Batavus Sticks Spoke in Wheels

MAARSSEN, Netherlands – A definite trend in bicycle design; fancy wheels. Every self-respecting manufacturer supplies their more up-market models with some form of designer wheels. Next to the attractive looks, designer wheels also offer advantages in storing and transporting bikes. Drawback can be a weaker wheel, because less spoke are used, and they are unevenly distributed along the rim. Dutch Batavus’ pattern solves this problem – the 9x4 spoke idea actually makes for a stronger wheel. And is patented. But somehow, some people came up with the same pattern – after the Batavus original received it’s European wide patent. According to our sources, there was no malicious intent, but still. The matter has been resolved in an out-of-court settlement, in which the ‘perpetrators’ agreed to pay a ‘licence fee’ to Batavus, and promised not to do it again… Companies involved, according to Bike Europe’s source are, amongst others: Alpina, Helkema, Cycleurope (Puch) Biretco and Profete. No actual amount was named, but our source said the total was ‘in the region of a decent villa’. (MH)