Enschede, a city in the Netherlands, has become the first municipality to ban fatbikes – electric bicycles with thick tires – from its downtown core during shopping hours. The move, approved by the city council, aims to address concerns about safety and public order, as these bikes are increasingly viewed as a hazard in pedestrian zones.
The ban, which went into effect on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, specifically targets the shopping district during business hours. City officials believe this limited restriction is legally sound and proportionate. The rise of fatbikes, often exceeding traditional bicycle speeds and resembling scooters, has prompted municipalities across the country to seek solutions to manage their use.
“We have polled this proposal with the police, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management and people with a legal background,” stated a city representative. “We think it is legally feasible.” The city is pioneering a response to the growing issue of fatbike-related disturbances, with other cities now looking to Enschede for guidance.
The decision follows a motion passed by the Enschede city council earlier in the summer, responding to growing complaints about the bikes. Some officials have described the fatbike as a “scooter disguised as a bicycle.” Amsterdam has also announced plans to investigate a similar ban, potentially in Vondelpark, defining a fatbike as any bicycle with tires wider than 7 centimeters.
However, establishing consistent regulations has proven challenging at the national level. The Ministry of Infrastructure has determined that creating a nationwide policy is “legally unworkable,” as manufacturers could easily circumvent rules with minor design adjustments. This lack of national guidance has pushed individual municipalities to take the lead in addressing the issue, as seen with Enschede’s innovative approach.
The city’s approach focuses on the general local ordinance (APV), which outlines municipal regulations. “It is really pioneering,” the representative added. While traditional bicycles will still be permitted in the pedestrian zone, fatbikes will be prohibited during peak shopping times. This localized ban reflects a broader trend of cities grappling with the integration of new micro-mobility technologies and the require to balance innovation with public safety.
The move by Enschede is being closely watched by other Dutch municipalities, as reported by NOS Nieuws, as they explore similar measures to regulate fatbike usage. The debate highlights the challenges of adapting urban infrastructure and regulations to accommodate evolving transportation options.
