A Bike Totaal store focused on quality, service, and proud user of the metal Mudguard Labels from Schild Inc.
Introduction
In the heart of Bussum, you’ll find one of the most characteristic bicycle shops in the Netherlands: Daatzelaar Fietsen, a household name in the region for over 100 years.
The shop breathes both history and modern craftsmanship, and today it reflects the recognizable Bike Totaal style.
We spoke with Rick Goedhart, third-generation bicycle specialist and owner since 1992. He talks about the origins of Daatzelaar, what makes the profession special, the trends he sees, and why he is enthusiastic about using the metal Mudguard Labels from Schild Inc.
Curious to see the same bike labels Rick uses? Take a look at our full collection below.
The Interview
Can you tell us something about Daatzelaar and how the company began?
“Mr. Daatselaar (with an S) started his bicycle shop in 1920 in Bussum, in a small 30 m² building. After World War II, he moved to the current location of 50 m².
My father started working for him in the late 1950s and later took over the shop. Because the store had such a strong name, in a time with no fewer than 26 competitors he was advised to keep the name. But being stubborn, he still wanted to change it slightly. And that’s how the name Daatzelaar (with a Z) was created.
I joined the business in 1987, and in 1992 I became the owner. Shortly after, I merged three buildings into one large shop. The last renovation was in 2014, followed by a modern Bike Totaal facelift two years ago.”
What do you enjoy most about running a bicycle shop?
“The contact with customers. Advising, thinking along with them, and the appreciation you receive that’s what makes this job fantastic.”
What challenges do you encounter?
“The biggest challenge is the increasing amount of administrative work. I used to spend an hour on it in the morning; now it’s more often an hour when I’m not doing it…
Fortunately, a colleague has been helping me two days a week for the past two years.”
What are you most excited about in the shop?
“Since joining Bike Totaal, a lot of work has been taken off our hands: advertising, purchasing, planning. I’m especially happy with the Bicycle Category Management. It results in better margins and often faster deliveries.”
How do you see the future of the bicycle industry?
“I’m optimistic. Cycling is sustainable, healthy, and environmentally friendly. The development of electric (cargo) bikes is going extremely fast and that makes cycling more enjoyable for everyone.
The current trend? The electric urban bike, especially popular with a younger audience.”
What tip would you give other bicycle shops?
“Good service is more important than discounts.
Discounts cost money, but service brings customers.
I often tell my employees: see the customer, show that someone is welcome.
The fact that someone chooses our shop that’s our bread and butter.”
What has your experience been with the Mudguard Labels from Schild Inc.?
“We’re very enthusiastic. It’s a distinctive label, different from others, and very easy to apply. And: the people behind Schild are great to work with.”
Finally: which bike do you personally prefer to ride?
“Because I live above the shop, I switch often between demo bikes for short rides. That way, I know exactly how the models I sell ride.
But when I go out into the heath or the woods, I prefer my Dutch ID Shadow.”
Closing Words
With more than a century of history, a strong focus on service, and a modern view of the future, Daatzelaar remains an example within the Dutch bicycle industry.
We are proud that Rick and his team rely on the metal Mudguard Labels from Schild Inc.
Want to explore the same bike labels trusted by Daatzelaar? View the full collection below.