VanMoof S5 and A5 presented: pedelecs for every size


Anyone who has ever driven a VanMoof knows that cycling with the help of the electric motor is always fun. A chic design, many smart functions and the boost button ensure lots of driving fun with the current version of the S3. But there is always room for improvement. In our test, we criticized, among other things, the lack of suspension and the cracking gearshift. The manufacturer wants to have improved both in the successor, the VanMoof S5. In addition, there is a completely new e-bike to be seen with the VanMoof A5.

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At first glance, it is hard to believe that the S5 actually has so many new features compared to its predecessor. The images of both bikes could almost be taken from a memory game. So it stays with the clear design edge. The handlebars and saddle also look pretty similar. That doesn’t have to be a bad thing. After all, it is not for nothing that one speaks of the “timeless” appearance. Years later it’s still good. But some might find it boring. New to the S5: The wheels are now slightly smaller. The S3 had 28-inch tires, now they have 27.5-inch tires.

Pedelec against a gray background.

The lower frame makes the VanMoof A5 look less angular.

The new A5 is a different beast. It comes with an angled frame. It is intended to make it easier for smaller people from a body height of 155 centimeters (cm) and to increase “the comfort and self-confidence” of cyclists new to the sport. What is meant by that: The A5 is a bike for everyone and not a high warhorse like the S5. According to VanMoof, if you want to ride the bigger bike, you should be at least 160 cm or taller. The new frame also requires different tires. The A5 measure only 24 inches.

Operation, engine, circuit: everything new

The matrix display of the S3 has been forgotten, instead VanMoof uses a “halo ring interface” for the S5 and A5, which is located in the handlebars next to the grips. It is intended to give users “intuitive feedback” on the speed, the charge level of the battery and the smartphone connection, thus simplifying the journey. How exactly this works can only be guessed at. Apparently, the wheels display this information via colored elements. Isn’t that enough for you? Then you can always invest in an optional cell phone holder and use the revamped VanMoof app to turn your smartphone into a dashboard and navigation system in one person. The pedelecs each have a USB-C socket on board for this purpose.

Bicycle handlebars in close-up.

The bikes are intended to provide information to riders via the glowing LEDs. To the left: the bell. To the right: the boost button for starting.

Also new is the “Gen 5 motor”, which should provide particularly quiet support on the go. It is used in both bikes and, according to the manufacturer, delivers 250 watts of power. This puts it on par with the S3. More is not allowed in Germany anyway. This also applies to the top speed. VanMoof does not name them, but pedelec motors are only allowed to support drivers in this country up to 25 km/h. If you want to be faster, you have to pedal harder.

Switching while driving is not necessary. The E-Shifter takes over this in Generation 5. Here the manufacturer is again stingy with information. As mentioned at the beginning, shifting gears on the current edition of the S3 is accompanied by an unsightly click at certain speeds. Prospective buyers have to hope that VanMoof has finally gotten the problem under control – or wait for the test report.

VanMoof S5 and A5 introduced: Pedelecs for every size VanMoof is on "HiVis"-Fifth generation lights. The lamps at the back and front are each made up of 20 LEDs.

VanMoof relies on fifth generation “HiVis” lights. The lamps at the back and front are each made up of 20 LEDs.

There are differences in the range. The battery in the S5 has a slightly lower capacity of 487 watt hours (wH) compared to the S3 (504 wH). However, this should not affect the range. According to the manufacturer, there are 60 kilometers with full support, and 150 kilometers with the lowest level. You won’t get that far with the A5. With its 463 watt-hour battery, you can cover between 55 and 140 kilometers, depending on the support. You can set how hard the wheels push you in the app as usual.

New lock and find my network

In the new version, too, the wheels should arouse the desires of thieves. That’s why the manufacturer has revised the anti-theft device. The integrated wheel lock has a larger bolt and can be easily locked with a fingertip. Practical: If the driver returns to the pedelec, it unlocks automatically. A smartphone and the VanMoof app are required.

If they go missing, both bikes can be found in two ways. One leads through the VanMoof app. Since the 2021 version of the S3, the bikes have also supported Apple’s “Find my” network. Users can also add the S5 and the A5 to the app on the iPhone and use it to locate them.

Prices and Availability

Pedelec fans can now pre-order the VanMoof S5 and the VanMoof A5. However, you have to be on a waiting list. Delivery begins in July 2022, both bikes cost 2,498 euros each. Additional accessories such as the optional mobile phone holder or luggage rack will be available for purchase from early summer 2022. The manufacturer did not name prices.



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