The VanMoof comeback after bankruptcy

VanMoof is back on the scene! After its high-profile bankruptcy in 2023 and a relaunch under new management, the redesigned S5 and A5 e-bikes have been available again since April 2024. But is the comeback more than just a fresh coat of paint? The iconic design remains, but under the hood, according to VanMoof, significant improvements have been made to increase reliability. A recent video review shows the bike in detail, while other tests and user reports are already raising critical questions about the technology, the price of around €3,300, and its competitiveness. Is the redesigned VanMoof S5 really worth buying in 2024/2025?

The redesigned VanMoof S5 remains true to its iconic design, but the technology and service are under scrutiny.

Design & workmanship: Familiar elegance with small updates

Visually, the S5 is unmistakably a VanMoof. The minimalist, elegant design language with its continuous top tube and integrated lighting remains intact – a timeless eye-catcher in city traffic.

• Color options & finish: In addition to light gray, there's now a glossy dark gray version. The video review notes that the welds appear less noticeable on this darker version. The overall build quality makes a high-quality impression.
• Revised brake levers: A minor update are the slimmer, more delicate brake levers, which are said to be more stable. They worked flawlessly in the road test, even if they felt a bit odd at first.

• Frame height: The S5 frame has been lowered by 5 cm to better fit riders 165 cm and over (the A5 model with a lower step-through is designed for riders 155 cm and over).

Technical revision: More than just cosmetic?

The key question following the bankruptcy is reliability. VanMoof emphasizes that it has made improvements in this area, partly based on data from the error-prone first generation:

Internal improvements (according to VanMoof and testers):

• New firmware release to fix connectivity issues.
• Improved water resistance.
• Screws (e.g. on the brake lever) should be less likely to come loose.
• Reinforced motor mount and longer connector for better durability and maintenance.
• New saddle connection that should no longer sag.
• Improved E-Shifter calibration (now also doable by yourself).
• Optimized energy efficiency (but not confirmed in some tests).

Quality control:

An additional check in the Netherlands is intended to ensure delivery quality.

However, user reports and tests mention a possible software issue with newer test bikes – an occasional mechanical "pop" noise when stationary, presumably from the KickLock. Although VanMoof classifies this as rare, it raises questions about quality control despite all efforts. The annoying melody during the (often necessary) firmware updates also persists, according to users.

Driving experience: Smooth with strong boost, but weaknesses in the details

The driving experience of the S5 is described in the video as familiar and pleasant; other testers see it similarly, but also express reservations:

• Motor & Assistance: The Gen 5 front motor is extremely quiet and, thanks to a torque sensor, delivers very natural assistance. The ride is smooth and intuitive. A slight humming noise during overrun cutoff was noticed in the video test.
• Boost button: With 68 Nm of torque, the boost provides powerful thrust for climbs and traffic light starts. However, caution is advised on loose ground (loss of traction on the front wheel).

• Automatic 3-speed e-shifter: The electronic Sturmey-Archer shifter works better than the S3, but according to testers, it's not as smooth as competing products (e.g., Enviolo). Occasional shifting noises or clunks can occur, especially under hard pedaling. The ability to customize shift points via the app is a plus. However, critics question whether a complex e-shifter is even necessary on a city bike with a powerful boost—keyword: "The world has moved on from e-shifters."
• Comfort & Handling: A comfortable saddle, upright seating position, and thick tires ensure comfort on asphalt. The brakes are praised as very good. The weight is approximately 23 kg.
• Range: VanMoof promises up to 60 km in Power mode. However, in tests from the previous year (2023), under real-world conditions (full power, boost, cool temperatures), ranges of around 45-50 km were often achieved with the 487 Wh battery – similar to the S3 with its larger battery. Whether the 2024 version is significantly more efficient remains to be seen.

Smart features & connectivity: Lots of features, but also lots of gimmicks?

VanMoof traditionally scores points here, but not everything is entirely convincing:

• Halo Rings: The new LED rings on the handlebars replace the matrix display. They show speed, charge level, etc. Stylish in the video, but according to users and testers, they're barely legible in sunlight and rather "gimmicky."
• KickLock: The ingenious integrated rear wheel lock with alarm function remains a highlight.

• App & Tracking: The app is clear and offers numerous settings. Apple "Find My" is integrated.
• SP Connect Mount & USB-C: The integrated mobile phone holder and charging port are practical additions.

• Multifunctional buttons: Newly added buttons below the bell and boost allow, among other things, changing the assistance level or activating the (rather rudimentary and sometimes embarrassingly sound-accompanied) indicators. However, critics rate their usefulness as limited ("features for the marketing checklist").
• Peace of Mind Service: Important change: The previous "Peace of Mind" theft protection and replacement service is no longer offered for the new models. However, traditional insurance policies are still available.

Video review: The new VanMoof S5 in detail

For a detailed visual impression and the detailed driving impressions from the original review, check out this video:

Price, service and the big picture: A riskier investment?

At just under €3,300, the S5 is more expensive than previous VanMoof generations, positioning it in the upper mid-range. Accordingly, some reviews were more critical after the relaunch, partly due to increased competition (e.g., the Cowboy Cruiser is cheaper, while the Veloretti Ace 2, at a similar price, is considered equal or better).

• Charging: The battery is still permanently installed and must be charged on the bike (charging time approximately 6.5 hours). There are currently no plans for an external "click-on" battery.
• Service network: VanMoof is now relying on partner workshops instead of its own stores. This is potentially an improvement, but the network is new and has yet to prove itself.
• Proprietary parts: A large portion of the components are VanMoof-specific. This means a strong dependence on the manufacturer and its (newly established) service network—a risk for a company that has just emerged from insolvency. Proximity to a certified service partner is essential.

Conclusion: Design icon with question marks – For whom is the S5 (2024) worth it?

The VanMoof S5 remains a beautiful, smart e-bike with a unique riding experience and clever features like the KickLock. The quiet motor and powerful boost are fun to ride.

However, the criticisms are more serious than before: The price is high, and the competition is fierce. Despite improvements, reliability has yet to be proven over the long term (see reports of software issues with test bikes). Some features, such as the Halo Rings or the additional buttons, seem more like gimmicks. The electronic shifting is no longer state-of-the-art, and the reliance on proprietary parts and an unproven service network under new management poses a significant risk. The discontinuation of the "Peace of Mind" service is also a negative point.

Pros & Cons VanMoof S5 (2024/2025)

• Per:
• Iconic, minimalist design
• Very pleasant, natural driving experience & quiet engine
• Powerful boost mode
• Ingenious KickLock & good app integration
• Practical mobile phone holder with charging port

• Cons:
• High price in a competitive environment
• Reliability not yet proven despite improvements (new bugs?)
• Some features seem "gimmicky" (Halo Rings visibility, multifunction buttons)
• E-Shifter not as smooth as top competitors / Complexity questionable
• Battery permanently installed
• Dependence on proprietary parts & new, unproven service network
• "Peace of Mind" service discontinued

Verdict:

The VanMoof S5 (2024) is an e-bike for lovers of unique design and smart integration who are willing to pay a premium price and take a certain risk regarding service and long-term durability. Those seeking maximum reliability, a replaceable battery, or the smoothest shifting may find better (and/or cheaper) alternatives. The S5 has many "darlings" – whether these are worth the extra cost and the potential drawbacks is something everyone has to decide for themselves. It's a balancing act with more question marks than with previous models.