With the Bonjour Techno, Vefaa strikes a blow with an urban electric bike with French technologies and connectivity, as well as complete equipment at a reasonable price.
An exotic name, two “a”s: it’s not a machine from Finland but a French brand. Vefaa was founded by Roc Argiles Baro, a former Intersport Nakamura, with the aim of launching “an accessible, comfortable and secure electric bike”. In short, the Easy to Adopt Electric Bike: VEFAA.
Hello (full) of techno
The VAE is unveiled this February 29 and takes the name Bonjour Techno, therefore targeting the first purchase of a connected electric bike. Because behind the classic look, the Vefaa Bonjour Techno is full of solutions that are as technological as they are practical. The firm called on the Grenoble specialist eBikeLabs for the security system, with a progressive alarm in the event of theft up to 85 dB, and truly blocking the engine (and not just the assistance).
Like other connected electric bikes, Vefaa provides an application, developed with the Lille residents of Trackap. You can receive notifications of attempted theft, geolocation, or statistics. Geovelo navigation should also join the mix eventually. The Bonjour Techno has other features, such as 150 control points and their failures, a plus for repairers in the event of a breakdown, as well as the controller.
For the geek, a stem attachment for smartphone support is Quad Lock or SP Connect compatible or Shapeheart. And if the cyclist is not tech-savvy, he or she can still use the e-bike without an app.
Adaptive assistance, comfort and equipment
The Vefaa Bonjour Techno is based on a classic rear motor, with 60 Nm of torque, linked to a removable 576 Wh battery. With a single speed via belt, the Vefaa announces variable assistance, designed by eBikeLabs, depending on various factors: wind, slope, etc. It is this technology which was also at the center of the conflict between eBikeLabs and the very inspired AdaptivePower from Cowboy.
A smart electric bike, but also comfortable, even if the open frame has a rigid fork. The Vefaa Bonjour Techno thus counts on Hermanns bio-sourced ergonomic handles, Schwalbe Moto
In addition, the practical equipment is plentiful with mudguards, kickstand, front wheel lock, Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes, as well as the MIK HD rear luggage rack. A front basket is also possible, available for pre-orders.
An insane price/equipment ratio
Vefaa will only market its electric bike from the end of March, before deliveries this fall 2024. Available only online on the official website, the Bonjour Techno should adopt a network of ambassadors, enough to test the VAE before purchase, then of resellers next year. The fact remains that the bike is only launched in black, in a single size which should cover a wide range of sizes.
The Vefaa Bonjour Techno is already causing a sensation with its launch price of 2,500 euros. It is indeed very attractive given the components, equipment and technologies offered. One more price lower than a Cowboy – eBikeLabs has its revenge – and standard parts favoring repair. And we add that the assembly is French in Villeurbanne (Rhône) in the Usine à Vélo, welcoming other players in the cycle (Ref, Rutile, Joker, etc.).