The Dutch bike is a historic urban bicycle, instantly recognisable by its characteristic retro-style frame. This bike, which suits both women and men, fully embraces comfort and is intended exclusively for urban use. You will find all the information you need here to help you choose the right model.
A DUTCH BIKE — WHAT FOR?
The Dutch bike is an ideal bicycle for short journeys on the road and on flat routes, on a daily basis. It is particularly suited to a certain category of urban cyclists — those who enjoy riding in a comfortable, relaxed and unhurried manner.
The characteristics of Dutch bikes
Popularised in the Netherlands, where the bicycle is the preferred mode of transport in cities, Dutch bikes are perfectly well suited for everyday use.
The frame
The traditional Dutch bike frame provides an upright seating position that respects the natural curvature of the back. Designed in steel or aluminium, it is fitted with a rigid fork and 28-inch wheels, sometimes 26-inch.
It can be a classic frame (men's version), a step-through or trapeze frame (women's version) or a swan-neck style (mixed versions). The swan-neck frame offers maximum comfort for the cyclist and is particularly well suited to female cyclists or those of fairly small stature, as it allows them to straddle it easily for greater ease of use.
In all cases, the frame features a tall head tube and a short seat tube that allow the cyclist to adopt a very comfortable and reassuring posture — upright torso to relieve the back, and head held high to keep a clear view of the road and better anticipate the hazards of city traffic.
Integrated, durable components
Another feature of Dutch bikes is the optimal integration and protection of their components. It is therefore not uncommon to see full chainguards that conceal the drivetrain elements. The aim is twofold: to protect these components and ensure a longer service life, and to shield the cyclist from dirty splashes.
The very choice of components reflects this concern for optimal integration, with durability in mind. Dutch bikes are fitted with internally geared rear hubs that require far less maintenance than traditional derailleur systems. It is also common to see rim brakes combined with drum or coaster brake systems.
Equipment comfort
In detail, everything on a Dutch bike is designed for the cyclist's comfort! The curved handlebars offer a relaxed grip and allow for an upright, calm riding position, while the saddle is wide and well padded, optionally in leather with springs (coil or elastomer). You will also often notice wide, comfortable balloon tyres, preferably in beige for that stylish touch!
Practical accessories
As a good urban bike, the Dutch bike has everything the city cyclist needs on a daily basis: mudguards, quality lighting, optionally a dynamo hub, a rear rack, a front basket or a skirt guard.
WHAT CRITERIA SHOULD YOU USE TO CHOOSE?
Choosing the right Dutch bike obviously starts with choosing the right frame size! In the case of one-size bikes, note that you can always adjust the saddle height and, in many cases, the stem can also be adjusted to fine-tune the handlebar position.
The gearing on your Dutch bike will also need to be suited to the profile of your daily journeys. You will have a choice between the various internally geared hub models, which offer 3 to 8 speeds.
Finally, choose your Dutch bike according to your needs, with more or fewer useful accessories (skirt guard, dynamo hub, rear rack…)!
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