Van Rixtel Dog Nardo Grey at Fatbikeskopen.nl

Nardo Grey is the matte, cool gray shade familiar from sports cars. On the Van Rixtel Dog, it creates a sleek overall look, making the cargo box appear less like a block at the front. The equipment is the same in every color: an EPP box with a soft-close door, spoke-free wheels, a front kickstand, and hydraulic disc brakes with large rotors. The box can carry up to 80 kilograms, while the bike itself weighs 59 kilograms.

The box and the door

EPP foam absorbs shocks and can be rinsed out, which makes all the difference when a wet or muddy dog climbs in: it means a quick rinse instead of an afternoon spent drying. The door closes softly, so it will not slam shut on a tail or paw. The box can hold up to 80 kilograms, enough for a large dog and its belongings. Your dog can get in by itself through the door, so you do not have to lift it.

Spoke-free wheels and the kickstand

The wheels are solid, without spokes. This is a safety choice: when a dog is in the box, leashes and paws inevitably move around, and a solid wheel gives them nothing to catch on. A kickstand at the front keeps the electric bike upright while your dog gets in or out. This is essential with a loaded cargo bike, because you cannot keep it stable with one hand on the handlebars if your dog suddenly decides it wants to get out.

Range of the Van Rixtel Dog

Our specifications list the 450-watt-hour Phylion battery at approximately 50 kilometers, while the product page gives a higher figure. This difference occurs because manufacturers measure without a load. Use 50 kilometers as your baseline and you will have a realistic figure with a large dog in the box. The Ananda rear-wheel motor has a torque sensor that adjusts assistance based on how hard you pedal, rather than switching between fixed levels. You can charge it from a regular power outlet, so no separate equipment is required. A battery lasts longer if you do not routinely run it completely flat and charge it indoors during winter.

Brakes and weight

Hydraulic disc brakes with extra-large rotors are suited to a bike that can reach around 150 kilos when loaded. Large rotors dissipate heat more effectively, which makes a real difference on a long descent with weight up front. The bike itself weighs 59 kilos: you barely notice it while riding, but it is much more noticeable 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 steadily. Check the brake lever reach on delivery; you can adjust it in a few seconds. Brake pads and discs use standard sizes, so they can be replaced at any service point.

Who is this version for?

For dog owners who want a sleek, understated cargo bike. The recommended rider height is approximately 1.60 to 1.95 metres, with 120 kilos for the rider and 80 kilos in the box. Two points to keep in mind: a cargo bike is longer and wider than a regular bicycle, so measure your shed, gate and hallway before ordering. Matte paint is also more susceptible to scratches and harder to touch up than glossy paint. Unsure about the size? Measure your inseam and compare it with the specified values. Anyone who rides it daily will notice these choices sooner than someone who only goes for the occasional ride.

Ordering from Fatbikeskopen.nl

Riding with weight up front feels different from what you are used to, so plan a test ride. You can do so at ten showrooms, preferably with your dog so you can see how it reacts to the box. For maintenance, you can visit more than 450 service points in the Netherlands. If you order online, the bike will be delivered to your home ready to ride. Three years' warranty on the frame, one year on components and battery.

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