Ultra-stylish, smooth on the road, well-equipped, and connected, Vanmoof S2 has taken the world of electric bikes by storm. It seems to have everything that it takes to conquer the city.
It is a unique electric city bike that has a fairly unique boost mode and an anti-theft system. However, is it the right electric bike worth 3400 euros? Keep moving forward to know!
Table of Contents
Pros
- Excellent finishes.
- Anti-theft system.
- Good application settings.
- Properly proportioned electrical assistance.
Cons
- Mechanical disc brakes.
- Budget-range pedals.
- Integrated battery.
Vanmoof is a newcomer in the world of the European and US electric bike industry. It has already proven its credibility in the Netherlands, a country where the brand originates.
With a limited range of electric bikes, which is the X2 and S2, the Dutch company chose to bet on two main aspects or attributes to build itself as a brand. These attributes are quality and technology.
Read also: Best known electric bicycle brands in the Netherlands.
The two models, X2 and S2 are very identical in every way that you can think of except the aesthetics.
However, their X2 model is suitable for riders who like small bikes, particularly riders under 1.55 meters. We chose to focus on Vanmoof S2 in this review.
Vanmoof S2: Visible and recognizable
To say that Vanmoof S2 stands out among other electric bikes in terms of aesthetics is an understatement. Its aesthetics catches the eye. Every passer-by gets tempted just by seeing this e-bike drive past them.
Even though Vanmoof S2 is less original than the X2, it does not remain behind in the competition. But whether you love or hate its big tubes and straight design, it must be recognized that the e-bike’s finish, quality, and frame are simply remarkable and worth spending time looking at.
The welds are well-polished and give the impression of a one-welded frame. The e-bike’s cables have been carefully concealed and blended with the frame well. The well-integrated battery has been fitted in the thick tubes of the electric bike.
It is a redefined model of X2 and truly gives a remarkable urban look. Another remarkable and distinctive quality of this S2 bike is its matrix display based on hidden LEDs in the frame. It replaced the ordinary control console and gives basic essential driving information such as the level of assistance, speed, distance traveled, range, etc.
Read also: How to use gears on an electric bike (mechanic and electric)? And, How to switch electric assistance levels on an e-bike?
We also appreciate the special care and thought given to the smallest details of the e-bike. The valve caps are made of transparent plastic. Vanmoof opted for silicone covers to cover the adjustment of the bicycle charging hatch and for the saddle.
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For example, the chain protection cover allows you to hide the chain and is considered as a pretty aspect by us in the e-bike’s frame. But above all, it enables the rider to arrive at work with no trace of grease on the pants.
Vanmoof S2: good ideas and some aberrations
The geometry of Vanmoof S2 reflects its origin. While riding on an S2, the rider keeps his back straight like an ‘I’ and takes benefit of its unique handlebar unit, which almost reaches the rider’s knees when in a high position.
The handlebar is pretty much curved as well, and does not have any accessories other than the brakes and two discreet buttons, one for turning on the boost mode and the other for the e-bike bell. In short, the aesthetics of the S2 favors comfort over performance.
On the contrary, these minimalist choices in the equipment do not necessarily justify the high price, which is 3400 euros. This is also the case with fragile brakes. They are simple ones, like the ones in the entry-level model, which is a questionable choice for this rather high-end e-bike.
Read also: Why are electric bikes so expensive? And, Does it make sense to buy the cheapest electric bicycle?
Speaking of mechanical brakes, they might be easy to maintain, but they are less effective than hydraulic disc brakes. Not the best move by the Dutch company, we must say.
It is clear that Vanmoof wanted to save on equipment by making those choices for its e-bike but at such a high price, we were struggling to be convinced.
Riding behavior: is this a designed-for-city e-bike?
We know that the e-bike’s aesthetics are worth talking about, but does it affect its riding sensations? The answer is – yes. The upright position of the cyclist on the e-bike encourages a smooth and comfortable ride.
The e-bike’s high frame and handlebars are very close to the body, which does not help when it comes to maneuvering the high traffic, especially since the e-bike is rather rigid. However, those elements become a pleasure when there is enough room to roll.
On wide and big roads, riding the S2 is a beautiful experience, but the fun is over as soon as the traffic becomes dense. It quickly becomes necessary to negotiate your pedal level assistance repeatedly.
This made us wonder about the marketing position that has put Vanmoof S2 as one of the best e-bikes tailored for town roads. It is best if the rider rides the S2 on wide roads, but it is not good for a ride on narrow roads.
At this point, Moustache Friday seemed like a better choice to us. At the same time, if a cyclist does not wish to compromise on pedal-level assistance and power, Vanmoof S2 becomes a better choice than the Moustache Friday.
Read also: How to select the best city e-bike (with examples)? – also in this article, and this article. And, How much does a good city e-bike cost?
For a very good reason, the S2 model is superior to many other e-bikes when it comes to electric assistance. In the application settings, it is possible to change the threshold of the assistance, depending on the country.
In Europe, the legislation imposes a limit of 25 km per hour, while the limit, given by the laws in Canada and the United States, is 30 km per hour. A quick passage in the application settings enables you to change it very quickly. This is prohibited, and we do not encourage you to do it, but it is possible to make this change.
The results of this change are very clear and very fast. The acceleration does not change by an inch, and the barrier of 20 km / h is still reached very quickly. A few more pedal strokes, and you find yourself in a few seconds at 28 or 30 km / h effortlessly.
Obviously, on a daily trip, this kind of option is a blessing. The rider would gain a few minutes per journey on average. An interesting option to consider, but you will have to face the legislation.
Vanmoof S2 boost mode: a chase for autonomy
Vanmoof announces between 50 and 120 km (30 to 75 miles) of autonomy on a single charge for its S2. This wide range of autonomy depends not only on the level of assistance, the weight of the cyclist, and the elevation of the route (the usual factors) but also on a function specific to this e-bike model: the boost mode.
As the name suggests, this is an engine speed that allows maximum torque to be sent over a given time. It is activated on demand with a simple press of the right button on the handlebar.
Read also: What is the difference between a regular e-bike and a speed e-bike? And, is it legal to derestrict electric bicycle speed?
This boost mode is very enjoyable when used. However, still, the range announced by Vanmoof is respected. At assistance level 4, which is the maximum for S2, and using the boost mode, it is still possible to reach 50 km, as promised by the manufacturer.
On the other hand, Vanmoof made a questionable choice for the battery. Having the battery integrated into the frame of the e-bike is a definite plus in terms of aesthetics and will not have any unfortunate consequences if you live in a house or have a garage to keep your e-bike.
But what about when you live in a city apartment without an elevator, and you have to climb six stories with a 19 kg e-bike to charge it?
Vanmoof S2: A well-integrated anti-theft system
This is one of the most significant advantages of VanMoof electric bikes. Their well-integrated anti-theft system helps to deter theft.
It will not save you the purchase of an anti-theft device or a lock, but it constitutes additional protection for the owner. The system integrated into the rear wheel can detect when someone is trying to steal the e-bike. The wheel will then lock, and an alarm will sound vigorously for 5 minutes, maximum.
Activating the anti-theft system is as simple as it might seem at first glance. Just align the rear wheel with the locking module (using marks on the hub) and press a button. An audible signal confirms the blocking of the S2’s rear wheel.
Read also: How to protect your e-bike from theft? And, Does it make sense to buy specialized e-bike insurance?
There are three ways to unlock this anti-theft system. The first one is the button in the smartphone app. The second one is a 3-digit code to enter via the e-bike controls if your e-bike is close to your smartphone or press the bell button when you are near the e-bike.
The only drawback is that you have to confirm the unlocking of the anti-theft system. The S2 asks to drive a few centimeters. We would have preferred that confirmation via the application.
Vanmoof S2: Mobile app
The S2 is defined as a connected city e-bike, well, at least by the manufacturer. And for a good reason, the mobile application (that works on Android as well as Apple phones) is essential.
First, you need to register your e-bike and link it to a Vanmoof account. It is only on this condition that the S2 will accept to start. This point is not as restrictive as it seems and especially allows the manufacturer to activate the location of the e-bike and the entire anti-theft system. You won’t even need the application to ride for the first time on Vanmoof S2.
But this is where the Dutch company shows its magic by deporting the functionality of the e-bike on the application. Even if everything is possible by hand on the S2, the smartphone often saves time and gives a better overview of the actions taken. Thus, it is the application that should be favored to unlock your e-bike, adjust the level of assistance, or even the speed limit.
Read also: Cowboy 3 vs Vanmoof S3 review, top connected city e-bikes. And, Angell vs Cowboy vs Vanmoof, which one would you choose?
Above all, the application remembers the location of the bicycle, the place where it was parked, either by you or by the thieves, in the worst-case scenario.
This is yet another advantage of this connected e-bike. It is a real plague to steal. In addition to the rather dissuasive anti-theft system, its GPS tracking allows it to be found by Vanmoof teams, “e-bike hunters,” or competent authorities. All you must do is inform them.
This feature should also help Vanmoof to launch its subscription system. The Dutch company already offers a rental formula for its non-electric versions of the S2 and X2 (at 25 euros or 29 euros per month) and plans to offer an equivalent formula for the “Electrified” versions of its bikes.
Technical datasheet of Vanmoof S2
Technical characteristics
| Type(s) | City electric bike |
| Max speed announced | 32 km per hour |
| Mobile app | Yes |
| Application compatibility | Android, iOS |
| Engine power | 500-Watts |
| Wheel diameter | 28” |
| Transmission type | Chain |
| Suspension | Without |
| Number of speeds | 2 |
| Folding | No |
| Lighting | Yes |
| Energy recovery | No |
| Braking | Discs |
| USB socket to charge your smartphone | No |
Electric power
| Charging time announced | 4 hours |
| Battery power | 504-watts |
| Removable battery | Yes |
| Autonomy announced in operation | 150 km |
Dimensions and weights
| Length | 210 cm |
| Weight (including battery) | 19 kg |
Read also: Is Vanmoof a good e-bike brand to buy? Brand and models review.
A few words in conclusion
Vanmoof S2 has many advantages. Even with a compromised design, the e-bike has other qualities that would keep it on the top. VanMoof has taken care of its finishes and equipped it with some very relevant functionalities, such as its anti-theft system.
Moreover, how the application and the smartphone become a fully-fledged component of the bicycle is generally successful.
On the road, driving is pleasant. But it is preferable to ride S2 on wide city roads. It is a roller, certainly, which gives good vibes and confidence to the rider.
Unfortunately, we regret that VanMoof did not put its attention on the low-range brakes and pedals of the e-bike.
Ultimately, S2 is not perfect, but it is certainly one of the best city e-bikes.
Read also: Check out reviews of popular models of electric bikes.
Igor is a sustainable mobility and green energy advocate. His mission for Easy E-biking is to help make electric cycling simple, practical, and fun. Follow him on Facebook and LinkedIn.
