Vanmoof eBike Vs. Wing E-bike (The Good, the Bad, the Ugly)
A friend of mine asked me which e-bike he should buy, a Vanmoof e-bike or a Wing e-bike. So I researched and created a detailed comparison of Vanmoof e-bikes and Wing e-bikes. I outlined their similarities and differences when compared across several different aspects.
As a whole, if you are looking for a cheaper e-bike, a Wing e-bike would be a better option. This is because wing e-bikes are $1,150- $1,350 cheaper than Vanmoof e-bikes. So for as low as $1,098, you can buy a highly-efficient commuter Wing e-bike.
As a general rule, Vanmoof e-bikes are highly recommended for long-distance riders. This is because Vanmoof e-bike batteries have a 504Wh capacity that can assist a rider to travel an average range of 37-93 miles.
On average, if you are into highly-secured e-bikes, choosing a Vanmoof e-bike is a great choice. It has excellent security features, including automatic rider recognition, GSM and Bluetooth location tracking, and backup codes.
I have created the chart below outlining a detailed comparison of various specifications of Vanmoof e-bikes and Wing e-bikes. Next, we will dive more into their pros and cons.
Vanmoof eBikes Vs. Wing eBikes
| E-bike: | Vanmoof E-bikes | Wing E-bikes |
| Cost of Purchase: | $2,448 | 1,098-$1,298 |
| Models Available: | 2 models | 4 models |
| Max. Range: | 37-93 mi | 35/45/60 mi |
| Running Cost: | $0.28 per charge | $0.17-$0.28 per charge |
| Brakes Used: | Hydraulic | Mechanical |
| Maintenance Cost: | $150/year | $150/year |
| Life Span: | 5-7 years | 5-7 years |
| Reliability: | Reliable when properly maintained | Reliable when properly maintained |
Cost of Purchase: Vanmoof eBikes Vs. Wing eBikes
As a whole, Vanmoof e-bikes cost around $2,448, whereas Wing e-bikes cost between $1,098-$1,298. Therefore, the cost of Wing e-bikes can be $1,150-$1,350 less than the cost of Vanmoof e-bikes.
The design of both Vanmoof e-bikes and Wing e-bikes are pretty similar. Furthermore, they both have anti-theft security features and integrated lights.
Attributes of Vanmoof eBikes
- It has a one-piece adjustable handlebar and stem, which you can adjust according to your liking.
- Fully-enclosed drive train, so you don’t have to worry about getting your clothes dirty or greasy from the chain.
- It has a 504Wh battery which could help you travel as far as 93 miles on a single charge.
- Test rides are available. If you’re in the U.S., you can book a test ride to determine if the e-bike of your choice suits your needs. Additionally, Vanmoof e-bikes offer virtual test rides. You just need to scan their Q.R. code, though this option is only available for iOS 13+, iPad O.S. 13+, or Android with ARCore 1.9+ devices.
Vanmoof eBikes use hydraulic disc brakes. Hydraulic brakes are known to have better braking performance than any other type of brake. They are highly efficient and perform well even in wet conditions. Check out our article, “Advantages And Disadvantages Of Hydraulic Brakes” to learn more about hydraulic brakes.
- Vanmoof eBikes has excellent security features, including automatic rider recognition, GSM and Bluetooth location tracking, backup code, and integrated lockdown features that you can access in the Vanmoof app. Vanmoof describes their e-bikes as close to being unstealable as you can get,
Attributes of Wing eBikes
- Incredibly lightweight. Wing e-bikes only weigh 39 pounds.
- Motor power is between 350W nominal power and 750W peak power. The Freedom Fatty 2 is a Wing e-bike with 750W peak power alongside 80 Newton-meter torque. For only $1,298, you can buy a pretty powerful Fatty 2 Wing e-bike.
Wing e-bikes also offer e-bike test rides. You can book an appointment here. Wing e-bikes are a good choice if you have a tight budget. However, if your budget is not an issue, going for a Vanmoof e-bike would be a better choice.
Models Available: Vanmoof eBikes Vs. Wing eBikes
In total, Vanmoof e-bikes have two e-bike models (S3 and X3) available that you can choose from. On the other hand, Wing e-bikes have four e-bike models (Freedom X, Freedom Fatty 2, Freedom S2, Freedom 2) available.
Vanmoof e-bikes sell S3 and X3 models on their website. However, they have another model coming out soon. The unreleased model is named VanMoof V. It is equipped with a dual motor and costs around $3,598. This e-bike is not available yet, but you can check out their website for updates about this fantastic e-bike.
Wing e-bikes have four models sold on their website. You can choose between Freedom X, Freedom Fatty 2, Freedom S2, and Freedom 2.
Max. Range: Vanmoof eBikes Vs. Wing eBikes
As a whole, Vanmoof e-bikes can travel longer distances than Wing e-bikes. Vanmoof e-bikes have an average range of 37-93 miles on a single charge. On the other hand, Wing e-bikes can travel an average distance of 35-60 miles.
The Vanmoof e-bikes are equipped with 504Wh batteries that can travel a distance of 37-93 miles per charge. The range of Vanmoof e-bikes may be affected by several factors such as your weight, riding style, weather, and type of terrain.
The Wing e-bikes have different battery options. Each Wing e-bike battery has a different range. You can choose either 36V 8.8aH (316.8Wh), 36V 10.4aH (374.4Wh), or 36V 14aH (504Wh). These batteries have an average mileage of 35 miles, 45 miles, and 60 miles, respectively.
Brakes Used: Vanmoof eBikes Vs. Wing eBikes
As a whole, Vanmoof e-bikes use hydraulic disc brakes while Wing e-bikes use mechanical disc brakes. Hydraulic brakes rely on fluid when stopping your e-bike, whereas mechanical brakes rely on a cable.
Suppose you are into aggressive riding. Then, choosing a Vanmoof e-bike would be a better choice. That is because Vanmoof e-bikes use hydraulic brakes. Hydraulic brakes have better modulation with more precise braking power than mechanical ones. Additionally, hydraulic brakes are highly efficient in all weather conditions.
Hydraulic Brakes Vs. Mechanical Brakes
| Brakes: | Hydraulic Brakes | Mechanical Brakes |
| Performance: | Highly efficient, powerful, and precise braking performance | Requires more force to stop your e-bike |
| Maintenance: | Does not require frequent maintenance and adjustment | Needs on-going maintenance |
| Maintenance difficulty: | Difficult to fix on the go | Easier to repair |
| Weight: | Lightweight | Heavy |
| Price: | Expensive | cheaper |
In terms of efficiency and stopping power, hydraulic brakes outperform mechanical brakes. This is because they have better brake modulation, and you do not need to use much force to stop your e-bike. Additionally, hydraulic brakes are sealed, so dirt and debris cannot easily get inside the brakes. As a result, frequent maintenance is not required.
However, hydraulic brakes can be difficult to repair because of their complex parts. They are also quite expensive, which could be one of the reasons which make Vanmoof e-bikes so costly.
Maintenance Cost: Vanmoof eBikes Vs. Wing eBikes
On average, the maintenance cost of both Vanmoof e-bikes and Wing e-bikes is about $150. This service fee does not include the cost of parts that needs replacement. This estimate may go higher or lower, depending on your maintenance complexity.
The average service fee of a professional mechanic is only $150. However, please note that Wing e-bikes have mechanical brakes, requiring frequent brake maintenance. With that being said, regular maintenance can cost you a lot over time. But the good thing is mechanical brakes are easier to maintain, so you can probably do the maintenance on your own.
On the other hand, since Vanmoof e-bikes use hydraulic brakes, frequent maintenance is unnecessary. However, do note that hydraulic brakes use brake fluids, and it is highly recommended to change it once or twice a year. Check out this great mineral oil brake fluid I saw on Amazon.
Vanmoof e-bikes offer e-bike maintenance for only $348 for a three-year service contract. The maintenance covers preventive checkups and normal wear and tear servicing.
Check this video to learn about essential e-bike maintenance.
Life Span: Vanmoof eBikes Vs. Wing eBikes
As a general rule, there is no significant difference between the life span of Vanmoof e-bikes and Wing e-bikes. This is because both brands of e-bikes can last up to 5-7 years if properly used and maintained.
Most e-bike parts, regardless of brand, wear and tear over time. The life span of both Vanmoof e-bikes and Wing e-bikes will depend entirely on how you use and maintain them. In addition, electric bikes always have manuals that need to be followed. Thus, it is always best to follow what is stated in your user manual. You should always take precautions when riding your e-bike to extend its life span.
Running Cost: Vanmoof eBikes Vs. Wing eBikes
On average, Vanmoof e-bikes have an average running cost of $0.28, whereas Wing e-bikes have an average running cost of $0.17-$0.28. These data points show a $0-$0.10 difference in their running cost, which is not significant.
To compute the charging/ running cost, you need to know the electricity rate in your area, Watt-hour of your e-bike battery (Voltage X Ah), and its charging time.
As of March 2022, the average electricity rate in the U.S. is $0.1375. Electricity rates may vary from one state to another. You can check the electricity rate in your area on the ChooseEnergy website.
Vanmoof e-bikes have a battery capacity of 504 Watt-hour and can be fully charged in four hours. On the other hand, Wing e-bikes have a battery capacity of either 316.8Wh, 374.4Wh, or 504Wh, with each requiring four hours of charging time.
To figure out the running cost of both Vanmoof and Wing e-bikes, we will use the following equation:
Cost of Charging e-bike= [(Voltage X Ah)/1000]X(rate of charge per KWh)X(hours of charge).
By using the equation, Vanmoof e-bikes have an average running cost of $0.28 for a single charge. On the other hand, Wing e-bikes have an average running cost of $0.17-$0.28 per charge.
Reliability: Vanmoof eBikes Vs. Wing eBikes
As a general rule, Vanmoof e-bikes and Wing e-bikes are both reliable when properly used and maintained. Aside from minor issues reported in the shipping process of Vanmoof and Wing e-bikes, most riders did not experience any significant issues when riding their e-bikes.
Pros and Cons of Vanmoof eBikes
| Pros | Cons |
| Can travel 37-93 miles per charge because of its 504Wh battery capacity | Expensive |
| Test rides and virtual test rides are available | The motor power can be lower than the Freedom Fatty 2 (Wing e-bike)(Vanmoof motor power is only 250W-350W) |
| Security features include automatic rider recognition, GSM, and Bluetooth location tracking, backup code, and integrated lockdown features. | Heavier than Wing e-bikes (weigh around 45.8-46.3 lbs) |
| Comes With Vanmoof App | |
| Uses hydraulic brakes for great stopping power | |
| Fully-enclosed drivetrain |
Pros, and Con of Wing eBikes
| Pros | Cons |
| Cheaper (1,098-$1,298) | Maximum range can be lower than that of Vanmoof e-bikes |
| Motor power is between 350W nominal power and 750W peak power | Uses mechanical brakes, so the stopping power is not highly efficient |
| Lightweight (39lbs) | Drivetrain is not enclosed, so dirt and debris can get in |
| Have three battery options (36V 8.8aH, 36V 10.4aH, 36V 14aH) | |
| Security features include remote lock via key-fob, tamper detection with alarm |
Where Are VanMoof eBikes made?
As a whole, Vanmoof e-bikes are made in Europe. It is one of the fastest-growing companies in Europe. The company has expanded into Amsterdam, Berlin, London, Tokyo, Paris, New York, San Francisco, and Seattle.
Vanmoof e-bikes company is founded by two Dutch brothers—Taco and Ties. The company started in 2009. They now have brand stores in different cities worldwide. They have two models of electric bikes, but they are currently working on adding another model, Vanmoof V, to their offering.
“You don’t know how good you are until you actually get out on a bike and get riding.”
-Laura Trott
Are Wing eBikes Good?
As a general rule, Wing e-bikes are good. With its affordable price, you can get a stylish and incredible commuter e-bike that performs well. In addition, it has lots of great features that you may love.
Depending on the model, Wing e-bikes have a motor capable of delivering around 350-750W of power. The Wing e-bike model with the highest motor power is the Freedom Fatty 2 e-bike. It only cost $1,298, which is very affordable. Its 750W motor can provide 80Nm torque, which is excellent for riding hills. However, the rest of Wing e-bike models only have 49Nm of torque.
If you would like to learn more about why electric bike torque is important, check out our article: Electric Bike Torque: The Ultimate Guide To eBike Torque
Wing e-bikes have key features such as their integrated lights, security features, and three battery options. You can choose either a 36V 8.8aH, 36V 10.4aH, or 36V 14aH battery. Their batteries are made of Panasonic cells, one of the most well-known and reliable batteries.
The security features of Wing e-bikes include remote lock via key-fob and tamper detection with a unique alarm.
How Fast Does a Wing eBike Go?
On average, a Wing e-bike can go from 22mph-28mph. Wing e-bike models have different maximum speed limits. The maximum speed limit of Freedom X is up to 24mph, 28mph for Freedom Fatty 2, 22mph for Freedom S2, and 25mph for Freedom 2.
Each model of Wing e-bikes has a different maximum speed. However, whatever their top speeds are, always follow your local area’s eBike speed limits. Most Wing e-bikes are classified as Class 1 e-bikes. Class 1 e-bikes can only go up to 20mph in most states.
If you would like to learn how fast you can ride your eBike in your area, check out our article: Are Electric Bikes Street Legal (Detailed Info: All 50 States)
