Retro “Sit up and Beg” Dutch bikes : Oma, Opa (grandma/pa) bikes
August 25th, 2008 | written by : finn

Courtesy of Mandiberg @ Flickr
This is a style referred to as a "Sit up and Beg", Classic, Retro, Traditional or most commonly Dutch bike. Of course the Dutch don't call them Dutch bikes - in the Netherlands and Denmark they just call them bikes or Grandma bikes, 'Oma' or 'Opa' bikes in Dutch or "bedstemor cykler" in Danish. Major manufacturers of this style include Raleigh, Batavus, Velorbis, Gazelle, Kildemoes, Taarnby, MBK and Jaguar.
The Oma or "Grandma" is the most well known Dutch style. Its classic and convenient step-through design is enjoyed by men and women alike. It is especially suited to those wanting chic upright comfort and ease of use.
The Oma has all the modern design and quality construction features which are the hallmark of hand-made Dutch city bikes - relaxed frame geometry, fenders, generator, lighting system, locking system, rear wheel spoke guards (skirt guard) and a chain case. Built tough and corrosion-resistant to live outdoors in all climates. All these features add up to the ultimate in utility, low maintenance, comfort, ease of use, longevity and style. Check out our suggested frame size charts.


Courtesy of Placid Casual @ Flickr
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US $389.99
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US $188.67
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August 26th, 2008 at 7:29 pm
I just love the velorbis bikes http://www.velorbis.com - I found out that they are now available in the US through http://www.dutchbikes.us
August 28th, 2008 at 6:19 am
hola!
nice post, I ride a french made-bike that I absolutely love. More I like it because of its rider history passed on from relatives
I also fell in love with the whole look of the red beret @first foto, very lovely!! PS/ive linkd you to my blog’s list of nice ones
-cheers-meli-
September 8th, 2008 at 10:56 am
They are such stylish bikes! I managed to get one from a UK company who import them, dutchbikecompany.co.uk, they can get the Dutchie brand which is sooooo cool, has the disc brakes on the front which are so much better than the calliper ones and the light is low down so you can fit a basket - very important!!! Alex Zane from T4 was filmed riding a Dutchie through London on channel 4 last week - to die for!
Hugs, Amy
September 13th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
Hello, If you’re after one of these bikes we can help! We run a little company called Bobbin Bicycles and we’ve sold many hundreds of new Dutch and vintage-style bikes from our workshop in Central London since opening in spring 2007. We know loads about the product and have fab customer feedback. We’ve a range to suit most budgets and we run an appointment service for test-riding. We’re about to move to a new shop in Angel and we’ve some incredible accessories coming in too - we’re very excited! Best Wishes, Sian & Tom