The VanMoof S5 e-bike has taken the cycling world by storm with its price skyrocketing from €2,500 to €3,000. While this may seem like a hefty price tag for a bike, we took it out for a test drive to see if it’s really worth the investment.
One of the first things you’ll notice is that the S5 looks very similar to its predecessor, with very few design changes. This bike has a straight top tube that stretches from the fork at the front to the seat tube at the back, with headlights integrated into the tube. However, the overhang on both sides is much smaller than on previous models.
What you can’t see on the S5 is the relatively small front motor because it’s located in the fat frame along with the bike’s battery. It’s only at second glance that you’ll notice it’s an e-bike. The front wheel hub motor is a unique feature as most e-bikes use mid or rear motors.
There is no display on the VanMoof S5, instead, two small LED rings in the handlebars provide information about battery status, speed, and motor support. Four buttons are also available to ring the bell, change support levels, turn on the light, or deliver a brief burst of full power. With no manual transmission, the S5 changes gears automatically in the rear wheel hub.
When it comes to cycling, the VanMoof is very Dutch in heritage, with cranked handlebars that stretch far back. Taller people will have to bend down slightly toward the handlebars, while shorter individuals can sit high in the saddle with a straight back. This relaxed position relieves the wrists, making it ideal for commuting or doing errands around town.
The S5’s motor provides a maximum rated continuous power of 250 watts and pulls forward in four different support levels. The bike also features a torque sensor, which makes the motor more harmonious than its predecessor. Weighing around 23 kilograms, we found ourselves using at least level two support in everyday life.
With a button, the rider can briefly release the maximum power of the motor. With 68 Newton meters of strength, the motor can push the rider and bike to 25 km/h, leaving other e-bikes in the dust. The front wheel may slip a little on slippery surfaces, but VanMoof has the motor under control.
The S5 features a three-speed hub gear, specifically developed for VanMoof by Sturmey Archer. It doesn’t have the annoying issues of rattling and gear jumps like the previous model. An automatic system controls the gears with the ability for riders to set the speed at which it should shift, although this works better on flat ground than inclines.
VanMoof has advertised a range of 60 to 150 kilometers, but when we took it out to test in city traffic, we only managed 40 kilometers. After updating the firmware, we tested the S5 on a medium support level and managed to hit 80 kilometers. However, the 150-kilometer range is overly optimistic and may only be achievable on the lowest support level.
Charging the S5 takes around six and a half hours to recharge the 463 Wh battery, and it cannot be removed from the bike. The bike does have a USB-C socket hidden under the handlebars to charge your smartphone. VanMoof has also promised a battery pack for more range and flexibility, although no further details on this have been released.
Overall, the S5 is a great investment for those looking for a premium e-bike experience that offers a unique design, powerful motor, and automatic gear shifting. However, it comes with a hefty price tag that may not be suitable for all.
