Opmaet: Carefree cycling
Cycling is a popular outdoor activity in the Netherlands, offering exercise for all ages, as well as a sense of freedom and independence. This is especially true when, thanks to electric assistance, you always have the wind at your back. The Dutch company Opmaet, formerly known as Spark Bike, has developed a series of electric folding bikes that are not only ideal for the daily commute but, once compactly folded, also fit effortlessly in the garage of your campervan.
Spark Bike, specializing in the design and assembly of folding electric bicycles, was founded in 2022. What began in a small garage in Amersfoort quickly grew into a success. The space quickly proved too small, and the company relocated to a new, energy-neutral building in Nijkerk. However, even here, growth outstripped the available floor space, so Opmaet recently moved to a new location at Arkerpoort 32b in Nijkerk. This is where the production, sales, and maintenance of the bicycles take place. The team's enthusiasm and dedication are clearly reflected in the company's rapid growth.
The bikes
Opmaet Fietsen is launching two folding bikes: the Touring and the Luxury. The fully foldable Touring with a low step-through frame was awarded the "Best Buy" title in 2024 in both the Dutch ADR bicycle test and the Belgian HLN bicycle test. These awards underscore the e-bike's quality, comfort, and excellent value for money. The Touring is also a safe choice for every cyclist, including those who are a bit older and appreciate the benefits of a low step-through frame.
The Luxury features extra double suspension for a comfortable ride, even on rougher trails, while the powerful battery gives you the freedom to enjoy longer rides without worrying about battery life. A perfect blend of comfort, style, and practicality for all your travels. The extra suspension does make the Luxury's entry slightly higher.
Both models boast impressive specs: a 250-watt Bafang rear hub motor with 55 newton meters of torque, a 480-watt-hour Samsung battery (optionally upgradable to 720-watt-hour for greater range), and a seven-speed Shimano derailleur. Both models are also equipped with Tektro mechanical disc brakes and matching brake sets, as well as an RST Carve fork with adjustable suspension. With premium brands and top-quality components, Spark Bike offers the best the market has to offer. Moreover, any bike shop can handle these universal components.
The controls are intuitive and simple: the handlebar panel has three self-explanatory buttons. You're ready to go. A striking added security feature is the key in the battery. This key must be in the correct position. This gives you a real ignition lock.
There's also walk assist. This Power Assist lever on the right side of the handlebars allows the bike to glide smoothly along with you, or to accelerate from a standstill to as fast as 6 km/h (80 mph) without pedaling. The Power Assist lever can also be used when you need extra speed, for example, to overtake someone or ride uphill. The battery is located under the saddle, which ensures better weight distribution. The standard battery has a range of 120 km (6 miles). However, you can upgrade to a version with a range of XNUMX km (XNUMX miles). To remove the battery, tilt the saddle forward. The XNUMX-spoke magnesium star wheels are also a striking feature, giving the Spark Bike a rugged look.
Folding the folding bike isn't difficult, but it's important to put the pedals in the correct position. This makes folding incredibly fast and smooth. The result is a compact unit, and thanks to a strong magnet, everything stays securely in place once folded. In this configuration, the bike measures 87 x 40 x 68 cm (L x W x H), small enough to easily fit in a campervan garage or side by side in most trunks. Its low weight of 22 kg (excluding battery) makes it even easier.
New model: the Compact
Opmaet Fietsen recently expanded its range with the Compact, a non-folding version. This new bike offers the same stability and comfort as the folding models. However, with a low step-through frame and the ease of standing with both feet on the ground while sitting on the saddle, this bike offers both comfort and safety. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to continue cycling safely for as long as possible. Although this bike is not foldable, the handlebars can easily be folded away to save space. The Compact is particularly suitable for campers with a small garage that doesn't fit bikes. Because the Compact, without its battery, is only slightly heavier than a regular bike, it fits on any bike rack without putting excessive strain on the rear wall.
Maintenance
Opmaet bicycles are easy to maintain because they're equipped with readily available parts. With service options at over 3000 bicycle repair shops throughout the Netherlands, your bike will stay in top condition. Of course, you can also bring your bike to Opmaet in Nijkerk for a service, but if you don't live nearby, the local bike shop is a great option.
An Opmaet bike is suitable for everyone. Thanks to the many adjustment options, you can perfectly tailor the Touring, Luxury, and Compact to your body type and height. If you're unsure, there's always the option of a test ride. What's more, Spark Bike goes the extra mile: if you discover within 14 days that the bike isn't quite right for you, you can return it for a full refund.
For personal advice, make an appointment in the new showroom in Nijkerk, where Opmaet Fietsen will be happy to help you find the bike that suits you best.
More information:
Opmaet Cycling
Arkerpoort 32b
3861 PS Nijkerk
033 303 02 68
info@opmaetfietsen.nl
