The LEVA-EU member announced that its duo bikes are now being used by Fietsmaatjes Brabant, an initiative that fosters social connection and inclusivity through shared cycling experiences.
Van Raam expressed its pride in supporting the programme, noting that it witnesses daily how transformative cycling can be for individuals of all ages and abilities. Through the Fietsmaatjes Brabant organisation, people who are no longer able to cycle independently can once again enjoy the freedom and joy of cycling by being paired with a volunteer “cycling buddy” who rides alongside them on a specially designed side-by-side tandem bike. The Fiestmaatjes Brabant initiative is operational in 13 municipalities across the Brabant region.
The initiative promotes inclusive mobility, ensuring that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can participate in outdoor activities and community engagement. A video released by Brabant Sport demonstrating the fun connections made possible through cycling together can be viewed here.
Global music star Ed Sheeran was recently spotted cycling through the centre of Wrocław on the LEVA-EU member’s Fun2Go side-by-side tandem. The ride took place last weekend during Sheeran’s visit to the Polish city as part of his tour.
The Dutch special-needs bicycle brand was notified by its Polish dealer, Rowery Specjalne, that it had received a special request for Sheeran to try out the adapted bicycle. He was joined on the ride by Polish TikTok creator Latwogang, attracting attention from locals as the pair cycled through the city. Numerous videos of the two were shared by passers-by on social media.
The Fun2Go tandem is designed to make cycling accessible to people of all abilities, emphasizing inclusion and shared mobility. For VanRaam, the moment was seen as recognition of its mission to create bicycles that enable everyone to enjoy cycling.
LEVA-EU members Cleantron and VanRaam worked together to improve the reliability of VanRaam’s special needs bikes, with Cleantron supporting them with advanced lithium-ion battery packs, reliable battery management systems and improved battery procedures.
It has been reported that European demand for special needs bikes grows annually at a rate of 16.9%, leading to manufacturers requiring cutting edge battery systems to help them meet this demand while bringing trustworthy performance for customers.
Cleantron assessment of VanRaam’s battery situation
VanRaam is a Dutch e-bike brand that specializes in increasing cycling inclusivity with products including adaptive bicycle-tandems, tricycles and side-by-side models. It was concerned about its existing e-bike batteries being able to reliably support its bikes and satisfy increasing demand levels for its products in Europe and North America.
When Cleantron first started working with VanRaam, the team noted that the brand had a battery design in place but was experiencing significant workflow issues. VanRaam’s existing battery set-up had flaws, lacked an assembly-friendly design, and was unable to meet the durability standards required for daily use. VanRaam’s production schedule was also being repeatedly interrupted by an inconsistent battery supply.
After carefully examining VanRaam’s battery situation, Cleantron calculated that it could provide VanRaam with improved technical reliability and a more stable supply chain.
How Cleantron helped VanRaam
Cleantron used its customer centred approach in listening closely, designing with precision and delivering consistently. It came up with a solution that prevents field breakdowns and simplifies operations to help it keep up with growing demands for special needs bicycles. The Cleantron team worked together with VanRaam engineers in designing custom NMC lithium ion battery packs for its adaptive e-bikes. The team also developed a proprietary battery management system (BMS) tailored to VanRaam’s needs as a solution for persistent electronic reliability issues and proposed improvements in detail, including waterproof housing and a simplified startup interface.
Results of the partnership between Cleantron and VanRaam
VanRaam has sourced over 100,000 Cleantron batteries, and according to internal estimates and standard industry performance baselines, it was estimated that the batteries likely reduced VanRaam e-bike system malfunctions by 90%. When there was a global components shortage, Cleantron maintained 98% of its on-time delivery performance, which was essential in supporting VanRaam’s supply chain to operate efficiently to meet increasing demand.
A testament of this successful partnership is that more customers are associating VanRaam bikes with trust and durability, reflecting increasing confidence in independent mobility. Notably from 2021-2024, VanRaam’s annual sales units reportedly increased by over 20%.
Cleantron and its commitment to providing high performance solutions while supporting the environment
Cleantron is a leading European battery manufacturer, innovating advanced lithium-ion battery technology for a wide range of mobility applications, from e-bike battery systems to batteries for light electric vehicles, to custom-made lithium ion battery solutions, with each of its products being powered by custom engineering, robust BMS integration and a relentless dedication to long-term reliability.
The brand has also recently been granted a subsidy from the Dutch government to boost high-tech production of its advanced lithium batteries which are engineered and produced in the Netherlands, to help achieve Dutch climate objectives and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Comments Off on Premiere at Eurobike 2025: Van Raam launches Thuja – a stylish and stable tricycle
Van Raam unveils a groundbreaking innovation at Eurobike: the Thuja. A stylish and exceptionally stable tricycle with a high seating position. The Thuja is designed for anyone who wants to continue cycling actively and stylishly, even if their balance or flexibility is slightly impaired.
New type of bicycle for a growing target group
The demand for bicycles that combine comfort, safety, and design is growing rapidly. “You can recognize the target group by the mirror on the handlebars,” jokes Van Raam developer Jorrit Thijssen. “Active people aged 55 and older who are not ready for a standard tricycle but do need a little more stability.” The Thuja was developed for them: a modern bicycle with two 20-inch wheels at the front and a stable 26-inch wheel at the rear, a spacious cargo unit between the front wheels, and a comfortable seating position similar to that of a regular two-wheeler.
Versatile in the city and during recreation
With the Thuja, Van Raam introduces a new concept: an e-bike that looks like a trendy city bike but offers all the advantages of a tricycle. Think of staying stable at traffic lights, smooth steering thanks to advanced wheel suspension, and a low step-through frame of only 36 cm. The battery is cleverly concealed in the Cargo unit, giving the bike a low center of gravity and making it very stable to ride, even with luggage.
A lifestyle bike with its own character
Thuja is available in three stylish colors: Dusty Taupe, Stonewash Gray, and Thuja Green. If you are ready for a different look, you can easily have the frame covers replaced at a Van Raam dealer. Various accessories are available for the Cargo unit, such as a raised cargo edge, crate fixation, and rain cover. This makes Thuja more than just a bike: it is a lifestyle statement for those who value mobility and comfort but do not want to compromise on appearance.
Made in the most modern bicycle factory in the world
Van Raam develops and manufactures all its bicycles in-house, mainly in Varsseveld. From steel tubing to the finished product: almost all parts come from our own factory – even 3D-printed components and CNC-milled parts. The drive system with mid-motor and user-friendly display has also been developed in-house and is fully tailored to the Thuja. Sustainability and ease of maintenance are key: the bicycle is robust, reliable, and ready for years of cycling pleasure.
Nominated for Eurobike Award 2025
Thanks to its combination of design, comfort, and technology, Thuja has been nominated for the Eurobike Award 2025 in the Mobility Solutions and Infrastructure category. On June 25, we will find out whether the bike will actually take home the prestigious award.
Thuja will be available in two versions from summer 2025:
Thuja Smooth: with Gates belt drive and continuously variable Enviolo hub
Thuja Active: with Shimano Inter-5 gear hub and chain
Key specifications:
Pedelec tricycle: 2x 20“ front, 1x 26” rear
Length: 191 cm | Step-through height: 36 cm
Van Raam mid-drive motor, 75 Nm, 410 or 830 Wh battery
Hydraulic disc brakes on all wheels
Interchangeable frame covers
Max. luggage weight: 30 kg
Integrated front and rear lighting
About Van Raam
Van Raam has been manufacturing bicycles since 1900 and has grown to become the global market leader in adapted bicycles for both adults and children. At its own production sites in the Netherlands and Poland, more than 270 employees work daily on innovative mobility solutions for people who are unable to ride a standard bicycle (anymore). From tandems to transport bicycles, from tricycles to electric mobility scooters: we have it all. We also make fully customized models. Every product is developed sustainably, with an eye for quality, reusability, and your personal wishes.
The LEVA-EU member’s bicycles played a notable role in the Netherlands’ King’s Day parade celebrations.
Recently, Van Raam showcased its bicycles in the festive King’s Day Parade in Doetinchem, a special occasion that celebrates the King’s birthday as well as Dutch pride, innovation and togetherness. The brand had the great honour of having several of its bikes in front of the transportation carrying the Dutch royal family during the parade.
This prominent positioning gave great recognition to Van Raam’s notable innovations of making the freedom of cycling more accessible to society, such as its VeloPlus wheelchair and the Chat rickshaw bike for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.
Van Raam’s Fun2Go and DJ Bike roles in the celebrations
For 20 years, Van Raam’s Fun2Go bike has been a crowd pleaser for Van Raam. For the parade, two people joyfully rode the duo bike, demonstrating it as a symbol of connection, enjoyment and accessibility to the King’s Day crowds.
Van Raam’s DJ Bike was also an eye-catching highlight, built especially for the parade with custom-designed and 3D-printed parts from Van Raam’s factory, with it bringing great energy and music to the festivities. It was also transformed into a gift bike later in the day, to carry presents for the royal couple.
For the grand finale of the parade, a revamped Fun2Go tandem took part in a unique display with several other bikes, symbolising a united front of cycling toward the future.
Van Raam’s history with the Dutch royal family
There have been several connections with Van Raam and Dutch royalty through the years, such as Van Raam being a finalist for the prestigious King Willem I award for SME companies, and King Willem-Alexander himself has also been spotted riding a Van Raam tandem with his daughters.
Van Raam’s mission successfully demonstrated on King’s Day
King’s Day was a special occasion for Van Raam to not only showcase its impressive products, but also why they do it. Under its motto “Let’s all cycle”, its team strives toward getting everybody moving, especially those who are faced with mobility difficulties. It is proud to build its bikes with custom solutions, innovation and a down-to-earth mentality in its cutting-edge Varsseveld factory, and taking part in the King’s Day Parade was a special milestone for the brand in showcasing its efforts of making cycling more accessible for everyone.
LEVA-EU member Van Raam, the manufacturer of unique special needs bicycles for people with disabilities, recently held a dealer networking event at its premises in Varsseveld, Netherlands.
During a day designed to enable development, networking and conviviality, the invited premium dealers from the Netherlands had the opportunity to participate in a number of workshops. Topics included tips on carrying out test drives, information on which parts Van Raam’s sister companies produce, and effective marketing techniques. Besides the workshops, a games afternoon and a tour of a local brewery prompted further friendly exchange.
One attendee is quoted as saying, “We have gained many valuable contacts, we will definitely be there again at the next edition!”
Comments Off on Van Raam bids farewell to longtime directors Marjolein Boezel and Ronald Ruesink
In December 2024, employees of LEVA-EU member Van Raam, the internationally renowned custom bicycle manufacturer, gathered to honor and bid farewell to its longstanding directors, Marjolein Boezel and Ronald Ruesink.
After decades of dedicated service and leadership, the duo officially passed the torch to the next generation of management as of January 1, 2025. While stepping back from daily operations, Boezel and Ruesink will remain involved with the company as shareholders, ambassadors, and advisors.
Over three decades of leadership
Marjolein Boezel and her brother-in-law, Ronald Ruesink, have played pivotal roles in shaping Van Raam’s journey from a small family business to a global leader in innovative bicycle solutions. Ruesink joined Van Raam in 1991, followed by Boezel in 1993. Together with Boezel’s brother, Jan-Willem Boezel, they assumed leadership of the company in 2001, succeeding Marjolein and Jan-Willem’s father, Piet Boezel.
Under their stewardship, Van Raam introduced groundbreaking designs such as the wheelchair bike and the duo bike, establishing the company as a market leader in mobility solutions. Their shared vision and dedication have enabled Van Raam to transform countless lives by improving accessibility and mobility for people worldwide.
A festive farewell
Despite their preference for a modest send-off, the Van Raam team organized a warm and informal farewell during the company’s final quarterly meeting of 2024. Employees and family members gathered to express their gratitude and celebrate the achievements of Boezel and Ruesink.
As part of the festivities, the departing directors were presented with a Van Raam timeline—a symbolic gesture commemorating their journey with the company. Reflecting on the occasion, Boezel remarked, “The farewell reflected Van Raam’s culture—respectful, warm, loving, and full of humor. It’s been an incredible journey of working hard, learning hard, and of course, playing hard.”
New leadership and vision
With their departure, the leadership of Van Raam transitions to a carefully selected management team. Jan-Willem Boezel will continue as CEO, working alongside Gerwin Sieders (CCO) and Robert Lamain (CFO). A broader management team, overseeing operations, business development, HR, and product management, ensures continuity and innovation.
This leadership change comes as Van Raam strengthens its collaboration with investment company Armira, positioning the company for sustained growth and expansion.
The updated Van Raam management team pictured below from left to right: Gerwin Sieders, Robert Lamain, and Jan-Willem Boezel.
Looking ahead
Van Raam remains steadfast in its mission to enhance mobility and freedom for individuals around the globe through cutting-edge bicycle solutions. As the company embarks on this new chapter, the foundation laid by Boezel, Ruesink, and the Boezel family provides a solid platform for continued success.
The legacy of Marjolein Boezel and Ronald Ruesink will live on as Van Raam continues to innovate and touch lives worldwide.
Comments Off on Name change from Van Raam Reha Bikes B.V. to Van Raam Mobility B.V.
Van Raam opts for a new name with a broader vision on mobility
Van Raam, the leading manufacturer of adapted bicycles, announces a major name change. Van Raam Reha Bikes B.V. will henceforth continue under the name Van Raam Mobility B.V. This name change underlines the company’s ambition to make mobility accessible to a wider, international audience, while the company remains committed to innovative solutions in the field of inclusive bicycle mobility.
Van Raam looks beyond rehabilitation
Traditionally, Van Raam has focused on the rehabilitation sector, but with the new name, the company wants to emphasize that its products are suitable for a much broader target group. The company is seeing the growth of a new target group: seniors for whom a two-wheeler is no longer a safe option but still want to continue cycling and want to go out independently.
“We remain committed to people with disabilities, but our bicycles are for everyone who wants to experience mobility, independence and freedom,” says Jan-Willem Boezel, CEO of Van Raam. “With the new name, Van Raam Mobility, we show that we are ready for the future and focus on mobility in the broadest sense of the word, without limiting ourselves to one specific sector.”
International ambition and inclusivity
The new name not only reflects Van Raam’s broader vision, but also its international ambition. With customers in more than 20 countries and a growing demand for adapted bicycles worldwide, the step to a name with an international character makes sense.
“Our slogan ‘Let’s all cycle’ sums up exactly what we stand for. We want everyone to have the opportunity to ride a bike, regardless of age or physical disability. We call this inclusive bicycle mobility. Cycling stands for freedom, independence and sustainability, and we want to propagate that worldwide,” says Boezel.
Innovation and mobility for all
Van Raam continues to focus on innovative solutions such as tricycles, tandems and wheelchair bikes. The products are designed to not only support people with disabilities, but also to provide a reliable cycling solution for the elderly and others looking for stability and safety.
About Van Raam Mobility B.V.
Van Raam, based in Varsseveld (NL) is a Dutch manufacturer of adapted bicycles, such as tricycles, side-by-side tandems, tandems and mobility scooter bicycles. The company focuses on designing bicycles for people with mobility impairments, the elderly, and anyone looking for extra stability and safety.
At Van Raam, they are committed to making cycling possible for everyone. They call it inclusive bicycle mobility. With a tailor-made bicycle, Van Raam makes cycling accessible to those who are no longer so self-evident. With in-depth knowledge and passion for bicycle mobility, they develop bicycles tailored to personal needs and wishes. Driven by progress, they look at what is possible. For example, they make it possible to (continue to) cycle independently or to go out with a bicycle for several people.
With the slogan ‘Let’s all cycle’, Van Raam strives to let as many people as possible enjoy cycling worldwide. Van Raam exports its products to more than 20 countries and continues to innovate to make cycling more accessible to everyone.
Dutch speciality bicycle manufacturer, Van Raam, announces innovations aimed at strengthening cooperation with specialist retailers and offering more efficient support.
These changes aim not only to enhance processes but also to ensure mutual success. As part of these efforts, several personnel changes have been made:
Andreas Bollessen now oversees the Eastern region, bringing extensive experience in sales and customer service. He will serve as a key contact for dealers in postal code areas 01-19, 30-31, 37-39, and 98-99.
Michael Jaeger joins the Van Raam team, responsible for the Central-West region, covering postal code areas 34-36, 54-57, 60-69, and 74-76. With years of experience, particularly in the special bike sector, he is well-positioned to support the region’s retailers.
Jürgen Horstmann manages the Northern region, offering his extensive expertise to partners in postal code areas 20-29, 49, and the northern federal states of Germany.
Martin Schroedter remains the contact for Western Germany, responsible for postal code areas 32-33, 40-42, 44-48, 50-53, and 58-59.
Lothar Hörman continues to manage the Southern region, focusing on postal code areas 70-73, 77-79, 82, and 86-89, particularly in Baden-Württemberg and parts of Bavaria.
Mathias Heun oversees the Southeast region, responsible for postal code areas 80-81, 83-85, and 90-97, with a special focus on Bavaria.
This restructuring ensures that specialized contacts serve retailers across all regions of Germany. Van Raam believes these changes will enhance operations and elevate partnerships.
Andreas Geiger in a new role
“I would also like to point out that since August 1, I have also been the Managing Director of the German GmbH. This role allows me to support our activities in Germany even more intensively and to ensure that we continue to be successful together,” says Andras Geiger, Managing Director Germany at Van Raam.
