VanMoof S6 Unveiled: The Urban Electric Bike Redefined

The urban landscape is continuously evolving, and with it, the demand for sophisticated, efficient, and reliable personal mobility solutions. VanMoof, a name synonymous with stylish and smart electric bikes, has recently made headlines following its successful relaunch from its 2023 financial challenges. Having meticulously rebuilt its after-sales service network, the Dutch innovator is now accelerating its journey with the introduction of its latest electric bicycle, the VanMoof S6. More than just a simple iteration, the S6, alongside the S6 Open, represents a strategic move by the brand to leave past hurdles behind and deliver a refined, future-ready riding experience to the United Kingdom and beyond.

Evolution of Design: Familiar Silhouette, Enhanced Presence

At first glance, the new S6 generation might appear to echo its predecessors, the S5 and A5. VanMoof has opted for a consistent aesthetic, preserving the sleek, integrated design that has become its signature. This approach includes nearly seamless internal cable routing, contributing to the bike’s minimalist appeal. A notable change in nomenclature harmonises the series: what was previously known as the “X” version for the semi-open frame, last seen as the A5 in 2022, now adopts the “S6 Open” moniker, aligning it with the classic “S6” high-frame model.

While the fundamental form remains, VanMoof introduces a subtle yet impactful refresh with three new colourways: a serene blue, a vibrant mint, and a timeless black. These additions provide riders with fresh choices to express their style. The handlebar, a central command point, continues its minimalist approach, devoid of a large screen. Instead, two seemingly brighter illuminated rings provide intuitive feedback, accompanied by two physical buttons and a newly integrated SlimLink phone mount for seamless smartphone integration. This dedication to a clean interface speaks volumes about VanMoof’s commitment to user-centric design.

Advanced Performance & The Commute Experience

Underneath its polished exterior, the VanMoof S6 boasts significant enhancements focused on delivering a smoother, more reliable, and ultimately more enjoyable ride. At the heart of its performance is a 68 Nm front-mounted motor, offering four distinct assistance modes. A more robust ‘Boost’ feature ensures power delivery is both responsive and appropriately modulated for various riding conditions.

One of the most anticipated upgrades lies in its power train. The S6 features an all-new 3-speed automatic transmission. This system, when paired with a sensitive torque sensor, promises a more fluid and dependable riding experience, a crucial improvement according to the Dutch firm. Whether navigating inclines or cruising city streets, the seamless gear changes aim to minimise rider effort.

The VanMoof S6 houses a fixed, non-removable 487 Wh battery. This robust capacity is designed to offer an impressive range of 60 to 150 kilometres, depending on the chosen assistance mode and riding conditions. Charging the S6 from empty to full takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, while a rapid top-up to 50% can be achieved in just 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Rider comfort has also seen attention, albeit with an optional upgrade. The S6 offers an optional suspension seat post to mitigate road vibrations. While VanMoof’s previous S5 model provided good comfort, the optional seat post seeks to bridge any gaps with competitors, especially considering the S6 retains a rigid fork[1]. Stopping power is provided by four-piston hydraulic disc brakes, ensuring confident and consistent braking in diverse urban environments.

Connected & Secure: The Smart Ecosystem

True to its “smart bike” identity, the VanMoof S6 integrates a suite of advanced connectivity features. A dedicated bike navigation system is now embedded within the VanMoof application, offering precise guidance for urban explorers. For enhanced security and peace of mind, the S6 incorporates Apple Find My functionality, allowing owners to track their bike if it goes missing. Furthermore, a complimentary one-year subscription to the brand’s “Theft Proof” service provides additional layers of protection, reinforcing VanMoof’s commitment to combatting bike theft.

UK Pricing and Availability

Following a price adjustment on its predecessors (the S5 and A5, which saw a reduction from €3,298 to €2,998), the new VanMoof S6 arrives with a starting price of €3,298. This strategic pricing positions it competitively within the premium urban e-bike market, including rivals like Cowboy. Pre-orders for the S6 were open from June 11th via the official website, requiring a €150 deposit. Customers have the flexibility of opting for home delivery or collection from a reseller for final assembly. While VanMoof initially estimates deliveries for June orders to commence in August, they note that lead times may vary.

A Refined Path Forward

The VanMoof S6 and S6 Open represent a significant stride for the brand post-relaunch. By focusing on critical refinements in transmission, connectivity, and rider experience while maintaining its iconic design, VanMoof reaffirms its position as a leading innovator in connected electric mobility. For urban commuters and tech enthusiasts in the UK seeking a stylish, intelligent, and robust e-bike, the VanMoof S6 offers a compelling proposition.

VanMoof S6 Series Key Specifications