Best Dutch bicycle

At the beginning of their bicycle-specific history, the Dutch used the bicycles of large European countries, which determined the development of the bicycle through their developments: The means of transport were mainly imported from England, France and Germany. The company did not start its own Dutch bicycle production until 1869, when a man named Henricus Burgers opened his own workshop. As a result, further companies were established for the production of bicycles. The production and design of the wheels was closely based on the English model. In this respect the original Hollandrad was at first only a copy of the English model. With the turn of the century, several specific Dutch predicates gradually began to emerge, so that in the 1920s the predicate “Nederlandsch Fabrikaat” was created. The conservative approach of the Dutch bicycle manufacturers is worth mentioning: Instead of innovations, the focus was on quality and longevity – characteristics that also characterise modern versions of this type of bicycle.

Until today some technical features of the classic Holland bike have been preserved:

1. Frame: The so-called Dutch arch, which is characterised by a straight down tube and a single bent top tube pulled upwards, is common for ladies’ bicycles. Models for men are usually equipped with the typical diamond frame, in which the top tube and down tube, seat and chain stay form a rhombus.

2. Steering head angle: The steering head angle of the Holland wheel is relatively flat at about 65 degrees. This ensures excellent directional stability. In addition, the handlebar itself is quite close to the body – that’s why you sit very upright on such a bike, which is easy on your back and therefore beneficial to your health.

3. Saddle: Dutch bikes are generally equipped with a strongly sprung leather saddle – this increases comfort even more.

4. Gears: Gears were out in the flat Netherlands for a long time. Later, three-speed shifters were installed. In the meantime, however, five- or seven-speed models are also being used.

5. Brakes: In the Netherlands, drum brakes are mainly used on the front and rear wheel hubs. On the other hand, the Dutch bicycles, which are intended for export to Germany, are usually fitted with a brake. The optimum combination of back pedal brake and front drum brake is rarely discovered. However, you can easily retrofit the Duo version on your own. 6. Tyre and rim size: For most Dutch bicycles the tyre and rim size is the usual 28 inch. 26-inch versions are also available.

7. Dynamo: Often the dynamo is only used for powering the headlights. In these cases the rear light is battery operated. If you come across such a model, you can convert it to a dynamo-powered rear light if required. 8. Luggage rack: Three rubber bands stretched from the rear tyre hub over the luggage rack form the usual standard for Dutch bikes. If you want a simple metal bracket that other wheels have in common, you can retrofit it again.
9. Closed chain guard: One of the most important features of the Holland bicycle is the closed chain guard, which is traditionally made of moleskin and reinforced by a chrome-plated sheet metal part. For some time now, however, there have also been ABS plastic versions.
All in all, Holland wheels are very low-wear and low-maintenance. Even if they are often exposed to unpleasant weather conditions, they do not suffer any damage.

Anyone who likes to ride comfortably through the streets benefits from a Holland bicycle, which is characterized not least by its enormous reliability. It is ideal for everyday use as well as tours on flat terrain. Instead of speed, the focus is on maximum comfort. Only people with great sporting ambitions who always want to tackle and master mountainous areas should keep their hands off Dutch bikes and better take a mountain or trekking bike!