Opmaet: Carefree cycling
Cycling is a beloved outdoor activity in the Netherlands, offering not only exercise but also a sense of freedom and independence for young and old. Especially when, thanks to electric assistance, you always feel 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 daily commuting but also, once compactly folded, fit effortlessly into the garage of your camper.
Spark Bike, specializing in the design and assembly of foldable electric bicycles, was founded in 2022. What started in a small garage in Amersfoort quickly grew into a success. The space soon proved too small, after which the company settled in an energy-neutral new-build property in Nijkerk. But here too, growth exceeded the available square footage, which is why Opmaet recently acquired 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 visible in the company's rapid growth.
The bikes
Opmaet Fietsen offers two folding bikes: the Touring and the Luxury. The fully foldable Touring with a low step-through was awarded the 'Best Buy' title in 2024 in both the Dutch ADR bicycle test and the Belgian HLN bicycle test. These recognitions underscore the e-bike's quality, comfort, and excellent value for money. The Touring is also a safe choice for any cyclist, including those who are older and appreciate the benefits of a low step-through.
The Luxury has additional dual suspension, ensuring a comfortable ride even on rougher paths, while the powerful battery gives you the freedom to make longer trips without worrying about battery life. A perfect blend of comfort, style, and practicality for all your travels. Due to the extra suspension, the step-through of the Luxury is a bit higher.
The specifications of both models are a treat: a 250-watt Bafang rear-wheel motor with 55 Newton meters of torque, a 480-watt-hour Samsung battery (optionally expandable to 720 watt-hours for a greater range), and a Shimano derailleur with seven gears. Both models are also equipped with Tektro mechanical disc brakes and corresponding brake sets, as well as an RST Carve front fork with adjustable suspension. With A-brands and top-quality components, Spark Bike offers the best the market has to offer. Moreover, any bicycle mechanic can work with these universal parts.
Operation is intuitive and simple: the panel on the handlebars has three clear buttons that speak for themselves. You'll be riding it in no time. A striking extra security feature is the key in the battery. It must be in the correct position. This gives you a real ignition lock.
In addition, there is walk assistance. This Power Assist lever on the right side of the handlebars ensures that the bike smoothly walks alongside you, or that you can start moving from a standstill at 6 km/h 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 placed under the saddle, which ensures better weight distribution. Standard, the battery is good for a range of 80km. However, you can upgrade it to a version with a range of 120 km. To remove the battery, tilt the saddle forward. Also striking are the 6-spoke magnesium star wheels, which give the Spark Bike a tough look.
Folding the folding bike is not a difficult task, but it is important to set the pedals in the correct position. Then folding goes super fast and smoothly. The result is a compact unit, and thanks to a strong magnet, everything stays securely in place once folded. In this state, the bike has dimensions of 87 x 40 x 68 cm (l x w x h), small enough to easily fit into the garage of a camper, or side by side in most car trunks. The low weight of 22 kg (excluding battery) makes it even easier.
New model: the Compact
Opmaet Fietsen's range has recently been expanded with the Compact, a non-folding variant. This new bike offers the same stability and comfort as the folding models. But with a low step-through and the ease of being able to put both feet on the ground while sitting on the saddle, this bike offers both comfort and safety. It is therefore 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 be easily folded away to save space. The Compact is particularly suitable for campers with a small garage where no bikes fit. Because the Compact without a battery is hardly heavier than a regular bike, they fit on any bike rack, without excessively stressing the rear wall.
Maintenance
Opmaet Bicycles are easy to maintain because they are equipped with readily available parts. With maintenance options at more than 3000 bicycle shops throughout the Netherlands, your bike will remain in optimal condition. Of course, you can also bring your bike to Opmaet in Nijkerk for maintenance, but if you don't live nearby, the local bike shop is an excellent option.
An Opmaet Bicycle is suitable for everyone. Thanks to the many adjustment options, you can perfectly adapt the Touring, Luxury, and Compact to your posture and height. For those who are unsure, there is of course the possibility to take a test ride. Moreover, Spark Bike goes one step further: should you discover within 14 days that the bike is not quite right for you, you can return it and receive a full refund of the purchase price.
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 best suits you.
More information:
Opmaet Fietsen
Arkerpoort 32b
3861 PS Nijkerk
033 303 02 68
info@opmaetfietsen.nl
