Italy has its clothes and shoes, German people have their cars and beer, Switzerland has its chocolate and watches… Once you say ‘the Netherlands’ everyone sees tulips, canals and… bikes! Dutch bicycles are extremely easy to buy in Europe but what to do if you live in the United States? I have decided to prepare a list of Dutch bikes you can get in the US – I hope it will help you find a perfect one.
Here is a list of Dutch Bikes for Ladies you can get in the USA:
- Sportief Womens Shimano Nexus 3 Speed
- Jordan Womens Shimano Nexus 7 Speed
- Public R16 Flat Bar
- Azor Amsterdam
- Velo-CE Draisina Classic
Here is a list of Dutch Bikes for Men you can get in the USA:
- Sportief Mens Shimano Nexus 7
- Jordan Mens Shimano Nexus 7
- Amsterdam Commuter Elite 3s Series US
- Azor Higlander for Men
- Veloretti Blckbrd
- Public V1
- Gazelle Tour Populair
- Gazelle Puur.NL
Here is a list of Dutch Bikes for children you can get in the USA:
- Sprout V16
- Veloretti Mini
Here is a list of Cargo Dutch Bikes you can get in the USA:
- Long John XL
- WorkCycles Fr8 Universal
- Cargo Classic Long
Here is a list of Electric Dutch Bikes you can get in the USA:
- Gazelle Orange C8 HM
LADIES BIKES
They are usually much lighter than their gents equivalent. No matter if you are a fit lover or maybe you prefer more casual riding, a well-designed Dutch bike will definitely bring some unique Amsterdam style and classic aesthetics onto the US streets. Here are my top choices for American women:
1. SPORTIEF WOMENS SHIMANO NEXUS 3 SPEED – TO BE FOUND AT LEKKERBIKES.COM
The most popular among the Lekker bicycles. Sportief is a perfect combination of a timeless classic and innovative solutions that bring riding a bike to the next level. You can easily use it the whole year, no matter the weather. Sportief series is extremely light (12 kg), is equipped with the premium LED light set and deluxe saddle, as well as high-quality grips. 3-speed internal gear developed by Shimano makes it perfect for both relax, commuting and an exhausting trip through the forest. Appealing design and different color versions enable you to personalize your bike so that not only can you enjoy the ride but also impress everyone with its striking look.
2. JORDAN WOMENS SHIMANO NEXUS 7 SPEED – ALSO AT LEKKERBIKES.COM
This is a perfect choice if you are a fan of modern commuting. In the Jordan series the Dutch vintage style meets an extraordinary comfort and quality. 100% aluminum frame and fork make it light and easy to transport and at the same time rust proof. As all Nexus bikes, also this one is equipped with a well-designed hub that protects the bike from grease and dirt. There is a 7-speed internal gear (Shimano) which makes this bike a cool option to ride in the city center, as well as on bumpy country roads. What is distinctive for Jordan series, it is a convenient upright riding position – a result of both comfortable saddle and fat tires.
3. PUBLIC R16 FLAT BAR – AVAILABLE AT PUBLICBIKES.COM
16 speeds? Yep, this is what active women like best. If you are looking for an innovative fusion of high performance and amazing look, you’ve come to the right place. Public R16 is light, has a commuter-friendly cockpit (flat bar) and like all Public road bikes is built with dual bottle cage mounts. This in one of our top choices for those who love upright riding in city traffic. Do not forget about narrow (32 mm) tires and quick-release wheels. There is also a removal sleek matching fender. It guarantees that your outfit is as clean as before you get onto your bike!
4. AZOR AMSTERDAM – TO BE FOUND AT AMSTERDAM-BICYCLE.COM
For those who long for Dutch nostalgic look. No compromise on the quality though! This model is just perfect for flat terrains, as well as riding in the city. What we like in Azor Amsterdam is also a very clean look. There are no cables and shifter. There is a rear wheel brake only. The price can make your jaw drop but this model is worth every cent. No squeaking, no adjustments, the highest quality guaranteed by Shimano. Just perfect.
5. VELO-CE DRAISINA CLASSIC – AVAILABLE AT JCLINDBIKES.COM
Quality and amazing looks – this is a bike for those who don’t accept compromises. Velo-Ce is sporty, fast and comfortable. Upright ride that combines Dutch vintage and Italian design comes with all features a good city bike should be equipped with: a rear rack, full coverage stainless still fenders and steel frame. There are 8-speed gears made by Shimano and the top- notch dynamo powered Busch&Miller Lumotec Classic LED Headlight. When you add internally routed cables and ambrosia double wall anodized rim, you won’t be able to say no to this model. Speed & style – those words describe Velo-Ce Draisina Classic best.
MEN BIKES
There are so many different options when it comes to Dutch gents bikes to be bought in the US. Most of them offer a comfortable upright sitting position, as well as nice-looking design and high-quality components. Choosing the best one can be a real nightmare. Here is a short crib sheet for men who want to invest their dollars wisely and stylishly.
1. SPORTIEF MENS SHIMANO NEXUS 7 – YOU CAN BUY THIS BIKE ON LEKKERBIKES.COM
Here is where a timeless retro style meets agile and speed. This model will take you through any terrain you want, right through the tough traffic in the city and the rolling hills. The Dutch style is extremely noticeable here. Sportief series is light (14 kg), all components are 100% rust free. The carrier rack is compact but very strong at the same time. For those, who put stylish look first, Lekker prepared various color matching rear carriers. This is our number one because of its striking look and the top-quality craftsmanship.
2. JORDAN MENS SHIMANO NEXUS 7 – LEKKERBIKES.COM
Another model available at Lekker – a great choice for modern commuting. This model is one of the latest Lekker’s introductions. The unique Dutch design has been enriched with comfortable upright riding position and a very convenient demeanor.
3. AMSTERDAM COMMUTER ELITE 3S SERIES US – LEKKERBIKES.COM
One of the premium models among the Lekker bikes. An innovative combination of extraordinary look and high-quality components. The design is sleek and very minimalistic, and the comfort of riding is just outstanding. Amsterdam Commuter Elite 3s is light, made of aluminum, is equipped with the additional stopping power (feature developed by Shimano – Hydraulic Disc Brakes).
4. AZOR HIGLANDER FOR MEN – AMSTERDAM-BICYCLE.COM
Quite expensive but at the same time considered to be one of the most premium models – this one is comfortable, light and easy to ride, even for a very long trip on a bumpy road. Now you can glide over bumps and travel thousands of kilometers in the most convenient way. Azor Highlander has a lightweight aluminum frame and a handy suspension fork, as well as upgraded roller brakes.
5. VELORETTI BLCKBRD – WWW.VELORETTI.COM/
If you are looking for a hassle-free bike, timeless in its design but very modern at the same time, you should definitely try one of the Valoretti bikes. This particular model is light and very maneuverable. This is not just a mean of transport. Veloretti Blckbird weighs 13 kilograms – it has been made of aluminum which guarantees the bike is smooth and very fast. With this bike you can forget about boring rides – this is a new level of bike riding! You can choose between one- or three-speed gear hub. It is also worth mentioning that Veloretti Blckbrd is coated with a very durable Akzo Nobel powder coating finish. The quality that will last for ages? Yes, with Valoretti bikes everything is possible!
PERFECT FOR COMMUTING
It doesn’t matter where you live – nowadays it’s so easy to bring a little bit of stylish Amsterdam design into the American metropolises. With an original Dutch bike, you can enjoy every single commute of yours. The Amsterdam design combined with a sporty character – doesn’t it sound cool?
1. PUBLIC V1 – AVAILABLE AT PUBLICBIKES.COM
Functionality and excitement – these two words describe Public V1 best. This model will definitely address all your needs. An extraordinary comfort, simplicity and classic style – I think that this is the best example of a high-quality city bike. Public V1 is light, which is particularly because of a handcrafted steel frame. This bike is equipped with sleek chainguard, strong dual-pivot caliper brakes and matching full fenders. Thanks to rear rack mounts you can carry a cargo. This model is suitable both for shopping, commuting to work or just a short trip around town. And a big plus – you can buy Public V1 at a really affordable price!
2. GAZELLE TOUR POPULAIR – GAZELLEBIKES.COM
A pure classic among commuting bikes. It has a unique traditional steel frame and vintage Brooks leather saddle. Its frame can be even called iconic. As all Gazelle bikes this model is hand painted in the Dieren factory in the Netherlands. If you want a bike that will enable you to ride in a perfectly relaxed seating position, Gazelle Tour Populair is worth recommending. The price is high but worldwidely known Gazelle bikes speak for themselves.
3. GAZELLE PUUR.NL – DOUBLE TUBE FRAME – AVAILABLE AT FLYINGDUTCHMAN.BIKE
Comfort, styling and utility – this is how Gazelle Puur.NL could be shortly described. Riding this model is nothing but pleasure. The Dutch design and amazing quality come together with a cool-looking battery-powered LED lights (both rear and front) and a light aluminum frame. This model also has a very convenient Selle Royal saddle. Stainless steel spokes make it look
even more modern and you can choose between Shimano 3-speed or 7-speed hub gears. Gazelle Puur.NL meets all Dutch standards, in both quality and unpretentious looks. This is a bike for ages – once tried never will be abandoned in your garage for more than several days.
CHILDREN BIKES
What does an active American kid need most? That’s easy – a cool and trendy bike so that a young explorer can hit the road towards new adventures! It is extremely important to choose the right first bicycle though. Here are two Dutch bestsellers, easily available in the US:
1. SPROUT V16 – PUBLICBIKES.COM
It’s available at Publicbikes.com Fun has just been brought to an absolutely new level. Sprout V16 is a successor for a very popular Public V1 city bike and it is available in two sizes. What can you say about this model? Sprout V16 is very durable but at the same it’s trendy. Its minimalistic design and high-quality components make it a good choice for kids who have just started learning to ride a bike, and for those who are already mastering their skills. Sprout V16 has been developed with kids in mind – there are no cables so there’s no risk of tangling. All components are very durable so that a toddler will enjoy the bike for a couple of years. Both kids and parents will love a brown vinyl seat and grips and the cool-looking matching fenders and chainguard.
2. VELORETTI MINI – WWW.VELORETTI.COM
This model has been created for younger kids (between 2 and 4). There are two options available – a 12-inch and 16-inch. Veloretti Mini is called a balance bicycle – it is just perfect for youngsters to start their adventure with a bike. If you need a solid vehicle to develop you kid’s coordination skills, you have come to the right place – Veloretti has got you covered. It is wort mentioning that Veloretti Mini is of the highest possible quality. All components are tough and durable so that the bike experience can be 100% safe for your little rider. Veloretti Mini is equipped with some extra safety bumpers to the sides of the handlebar grips.
CARGO BIKES
This is something extremely popular in the Netherlands. Cargo bikes are usually used for all everyday trips. No matter if you want to take your kids to school or visit friends or maybe just spend some nice outdoor time, a cargo bike can be as useful in the US as it is in Amsterdam. A good cargo bike is stable and durable and enables you to ride conveniently with 1, 2 or even 3 children. A healthy, and at the same time fun, way to spend time with your kids every day. And there’s no problem with parking – how cool is that? So, have you already chosen your cargo bike? If not, here’s a helping hand:
1. CARGO CLASSIC LONG – AVAILABLE AT AMSTERDAM-BICYCLE.COM
If you want to spend more time outside with your children, this is a model you should consider. Cargo Classic Long has an original look – black saddle and grips, as well as black rear carrier and fenders. This model is equipped with a full-size cargo box and a very stable four-point stand. Thanks to such a stand your children can get in and out quick and easy. There are also upgraded roller brakes developed by Shimano.
2. WORKCYCLES FR8 UNIVERSAL – WWW.WORKCYCLES.COM
Coming to the US directly from Amsterdam, the Fr8 is a heavy-duty transport bike. It’s modular – you can easily adjust it to your needs and preferences. At the same time, it is considered to be one of the most versatile bikes available on the Web. This particular model will suit families who need a reliable, tough cargo bike, as well as local handymen or couriers. To be honest, I have never seen such a solid and durable bike. Even if it’s fully loaded (maximum 250kg), Fr8’s movement is still smooth. This model is equipped with the adaptive seat tube (you can adjust it for riders 160-200cm) and ultra-strong wheels. Besides, all hardware is stainless steel. What’s interesting, this model can be converted into an electric bike.
3. LONG JOHN XL – FLYINGDUTCHMAN.BIKE
Maybe it does not look very massive but… this enormous bicycle is really impressive. Its utilitarian design comes with amazing quality and extreme maintenance. It will easily take around 100 kg up front and 20 – 40 kilograms on the rear. Majestic but elegant at the same time, Long John XL is very convenient to ride and handle. What I like most in this model is that its loading bay is just enormous! It may be easily used for commercial purposes, especially if you decide to add a crank-drive electric assist motor. Long John XL has a very strong rear rack or the oversized frame tubes made of aluminum. You can choose between 7 or 8-speed gearing or you can choose version equipped with the NuVinci CVT.
ELECTRIC BIKES
Are you ready for an innovative approach to riding a bike? If so, a new era in the US is just about to start – you can now order a unique Dutch electric bike right from the Netherlands. There are many electric bikes you can buy, I have decided to only choose one, a very special one.
1. GAZELLE ORANGE C8 HM – ELECTRIC CITY BIKE – FLYINGDUTCHMAN.BIKE
First of all, this model is so Dutch! Not only the color (Dutch people love orange, right?) but also a vintage design that looks like it has just been teleported from one of the Amsterdam’s streets. This electric bike is comfortable as never before – it has a highly refined geometry and the fitted top-notch Magura’s hydraulic rim-brakes.
Among the best-selling electric bikes in the US – this is a real winner and I am not surprised at all. All controls are extremely easy to use and intuitive. The Impulse motor (the successor for a very popular Bosch) is much quieter than it was in previous models but it’s power is still impressive. There’s also a built-in ringlock and the chain is enclosed inside a chaincase. The cool thing is that there’s no problem with charging batteries – e.g. the lights are powered by a hub dynamo. Orange is also very durable – the whole hardware is made of stainless steel so that you do not have to worry about rust.
DO I NEED ANY ACCESSORIES FOR MY DUTCH BIKE?
The list of accessories you can buy is endless. However, you do not need them all if you’re a commuter or just ride a bike for fun. There is only one thing I have always been recommended to use no matter what kind of Dutch bike I have been riding: a good frontlight. There’s one model I would like to take a deeper look at (it’s easily available in the US):
THE CORTINA AMSTERDAM BICYCLE FRONTLIGHT
It is now used in all Cortina bikes but to be honest, it fits most of the Dutch models you can find. This frontlight will provide you with 13 – 43 lumens of light and there are two options available. The first one is for the hub dynamo and the second one is for battery. Both are 100% splash-resistant though. I must say that this accessory has absolutely changed the quality of biking in the dark. Here you find more accessories we recommend. If you are a beginner biker you’ll learn about some essential gear.
BUT WAIT… WHY ARE PEOPLE SO CRAZY ABOUT DUTCH BIKES ACTUALLY?
Bicycle culture has been spreading in the last few years. Finally biking and commuting by bike has also become popular in the US. With the bicycle industry developing rapidly, how come that more and more Americans have absolutely fallen in love with original Dutch bikes?
What’s so special about Dutch bicycles? Let’s start with the position you ride – it’s different when compared to any other bike. Dutch bikes are ‘sit-up’ style. The frames are much higher than normal which makes you see more and sit more comfortably.
Very often Dutch bicycles are equipped with both front roller brakes and rear coaster brakes. It is not popular in most countries anymore (including the US) but as a ‘vintage feature’ such brakes are highly desired among people looking for a unique and trendy bike. High quality, hand-made components and style – what could be better than that?
ARE DUTCH BIKES LOW-MAINTENANCE BIKES?
Yes. Definitely. A stable frame, high-quality components – Dutch craftsmen know what they are doing. Dutch bikes are the most durable bikes in the whole world – they actually require no maintenance. You can literally enjoy your favorite bicycle for decades. You do not have to worry if ride over a bump or if the only option for you is to keep your bike outside all year long. Dutch bikes are almost forever. Besides, you practically do not need any special ‘bicycle outfit’ or lycra.
Why? Most of the Dutch bicycles have the varnished chain cover, skirt guard and mudguard. All those plus high-quality fenders make a person who rides it dry and clean, even if the weather is unpleasant. This way you can get to any place you need in a comfortable and healthy way and you do not have to change. How cool is that?
HOW TO USE A DUTCH BIKE IN THE US? AND HOW TO MAINTAIN ITS GOOD SHAPE?
Dutch bicycles are specific. If you love your bike, and I am sure you do, for sure you want to treat it good. Below I have prepared some quick tips for all new owners (or owners to be) of the Dutch bikes in the US. I hope you will find them useful but on top of them, do not forget to take your bike for a quick tune up twice a year (or once but this is the absolute minimum). The best time for a seasonal check is before winter and then before spring.
- Take care of tires – remember: tires need some extra air from time to time. Some online sellers add a free adapter when you buy a Dutch bike at their shop, but not all of them. Keep in mind that the American valves are different that the ones in the Netherlands. When you decide to buy a Dutch bike, you will need an adapter to pump up your tires. However, no worries if you do not have such an adapter – most bike shops pump up tires for free.
- Keep the saddle and handle bar at the right level. They are usually very easy to adjust.
- Get used to coaster brakes. As mentioned above in the article, it’s very uncommon in the US but extremely popular in the Netherlands. Almost all bicycles in the Netherlands have a coaster brake (sometimes it’s even a back pedal only). Some of them are equipped with hand brakes but before you decide to buy a Dutch bike, make sure you can get used to such a different way of braking.
- Forget about batteries – your Dutch bike’s lights are powered by a dynamo. This is a cool feature, common in the Netherlands. The lights powered by a dynamo mean that you pay literally nothing for the energy you use. Of course, when you stop pedaling, no power will be provided to the lights.
- Have you heard of ring lock? If not, time to get familiar with this smart lock created to make your rear wheel safe. Using ring lock is easy – it’s all about flipping the key in the right way. Be careful not to weaken the key – you should not use any force neither while locking nor unlocking. If your lock does not operate smoothly, you should use some grease to make it work perfect again.
QUICK SUMMARY
I hope my list will help you find a perfect Dutch bike. There are plenty of bicycles available, depending on your age, budget, style and preferences. The common feature of all Dutch bikes is that they are extremely light, easy to handle and move from one place to another. Run errands, commute to work or maybe ride for fitness? Dutch bicycles are just perfect for all those who are looking for a top-quality product. I think that buying a Dutch bike is like a once-in-a-lifetime investment – they are durable, tough and very easy to maintain. So, are you ready to order the bike you like the most? If so, enjoy your ride!
