Van Rixtel Dog Desert Sand at Fatbikeskopen.nl

Desert Sand is the lightest version of the Van Rixtel Dog: a sand-colored shade that makes the cargo box look smaller than the dark versions. That makes a difference on a bike that mainly stands out because of what it carries up front. The equipment remains unchanged: an EPP box with a soft-close door, spoke-free wheels, a front kickstand, and hydraulic disc brakes with extra-large rotors. The box can hold up to 80 kilograms.

The box and the door

The box is made of EPP foam, which absorbs shocks and can be rinsed out. With a dog getting in while wet or dirty, that makes the difference between simply hosing it down and spending an afternoon drying it. The door has a soft-close mechanism, so it does not slam shut on a tail or paw. It can hold up to 80 kilograms, plenty for a large dog and its belongings. Your dog can get in and out through the door by itself, so you do not have to lift it.

Spoke-free wheels and the kickstand

The wheels are solid, without spokes. When there is a dog in the box, leashes and paws inevitably move around, and nothing can get caught on a solid wheel. That is why Van Rixtel chose this design. There is a front kickstand that keeps the electric bike upright while your dog gets in or out. On a loaded cargo bike, it is not an optional extra: you cannot keep it stable with one hand on the handlebars if your dog suddenly moves.

Range of the Van Rixtel Dog

Our specifications put the 450-watt-hour Phylion battery at approximately 50 kilometers, while the product page gives a higher figure because it measures the range without a load. Count on 50 kilometers and you will not come up short with a large dog in the box. The Ananda rear-wheel motor uses a torque sensor that measures how hard you pedal and adjusts the assistance accordingly, instead of simply activating as soon as the pedals start turning. The stated range is always a test value, so expect somewhat less in practice. Do not leave the battery outside in freezing temperatures; this will help preserve its capacity over time.

Brakes and weight

Hydraulic disc brakes with extra-large rotors are well suited to a bike that reaches around 150 kilos when fully loaded. Larger rotors dissipate heat more effectively, which makes a noticeable difference on a long descent with a heavy load at the front. The bike itself weighs 59 kilos. You notice this less while riding and much more when stationary: putting it on the stand and pushing it backward takes strength. With a 20-inch front wheel and a 26-inch rear wheel, the bike sits low and handles calmly. Hydraulic brakes need occasional bleeding, but otherwise require little maintenance. The lighting is permanently mounted on the bike and runs on the main battery.

Who is this version for?

For dog owners who want a light, warm color instead of black or gray. The recommended rider height is approximately 1.60 to 1.95 meters, with 120 kilos for the rider and 80 kilos in the box. Measure your shed, gate, and hallway beforehand: a cargo bike is longer and wider than a regular bicycle. Also keep in mind that light-colored paint shows street dirt more quickly than a dark finish. Consider where you will store the bike, as that often matters more than the specifications. For commuting within built-up areas, this equipment is more than sufficient.

Ordering from Fatbikeskopen.nl

Steering with weight at the front is something you need to experience, so schedule a test ride at one of the ten showrooms. Bring your dog along and you will immediately see how they react to the box. For maintenance, you can visit more than 450 service locations in the Netherlands. When ordered online, the bike is delivered to your home ready to ride. Insurance can be arranged when ordering. Three-year warranty on the frame, one year on parts and the battery.

See also: Van Rixtel cargo bikes | cargo bikes | longtails | e-bikes