Anyone looking for a reliable second-hand bicycle in the Netherlands almost always ends up with two iconic brands: Gazelle and Batavus. Both manufacturers have been building quality bicycles for all weather conditions for over a century. But what are the actual differences between a second-hand Gazelle and a second-hand Batavus, and which one best suits your riding style?
Quick conclusion: Gazelle or Batavus?
Choose a second-hand Gazelle if you are looking for maximum seating comfort, smooth suspension, and a light, elegant finish. Choose a second-hand Batavus if you are looking for an ultra-solid, robust city or transport bike that can take a beating at the station or with heavy shopping bags.
Comparison table: Gazelle vs. Batavus
| Feature | Gazelle Second-hand | Batavus Second-hand |
|---|---|---|
| Riding comfort & Seating position | Upright, relaxed seating position, often with tool-free adjustable stem. | Slightly sportier or more stable seating, ideal for heavy loads. |
| Frame strength & Paintwork | Slim aluminum tubes, scratch-resistant multi-layer powder coating. | Extra stiff frames, notorious for their indestructible nature. |
| Gearing systems | Almost always Shimano Nexus (3, 7, or 8 speeds), very low-maintenance. | Shimano Nexus 3 or 7 hub gears, excellently protected in a closed chain case. |
| Maintenance & Parts | Parts widely available; occasionally features brand-specific plastic covers. | Standard universal bicycle parts, very simple and cost-effective to maintain. |
Popular Second-hand Gazelle Models
- Gazelle Orange: The undisputed queen of Dutch bike paths. Offers luxury suspension in the front fork and seat post and 7 gears.
- Gazelle Esprit: A minimalist, light city bike without any frills. Ideal for students and daily commuting.
- Gazelle HeavyDutyNL: The ultimate transport bike with double kickstand, steering lock, and sturdy front rack for crates and baskets.
View all refurbished Gazelle bikes →
Popular Second-hand Batavus Models
- Batavus Mambo: An extremely strong all-rounder and the go-to "mother bike" thanks to its stiff frame and spacious step-through for child seats.
- Batavus Dinsdag: A modern, nimble city bike with clean lines and direct steering.
- Batavus Personal Bike: Originally designed as a postal and company bike; virtually indestructible and resistant to theft and bumps.
View all refurbished Batavus bikes →
Why a refurbished Gazelle or Batavus at Cheapassbikes?
Via Marktplaats, you never know if a Gazelle or Batavus has a hidden wheel wobble, worn bottom bracket bearings, or a defective gear hub. At Cheapassbikes, all bicycles go through our 5-step refurbishment process with a 25-point check:
- Guaranteed honest bikes (checked in the Stopheling register)
- New chain, cables, brake pads, and lighting where necessary
- 100% road-ready, assembled, and adjusted
- 30-day full warranty and 14-day trial period
- Free home delivery throughout the Netherlands and Belgium
Still unsure about the right size?
Both Gazelle and Batavus use similar frame sizes. Consult our handy guide to see exactly which size fits your height:
Calculate your frame size →