More young people using electric bicycles, RIVM concerned
The Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) is warning about potential health impacts. This comes as electric bicycle use rises sharply among young people and young adults, according to research covering 2021 to 2025.
The study shows that among youths aged 12 to 17, e-bike use increased from 11% in 2021 to 29% in 2025. Within that group, one quarter uses a fatbike. Among young adults aged 18 to 24, e-bike use rose from 8% to 27% over the same period. Electric cycling has also become significantly more common across all age groups. In 2021, 29% of cycling Dutch residents used an electric bicycle. Last year, that figure had risen to 43%.
RIVM expressed concern about the rapid increase among younger age groups. It noted that they already tend to fall short of physical activity guidelines. The agency warned that shifting toward electric cycling could further reduce overall physical exertion.
According to the findings, teenagers primarily use e-bikes for commuting to school and for trips to shops or visits to friends. For short distances under five kilometers, they still tend to prefer a regular bicycle. E-bikes are mainly chosen for their speed advantage.
Adults aged 55 and older show different usage patterns. They choose electric bicycles mainly because they require less physical effort and allow them to cover longer distances. This group primarily uses e-bikes for longer recreational rides.
