Dutch media report said that no illegal fatbikes have been seized and no sanctions were imposed so far in 2025, even after the government promised to act against a flood of cheap fatbikes entering the market. Watchdogs told reporters they have not taken enforcement action this year.
Regulators say many of the problem bikes are low-priced imports from China. These models often look like e-bikes but are built like untested mopeds: stronger motors, throttles, and simple software tricks that let them exceed legal limits. In 2024, the transport inspectorate ILT blocked or seized about 16,500 such bikes at the Port of Rotterdam and at Dutch distribution centres.
Why they’re illegal
A legal e-bike in the Netherlands may assist only while you pedal and up to 25 km/h; a throttle is allowed only as a 6 km/h walking aid. If a bike can go faster or move without pedalling, it is a bromfiets (moped) and must have type approval, a number plate, insurance, and a helmet. Selling or riding non-approved bikes on public roads is illegal.
Investigations have shown some popular fatbikes can reach 35–45 km/h with a code or app, while frames, brakes and tyres are not tested for those speeds: raising crash and injury risks, especially among young riders who are a key buyer group.
Enforcement gap in 2025
Ministers previously promised tighter checks by ILT, NVWA, Customs and police. Yet, as of now, watchdogs acknowledge no seizures or fines this year, despite the continued availability of cheap, non-approved imports online and in some shops. That contrasts sharply with 2024’s large Rotterdam seizures.
What to expect next
More targeted checks on importers and webshops marketing non-approved models.
Roadside inspections focused on throttles and tuneable controllers.
Possible new rules to keep unapproved models out of official sales channels, as ILT urged in 2024.
If you own a fatbike
Confirm that your bike only assists while pedalling and doesn’t exceed 25 km/h.
If it has a throttle above 6 km/h or can exceed 25 km/h, it likely counts as a moped. You’ll need type approval, plate, insurance, and a helmet, or you must keep it off public roads.
