Electric support on a fatbike amplifies your pedaling effort with an electric motor, battery and controller. This makes longer distances, inclines and heavy loads effortless. The support works up to 25 km/h and is adjustable through several modes. Electric power plus wide tires provide optimal traction and stability on a variety of surfaces.
Electric support on a fatbike, however, is a system that amplifies your pedaling effort. This is done with the help of an electric motor, battery and controller. Therefore, this support allows you to cover longer distances effortlessly.
"What I love about our UrbanX," says Laurens enthusiastically, "is that clients often say, 'I feel fit again!' A client from Rotterdam told me that he now cycles 15 kilometers to work every day. He used to ride by car because hills were too hard. Now he just pedals on with a smile."
In modern electric fatbikes the support usually works up to 25 km/h. It can be adjusted through different modes. The combination of electric power and wide tires therefore provides optimal traction on various surfaces.
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However, electric assistance on a fatbike is an advanced system that amplifies your own pedaling power. This allows you to cycle with less effort. It consists of three main components: an electric motor, a battery and a controller.
"Most people think that electric assistance means you get lazy," Laurens explains. "But it's quite the opposite! Our customers cycle a lot more. They dare to take on longer routes. A 65-year-old lady from Utrecht now makes trips of 40 kilometers every week. She would never have been able to do that without support."
The electric motor is the heart of the support system. It is usually located in the bottom bracket or in the wheel. A center motor usually offers a more natural riding feel. The battery provides the necessary energy. Modern lithium-ion batteries offer a good balance between weight and capacity.
The controller acts as the "brain" of the system. This component controls how much support you receive. A display lets you adjust settings.
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For companies investing in electric fatbikes however, various tax benefits are available. In fact, the Dutch government encourages sustainable mobility solutions through various schemes.
"Many business owners don't know how much money they can save," says Laurens. "I had a client with a catering business. He got back almost 50% of his investment through MIA and KIA schemes. He also saves hundreds of euros in fuel every month. That UrbanX has already paid for itself."
The MIA/Vamil scheme is an important tax benefit. Electric fatbikes that are on the Environmental List are eligible for investment deductions of up to 36%. In addition, as an entrepreneur, you can benefit from the KIA. For investments between €2,400 and €332,994 per year, you may deduct a percentage.
VAT benefits are also available. The VAT on purchases for business use is fully deductible. The bicycle of the company scheme allows you to offer employees an attractive employment benefit.
Want to know more about tax breaks? Then read our blog on KIA fatbike benefits.
The grant schemes for electric fatbikes differ significantly between the Netherlands and surrounding countries, however. In the Netherlands, several local subsidies are available.
"I often help clients find grants," says Laurens. "In Amsterdam, you can get up to €2,000 per electric fatbike. In Rotterdam also substantial sums. A logistics company there received for five UrbanX fatbikes almost €8,000 subsidy. That made the difference in their decision."
In the Netherlands, more and more municipalities are offering purchase subsidies. These can amount to as much as €2,000 per electric fatbike. These grants are often tied to sustainability goals.
In Belgium, the bicycle reimbursement system exists. Employees can receive a tax-free allowance of up to €0.27 per kilometer. Germany has the "Jobrad" program. This is similar to the Dutch company bicycle scheme.
Want to learn more about grant opportunities? Then read our blog on fatbike law changes 2025.
However, leasing electric fatbikes offers companies a flexible way to implement sustainable mobility. Various leasing constructions are possible.
"Leasing is perfect for companies that don't want to invest immediately," Laurens advises. "An IT company from The Hague now leases ten UrbanX fatbikes for their employees. Fixed monthly costs, including maintenance. Their employees are fitter and arrive at work more relaxed. That's priceless."
With an operating lease, you pay a fixed monthly fee. This includes maintenance and insurance. The bikes do not appear on your balance sheet. This is beneficial for your liquidity.
Finance lease works differently. Here you pay off the fatbikes in installments. At the end, you own them. Employee bicycle leasing plans have become extremely popular.
Want to know more about leasing? Then read our blog on electric fatbike for commuting.
Calculating the Return on Investment for electric fatbikes however, provides insight into the financial benefits. A thorough ROI analysis helps make informed decisions.
"The math is often surprisingly positive," Laurens states. "One accounting firm calculated that their UrbanX fatbikes were recouped within 18 months. Saving on parking costs, fuel and even less absenteeism. Their employees have become much fitter."
Start by mapping out all purchase costs. Subtract subsidies and tax breaks from this. Then calculate the savings on traditional transportation. Compare costs with cars or vans.
Maintenance is an important factor. Electric fatbikes with belt drive have significantly lower maintenance costs. Include tax benefits such as investment deductions and VAT refunds.
Productivity improvements are harder to quantify but certainly relevant. Electric fatbikes can be up to 40% faster than cars in urban areas.
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After exploring various aspects, however, we can list some crucial insights. These will help make informed decisions for your business.
"What I like best," Laurens reflects, "is that companies discover that sustainability and profitability go hand in hand. A transport company told me: 'Our UrbanX fatbikes are not only cleaner, they are also smarter for our business.' Exactly what we want to achieve."
The financial benefits go beyond fuel savings. Tax schemes and subsidies can significantly reduce the investment. Flexibility in financing is a key advantage.
The practical advantages in urban areas are undeniable. Electric fatbikes provide access to areas where cars are restricted. For companies with sustainability goals, they offer a tangible way to reduce carbon emissions.
At STOER Bikes we understand business needs for reliable mobility solutions. Our belt drive electric fatbikes are designed specifically for demanding business users.
Want to know which solution is right for your business? Then read our blog on the best electric fatbike for businesses or contact us for personal advice.