a fatbike is a safe product, even safer than a regular e-bike. The thicker tires of a fatbike provide more riding comfort and stability.
The power of a Phatfour is limited to 250 watts of continuous power, with assistance limited to 25 km/h. This ensures that Phatfour bikes remain stable and controllable, even at higher speeds.
The problem lies with cheap, illegal fatbikes from China, often with throttle controls that go far too fast and are sold in the Dutch market. Fortunately, the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) is increasingly cracking down on these.
License and helmet requirements
We have been advocating for a ban on illegal fatbikes and throttles since last year. We also believe there should be a minimum age for e-bikes. However, creating a separate vehicle category is not a solution to the problem, as it will quickly spread to other models and modes of transportation. Furthermore, creating a separate vehicle category is something that will take years, as Minister Barry Madlener (Infrastructure) recently indicated. So, you won’t need a license or a helmet to ride a legal fatbike anytime soon. In short, you can ride a Phatfour on public roads without a license or helmet. In the coming years, you won’t have to worry about this.
Regulations
By placing fatbikes and e-bikes under the same legislation, a level playing field is created. Different rules for similar vehicles can lead to confusion and unequal treatment of cyclists, which can result in unequal traffic conditions and enforcement.
Uniform legislation makes enforcement easier and more consistent. It prevents confusion among enforcers and ensures that rules are clear for all road users. This leads to more effective enforcement and prevents the emergence of legal gray areas.
We advocate for uniform legislation that ensures equal treatment of both types of bikes, promoting safety, efficiency, and fairness.