VanMoof, the Dutch e-bike manufacturer, has revealed its newest urban model, the S6, priced at £3,098. This introduction comes after the brand's acquisition by Lavoie, a company supported by McLaren Applied, in 2023, following VanMoof's bankruptcy. The S6 maintains the brand's distinctive sleek appearance but features significant engineering improvements aimed at boosting durability and ease of maintenance. This release signifies a fresh start for VanMoof under new ownership, promising a refined cycling experience.
The company, based in Amsterdam, faced financial difficulties and was declared bankrupt in 2023. Shortly after, Lavoie, an e-mobility enterprise with backing from McLaren Applied, stepped in to acquire the brand. This strategic acquisition has allowed VanMoof to embark on a new chapter, focusing on product innovation and enhanced customer satisfaction.
The S6 represents the first product launch under this new stewardship. While its exterior design largely echoes VanMoof's established minimalist style, with unchanged silhouette and seamless frame construction, the critical changes are found beneath the surface. The development team, in collaboration with McLaren Applied, concentrated on re-engineering internal components to improve mechanical resilience and simplify potential repairs. As a testament to these enhancements, the S6 now includes an extended one-year warranty as a standard offering.
VanMoof highlights that the S6 is the culmination of over a decade of e-bike development, representing the sixth generation of their innovations. They describe it as the "ultimate e-bike," engineered for perfect harmony between the rider and the urban environment. A key innovation is the "Control Core," an advanced electronic control unit positioned as the most robust system the company has ever integrated into its bikes. This central unit plays a crucial role in managing the bike's advanced functionalities and ensuring a seamless riding experience.
The S6 is equipped with a 487Wh battery, subtly integrated within the frame for a clean aesthetic. It also features a new automatic three-speed hub gear system, offering smooth transitions between gears. For security, an integrated Gen 6 Kick Lock allows riders to secure the rear wheel with a simple tap. The e-bike boasts an impressive range, capable of covering up to 37 miles in full power mode and extending to 93 miles in economy mode. The complete bike weighs an estimated 23kg. Additional features include VanMoof's renowned anti-theft technology, comprising alarms and GPS tracking, along with compatibility with Apple's Find My network for enhanced security and location tracking. Riders can also enjoy a Boost Button for instantaneous acceleration and a built-in phone mount that transforms their smartphone into a dynamic dashboard via the VanMoof app.
The S6 is offered in two variants: the traditional upright S6 with 27.5-inch wheels and the more accessible S6 Open, featuring 24-inch wheels and a step-through frame design. Both models are available in a single frame size, with the S6 Open accommodating riders from 5'1" to 6'5" and the S6 designed for those between 5'4" and 6'9". Both versions are priced at £3,098 and are available for immediate order, with expected delivery within seven days. Customers can choose from three color options: Electric Blue, Drift Black, and Pearl Mint, and all purchases come with a three-year warranty. For increased comfort during city rides, an optional suspension seatpost is available, providing 30mm of travel to absorb shocks from uneven terrains.
This re-launch signifies VanMoof's commitment to delivering advanced, user-friendly e-bikes, now backed by the engineering prowess of McLaren Applied. The S6 aims to set a new benchmark in urban electric cycling, combining aesthetic appeal with enhanced functionality and reliability for the modern rider.