I have to be honest. My idea of what an eBike is for and does was totally wrong. I know this because I've spent the last month or so riding the VanMoof S3[1], a $2,300 electric bike, putting nearly 100 miles on it during that time. For some, that distance may sound trivial, but I can promise you the I haven't ridden 100 miles on a bike in the last 10 years combined.
Indeed, part of the reason I put so many miles on the S3 over the last few weeks was to test out the bells and whistles (figuratively, and literally), but also because I decided to start exercising more. And even though eBikes feature a motorized pedal-assist to do some or all of the work for you, I've yet to come home drenched in sweat after a long ride on the S3.
Just what makes the S3 and worth $2,300? I'll attempt to answer that question below — but let me tell you, after using one for a while, don't be surprised if you see me cruising on one of my own in the near future.
Don't live near a VanMoof store? No problem
VanMoof only has a handful of showrooms throughout the US. It's at those stores where you can book a test ride in places like Seattle, San Francisco or Brooklyn. If you don't live in one of those areas, it's not ideal, but that doesn't exclude you from ordering a VanMoof bike.
I live in the middle of Colorado, so VanMoof had to ship a bike to me. The bike arrives partly assembled, requiring only the installation of the front wheel and pedals upon arrival.
Included in the box