VanMoof Electric Bike Lineup Reviewed: Is This Dutch Brand Worth It?
Dušan Ranđelović
2024-04-25VanMoof is not just an ordinary ebike brand; It’s a revolution in urban mobility that’s redefining the industry with its unique, innovative ebikes.
VanMoof blends sleek design, advanced technology, theft protection, and user support that sets it apart in the crowded ebike market.
However, a premium product comes at a premium price, which means VanMoof ebikes are not the right fit for everyone. Their cutting-edge technology is overkill for riders who just want to twist the throttle and get from point A to point B with minimal fuss.
But the tech lovers out there who want an e-bike brimming with advanced features and smart integrations will find VanMoof an irresistible blend of style, performance, and bold innovation.
In our comprehensive VanMoof review below, we’ll explore the essence of the VanMoof brand, talk about its distinctive features, and review its latest ebike models.
About the VanMoof Electric Bike Brand
Founded in 2009 by Dutch brothers Taco and Ties Carlier, VanMoof embarked on a mission to create the best city electric bikes. The brand has since evolved into a leader in the e-bike industry, known for its innovative, tech-infused bicycles. VanMoof’s vision is to redefine urban mobility and make daily commutes enjoyable, efficient, and sustainable.
VanMoof founders, Ties (left) and Taco (right) Carlier.
What sets VanMoof apart is its commitment to design and technology. Each bike is a blend of minimalist aesthetics and advanced features like integrated lights, anti-theft technology, and smart connectivity. Their design approach can be compared to Apple’s in that they cherish simplicity, clean lines, and integrated features.
VanMoof’s recognizable design is a top tube that protrudes beyond the head tube at the front and past the seat tube at the back, with front and rear lights integrated on each end.
Unlike many e-bike brands that focus solely on power and speed, VanMoof prioritizes the overall user experience. Their bikes are designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, with features like automatic gear shifting and integrated theft defense.
VanMoof is revolutionizing the e-bike industry with its unique blend of design, technology, and user support, setting a new standard for urban mobility.
All of VanMoof’s ebikes have Class 1 20 mph top speeds and 250W motors with a boost feature that works like a throttle, but has a slightly different intended function. In the EU, its ebikes have a 15 mph (25 km/h) top speed. However, the new VanMoof V will have a 31 mph top speed and two 500W motors.
Read more: Best Class 1 Electric Bikes You Can Buy
It’s also important to note that the primary concern some people have with VanMoof is that its e-bikes can appear overengineered and overpriced, with models ranging between $2,500 and $4,000.
Then again, VanMoof is not the right choice for riders who believe that less is better. Instead, it’s for those riders who want the top tech the ebike industry has to offer, and they’re willing to pay more for it.
VanMoof Electric Bikes Pros and Cons
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Features That Make VanMoof Stand Out
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Theft Protection
One of the key features that distinguish VanMoof from its competitors is the Theft Protection feature coupled with the Bike Hunters service.
Specifically, each VanMoof e-bike is equipped with an integrated alarm and wheel lock feature, as well as GPS tracking. These features not only deter thieves from stealing your bike but also assist you in locating it if it does get stolen.
Furthermore, by paying an additional $398 at checkout for their premium Theft Protection service, VanMoof’s team of Bike Hunters will track down and recover your e-bike up to three times within three years. If they can’t find it, they’ll replace it with a new bike.
According to VanMoof, its team of Bike Hunters manages to recover 70% of stolen bikes within two weeks, a figure that is significantly higher than the EU’s average recovery rate of just 4%. Of course, they do so in collaboration with the authorities.
They even document their efforts and share them on YouTube, as you can see in the video above. In our opinion, it’s a service that’s well worth paying for if you live in an area with a high risk of bike thefts, as it gives you peace of mind that you’ll get your VanMoof electric bike back one way or the other.
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Expert Three-Year Maintenace
Thanks to the complete integration of the motor, battery, cables, displays, and gearbox, VanMoof electric bikes are pretty low maintenance and fuss-free.
One of VanMoof’s certified bike doctors at work.
However, they do require regular TLC and maintenance, just like any other bike out there, including cleaning, lubricating, and tightening any nuts and bolts.
If you decide you pay an additional $348 at checkout, you’ll get VanMoof’s Bike Doctors service which will evaluate and service any wear and tear on your bike for three years.
The VanMoof app tracks your riding distance and invites you for check-ups at regular intervals—after your first 620 miles of riding and every 1,550 miles afterward.
VanMoof’s Bike Doctors service ensures that your e-bike remains in top condition, offering regular check-ups and maintenance for a smooth and hassle-free riding experience.
During each visit to VanMoof’s service center, the Bike Doctors will inflate your tires, clean and lubricate the drivetrain, check and tighten any critical nuts and bolts, check and replace brake pads, and check and adjust the rear hub if necessary.
Related: Electric Bike Repair and Maintenance Basics
If you’re not knowledgeable in bike maintenance or you have little interest in it, this is a decent service to get as it lasts for three years and ensures your bike will keep running smoothly at all times.
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Unique Design
The first thing that comes to mind when you hear about this brand is the unique, quirky design of VanMoof electric bikes.
They have fully integrated electronics, a top tube that extends past the head tube and seat tube and houses front and rear lights on step-over models, and even stranger designs on their low-step models.
The latest models, the S5 and A5, and the S4 and X4 also have LED Halo Rings instead of a top tube LED display seen on the previous model. The new Halo Rings change colors to show you the assist level, remaining battery, speed, alarm status, and more.
VanMoof Electric Bike Selection Overview
At the moment of writing this article, VanMoof’s lineup consists of two model lines and four models in total—S5, A5 and S4, X4. VanMoof has also announced the V model, which is expected to be released in late 2023.
Let’s briefly go over these bikes and review their specs so you can decide with more certainty which model is right for your needs.
VanMoof S5 & A5
Price: $3,998
The S5 and A5 are VanMoof’s flagship models, jam-packed with all the high-tech features the brand is known for.
These are urban commuter ebikes, both of which have the same specs and features. The differences can be seen in the frame shape and size, wheel size, and the intended use.
The bigger S5 model fits riders 5’4″-6’9″ tall, whereas the smaller A5 fits riders 5’1″- 6’5″ tall. The S5 also rolls on 27.5″ wheels, while the A5 comes with smaller 24″ wheels and a lower step-in frame design, which makes it more suitable for shorter riders.
According to VanMoof, the S5 is built for ‘controlled cruising,’ whereas the A5 is built for ‘agile riding.’
So what are the features that justify the almost $4,000 base price of VanMoof electric bikes?
The heart of the SA5 models is a very silent Gen 5 front hub motor with 68 Nm of torque that you can access via four pedal-assist levels or the boost button. The bikes use torque sensors, so the power transfer is smooth and feels natural while riding.
The 487 Wh is integrated into the down tube and offers 37-93 miles of range, depending on how much assistance you use. The only disadvantage is that you can’t remove it for charging which can be a nuisance if you live in a highrise and need to carry these 50 lb ebikes upstairs for charging every time.
VanMoof has removed the top tube display and replaced it with halo rings on each side of the handlebar which change colors to show you the battery level, speed, and assist level. This is a good change, though the LED lights can be difficult to see in bright sunlight.
The SA5 ebikes also have a 3-speed e-shifter integrated into the rear hub that automatically shifts gears by monitoring how you ride. This is one of the best-liked features by riders, as the shifters work smoothly and the gear changes are crisp and unnoticeable most of the time.
Of course, VanMoof is best known for its anti-theft features, which you get a lot of with the S5 and A5 ebikes. First of all, you get a kick lock that lets you lock the rear wheel with the press of a button and engage the alarm that goes off if anyone tries to move the bike.
The bikes also have anti-theft nuts and bolts and GPS tracking that lets you locate your VanMoof on a map if it gets stolen. Best of all, by paying an additional $398 for the Peace of Mind Theft coverage, VanMoof’s Bike Hunters will locate and retrieve your ebike if it gets stolen.
As you can see, the S5 and A5 models are a complete package, perfect for tech lovers who want to be on the move and have the latest ebike features. In our opinion, the only disadvantage is that Vanmoof didn’t decide to make this a belt-drive electric bike, which would further simplify maintenance.
VanMoof S4 & X4
Price: $2,498
VanMoof’s S4 and X4 models are more affordable ebikes than the flagship S5 and A5 models, offering slightly more limited features. That makes them suitable for riders who don’t want all the bells and whistles, but still want to get a high-tech ebike with a low-maintenance design and anti-theft features.
Same as in the case of the SA5 models, the SX4 models differ in terms of frame design and geometry but have the same technology.
The S4 ebike has 27.5″ wheels and fits riders 5’5”-6’8” tall, whereas the X4 model has 24″ wheels and fits riders 5’1”-6’2” tall. The X4 also comes with an integrated front rack with bungee cords, so you can conveniently carry your backpack or purse.
The S4 and X4 models are also powered by a front hub motor combined with a torque sensor. You can control the amount of assistance with four PAS levels and a turbo boost button, and the battery provides between 37-87 miles of range per charge (which takes 4h 30 min).
These models have a 2-gear e-shifter, which is still good enough for city riding, but it means you may need to use more assistance when climbing.
VanMoof’s S4 and X4 models offer a balance of affordability and high-tech features, making them an ideal choice for riders seeking a modern, low-maintenance e-bike without the full suite of premium features.
Unlike the S5 and A5 models, these VanMoof electric bikes don’t have the halo rings on handlebars, so you can’t see any information about the battery or motor assistance unless you connect your smartphone and view the metrics on VanMoof’s app.
However, you do get all the other Anti-Theft features, which is what makes these ebikes so popular. You can lock the rear wheel with a kick lock and turn on the anti-tamper alarm, making it almost impossible for the bike to be stolen.
So if you want a more affordable ebike that’s still jam-packed with the latest technology and modern features, the S4 and X4 models are a much better choice for you.
VanMoof V
Price: TBD
The Model V is the upcoming VanMoof electric bike announced to be available for purchase in late 2023. So far, we don’t have a lot of information about it, be we know that it will be something completely different from what we’re used to seeing from this Dutch ebike brand.
Here are some of the features that the V model will likely have when production starts:
- Front and rear hub motors with up to 1KW of power.
- 700 Wh integrated battery.
- Wide multi-purpose tires.
- Front and rear suspension.
- 31 mph top speed, adjustable to match your country’s regulations.
- Fits 5’5″ – 6’8″ rider heights.
At the moment, we don’t know how much VanMoof V will cost, but it will certainly be more than the $4,000 you need to pay for the SA5 models at the moment. You can reserve your own model for $20 if you’re excited about what’s known so far.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is VanMoof so expensive?
VanMoof e-bikes are priced higher due to their premium design, advanced technology, and high-quality materials. The integrated features, such as GPS tracking and smart lights, also contribute to the cost. These elements together provide a superior and unique cycling experience.
How much will VanMoof V cost?
At the moment, we still do not know how much the new VanMoof V will cost. However, what we’re certain about is that it will be much more expensive that the current models, considering it has a dual motor configuration, a larger battery, dual suspension, and all the other bells and whistles VanMoof is known for.
How fast can a VanMoof go?
VanMoof e-bikes can reach a top speed of 20 mph (32 km/h) in the US and 15.5 mph (25 km/h) in the EU. The difference in top speed is due to varying e-bike regulations in these regions. The new VanMoof V will have a 31 mph top speed, which will be configurable to match your country’s regulations.
Can you ride VanMoof like a normal bike?
Yes, you can ride a VanMoof like a normal bike. Although it’s an e-bike, it has a pedal-assist feature that can be turned off. This allows you to ride it without any electric assistance, just like a traditional bike.
How heavy is VanMoof?
The weight of a VanMoof e-bike varies by model. Typically, they weigh between 47-50 lb (21-22 kg). This weight includes the integrated battery and motor, contributing to the overall stability of the bike.
How much does it cost to replace a VanMoof battery?
VanMoof’s replacement battery costs around $350 without the replacement service, which is likely another $50. However, VanMoof’s batteries are rated for 800 charge cycles, so you won’t need to think about a replacement for at least a few years of active riding.
VanMoof Review Takeaways: Should You Buy One?
In conclusion, VanMoof e-bikes are a testament to the fusion of design, technology, and sustainability as you can see in our VanMoof review above. They offer a unique riding experience, packed with advanced features and a distinctive aesthetic.
While the premium price tag may not suit everyone, for tech enthusiasts seeking a top-tier, innovative e-bike, VanMoof is a compelling choice.
The brand’s commitment to enhancing urban mobility, coupled with its robust theft protection and maintenance services, further solidifies its standing in the e-bike market.
Whether you’re an urban commuter or a cycling aficionado, VanMoof offers a glimpse into the future of biking, today.
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