Vanmoof S3: The Tesla amongst pedelecs

The Dutch bike startup Vanmoof is considered the Tesla of the bike world. The Vanmoof S3 doesn’t have an autopilot like a Model 3, but it does have a lot of smart features and flawless workmanship without any gaps. We tested the 2,000-euro bike for a good week.

Vanmoof’s third-generation pedelec is primarily designed for city traffic. Visually, the S3 is clearly recognizable as one of the manufacturer’s models thanks to its striking geometry and, above all, the straight top tube stretching across the head tube and seat tube. However, the now iconic design feature also has a purpose: the top tube houses the lights at both ends, giving the bike a certain minimalist feel.

Vanmoof S3 in test: minimalism from the outside …
The minimalist design is underscored by the fact that most of the cables are routed internally and that there are no additional add-on parts. The matt finish in dark or light gray also underscores the simple design. The handlebar and stem unit, which can be adjusted in height with spacer rings if required, is kept just as minimalist. Disadvantage: There is no option to tilt the handlebar – however, the fixed position is pleasantly chosen. During the one-week test period, it did not attract negative attention.

The minimalism even continues with the bell: instead of a classic bicycle bell, Vanmoof relies on a button on the left side of the handlebars, which is connected to an electronic sound generator – the speaker integrated into the frame. A second, identical-looking button is located on the right side of the handlebars and provides more acceleration when starting off. But more on that later. Further, the S3’s mudguards are matte black and nestle elegantly around the thick tires, which are designed to absorb any shocks. It does not have a suspension system. That would have made the 19-kilogram bike unnecessarily heavier.

The S3’s design makes it a real eye-catcher. In the course of the test, the pedelec received curious glances from passers-by and also compliments like, “That’s a beautiful bike!”

… high-tech from the inside
That the Vanmoof S3 is more than a conventional bicycle with electric drive is not apparent at first glance. It has no visible additional display – which would ultimately destroy the minimalist design again – or other conspicuous features. However, inconspicuously hidden in the top tube is a matrix display with 166 LEDs, which can also be found on the S2. While riding, the display shows which of the four gears is engaged and also the speed.

Like the S2, the S3 is fully networked like a Tesla, which sets it apart from many other pedelecs and bikes. Vanmoof offers its own smartphone app for its bikes: After linking to the bike and creating a Vanmoof account, many functions can be set and managed in the app.

Via the app it is possible, for example, to switch the light on and off or to activate an automatic mode, or to set one of currently three ring tones. You can also view the distances traveled, their average and maximum speeds, and the battery’s remaining capacity. In addition, you can set the gearshifts of the four-speed automatic according to your own preferences.

You want to know if your bike is still parked? No problem: A map in the app shows you the location – that’s also possible with Apple’s “Where is?” network since April 2021 – at least for models manufactured from that month on. You don’t have to worry about your smart bike being stolen, because the manufacturer has integrated a lock into the rear wheel hub that you can close with a kick of your foot. You only have to make sure that the wheel and hub are aligned – the corresponding lines are clearly visible. To unlock the hub, you just have to get close to your bike with the connected smartphone and an active Bluetooth connection and push it forward a bit. Then you can start cycling again.