What exactly is a fat bike? Is it a bold new chapter in the evolution of mountain biking, or just another quirky innovation? Let's dive into what makes a fat bike unique, and who it might be best suited for.

As soon as you lay eyes on a fat bike, it's impossible not to notice its oversized wheels. These tires are significantly wider than those found on traditional mountain bikes, making them stand out right away. While fat bike riding is still relatively new as a sport, it has been gaining traction globally for nearly three decades (though the first mention of these wide-wheeled marvels dates back to the 1930s). So, what exactly is a fat ebike? Think of it as the SUV of bicycles—designed for those who crave rugged, year-round exploration. With its thick tires, a fat bike boasts exceptional cross-country capabilities, handling everything from rocky trails to soft terrains like sand, swamps, loose plains, snow, and more. It’s ideal for anglers, hunters, adventurous photographers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who loves pushing boundaries. Recognizing this niche, Delfast, a leading manufacturer of electric vehicles for adventure seekers, naturally introduced a fat bike into its lineup. Meet the Delfast OFF-ROAD model.

A little history lesson: Fat bikes became popular as a wintertime activity in the U.S. during the 1990s and quickly spread worldwide. Mark Gronewald, an Alaskan cyclist, is credited with coining the term “fat bike.” Unable to resist his passion for cycling through the long, harsh winters, he stretched his bike tires to an impressive three-inch width. This modification allowed him to enjoy cycling not just on sunny summer trails but also through snowy forests in February. Sheldon Brown, a renowned bicycle expert, even described this innovation as one of the most significant developments for cyclists since the advent of mountain bikes. Interestingly, it was on a fat bike that cyclist Maria Leierstam conquered the South Pole in 2013—no other bike model had managed to make it that far. That’s why fat bikes are often referred to as snow bikes.

With a fat bike, winter will never feel dull. You can stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and explore new places all at once. If you can gather a group of like-minded cyclists, you can venture out beyond city limits to ride along snowy paths that cars avoid. On a fat bike, you can even head down to the frozen riverbank or skate across the ice, traveling several kilometers in search of fishing spots. Just ensure the ice is sturdy and always prioritize safety. Winter biking demands proper attire too. Exposed skin (especially the neck and wrists) can quickly freeze at cycling speeds, especially when riding an electric fat bike where speeds can soar much higher. Thus, investing in specialized winter gear is essential. Layered clothing, long-sleeved tops, and thermal underwear are recommended. Avoid cotton fabrics, as they retain moisture and hinder insulation. Additionally, a cyclist’s backpack should include a thermos, spare gloves, energy-rich snacks, and repair tools. It’s worth noting that fat bikes aren’t limited to snowy conditions—they’re equally adept on sandy terrains, including sunlit beaches.

While thick tires are a defining feature of fat bikes, they’re not the sole highlight. The real game-changer is their low tire pressure, which ranges from 0.5 to 2 atmospheres. This is possible thanks to robust tires often measuring up to 5.5 inches wide and rims spanning 65 to 100 millimeters. Such design elements provide superior shock absorption and distribute weight evenly across the ground, enhancing traction on uneven surfaces. This principle is widely embraced by manufacturers of all-terrain vehicles like BRP and Polaris.

Typically, fat bikes forego suspension systems due to their tire characteristics. However, our Delfast OFF-ROAD model bucks this trend with a front suspension fork. Many riders consider this a major plus, as it enhances comfort, especially at higher speeds. Thick tires absorb bumps and potholes effortlessly, offering a smoother ride compared to traditional mountain bikes. This is particularly noticeable on gravel roads or bumpy trails. Yet, we’ve included a front suspension because our electric fat bike achieves significantly greater speeds than non-electric versions. High-speed off-road adventures require additional shock absorption, and the motorized wheel generates considerable torque. To counteract this, we’ve equipped the bike with a rear shock absorber. In the top model, the motor can deliver up to 5000 watts of power!

One undeniable perk of fat bikes is their distinctive appearance. Despite being around for some time, they remain rare enough to turn heads wherever you go—whether you’re walking or driving. Electric models, in particular, command attention. Naturally, curious bystanders will ask about the bike’s handling and ease of use. Contrary to initial impressions, fat bikes are surprisingly stable and easy to maneuver. Despite their large wheels, their pace closely resembles that of a standard bike. Only at speeds exceeding 25-30 km/h does riding become more challenging. At such velocities, resistance from the wide tires becomes noticeable. Fortunately, the Delfast OFF-ROAD electric fat bike solves this issue by offering high speeds while retaining the option to pedal manually, even with a drained battery.

On paper, the benefits of an electric fat bike are clear: extended range (up to 100+ kilometers per charge), motor assistance for easier pedaling, and the ability to explore terrain previously inaccessible to non-cyclists. Whether you’re looking to conserve battery or rely solely on muscle power, this versatile machine caters to all preferences. Best of all, it opens the door to off-road adventures for everyone, regardless of experience level.