Van Rixtel Dog - Desert Sand

Van Rixtel Dog Desert Sand at GOfatbike

The Van Rixtel Dog in desert sand is an electric dog cargo bike in a warm, light sand tone. This color gives the tricycle a soft, striking look without being flashy. More importantly, here’s what the bike does: your dog travels safely and comfortably in the spacious box, and the motor assists you as soon as you start pedaling. Even a loaded box is easy to get moving. Below, we explain how to transport your dog safely, how the bike handles, and what to consider before you choose.

The box and safe entry for your dog

The box is made of EPP, which is lightweight and shock-absorbing, and can be cleaned easily with a damp cloth. Handy if your dog brings sand or mud, which suits this sand color perfectly. The front door with soft-close lets your dog get in and out independently, so no lifting is needed. The low step-in makes it calm and easy to oversee, even for an older dog. With a load capacity of up to about 200 kilos, larger animals can also ride along. Place a cushion inside, and your four-legged friend lies comfortably in the desert sand box, ready to go.

Stability on three wheels

Three wheels keep the bike upright, even when you’re stopped and your dog moves around. Balancing isn’t necessary, which makes getting in much more relaxed. A handlebar damper with double security keeps the steering stable when the weight in the box shifts. The front stand prevents tipping during entry. Steering takes some getting used to because a tricycle doesn’t lean into turns like a regular bike. After a few rides, it feels natural, and you’ll effortlessly turn onto your street or the path to the forest.

Range and battery

Whether you choose the 450 Wh or the 540 Wh Phylion battery, both are well protected by a system that prevents deep discharge. How far you go varies per trip and can’t be captured in a single number. Your dog’s weight, the wind, the number of stops, and the level of assistance all play a role. For short trips to the beach or park, you have more than enough power on board. For longer distances, opt for the heavier battery or bring the charger so you don’t run out of power on the way.

Motor, gears, and controls

The Ananda rear hub motor delivers 45 Nm and controls assistance via a torque sensor. This means the support matches your own pace smoothly and gradually, without sudden jolts that might startle your dog. Eight Shimano gears give you the right ratio for starting off and climbing hills. The motor supports up to 25 km/h and tapers off above that, just like a regular electric bike, and there is no throttle. We advise against tuning the motor: the bike isn’t designed for it, and any modifications will void your warranty.

Brakes, lighting, and safety

With a dog and weight in the cargo box, reliable brakes are essential. The hydraulic disc brakes with extra-large rotors provide strong, well-modulated stopping power, even when fully loaded. The spoke-free rims mean low maintenance. Enhanced LED lighting makes you visible in the dark and rain. The bike is tested according to the EN17860 standard for cargo bikes, which is reassuring when you have your dog in the back. Each of these small details adds up to a safe and predictable ride for you and your four-legged friend.

Who is this cargo bike for, and how to order

The Van Rixtel Dog in desert sand is for those who want to go out with their dog without the hassle. Let’s be honest: it’s a large bike weighing about 59 kilos, so you need space to store it and you can’t move it with one hand. For those who ride often and have the space, that convenience more than makes up for it. If you like the soft sand color and are still unsure about the battery choice, read other customers’ experiences. The Van Rixtel Dog is available at GOfatbike.

Also check out: Van Rixtel cargo bikes, all cargo bikes, e-bikes and fatbike accessories.