Guide to Gazelle Bikes: Find the Perfect Second-Hand Dutch Bike

Introduction

Royal Dutch Gazelle has been building bicycles for more than 130 years, and in that time the company has produced over 15 million bikes and even earned a royal title. Its machines are synonymous with Dutch cycling culture - comfortable, durable and designed to last for decades. Buying one second-hand is a smart way to experience the quality of a Dutch bike without breaking the bank, and it is also an environmentally friendly choice. This guide explains the main Gazelle categories and helps you decide which type suits your lifestyle.

Comfortable everyday all-rounders

Gazelle's Orange series leads the way for riders who want a reliable, low maintenance bike for daily trips. These upright city bikes reduce strain on your back and give you an excellent view in traffic. Features typically include gel or padded saddles, internally geared hubs (often the 7-speed Shimano Nexus system), hub dynamo lighting and low step-through frames. Higher end models add suspension forks and leather-look grips for extra comfort. If you commute every day or just need a dependable ride for errands around town, an Orange is a sensible choice.

Sporty hybrid and touring bikes

If you plan longer rides or want a bit more performance, Gazelle's sporty hybrids such as the Chamonix, Medeo, Esprit, and Davos offer a livelier feel. Their frames are lighter and stiffer than those of the pure city bikes, and the riding position is slightly more forward. Depending on the model, you will find 7 to 27 gears, suspension or rigid forks, and electric assist options. The Medeo T10+ HMB, for example, has a sloping frame with an integrated motor and battery, wide tyres, and a suspension fork that makes it feel stable on rough surfaces. These bikes suit fitness-oriented riders, weekend tours, and longer commutes where hills or varied terrain are common. 

Urban transport bikes

Carrying groceries or a heavy backpack is easy on Gazelle's NL and Heavy Duty transport bikes. These models have super strong frames and large carriers front and rear that can handle substantial loads. The step-through design makes it simple to mount the bike even when it is fully loaded. Gazelle developed its first transport bikes with front carriers in the 1920s, and today's versions still include both front and rear racks painted in the same colour as the frame. Miss Grace adds a fashionable twist with matching colours and details. Choose a transport bike if you replace car trips with bike journeys or need to haul shopping and work supplies regularly. 

Family and utility bikes

Parents will appreciate the Bloom series, designed to carry one or two children as well as bags and groceries. The electric Bloom C7 HMS has a spacious braced frame and wrap-around handlebars that leave room for a front child seat. A wide two-leg centre stand and a steering lock keep the bike stable when parked, and the rear rack is long and strong enough for a Yepp Maxi child seat and panniers at the same time. It uses a mid-mounted motor and stepless hub gears to give smooth assistance and plenty of power. Whether you ride to daycare or take family excursions at the weekend, this "mamafiets" keeps you and your passengers safe and comfortable.

Classic Dutch city bikes

For riders who love timeless style, Gazelle's Classic range (including the Primeur, Impala and Populair) pairs nostalgia with modern reliability. These bikes use strong steel loop frames and an upright position that is easy on your back. Internally geared hubs, usually three or seven speeds, and coaster plus roller brakes provide safe stopping and minimal maintenance. Dynamo hub lighting and an integrated lock come as standard, and the fully enclosed chain guard and skirt guards protect your clothes. The combination of vintage looks and practical features makes classic city bikes ideal for cruising around town in style. 

Omafietsen (grandma bikes)

The omafiets is the most iconic Dutch bicycle silhouette: a graceful curved frame, very upright posture and a simple drivetrain. These bikes were originally black, single-speed machines, though modern versions also come with three or eight-speed hubs. Their heavy steel frames are built for durability and carry inertia well, so once you get going they roll along effortlessly. A step-through frame accommodates riders of different heights and makes it easy to mount in everyday clothing. Sturdy rear racks can hold groceries, books or even a passenger. As the Normaal Bike Shop notes, the upright position reduces strain on your neck, shoulders, back and wrists and the racks are strong enough for shopping or school bags. If you want the simplest and most traditional Dutch riding experience, an omafiets is the way to go.

Gazelle's heritage and innovation

Gazelle has been part of Dutch life since 1892. During its first century it introduced innovations such as an electric bicycle prototype with Philips in 1937 and, in 1992, it received the royal designation in recognition of its importance to Dutch society. Today Gazelle assembles around 250,000 bikes a year and continues to lead the "second bicycle revolution" with comfortable, efficient e-bikes.

Choosing your ideal Gazelle

Think about how you will use your bicycle:

Conclusion​​

Whether you are a student, an expat settling into Dutch life or a young professional looking for greener transport, there is a Gazelle bike that fits your needs. By choosing a pre-owned Gazelle from BikeFair you save money, reduce waste and still enjoy the comfort and craftsmanship that have made the brand a Dutch icon for over a century. Start browsing today and find your perfect second-hand ride!