Upright. Step-through. Granny. Dutch. These are all words to describe a bike that features an upright, laid-back riding position. And while these bikes are not all that common in North America, they offer some unexpected benefits. In fact, in this video, I’m going to convince you that these bikes can change your view of the world. Well, I’m going to try to convince you.
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29 Comments
The whole point of the top tube was to crack your nuts.🤣 It was just the way things were. It actually wasn't until I got a motor scooter (all of which have step through frames) that I realized that the whole "girls bike" thing was total BS.
I've heard people on the internet call informal racing "cat 6", because, apparently, there are 5 categories of bike racing.. I do find myself cat sixing other bikes when I am commuting and I am in the mood. I've had others do it to me too. If I'm tired I just let them win, but if I'm feeling spunky then it's on🤣.It's kinda unfair though because I have to carry about 20lbs of work gear, but I can always use that as an excuse when I lose. (I commute on a road(racing type)bike. I doubt I would be doing this on any other type of bike.)
Now that I think of it, that bike looks a lot like the witch's bike from the Wizard of Oz, but a modern version.
My Schwinn Meridian is kinda built like that, at least the forward section is. It's a step though trike.
It’s a girls bike
RE click image text "Why upright bikes are the best":
Nope. They're not the best…though I suspect this is just another typical desperate attempt at gaining views. Clickbait when you don't trust one's own content.
If Uprights were the best, people would be riding them everywhere, road, track, dirt, downhill, etc, and many would be winning competitions on them.
Nope: Uprights are ONLY best for slow casual short distance riding on paved roads.
I think of upright riding is akin to walking for fun and exercise.
But if you want to do any long distance hiking, backpacking, jogging, running or compete against others because going fast, andor being faster than others is your thing, then Uprights are the worst for all of those.
I've nothing against Uprights and those that use them…I simply have no use for owning one. My old 26" HT, and my current restoration project, a 90's Giant ATX970 dualie, are the best for me for riding on roads and trials…and I have no interest in listening to anyone claiming one type of bike is superior to others.
Many years ago I read a book about the French fighter aircraft Rafale. In it was explained that seat was upright because the human being is basically vertical. Nearly everything that humans do they do when vertical. Very little except sleeping is done laying down.
When vertical it is easy to look over the shoulder. and the head is highest.
I love what you said about a state of mind riding these bikes. I was given an old Huffy bike and from the moment I got on I felt so much better. My short rides decrease my anxiety and grief from losing my husband, whom I miss every waking moment. It's just such a pleasure. I can't wait to take a little ride each day. I encourage anyone who is anxious to try it. I don't go in traffic, just on my country road. It's a very zen thrill.
Thanks for your video.
Spending much time on a road bike = sore wrists, sore neck which is only alleviated by looking straight down while riding, not a good idea!
Grandpa bikes
My bike a Raleigh step through ebike, my seat inches lower than the handlebars it nearly like an observation platform. My height of 6’2” the seating position elevates my viewing height to about 6’6”. I see things when on my bike that I would miss if walking. Yes I can be a nosy devil when out and about. Erm retire copper.
"Electra" is an amerikan brand that makes dutch bikes. Their beach cruisers, and townies are also comfy and has an upright riding position.
I think the idea is that you are willing to "squish your balls" on a boy's bike rather than suffer the indignity of riding a girl's bike. Very simple choice fella. If you've seen one tranny dude riding one, well that makes it a slam dunk then! But you know, it seems that the trend now is to ignore the gender aspect of it or act like it doesn't exist. Like these bike salesmen are so shocked that you called a spade a spade! That you brought it up shows some honesty actually. So for riding the girl's version on camera, I forgive you. You're a funny guy. Cheers.
Truly though, good points about the general style of the "Dutch" bike. But in fact while my cruiser type e-bike seems to be a cross between a Mt. bike style and an upright bike style, and I see it more like the latter, I find that I tend to ride it harder and faster, even with power off, like my Marin hybrid. In that it's not laid back, or so relaxed, just based on habits and mindset.
I do not like the step through frame bikes. Nothing wrong with it. If you like hem ride to your heart's content. But i do not like them. When I'm riding on moving back in forth, I'm speeding up fast , i am going for longer distances and i much prefer the sport bike set up.
Is this bike good if you need to travel 20 kms one way?
this is almost a sporty bike in holland haha
I understand male bike but all rest should be should be either male or female as easy to get on to ride
You are still sitting on a fence post compared to a recumbent touring/commuting bike.
Take it east bike! Joint in one hand other hand on the steering.
In my country this would be seen as a hobo-bike … not because of the price of such a bike or how the bike is designed, but merely because there's no fenders on the bike; whenever u touch water, mud or any other wet substance the back of your jacked will be sprayed with dirty liquids, creating a nice spotted line in the middle of your back. I live in Belgium, and we don't only use bikes when it's shiny and dry weather; we also use them in winter, spring and fall. Fenders on a bicycle works like an umbrella for your feet, legs, back and the bikeframe ; it's a necessary part!
what you call a "roadbike" is what we call a "race bike"… what u call an upright bike, is what we call a road bike 🙂
You want one? I've got one in my basement. Bought it in Rotterdam and rode it all over Europe. It is wonderful. It has racks front and back, it is upright & it has new tires. It has new tires a raleigh
3 speed transmission, mud guards,a chain guard and it locks with a through the tire lock on the back tire. You lock it and take the key with you. I went over the alps on this WBR bike. It also has a kickstand. Reply here if you'd like to buy it & we'll talk. Why am I no longer riding it? I have arthritis and I have a little bike Friday that I ride now.
I have extreme back problems and I special ordered a bike that sits upright and keeps my back and neck in line. I will never ride another bike. My problem is my city is not conducive for bike riding like in Europe.
I own 2 Priority bikes, both upright and 3 speeds. Great for getting around in. No chain, uses a belt so no grease, no chain guard. I get lots of compliments on mine.
What about the weight? That's the thing that would give me pause. It's not because I'm an athlete. It's because I'm not athletic at all. I want a bike that feels easy and leisurely to ride, and a heavy bike doesn't seem like it would be. Or does that come down more to gearing?
SPECIALIZED TURBO COMO SL 5.0 IGH and Gates Carbon Fiber Belt Drive…. just approaching a year old and close to 3,000 kms….. here in Calgary…. where you live?
I bought a Gazelle ebike for the upright riding position. If you're looking for a bike to get around, commute, tour, etc. they are really comfortable and make a lot of sense. It can still rip too. Seems like an area that's ripe for more competition. Also, the whole girls/guys thing makes no sense. Step through allows you to jump off easily, or load stuff on the back and not have to saddle over to get on. If you're popping on and off your bike a lot it's so convenient. Good for your balls too.
I could use some advice. I'm interested in getting my first bike and I want a Dutch bike (omafiets) but its not available where I live. Would it make sense to buy something like Spartan Platinum City Bike or Classic Bike (or similar) and modify it to include all the missing features like the internal gear hub, coaster brakes, built in rear wheel lock, chain cover, etc.?
And how can I choose the best base frame shape to function like a Dutch bike?