Yes, but only if they comply with the rules for electric-assist bicycles. Many popular models are actually illegal.
Are fatbikes legal in Belgium? All the rules
Fatbikes have become extremely popular in Belgium in recent years, especially among young people. Their wide tires, robust design and often electric motor make them attractive for short trips around town. Yet many uncertainties remain: are fatbikes legal in Belgium, and what rules do they have to comply with?
In this article, we review Belgian legislation, the risks of tampering with fatbikes, possible fines and tips for safe riding.
What is a fatbike?
A fatbike is immediately recognizable: extremely wide tires of at least 4 inches, originally designed for riding on sand or snow. Today, they've become a real urban trend. Young people in particular love to ride them on public roads.
But here's the problem: many electric fatbikes exceed the legal limits for electrically assisted bicycles. Some models are equipped with motors that are far too powerful, or reach speeds in excess of 25 km/h. In such cases, Belgian law considers them to be mopeds. In such cases, Belgian law considers them to be mopeds. Riding without insurance, license plate or helmet is a serious risk, and carries a heavy fine.
Why are modified fatbikes dangerous?
Belgian police and VRT NWS warn: tampered fatbikes are a danger on the road. The main risks:
- Excessive speed: going from 25 km/h to 45 km/h may seem attractive, but the bike then becomes a moped under the law, and considerably increases the risk of accident.
- Longer braking distance: fatbikes are heavy and not always equipped with powerful brakes.
- Inexperienced drivers: often young people with no driving licence or knowledge of the highway code.
- Traffic confusion: motorists and other cyclists don't always know whether they're dealing with an electric bike or a moped.
- Easy unboxing: thanks to online kits and tutorials, unboxing is child's play, which increases the number of illegal fatbikes on the road.
Belgian legislation for electric fatbikes
The law clearly distinguishes three types of electric two-wheelers:
Classic electric-assist bike
- Motor max. 250 W
- Pedal assistance up to 25 km/h
- No license, insurance or helmet required
- Pedal assistance up to 45 km/h
- Power up to 4,000 W (in practice, 500-750 W on legal models)
- Compliant helmet mandatory
- Insurance, license plate and AM license required
Electric fatbike with overly powerful throttle or motor
- Automatically considered a moped
- Without license plate, insurance and helmet: violation
- Police can seize the bike and impose a heavy fine
In short: using a modified fatbike in Belgium is like riding an illegal moped. It's risky on the road, and legally problematic in the event of an accident.
Fines and consequences for illegal fatbikes
A tampered fatbike is severely punished in Belgium. Possible consequences:
- Seizing the bike
- Administrative fines (GAS) of several hundred euros
- Legal action in the event of an accident
- No insurance: all damage costs fall on you (or your parents).
Tips for safe fatbike riding
Still want to enjoy a legal fatbike? Here are a few recommendations:
- Always check that the motor does not exceed 250 W and that the maximum speed remains 25 km/h.
- Wear a helmet, even if it's not compulsory for electric bikes.
- Install good lighting: fatbikes are wide and hard to see at night.
- Take extra care in town, especially in heavy traffic.
- Maintain your brakes and tires regularly.
- Never dismount your fatbike: it's illegal and extremely dangerous.
Conclusion
An electric fatbike can be legal in Belgium, as long as it complies with the rules applicable to electrically-assisted bicycles: no more than 25 km/h and a maximum power of 250W. Beyond that, it falls into the category of mopeds, and requires a plate, insurance, license and helmet.
Buying or using a tampered fatbike can result in fines, seizure of the bike and serious legal problems in the event of an accident.
In short: to enjoy your fatbike with complete peace of mind, check its specifications and comply with the law.
Frequently asked questions
Are fatbikes legal in Belgium?
What are the rules for an electric fatbike?
Maximum power of 250 W and assistance up to 25 km/h. Faster or more powerful = moped.
Do I need a permit for a fatbike?
Only if its speed exceeds 25 km/h or if its power exceeds 250 W.
Can my child ride a fatbike?
Yes, as long as it's a legal model. A modified fatbike is forbidden without a license, helmet and insurance.