Frequently Asked Questions about Babboe cargo bikes (update 18-07-2024)
In April 2024, Babboe recalled several types of cargo bikes due to a serious safety risk. Babboe is now ready to begin repairs on these models. Technical documentation indicates that the serious safety risk has been eliminated after the repairs.
Cargo bikes covered by the recall can be repaired
The NVWA has reviewed the technical documentation for all models included in the recall. This means Babboe can schedule inspections for all these models. Some models can be repaired, while others will be replaced.
The recall, inspections, and repairs are the responsibility of Babboe. Babboe decides how and when to carry out these tasks. For more information, visit the Babboe website controleerjebakfiets.nl.
After the initial inspection and any necessary repairs, there is no longer a serious safety risk, and you can use the cargo bike again. About 6 months later, Babboe will issue a follow-up recall to make any adjustments, addressing some minor risks as well.
Babboe cargo bikes cannot not be sold yet
In February 2024, the NVWA ordered Babboe to cease trading cargo bikes because their safety was not adequately ensured. This sales ban remains in effect until Babboe provides more information proving the bikes are safe.
This depends on the type of cargo bike you have. For more information, visit the Babboe website controleerjebakfiets.nl.
We cannot answer this question. Babboe is responsible for the repairs. For more information, visit the Babboe website controleerjebakfiets.nl.
Babboe must prove that their cargo bikes are safe by providing further technical documentation to the NVWA. This documentation will be reviewed by us. So far, not all necessary documentation has been submitted and reviewed.
The company has submitted all required technical documentation for the recall. It shows that certain models are safe to use again after inspection and repair by Babboe.
Babboe has not yet proven that all cargo bike models are safe. The company needs to provide further technical documentation to the NVWA.
The company has submitted all required technical documentation for the recall. It shows that certain models are safe to use again after inspection and repair by Babboe. Check if this applies to your bike on the Babboe website controleerjebakfiets.nl.
You can see which models are affected and what Babboe plans to do with these models on Babboe's website.
On February 27, Babboe issued a safety warning for various models. You can see which models are affected and what Babboe plans to do with these models on Babboe's website.
The safety warning was issued for types known to have a serious safety risk, specifically the risk of frame breakage. These types have also been recalled.
For other types, Babboe is investigating the risks. The company must prove these types are safe. Until this is done, Babboe is not allowed to sell cargo bikes.
Does your type of cargo bike fall under the safety warning and has it not yet been repaired by Babboe (via a so-called ‘upgrade’)? If so, the bike is unsafe. It poses an unacceptable risk. If you sell the bike, you put others in danger and may face legal issues.
Has your bike been inspected by Babboe? After the inspection, Babboe will provide you with an inspection report and inform you that a follow-up appointment will be scheduled later for an upgrade (repair). During the upgrade, important parts are replaced.
After the upgrade, you can sell the bike. At that point, the cargo bike no longer poses unacceptable risks considering the expected use and lifespan.
First, check whether the type of cargo bike falls under the safety warning. If it does, ask the seller for proof that an upgrade has taken place. Without an upgrade, the bike is unsafe and poses an unacceptable risk.
An upgrade means that the bike has first been inspected and then repaired. Important parts are replaced during this process. Only after the upgrade does the cargo bike no longer pose unacceptable risks considering the expected use and lifespan.
The NVWA ordered Babboe to cease trading cargo bikes due to insufficient safety assurance. Additionally, the NVWA instructed Babboe to recall certain cargo bikes because of a serious risk of frame breakage.
Babboe offered replacement cargo bikes for certain models. Additionally, Babboe stated that certain cargo bikes can be made safe through repair. The company had to submit technical documentation, which has been carefully reviewed by the NVWA. Babboe is now allowed to conduct the proposed inspections and repairs. After repairs, the cargo bike can be used again.
For cargo bikes not included in the recall, Babboe must provide technical documentation proving their safety. The advice remains not to use Babboe cargo bikes. And the bikes cannot be sold yet.
All Babboe models may only be delivered once we have reviewed the technical documentation and confirmed the bikes are safe. We cannot yet indicate how long this will take.
Bicycle manufacturers must ensure their cargo bikes are safe. If this proves not to be the case, they must warn consumers. So far, no safety warnings have been issued for cargo bikes from other brands.
The NVWA has received reports about cargo bikes from other brands. These reports are being carefully evaluated, and several reports about different brands of cargo bikes are under investigation. If we find a safety risk, we will take action, just as we did with Babboe.
If you experience problems with your cargo bike, please report them to us.
