A business fatbike is increasingly being seen on Dutch roads. Zzp'ers, small business owners and even larger companies are discovering that these electric bikes with wide tires are a smart investment. From substantial cost savings to tax advantages and from better accessibility to a professional appearance, there are plenty of reasons to consider the switch. In this article, you'll read exactly why a business fatbike is becoming so popular and how you, as a business owner, can benefit from it.
What makes a business fatbike different from a regular e-bike?
The difference between a regular electric bike and a business fatbike is mainly in the construction and uses. A fatbike has extra-wide tires of usually 4 inches or more. This provides better stability, grip and comfort on different surfaces. The frame is built sturdier and can handle higher loads.
"Entrepreneurs are increasingly choosing fatbikes because of the unique combination of practical benefits and distinctive look," says Thomas van STOER Bikes. "They perform reliably in virtually all conditions. Whether for urban delivery, transportation between locations or customer visits in rural areas."
The wide tires act as natural shock absorbers. You don't have to worry about slippery streetcar rails, manhole covers or unpaved roads. This means fewer delays and more reliable service to your customers.
Want to know more about the differences? Then check out our blog about the difference between a regular e-bike and an electric fatbike for business use.
Save hundreds of dollars a month on transportation costs
The costs of traditional business transportation pile up quickly. Fuel, insurance, road tax, maintenance, vehicle inspections and parking fees: before you know it, you're spending hundreds of dollars a month on your company car. A business fatbike completely reverses this cost structure.
With an electric fatbike, you pay only the purchase cost and minimal maintenance. No more fuel, no more expensive insurance, no road tax. Parking is free and often even available at the door. Charging the battery costs only a few cents per ride. At an average UrbanX A 720Wh battery will get you 80 to 100 kilometers on one charge.
Calculation example: what will you save per year?
Suppose you drive 30 kilometers daily for business appointments. With a car, you quickly spend €0.30 per kilometer on fuel, depreciation and maintenance. That's €9 per day, or €180 per month at 20 working days. With a business fatbike, your variable costs are virtually zero. You save €2,000 per year, not to mention parking costs and road tax.
Curious about a comprehensive calculation? Then read our blog about financial benefits of electric fatbikes.
Tax advantages for business owners with a business fatbike
The Dutch government encourages the use of environmentally friendly means of transport through various tax schemes. As an entrepreneur, you can benefit substantially from this when purchasing a business fatbike.
Small-scale investment deduction (KIA)
The KIA is one of the most important tax schemes for entrepreneurs. This deduction applies to investments between €2,901 and €387,580 per year. The percentage varies between 28% and 0%, depending on the investment amount. For an investment of €3,199 for an UrbanX, you can deduct up to 28% of the purchase value from your profit. That easily saves €896 in taxes.
VAT refund
As a VAT taxpayer, you can fully reclaim the VAT paid on the purchase. This gives you an immediate benefit of 21% on the purchase price. For a €3,199 bike, this means a refund of about €555. "VAT benefit is often forgotten," Thomas explains. "That suddenly makes the investment much more attractive."
Low addition of only 7%
Do you also use the business fatbike privately? Then you pay only 7% additional tax on the recommended retail price. For a €3,199 bike, that comes down to €224 per year that you add to your profit. In comparison, for a car the additional tax is between 16% and 22% over a much higher list value. The Central government has all the details on this arrangement.
Want to know how to take full advantage? Check out our blog on tax benefits of a business electric bike in 2025.
Drive everywhere cars can't go
One of the biggest advantages of a business fatbike is accessibility. While cars and vans are stuck in traffic or unable to access certain areas, you just ride on. Pedestrian areas, bike lanes, parks and even some shopping centers are accessible with your fatbike.
This opens up new opportunities for your business. Customers who are difficult to reach by traditional transportation suddenly become accessible. Think of customers in historic downtowns where cars are not welcome, or locations where parking is a challenge. With increasing traffic pressure and environmental zones in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht, a fatbike provides access to places where cars are restricted.
The wide tires of a fatbike make different surfaces passable. Cobblestones, gravel paths, even light off-road routes: you are no longer limited to only paved roads. This flexibility can make the difference between a missed and a successful business meeting.
Predictable travel times without traffic jams
Nothing is more frustrating for a business owner than being late due to unexpected traffic jams or the endless search for parking. With a business fatbike, this problem is largely eliminated. Bike routes are predictable and your travel time remains consistent, day in and day out.
You can plan your appointments better because you know exactly how long it will take you. No more stressing about road works that suddenly block your route, or parking garages that turn out to be full. You cycle to your destination, secure your bike and are immediately ready for your appointment.
This reliability also has a positive effect on your professional image. Customers appreciate punctuality. By always being on time, you strengthen your reputation as a reliable business partner. You arrive relaxed instead of stressed by traffic.
Strengthen your corporate image with sustainable mobility
Sustainability is no longer a trend, but an expectation. Customers, business partners and even potential employees are paying more and more attention to companies' environmental awareness. A business fatbike is a visible way to show your commitment to sustainability.
When you arrive at clients with your fatbike, you immediately make a statement. You show that you are a modern, forward-thinking entrepreneur who makes conscious choices. This can be a conversation opener and helps you stand out from competitors who still stick to traditional transportation.
The effect on your corporate image goes beyond first impressions. By consistently making environmentally friendly choices, you attract customers who share these values. You strengthen the loyalty of your existing customer base and position your company as a forerunner in sustainable business.
Why belt drive is perfect for business use
For business use, reliability is everything. This is where the belt drive bicycle comes in. Unlike traditional chains that require regular maintenance and can break at the most inopportune time, belt drives offer unprecedented reliability.
STOER Bikes uses the Gates CDX belt drive system. This carbon belt lasts for years with minimal maintenance. No oil, no grease, no weather wear. This means your business fatbike is always ready to go, without worrying about unexpected repairs during important workdays.
Advantages of belt drive at a glance
- Low maintenance: no lubrication or regular adjustment required
- Quieter: much less noise than a traditional chain
- More durable: lifespan 3 to 5 times longer than a chain
- Cleaner: no dirty hands due to chain grease
- Weatherproof: resistant to all weather conditions, does not rust
The quiet operation is an added bonus: you can hit the road early or late without noise pollution. For business owners who would rather spend their time on their core business than bicycle maintenance, this is a game-changer.
Transport more than you think with a business fatbike
The transport capacity of modern fatbikes is often underestimated. With the right accessories, you can carry a surprising amount on your business trips. Laptops, presentation materials, tools, samples, small deliveries: a well-equipped business fatbike can do a lot more than you think.
At STOER Bikes, you can choose from different models for different needs. The UrbanX has a maximum load of 180 kg including passenger and is perfect for daily commutes and client visits. For business owners who need to transport more, there is the CargoX: a cargo bike with a load capacity of 150 kg and room for 2-4 children or a hefty load of materials.
The weight of the load is also less of an issue thanks to the electric assistance. The Bafang H720 motor with 55Nm of torque (or 92Nm with the CargoX) ensures that even with a full load, you'll move forward smoothly. This opens up possibilities for different types of business activities that you might not have considered before.
Less stress, more energy during your workday
The well-being of entrepreneurs is often under pressure. Long days, lots of stress, little exercise: does it seem familiar to you? A business fatbike can change this. Instead of sitting stressed out in the car, you will get energy during your trips.
The light physical exertion while cycling, combined with the fresh air, acts as a natural stress reliever. You'll arrive at your appointments more energized and better able to focus on your work. Many business owners find that they are more productive since switching to biking for business travel.
The mental benefits cannot be underestimated. The brief moment of relaxation between appointments helps you clear your head and stay sharp. Instead of the fatigue that occurs after a day of driving in traffic, you experience more vitality and a better mood. This has a direct effect on the quality of your work and your contacts with clients.
Security: protect your business investment
A business fatbike is an investment you want to protect. Fortunately, modern fatbikes are equipped with advanced security features. At STOER Bikes, every bike comes standard with a PIN code immobilizer. The bike will only start with the correct code, greatly reducing the risk of theft.
The UrbanX and CargoX are equipped with GPS functionality for tracking. Should your bike be unexpectedly stolen, you can track its location. In combination with a good ART-approved lock and a appropriate insurance your investment is well protected.
For business use, this is extra important. You don't want your workday to go down the drain because your bike is stolen. With proper security and insurance, you can take your business trips with peace of mind.
Which business fatbike suits your business?
Choosing the right business fatbike depends on your specific situation. Here's an overview of the options:
| Model | Price | Ideal for | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| UrbanX | €3.199 | Independent contractors, consultants, representatives | Best fatbike 2024 (AD Bicycle Test), 80-100 km range |
| CityX | €3.299 | Urban entrepreneurs, low entry desired | Low entry, buddy seat for storage |
| CargoX | From €6,495 | Delivery services, contractors, families | German Design Award 2025, 150 kg load capacity |
For urban entrepreneurs with light materials, the UrbanX or CityX is often sufficient. You maintain maneuverability while still benefiting from increased stability. For heavier loads or if you want to transport children, the CargoX is the better choice. With 92Nm of torque and a large cargo box, you have all the space you need.
Here's how to arrange a business fatbike as an entrepreneur
As a sole proprietor, you can purchase a bicycle on a business basis through your sole proprietorship if you use the bicycle for at least 10% on a business basis. This percentage includes commuting, so most business owners come well within this range.
Steps to purchase
- Determine which model fits your work
- Plan a test ride To experience the bicycle
- Request an invoice in your company's name
- Put the bicycle on your balance sheet as an asset
- Reclaim VAT through your sales tax return
- Apply for KIA on your tax return
- Depreciate the bicycle over 5 years (maximum 20% per year)
At STOER Bikes in Aalsmeer you can get personal advice. Thomas and Joeri, the founders, are happy to help you make the right choice. They know the tax regulations and can tell you exactly which bike suits your situation.
Ready to make the switch?
The advantages of a business fatbike are clear: cost savings of hundreds of euros per month, attractive tax benefits, better accessibility, reliable travel times, a stronger corporate image, minimal maintenance thanks to belt drive, surprising transportation options and a positive effect on your well-being. For modern entrepreneurs who want to operate smartly, the business fatbike has become a logical choice.
The switch does require some adjustment in the way you work, but the benefits far outweigh the small changes. Start small by trying out a few trips and slowly build your confidence. Many business owners soon discover that they wonder why they didn't switch sooner.
Want to experience for yourself how a business fatbike can improve your business operations? Check out the complete collection and find out which fatbike best suits your business needs. Or schedule an immediate test ride at a dealer near you.
Frequently asked questions about a business fatbike
As a self-employed person, can I buy a fatbike on a business basis?
Yes, as a self-employed person, you can purchase a fatbike on a business basis if you use the bike for at least 10% on a business basis. This percentage includes commuting. You can then reclaim the VAT, depreciate the bike and possibly benefit from the KIA.
How much does a business fatbike cost per month in additional taxes?
The additional tax for a company bicycle is 7% of the recommended retail price per year. With an UrbanX of €3,199, that's €224 per year, or less than €19 per month added to your profit. The actual tax you pay depends on your tax rate.
What is the difference between a business fatbike and a regular e-bike?
A fatbike has wider tires (4 inches or more) for better stability and grip. The frame is built sturdier and can handle higher loads. This makes a business fatbike more suitable for intensive use, different surfaces and transporting materials.
How far will I get on a business fatbike on one battery charge?
A 720Wh battery (UrbanX and CityX) gets you 80 to 100 kilometers, depending on the assistance level, your weight and terrain. The CargoX has a 960Wh battery with a range of 60 to 100 kilometers, depending on the load.
What tax advantages are there for a business fatbike?
You can benefit from VAT refund (21%), small business investment deduction (up to 28%), depreciation as a business asset and possibly environmental investment deduction. The additional tax is only 7%, much lower than for a car.
Is a business fatbike suitable for commuting?
Sure. In fact, a business fatbike is ideal for commuting. You're independent of traffic jams, park for free and get exercise. Commuting counts toward the 10% business use required to classify the bike as a business asset.