Vondelpark bans fatbikes starting 11 May to enhance safety for visitors
Amsterdam’s Vondelpark will ban fatbikes from 11 May to tackle safety concerns and nuisance. Visitors can expect fewer collisions and a more pleasant environment, with fines for violations starting later this month.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Ban effective from | 11 May 2026 |
| Applies to | Fatbikes with pedal assistance and tyres wider than 7 cm |
| Location | Vondelpark, Amsterdam |
| Fine for adults | €115 (proposed) |
| Fine for ages 12-15 | €57.50 (proposed) |
| Children under 12 | No fine; parents/guardians will be contacted |
| Enforcement start | After a two-week warning period |
| Alternative routes | Signposted at park entrances |
The Municipality of Amsterdam is responsible for managing public spaces like Vondelpark, ensuring safety and accessibility for all visitors. This ban reflects its role in balancing recreational use with regulatory measures to address nuisance and accidents.
Read the full translated article below
Cycling on fatbikes banned in Vondelpark from 11 May
From 11 May, fatbikes will no longer be allowed in Vondelpark. Vondelpark will become the first area in Amsterdam where such a ban applies. The aim is to improve safety and reduce nuisance.
Vondelpark is one of the busiest parks in the city. The municipality and the police receive many reports of nuisance caused by fatbikes. There have also been accidents and frequent reports of (near) collisions. As a result, visitors no longer find the park a pleasant environment.
What does the ban entail?
The ban applies to all fatbikes with pedal assistance and tyres wider than 7 centimetres.
Cyclists can ride around the park or dismount and walk their fatbike through the park. Prohibition signs will be placed at the park entrances. Alternative routes will also be indicated.
First warnings, then fines
For the first two weeks, we will warn and inform fatbike riders. Only after repeated disregard of the warning may a fine be issued. After this period, enforcement will begin. The proposed fine is €115 for people aged 16 and over and €57.50 for people aged 12 to 15. Children under 12 will not receive a fine. If they violate the fatbike ban, we will speak to their parents or guardians. The municipal council will definitively set the amount of the fines at the beginning of May.
Councillor Van der Horst: ‘No place for fast fatbikes’
Councillor Melanie van der Horst (Traffic): “Vondelpark is one of the busiest parks in the city. There are children playing, walkers, joggers, people exercising or picnicking, and dog walkers. There is no place for fast, heavy fatbikes. Many Amsterdammers have been calling for measures against fatbike nuisance for years. With this ban, Vondelpark should once again become a safe and pleasant place where everyone feels welcome.”
Possible follow-up in the city
We will investigate the impact of the fatbike ban in Vondelpark over the coming period. If successful, we may extend this ban to other locations in the city.