Dutch traffic safety institute warns for mini fat bike for children

E-bike manufacturer Ouxi will launch a mini fat bike with a lower frame and smaller wheels next month. The Cooryda C80 Pro Mini seems to be an exact copy of the regular fat bike but in pocket size. It has the same robust appearance, but the manufacturer focuses on 10- to 14-year-olds.

The children’s version costs around 900 euros and is available in baby blue and pink. It is intended for younger children and can reach a maximum speed of 25 kilometers per hour.

‘Completely legal’

Sellers claim the children’s fat bike complies with all applicable European regulations: it has a 250-watt electric motor and a maximum speed of 25 kilometers per hour.

Some say it’s “completely legal”. Another seller calls it “an adult fat bike in a compact size, suitable for people from 1.45 meters tall.” American websites promote the bicycle as “ideal for teenagers between 10 and 14 years old”.

‘Too dangerous’

Still, the Dutch Association for Safe Traffic, ‘Veilig Verkeer Nederland’ (VVN), is concerned and warns parents not to buy the vehicle. “Children aged 10 lack the skills for safe traffic participation. Their brains are not sufficiently developed to assess traffic situations at higher speeds.”

VVN calls the launch ‘a provocation’ and points out the large number of accidents involving fat bikes. A recent count of all 83 emergency departments in the Netherlands showed that fat bikes are even riskier than previously thought. In one week, a hundred drivers ended up in hospital. The road safety organization pleads for an inspection of fat bikes.

Fat bike cargo bike

While the controversial Ouxi is launching a junior version, the Dutch Stoer Bikes will introduce another striking scoop early next year: a fat bike cargo bike.

The CargoX, with fat tires and a wide frame, will cost approximately 5,500 euros. According to the description of tech site Bright, it is the “love child of the two most hated vehicles on the cycle path”.