VANMOOF S5 Review
- Price: $3998
- Frame: Aluminum
- Battery: VanMoof S5 487 Wh
- Charge Time: Charges in 6 hours and 30 minutes for a full 100% charge and 2 hours and 30 minutes for a 0-50% charge.
What we like about it: The new torque sensor enables smart shifting, responding to your riding style.
What we didn’t like about it: The appearance is rather ordinary and lacks distinct features.
Rating: (4.7/5)
Tired of commuting through crowded subways or buses? If you’re looking to avoid the fatigue that often comes after a regular bike commute, leaving you unable to focus on your work, then the VANMOOF S5 will be your best companion. It offers the most comfortable riding experience.
Below, we analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the VANMOOF S5. In the latter part of this article, we also compare several top bicycle models. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
Morning Commute
Every morning, I ride my dependable VANMOOF S5 towards the rising sun, beginning a delightful journey to work. With a 487Wh battery capacity, I have no worries about running out of power. It provides ample energy, and I can easily adjust the electric assist. Its intelligent assist adjustment is outstanding. When climbing, it automatically engages high-level electric assistance, delivering noticeable thrust with each pedal stroke, effortlessly conquering steep slopes. On flat stretches, it can switch to a lower level of assist or be turned off, allowing for pure cycling enjoyment.
The VANMOOF S5 also has good cargo-carrying capabilities, offering a convenient solution. I can load luggage on the rear or front rack without worrying about the burden of a heavy backpack. Its robust construction and thoughtful design make my commuting journey more comfortable and enjoyable. Whether it’s lightweight documents, bags, or heavy shopping, the VANMOOF S5 allows me to carry them safely.
Another feature I love is the comfort of the VANMOOF S5. The softness of the saddle and the comfort of the handlebars provide me with great enjoyment during my rides. Even on long commutes, it doesn’t bring fatigue or discomfort. I can focus on appreciating the scenic views along the way, feeling the morning breeze on my face.
Evening Commute
At the end of the workday, I hop back on my VANMOOF S5 and begin my journey back home. The assistance of the electric motor keeps my spirits high, even when tired. The battery life is sufficient for my entire commute, eliminating worries about running out of power along the way.
On the way back, the road conditions can be unpredictable, but the VANMOOF S5’s agility and stability allow me to handle them with ease. I experience smooth and comfortable downhill rides. Even on uneven, unpaved roads, the VANMOOF S5 helps me maintain stability and control, allowing me to cross safely at high speeds.
On my way back in the evening, the VANMOOF S5’s lighting system provides ample brightness. The high brightness of the front and rear lights ensures I have good visibility in the dark, enhancing safety for nighttime rides. Upon arriving home, I can use its security system to lock the bike. Parking it in the garage, I don’t have to worry about it being stolen. That’s the confidence that the VANMOOF S5 brings to me.
Specifications
The VANMOOF S5 is an excellent electric commuter bike. It features a robust aluminum frame that provides good responsiveness and is reasonably priced. The operation of this bike is straightforward. The indicator lights on the left handlebar inform the rider about the remaining battery level, while the lights on the right handlebar indicate the current speed and assist level. Additionally, a phone can be mounted on the handlebars, allowing riders to use the VanMoof app to track current speed, ride duration, and distance, and it can also charge the phone.
If you forget your keys, the VANMOOF S5 can be unlocked using Kick Lock. The Halo Ring interface lights up to inform the rider when the bike is locked or unlocked.
Video
What do we like about it?
- The new torque sensor enables smart shifting, responding to the rider’s style.
- It has a robust security system, and if the locked bike is tampered with, the integrated security lock will sound an alarm and lock the bike, preventing others from using it.
- In case of theft, a dedicated team is responsible for recovery, with insurance costing only $398 every three years.
- Maintenance is provided by professionals, with a cost of $348 every three years.
What don’t we like about it?
- The appearance is rather ordinary and lacks distinct features.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
This bike is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- What is the range of this bike?
The range of this bike is between 37 miles (full power mode) and 93 miles (economy power mode).
- What is the weight of this bike?
The weight of this bike is 50.7 pounds.
- How do I choose the right size?
This bike is suitable for riders between 5’4″ and 6’9″ in height.
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 650B | Click View | Nimbus II Sport Reflect 650b x 2.3″ | 1 x 9 | Aluminum | Shimano Alivio |
| CUBE TOURING HYBRID ONE 500 | Click View | Schwalbe Big Ben | 1 x 9 | Aluminum | Shimano Alivio |
| Canyon Precede ON 5 step-through | Click View | Schwalbe G-One Allround 57mm | 1 x 11 | Aluminum | Shimano Deore |
| Orbea VIBE MID H30 | Click View | Kenda K1052 700×45 | 1 x 10 | Aluminum | Shimano Deore |
VANMOOF S5 vs. Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 650B
The VANMOOF S5 features a 487Wh battery and 68Nm of torque. However, the Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 650B is equipped with a Specialized 250W 50Nm mid-drive motor and a Specialized 460Wh battery. A larger battery capacity provides a longer battery life, while more torque delivers greater power. The Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 650B also comes with a Shimano Alivio rear derailleur and a 1×9 drivetrain, which is quite impressive.
It’s worth mentioning that the VANMOOF S5 can be equipped with a 5-series front carrier, allowing items to be secured or strapped to the front of the bike. Additionally, its S5 rear rack can carry up to 15 kilograms of additional essentials. If riders have children, a Thule Yepp Nedt Mini child seat can be mounted on the rear of the bike.
Learn More: Is Specialized Turbo Como 5.0 A Good Choice? – [Specialized Turbo Como 5.0 Review]
VANMOOF S5 vs. CUBE TOURING HYBRID ONE 500
The VANMOOF S5 features 650b wheels, while the CUBE TOURING HYBRID ONE 500 uses 700c wheels. 700c wheels provide better rolling capability, whereas 650b wheels are highly maneuverable. In terms of weight, the CUBE TOURING HYBRID ONE 500 weighs 56.7 pounds, while the VANMOOF S5 is lighter at 50.7 pounds. Therefore, the VANMOOF S5 is a bit easier to ride when the battery is depleted.
The CUBE TOURING HYBRID ONE 500 has a 500Wh battery capacity, while the VANMOOF S5 has a battery capacity of only 487Wh, resulting in a slightly shorter battery life compared to the CUBE TOURING HYBRID ONE 500. Furthermore, the CUBE TOURING HYBRID ONE 500 is a hardtail bike with 63mm of front travel, providing better shock absorption and a more comfortable ride. It’s worth noting that the VANMOOF S5 has a torque of 68Nm, while the CUBE TOURING HYBRID ONE 500 has a torque of 75Nm. A higher torque provides more power, especially for uphill riding and carrying cargo.
VANMOOF S5 vs. Canyon Precede ON 5 step-through
The Canyon Precede ON 5 step-through weighs 51.8 pounds, making it slightly heavier than the VANMOOF S5, which weighs 50.7 pounds. In other words, the VANMOOF S5 offers a more effortless ride home when the battery is depleted. However, the Canyon Precede ON 5 step-through boasts a larger 500Wh battery capacity, providing a longer battery life, but it has a torque of only 63Nm. The VANMOOF S5 can carry more cargo and performs better on uphill terrain.
Additionally, the geometry of the Canyon Precede ON 5 step-through makes it easier for riders to mount and dismount. The Shimano MT200 Hydraulic Disc brakes enhance rider safety. Moreover, the 1×11 drivetrain delivers exceptional shifting performance, allowing riders to find the right speed for different road conditions, making it ideal for commuting.
Vanmof S5 vs. Orbea VIBE MID H30
The Orbea VIBE MID H30 features an aluminum frame and a carbon fork. Aluminum frames are cost-effective and easy to repair if damaged, but they can be fragile at welding points and prone to breaking. On the other hand, carbon forks offer high rigidity and durability but come at a higher price. However, they are susceptible to breaking upon impact with sharp objects or side impacts, and repairs are nearly impossible.
Furthermore, the MAHLE battery of the Orbea VIBE MID H30 has a relatively small capacity of only 248Wh. This results in a shorter battery life compared to the VANMOOF S5, which comes with a 487Wh battery. The Orbea VIBE MID H30 features 700c wheels, while the VANMOOF S5 has 650b wheels. Larger wheels provide better traction, while smaller wheels offer greater agility.
Learn More: Is Orbea VIBE H10 EQ 20mph Worth Buying? – [Orbea VIBE H10 EQ 20mph Review]
Summary
This is our review of the VANMOOF S5. This is a highly commendable electric commuter bicycle, that delivers a comfortable commuting experience for riders. Based on our evaluation, we have awarded it a high score of 4.7. If you’re looking for more bicycle-related information, feel free to check out our other reviews.
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