Parliamentary majority supports 14-years age limit on fatbikes

The Tweede Kamer, the lower house of the Dutch parliament, wants fatbikes to come with an age limit of 14 years and a helmet obligation. The PVV supports a motion by VVD and NSC to that effect, ensuring a parliamentary majority, RTL Nieuws reports.

Earlier this week, PVV Minister Barry Madlener of Infrastructure said he would implement a parliamentary majority’s wish regarding the fatbike. PVV parliamentarian Hidde Heutkink now called him to take action. “The Netherlands is crying out for measures against tuned-up fatbikes. We hope that an age limit will protect the environment against fatbike riders,” the far-right MP said.

The motion also calls for a separate category for fatbikes to make it easier to distinguish between them and regular electric bicycles when taking measures. The Minister warned that such a new category was impossible. According to Madlener, it is legally difficult to distinguish between fatbikes and electric bikes. “We must not set up a fat tire police; that will not solve the problem either,” Madlener said during the question hour in parliament on Tuesday.

But according to VVD MP Hester Veltma, fatbikes also have other unique characteristics. “Think of the higher weight and a saddle that is not adjustable in height,” she said.

“Accidents with fatbikes are increasing enormously; who hasn't been nearly hit recently? No less than half of the victims are between 10 and 14 years old. Our streets and children must be safe, which is why it is necessary to restrict fat bikes,” NSC MP Olger van Dijk said. “A minimum age for fat bikes of 14 years and a helmet requirement are urgently needed. And to the parents, I say in advance, please think three times before giving your child a fatbike as a present".

The VVD and NSC MPs will submit their motion during the parliamentary debate on road safety next week.