Cycling to work is a great way to remove crowded public transport, delays, traffic, and rising travel costs from your commute. You don’t need advanced cycling experience or specialist cycling clothes to get started either. You just need a bike that feels comfortable, carries what you need, and fits naturally into your everyday routine. That’s exactly what a Dutch bike is built to do.

With a relaxed upright riding position and practical features for carrying bags, protecting your clothes, and handling regular town journeys, a Dutch bike makes everyday cycling feel easy and simple. It’s ideal for commuting, travelling to the station, or getting around without relying on more costly or stressful forms of transport, and the classic aesthetic means Dutch bikes look great while you ride them too.

Alongside all of these benefits, you can also save up to 47% on an eligible Dutch bike and cycling accessories through the Cyclescheme Cycle to Work scheme. So read on to learn more about how Dutch bikes can make your commute a breezier, more pleasant experience, and how you can buy one for less through Cyclescheme.

What is a Dutch bike?

A Dutch bike, often also called a roadster bike or a town bike, is a practical bicycle designed for comfortable transport rather than high-speed or competitive cycling. You’ll usually sit upright, with your hands resting naturally on curved handlebars and your weight supported by a broad saddle.

Traditional Dutch bikes often use a sturdy frame, enclosed chain, internal hub gears, and built-in accessories. Many models also have step-through frames, which make getting on and off easier when you’re carrying a bag or wearing everyday work clothes.

The simple, classic design suits regular journeys through towns and cities. A Dutch style bike can feel particularly comfortable on cycle lanes, paved streets, and flatter commuter routes where reliability matters more than speed or racing performance.

In short, Dutch bikes are ideal for people who want a leisurely and comfortable commute on a bike that has a nice, classic, and retro aesthetic. That’s why they’re so popular in countries such as Denmark and The Netherlands, as well as in the UK with London ‘Boris bikes’ putting them in the spotlight.

Dutch bike features that make commuting easier

The right Dutch bike can remove many of the small frustrations that otherwise stop people cycling regularly. Look for features that match the journeys you make and the belongings you carry.

Useful town bike features can include:

• A front basket for work bags or shopping
• A rear rack for panniers
• A kickstand for quick parking
• Built-in dynamo lights
• An enclosed or partial chainguard
• Full-length mudguards
• Puncture-resistant tyres
• An integrated wheel lock

Built-in accessories stay attached to your Dutch bike, so you won’t need to remember separate lights, clips, or luggage straps whenever you leave home. And a shorter checklist of things to remember before setting off for work is always a good thing.

Should you choose a men’s dutch bike or a ladies dutch bike?

A men’s Dutch bike traditionally uses a high crossbar, while a Dutch ladies bike often has a lower or step-through frame. However, these names describe conventional frame shapes rather than who can ride each model, so don’t feel like you’re limited to one or the other.

Instead, just choose the frame that feels comfortable and practical for you. To make things easier, modern Dutch bike ranges often group their frame designs into three categories: high-step, mid-step and low-step.

A high-step frame has a traditional raised crossbar, while a mid-step frame lowers the bar to make mounting easier. Meanwhile, a low-step frame has the lowest, most open design, making it easier to get on and off the bike when carrying luggage, wearing restrictive clothing or dealing with limited mobility.

It’s always a good idea to actually go into a shop to physically test and inspect a bike before making a decision. Fortunately, Cyclescheme has over 2,600 participating retailers to choose from, many of which have physical stores where you can go in and investigate before making an informed decision.

How many gears does a Dutch bike need?

Your route should guide your choice of gears. A simple single-speed or three-speed Dutch bike may suit short journeys across a flat town, as fewer gears can mean fewer moving parts and less day-to-day maintenance.

For hills, longer distances, or regular headwinds, consider a Dutch style bike with seven or more gears. A wider gear range gives you a lower option for climbing and helps you find a comfortable rhythm when the road changes.

Many town bikes use internal hub gears. The gear mechanism sits inside the rear hub, protected from rain, grit, and road dirt. Internal hub gears can also let you change gear while stationary, which helps when you stop more easily at traffic lights.

Is a Dutch bike right for your commute?

A Dutch bike suits relaxed, practical journeys where comfort and convenience come first. A traditional model often works best for short or medium commutes across relatively flat roads.

Think about:

• The distance you travel
• The steepness of your route
• The weight you need to carry
• Your available storage space
• The road and cycle-path surfaces
• Whether you need to lift the Dutch bike

Town bikes can be heavier than road bikes or hybrid bikes because the frame, racks, guards, locks, and lights add weight. That sturdy construction can provide a planted, stable ride, but you may notice the extra weight on steep inclines or when carrying the Dutch bike upstairs.

So, if your route is longer and consists of steep hills, uneven tracks, and various surfaces, you might be better off considering a road bike or a gravel bike. However, if comfort on a less strenuous route is what you desire, then Dutch bikes are for you.

Can you get a Dutch bike through the Cycle to Work Scheme?

You can get an eligible Dutch bike through your employer when your workplace offers Cyclescheme. Cyclescheme lets you save up to 47% on a new bike and eligible cycling accessories through Income Tax and National Insurance reductions.

There’s nothing to pay upfront. You choose how much you’d like to spend, submit your application, and wait for your employer to approve the request. Once approved, you’ll get a Cyclescheme Certificate to redeem with a participating retailer.

As mentioned earlier, Cyclescheme gives you access to more than 2,600 bike retailers across the UK. You can shop with independent local stores, major retailers, online shops, and participating brands. That choice can help you compare different Dutch bike frames, gear systems, and accessories before making your decision.