Fatbikes gain speed among young riders, cycling group warns of accidents

Fatbikes with thick tyres are becoming a common sight on Danish roads and cycle paths, particularly among young riders, DR reports.

At Limfjordsskolen in Struer, the bike racks are filled with the wide-tired electric bikes, especially popular with teenage boys.

“It gives a completely different feeling when you ride on such wide tyres,” said Felix Hansen from Struer.

The bikes are legally limited to 25 km/h, but experts say they can be easily modified to reach double that speed. Kenneth Øhrberg Krag, director of the Danish Cyclists’ Federation, warns that this poses risks, especially for young riders.

“Young people aren’t fully developed in their decision-making, so handing them such a potentially very fast vehicle isn’t common sense,” he said.

Modifying the bike’s settings not only increases speed but also the risk of serious accidents, Øhrberg Krag said. If involved in a crash, riders may also face legal and financial consequences, as insurance may not cover illegal modifications.

“Young people could end up personally liable for damages—potentially in the millions,” he added.

The federation does not believe an outright ban would be enforceable. Instead, it points to France, where tampering with an e-bike to exceed the 25 km/h limit can result in up to a year in prison or fines of up to €30,000.