cycling, a way of life
Throughout The Netherlands, you'll see bicycles wherever you look. This is not a strange
phenomenon, knowing that 16,5 million people own approximately 13 million bicycles. The
Dutch use the bicycle as a way of transportation rather than just for recreation. It is
common to use the bike for daily shopping and to commute to work and school. You'll find
clearly marked bicycle routes (direction pointers with red lettering on white backgrounds)
throughout The Netherlands. There are many special lanes and paths for cyclists with a total length
of approximately 11,000 miles!
special routes for cyclists
These lanes, recognizable by the round blue sign with a white bicycle in the middle, will take you through some of the most attractive regions of The Netherlands. In many parts, you will find superbly indicated special routes for cyclists. Many companies specialize in the rent and repair of bicycles. Special events for cyclists are regularly organized. In short, The Netherlands is a 'cyclist-friendly' country with a climate characterized by mild winters and comfortable summers.
flat country
Another important aspect is that The Netherlands is generally flat with only an occasional hill.
This makes the country ideal for even longer tours and also allows the youngest and the
oldest member of the family to participate. While cycling through The Netherlands you will notice
wide-open spaces like the polders, beautiful forests, colourful bulb fields, attractive
towns and picturesque villages. En route there are plenty of opportunities to take a rest
at terraces of restaurants and cafes, specially built picnic areas or anywhere along the
side of the road.
the average Dutch bike
Until, say, ten years ago, the most common bicycle types in use in The Netherlands were the classic upright Dutch bike and the more or less professional racing bike.
fully equipped
The former typically features 26 or 28 inch wheels, and either a single-speed back-pedal
hub brake or a three-speed hub in combination with hand-operated rim or drum brakes.
Typically they come fully equipped with fenders, lights, closed chain guard and a sturdy
rear carrier suitable to transport your groceries or boy- and girl friend on.
recumbent
Nowadays you'll encounter the complete range of hybrid, touring and mountain bikes. Also,
the recumbent bicycle is getting more and more popular in The Netherlands.
granny bike
An example of the classic Dutch bike in its most sturdy appearance is the 'ladies model.'
It has an adapted frame geometry and is often unofficially referred to as omafiets or
granny bike.
bicycle lock
A typical standard item that causes some surprise to foreigners is the factory-installed
bicycle lock below the saddle. It passes through the spokes of the rear wheel when closed.
The lock is closed by removing the key and opened by inserting it; you can't remove the key
without closing the lock.
traffic rules for cyclists
The large number of bicycles in The Netherlands make it necessary to have special traffic rules for bicycles:
- Cyclists have right of way if approaching from the right, unless signposts state otherwise.
- Cyclist are allowed to ignore a red traffic light if they turn to the right, unless signposts state otherwise.
- Cycling side by side (maximum 2 persons) is only allowed if other traffic is not inconvenienced.
- Lights are mandatory after dark.
- Cyclists are not allowed on motorways.
- Children aged 10 and younger, travelling on someone else's bike, must be seated in a child seat. These seats are available for rent.
- To change direction, clearly indicate this with your arm.
tips & suggestions
Never leave your bicycle unlocked. In most major cities and towns guarded parking
facilities for bicycles are available. You can leave your bike there without worry. First
lock your bike, even if you are going for a short walk. This might save you endless
aggravation.
Make sure you carry a repair set (often available in a handy little pouch). For other repairs, you can consult a bicycle shop, where the prices are reasonable. You'll find bike shops and repair facilities in virtually every village, although you may need to go to more specialized shops in larger towns if you're looking for high-end components. Some bicycle renting points at railway stations may provide a (simple) repair service as well. Most bike shops will have a large selection of tire sizes in store, including several MTB types.