VanMoof Rolls Out S6 Series Under Fresh Leadership

Amsterdam, August 2025 — Dutch e-bike trailblazer VanMoof, under its revitalised leadership since acquisition by McLaren Applied via its e-scooter division Lavoie, has unveiled its flagship S6 Series, marking a new chapter for the brand following its 2023 bankruptcy.

From Collapse to Comeback

Founded in 2009 with a mission to craft the perfect urban commuter bike, VanMoof rapidly gained a cult following for minimalist, tech‑rich designs that integrated batteries, motors, GPS tracking, and a “peace-of-mind” anti‑theft guarantee. But rapid scaling, custom-heavy production, and underdeveloped after‑sales support culminated in a 2023 bankruptcy. McLaren Applied’s subsidiary Lavoie acquired the brand, inheriting both the design legacy and the need to rebuild trust and infrastructure.

Since then, VanMoof has strengthened its service network with 250+ repair centres and 130 sales partners across 13 EU countries—a crucial foundation to support its brand relaunch.

The S6 Series: Familiar Form, Refined Function

At Micromobility Europe 2025, Co-CEO Eliott Wertheimer unveiled the S6 and S6 Open models, heralding the long-awaited return of VanMoof. The design maintains the classic slim profile seen in previous S‑series but is overhauled internally for durability, serviceability, and comfort.

Key Features:

• Powertrain: 250 W front-hub motor, delivering up to 68 Nm of torque, with four pedal-assist levels and a traditional “Boost Button” for short bursts.
• Battery & Range: A hidden 487 Wh Panasonic battery powers up to 150 km in eco mode (or ~60 km under full power).
• Shifting: A fully mechanical 3‑speed AutoShift hub (upgraded from the problematic electronic shifter of past models) ensures reliable gear changes.
• Convenience & Comfort: Features include a Peak Design Slimlink phone mount, optional 30 mm suspension seat post, brighter LED halo power indicators, and modular wiring for service ease.
• Security: Enhanced anti‑theft: granular location tracking, Apple Find My support, and a Kick Lock. Every bike comes with a one-year Theft‑Proof service—VanMoof will recover or replace stolen bikes within 14 days.
• Build & Ride Feel: The step‑over S6 weighs ~23.5 kg (27.5‑inch wheels); the lower-step S6 Open is ~22.5 kg with 24‑inch wheels. Prices start at €3,298, with deliveries beginning in August for Netherlands, Germany, France, Belgium, and expanding later to other EU markets.
• Brand Promise: Paired with an extended three‑year warranty, VanMoof’s comeback is as much about reassurance as innovation.

Early Impressions: Poise, Polish, and Progress

Hands-on testers from The Verge and Stuff reported marked improvements in smoothness, quieter operational tones, visual clarity, and overall ride quality—while still acknowledging the uphill battle to regain customer trust after previous shortcomings. Feedback reflects a reborn brand leaning into reliability: modular design, quieter tech, intuitive experience, and smarter support infrastructure.

How DYU Keeps Pace with Value Options

As VanMoof targets premium urban commuters, DYU continues to roll out new, highly accessible models, balancing performance, EU-compliance, and affordability. The T1 and Stroll 1 700C offer practical alternatives worth considering in parallel to the VanMoof S6.

Compact foldable, torque‑sensor drive

DYU T1 Foldable Electric Bike

DYU Stroll 1 700C City Electric Bike

Comparison Table

Final Takeaway

VanMoof’s S6 Series signals a promising reinvention: smartly designed hardware, deeper support networks, and refined ride experience—backed by McLaren-level engineering and an extended warranty.

For riders balancing urban finesse with cost and practicality, DYU’s updated T1 and Stroll 1 models offer compelling value alternatives:

• T1: Ultra-portable folding design with torque-sensor ride and solid range, all under €800.
• Stroll 1 700C: A lightweight yet robust commuter with 100 km range and quality components under €1,000.

Whether you're drawn to VanMoof’s heritage premium polish or DYU’s accessible practicality, today’s EU e-bike landscape now offers clear, differentiated choices—the real winner is the rider.