Amsterdam keeps Vondelpark fatbike ban but rules out expansion

Amsterdam will keep its ban on fatbikes in Vondelpark but will not extend it to other locations, the city has decided after reviewing the measure introduced on 11 May.

Between 11 May and 1 September, officials issued 167 fines and 138 warnings to people riding fatbikes in the park. Twenty objections to the fines were rejected, though appeals can still be made.

A majority of park users value the ban, the municipality says. Alderman Elise Moeskops said fatbike riders were choosing other routes, reported nuisance had fallen and people found the park more pleasant since the ban began.

The restriction is set out in Amsterdam’s local rules. The city says it will wait for national legislation on fatbikes before considering any wider restrictions. Enschede was the first Dutch municipality to introduce a local-rule ban, in March.