{"id":11332,"date":"2026-10-03T14:15:00","date_gmt":"2026-10-03T12:15:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/stoerbikes.com\/nl\/?p=11332"},"modified":"2026-10-01T13:42:51","modified_gmt":"2026-10-01T11:42:51","slug":"fatbikes-on-the-train-rules-bike-tickets-and-rush-hour","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/stoerbikes.com\/en\/fatbike-in-de-trein-regels-fietskaartje-en-spitstijden\/","title":{"rendered":"Fatbikes on the train: rules, bike tickets, and rush hour"},"content":{"rendered":"

On Arriva trains, you can bring your fat bike on board if there is enough space. This is only allowed outside of rush hour, and in most cases, you\u2019ll need a bike ticket. NS does not make a separate mention of fat bikes. The conditions vary by carrier and sometimes by region or line. For example, on R-net trains for which NS offers the Gouwe products, you can bring your bike even during rush hour with a GouweTicket for bikes. On buses and on rail replacement services, Arriva does not allow fatbikes.<\/p>\n

This article is about bringing a fat bike on the train: a bike with standard dimensions, but with wide tires and a battery. Are you bringing a cargo bike? Different rules apply, which we explain in Bringing a cargo bike on the train<\/a>. The information below was verified on September 25, 2026. Carriers sometimes update their terms and conditions, so be sure to check the current page right before your trip.<\/p>\n

Does a fat bike count as a regular bike on the train?<\/h2>\n

At Arriva, the answer is clear. Arriva's travel information states that fat bikes are allowed on the train, as long as there is enough space<\/a>. For non-folding (electric) bicycles, Arriva\u2019s policy is that they may only be brought on board during off-peak hours, usually with a bicycle ticket.<\/p>\n

NS does not list the fatbike separately. According to NS, with a Dal Bike Pass, you may Bring regular bikes, electric bikes, road bikes, and mountain bikes<\/a>, as well as disassembled bicycles and folding bicycles that are larger than 45 \u00d7 86 \u00d7 80 cm. Cargo bikes, bicycle trailers, and handcarts are not permitted. Each passenger may bring one bicycle.<\/p>\n

An electric fat bike with standard bicycle dimensions would logically fall under the category of electric bicycles, but NS does not state this explicitly. If you\u2019re unsure\u2014for example, because your fat bike has a front basket or an extra-long luggage rack\u2014check with NS or the conductor in advance.<\/p>\n

Why Wide Tires Are a Point of Concern<\/h3>\n

The NS regulations do not include a separate rule for wide tires. Arriva allows fat bikes on the train as long as there is enough space. We have not been able to verify for every train type whether wide tires fit properly in the bike rack. So, when boarding, check how the bike rack is set up and position your bike so that it is stable and does not obstruct anyone.<\/p>\n

Is a bike ticket required, and how much does it cost?<\/h2>\n

NS does. NS states that you You always need a Dal Bike Pass in addition to your own ticket<\/a>, including weekends and July and August. That ticket costs \u20ac8.50.<\/p>\n

Here's how to buy the Dal Bike Pass:<\/p>\n