Spectrumcollege in Beringen bans fatbikes from next school year after two accidents

Spectrumcollege in Beringen is implementing a ban on fatbikes and "skinnybikes" starting September 1, 2026, citing safety concerns. The school wants to prevent accidents involving students, particularly younger ones, as the campus prepares to welcome more primary school children.

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We have actually had 2 accidents within our school environment. Sometimes they ride two at a time without a helmet at quite high speeds.

School director Eva Kuijpers explained that these bikes are heavier, less maneuverable, and have longer braking distances than regular electric bikes. "We have actually had 2 accidents within our school environment," Kuijpers stated. She also noted that students sometimes ride two on a bike without helmets at high speeds, and that users are getting younger.

The timing of the ban coincides with the opening of a new primary school building on the Beringen campus in September. This will lead to an increase in young children on the premises, prompting the school to create a safer environment free from fast-moving electric vehicles. Additionally, the current bicycle parking facilities are not designed to accommodate the width of fatbikes.

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If the fatbike has thin tires, then it's suddenly allowed.

Kuijpers mentioned that most parents have reacted with understanding and positivity towards the decision, recognizing the school's commitment to safety. Student reactions have been minimal so far, as they are currently focused on exams or the upcoming holidays. The campus already has a long-standing ban on mopeds.

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Our bicycle parking facilities are not adapted to the width of the fatbikes, there is no space.