What is a fat bike?

Originally designed for riding on sand and snow, fat bikes have a large contact area between the tires and the ground, enabling them to float over soft terrain. This makes them ideal for places where other bikes would quickly sink and get stuck.

However, wide-tired bikes are not limited to beaches, bogs and winter rides; they offer incredible grip on any terrain.

Because of their high volume, fat bike tires can be operated at very low pressures (between 5 and 15 psi), giving a floating sensation as the bike absorbs roots, bumps and other obstacles on the trail.

Fat bikes are also ideal for adventurers and backpackers, especially on routes with sandy or snowy sections. They even feature attachment points for extra equipment and bike panniers!

The fat bike isn't just a bike, it's a revolution in the world of mountain biking. It's the heavyweight of the cycling world, known for its power and unique performance.

Imagine, for a moment, an all-terrain bike, but with a twist: huge tires, often 26 inches or more, that give it impressive looks and the ability to tackle any terrain. These wide tires offer unrivalled grip and stability, whether you're on the road, in the snow or on the sand.

The power of a fatbike doesn't end with its tires. Often equipped with high-quality gearing systems like those offered by manufacturer Shimano, they guarantee a smooth riding experience that's adaptable to a variety of environments.

The best models come with robust brakes for added safety, whatever the road conditions.

Some modern fatbikes even incorporate removable lithium batteries, transforming these bikes into veritable beasts of electric mode. This means you can take advantage of electric assistance to cover long distances or climb hills without any extra effort.

A machine made for adventure in the great outdoors. 🌳

But what makes this bike so special? 🤔 Let's dive into the details. 🕵️‍♂️

Wide tires: the fat bike's signature 🚴‍♂️

You've probably come across a fat bike without knowing it. How can you tell? Its tires! Wider than any other bike, they are the true signature of this unusual mountain bike. But the tires aren't the only remarkable feature. The wheels, specially designed to support these massive tires, also play a crucial role in the fat bike's performance.

These innovative products offer rock-solid stability and grip, whether on :

• 🌧️ mud, where the depth of the wheel prevents sinking,
• ❄️ snow, where the width of the tire ensures balanced weight distribution,
• ⌛ or sand, where every grain is proof of the technical mastery of these exceptional bikes.

From the mountains to the closet: the fat bike adapts to everything! 🏔️

A fat bike would be nothing without its sturdy frame (like Thor without his hammer 🔨). Often made of aluminum, titanium or carbon, this frame is designed to withstand the most extreme conditions. Whether you decide to explore the city or the mountain trails, the fat bike is ready for the challenge.

And for those with space constraints or looking for a clever transport solution, the folding fat bike is the answer. This folding bike is designed to compact easily, ensuring that it fits even in the tightest of spaces. No more Tetris-style headaches when it comes to storing your two-wheeler! 🧩

A smooth ride wherever you go! 🛣️

Where does the fat bike's much-vaunted comfort come from? From its fork and suspension. These key elements enable this type of bike to absorb shocks and offer a smooth ride, even when the terrain becomes capricious.

Whether you're riding on rocky trails, sand dunes or forest paths, the combination of fork and suspension works to minimize the vibrations felt by the rider. This means less fatigue for your arms and back, and a more enjoyable riding experience overall. 🚵‍♀️

While tires generate grip, a fat bike's suspension is there to provide damping and comfort.

Special suspension forks are needed to bridge the gap with wide tires, the most common front axle spacing being 150 mm wide.

Imagine riding on an air mattress... it's almost like that, only much classier! 😎

Fat bikes offer a distinct advantage with their increased weight due to massive tires and rims, as well as oversized components.

However, their wide tires can feel imprecise on technical descents, and the large volume of undamped air can create a slippery feel on fast, rough trails.

It should be noted that braking performance on steep trails may not be comparable to that of other mountain bikes.

Fat bikes have a high rotational mass, which requires considerable braking power to slow down their wheels.

In addition, it's essential to consider the cost and choice of components.

Fat bikes require specialized parts, such as tires, rims, hubs and cranks, which can be more expensive than comparable parts for ordinary bikes, and can be harder to find, limiting customization possibilities.

While the traditional fat bike has already conquered many hearts, the electric version adds a modern touch to this already legendary bike. But what's really the difference between these two monsters? 🤔

While the classic fat bike relies on the strength of your legs (and the sweat of your brow 😅), the electric fat bike is equipped with a motor and a battery. The electric assistance of this VAE gives you that little boost to climb hills effortlessly or to cover longer distances.

The battery on an electric fat bike determines your range and, in part, the speed at which you can ride. Depending on the model and battery size, you'll be able to cover between 50 and 130 km on a single charge.⚡ Impressive, isn't it 😉👍

Remember the days when choosing a bike was as simple as choosing between chocolate and vanilla? Well, with the fat bike, we've taken it to the next level. It's a bit like being asked to choose between 31 flavors of ice cream! 🍦

From performance to style to budget, here are a few suggestions to keep from melting in the face of so much choice.

The price game: from affordable to premium 💰

Fat bikes, like all bicycles, have a wide price range. Some top-of-the-range electric models can be quite expensive due to their advanced components, while other simpler bikes are more affordable. Before embarking on a major purchase, it's a good idea to define what you're really looking for in a fat bike and determine what budget you're prepared to spend on it.

A rental can be an excellent option for testing a model before committing yourself (I'm just saying 😜).

Trendy colors: from deep black to immaculate white 🖤🤍

Fat bikes aren't just about performance on rough terrain. They're also about wishes and assertive style!

A black model evokes timeless elegance, ready to shine on any terrain. Conversely, a white fat bike guarantees a bold, distinctive look, perfect for those who want to stand out on the slopes as well as in town. 🏙️

Ultimately, the color you choose says a lot about your personality and approach to cycling. (So, pressure or inspiration? 😉)

Availability and stock: where can you find what you're looking for? 😊

The growing popularity of fat bikes means they can sometimes be out of stock, especially for the most popular models.

This is also where rental comes into its own: even if the bike of your dreams isn't available for immediate purchase, it may well be available for rental. And who knows, maybe a last-minute special offer will be waiting for you the next time you visit a rental company! 🎉

Little bonus: when you pick up your bike on site, delivery is always free... and instantaneous! 🚴‍♂️💨