Vanmoof Vs. Cowboy (The Ultimate Comparison)
My friend asked me if he should buy a Vanmoof electric bike or a Cowboy electric bike. I wanted to help him decide, so I compared these two electric bike brands side by side.
As a whole, the cheapest electric bike between Vanmoof e-bike models and Cowboy e-bike models is the Cowboy 3. It only costs about $2,300 (€2,290). The Cowboy 3 e-bike model is $148 more affordable than the cheapest Vanmoof electric bike model.
As a general rule, if you are looking for an electric bike with a higher range, you should choose a Vanmoof electric bike model. The Vanmoof S3, Vanmoof X3, and Vanmoof S5 have an average range of 37-93 miles per charge, whereas the Vanmoof A5 has an average range of 37-87 miles per charge.
On average, if you are looking for an e-bike with greater torque, you should choose a Vanmoof electric bike model. The torque of Vanmoof electric bikes is between 59-68 newton-meter, whereas the torque of Cowboy e-bikes is between 30-45 newton-meter.
We created a table outlining the similarities and differences between Vanmoof and Cowboy electric bikes. If you want to find out which e-bike is best for you, keep reading.
Vanmoof vs. Cowboy
| Ebike | Vanmoof | Cowboy |
| Number of Models | 4 models available (Vanmoof S5, Vanmoof A5, Vanmoof S3, and Vanmoof X3) | 3 models available (C3, C4, and C4 ST) |
| Cost of Purchase | $2,448-$2,998(€2,438-€2,986) | $2,300 -$2,802.42(€2,290-€2,790) |
| Motor Power | 250 watts | 250 watts |
| Range | 34 miles (60 km) (on full power mode) 93 miles (150 km) (on economy power mode) | 43 miles (70 km) |
| Running Cost | $0.29-$0.46 on a single charge | $0.18 on a single charge |
| Maintenance Cost | $348-$690 (€346.48-€687)over a 3-year period $9.67-$19.17 (€9.63-19.€19.09) per month | $361.47-$722.94 (€360- €720) over a 3-year period $10.04-$20.08 (€10- €20) per month |
| Warranty Period | 3 years | 2 years |
| Reliability | Highly reliable when properly maintained | Highly reliable when properly maintained |
Number of Models: Vanmoof vs. Cowboy
As a whole, Vanmoof has more models available than Cowboy. Vanmoof has four e-bike models available: Vanmoof S5, Vanmoof A5, Vanmoof S3, and Vanmoof X3. On the other hand, Cowboy has three e-bike models: C3, C4, and C4 ST.
Vanmoof has four electric bike models available with one or two color options for each. Vanmoof S5, Vanmoof A5, Vanmoof S3, and Vanmoof X3 have several components in common, including their seatpost diameter of 1.3″, handlebar width of 26.8″, manual disarm security, anti-theft nuts and bolts, and automatic rider recognition.
Vanmoof has one more model coming soon, which is the Vanmoof V. The expected price of this model is $3,598. Some of its incredible features are the 31mph top speed, front and rear suspension, and dual motor configuration. You can reserve this Vanmoof V model for only $20.
The Cowboy electric bike models have two to three color options each. The C3, C4, and C4 ST have common components such as puncture-resistant tires, removable lithium-ion batteries, 200-lumen front lights, 50-lumen rear integrated lights, range of up to 43 miles (70 kilometers), app functionalities, and crash detection.
You can book a test ride for both Vanmoof and Cowboy e-bikes to determine which e-bike would be better for you. You can book a Vanmoof electric bike test ride here. You can book Cowboy electric bike test ride here.
Cost of Purchase: Vanmoof vs. Cowboy
As a general rule, Vanmoof electric bikes are more expensive than Cowboy electric bikes. Vanmoof electric bike models cost $2,448-$2,998, whereas the Cowboy electric bike models cost $2,300-$2,802.42.
We have created a table for the prices of each Vanmoof and Cowboy electric bike model.
| Vanmoof eBike Models | Price | Cowboy eBike Models | Price |
| Vanmoof S5 | $2,998(€2,986) | Cowboy 3 | $2,300(€2,290) |
| Vanmoof A5 | $2,998(€2,986) | Cowboy 4 | $2,802.42(€2,790) |
| Vanmoof S3 | $2,448(€2,438) | Cowboy 4 ST | $2,802.42(€2,790) |
| Vanmoof X3 | $2,448(€2,438) |
As shown on the table, the most expensive Vanmoof e-bike models are the Vanmoof S5 and Vanmoof A5, which cost $2,998, while the cheapest are the Vanmoof S3 and Vanmoof X3, which cost $2,448.
On the other hand, the most expensive Cowboy e-bike models are the Cowboy 4 and Cowboy 4 ST. In contrast, the cheapest model is the Cowboy 3.
Looking at their prices, the cheapest Cowboy electric bike model is $148 more affordable than the cheapest Vanmoof electric bike model. Furthermore, the most expensive Cowboy electric bike model is $195.58 more affordable than the most expensive Vanmoof e-bike model.
Key Features of the Cheapest Cowboy Electric Bike Model (Cowboy 3).
- Cowboy 3 e-bike is equipped with a removable 360Wh battery with a range of up to 43 miles (70 km) on a single charge. This battery can be fully charged in three hours and thirty minutes.
- The motor of Cowboy 3 has a nominal power of 250 watts with 30 Nm torque.
- Cowboy 3 is lightweight, weighing only about 40 pounds (18.2 kilograms).
- The frame of Cowboy 3 is made of aluminum 6061, which is highly durable.
- It uses Tektro hydraulic brakes, which have powerful braking performance. Read “Advantages And Disadvantages Of Hydraulic Brakes” to learn more about hydraulic brakes.
- Cowboy 3 uses a carbon belt drive. It is cost-effective, durable, lightweight, rust-proof, and has a longer life span than chains. Carbon belt drives also have lower maintenance costs because they do not need regular maintenance, unlike chains.
- This electric bike has puncture-resistant tires.
- Cowboy 3 e-bike has integrated lights mounted in the frame, providing visibility in day or night conditions.
- Crash detection allows the app to notify emergency contacts in case of an emergency.
- Theft detection with theft insurance is included. You can read more about their theft insurance here.
Key Features of the Cheapest Vanmoof Electric Bike Models (Vanmoof S3 and X3)
- Vanmoof S3 and X3 have removable 504Wh batteries made from LG cells. These electric bikes can travel 37-93 miles (60-150 km) on a single charge. Their batteries can be fully charged within four hours.
- The motors of Vanmoof S3 and X3 have 250 watts nominal power with 59 Nm torque.
- The Vanmoof S3 has an estimated weight of 46 pounds (21kg), while the Vanmoof X3 has an estimated weight of 45.9 pounds (20.8 kg).
- The frames of Vanmoof S3 and X3 are made of highly durable aluminum.
- They use Tektro hydraulic brakes, which provide precise stopping power in all weather conditions. Read “Advantages And Disadvantages Of Hydraulic Brakes” to learn more about hydraulic brakes.
- Vanmoof S3 and X3 have fully-enclosed drive trains (chains). The advantages of fully-enclosed chain drives are: (1) they can be used in both shorter and longer distances; (2) they have high transmission efficiency; (3) they are compact, so they occupy less space; (4) there is no slip during power transmission; (5) since they are enclosed, the chain is protected from dirt, mud, and debris.
- They have puncture-resistant tires.
- Vanmoof S3 and X3 have 40 Lux automatic LED lights.
- They are equipped with automatic electronic gear shifting for a smoother ride.
- Automatic rider recognition and integrated alarms.
Key Features of the Most Expensive Cowboy Electric Bike Models (Cowboy 4 and Cowboy 4 ST)
- Cowboy 4 and Cowboy 4 ST are equipped with removable 360Wh battery with a range of up to 43 miles (70 km) on a single charge. Their batteries can be fully charged in three hours and thirty minutes.
- Their motors have 250 watts nominal power with 45 Nm torque.
- They have a wireless phone charging feature for up to 15 watts.
- Cowboy 4 weighs 41.7 pounds (18.9 kg), while Cowboy 4 ST weighs 42.3 pounds (19.2 kg).
- Their frames are made of aluminum 6061, which is highly durable.
- Cowboy 4 and Cowboy 4 ST have customized brakes.
- These electric bikes have puncture-resistant tires.
- They have integrated cockpits.
- Cowboy 4 and Cowboy 4 ST have integrated lights in the frame that provide visibility day or night.
- Crash detection allows the app to notify emergency contacts in case of accidents.
- Theft detection with theft insurance is included. You can read more about their theft insurance here.
- They are equipped with predictive technology that notifies you when your battery needs to be recharged.
Key Features of the Most Expensive Vanmoof Electric Bike Models (Vanmoof S5 and A5)
- Vanmoof S5 has a 487Wh battery capacity with a range of 37-93 miles on a single charge, while the Vanmoof A5 has a 463Wh battery capacity with a range of up to 37-87 miles on a single charge. Both can be fully charged in six hours and thirty minutes.
- Vanmoof S5 and Vanmoof A5 motors have 250 watts nominal power with 68 Nm torque.
- Vanmoof S5 weighs 50.7 pounds, while Vanmoof A5 weighs 48.5 pounds.
- The frames of Vanmoof S3 and X3 are made of aluminum.
- They use Tektro hydraulic brakes, which provide precise stopping power in all weather conditions. Read “Advantages And Disadvantages Of Hydraulic Brakes” to learn more about hydraulic brakes.
- They are equipped with Gen 5 E-shifter for a smoother ride.
- Vanmoof S3 and X3 have 40 Lux automatic LED lights.
- Security includes multi-technology location/theft tracking, manual disarm, Gen 5 kick lock, and automatic rider recognition.
“Sometimes you make the right decision; sometimes you make the decision right.”
–Phil McGraw
Motor Power: Vanmoof vs. Cowboy
As a general rule, there is no significant difference in the motor power of Vanmoof electric bike models and Cowboy electric bike models. They all have nominal motor power of 250 watts, but they provide different torque.
Vanmoof e-bike models have higher torque than any Cowboy electric bike model. The cheapest models of the Vanmoof e-bike (Vanmoof S3 and X3) have 59 Nm torque. In contrast, the cheapest model of the Cowboy electric bike (Cowboy 3) has 30 Nm torque.
Furthermore, the most expensive Vanmoof e-bike models (Vanmoof S5 and Vanmoof A5) have 68 Nm torque. In contrast, the most expensive Cowboy e-bike models (Cowboy 4 and Cowboy 4 ST) have 45 Nm torque.
Any Vanmoof electric bike model will perform better when riding uphill than Cowboy e-bike models. If you are interested in learning more about electric bike torque, read our article “Electric Bike Torque: The Ultimate Guide To eBike Torque.”
Range: Vanmoof vs. Cowboy
On average, there is a significant difference in the range of Vanmoof and Cowboy electric bikes. Vanmoof e-bike models can travel an average of 37-93 miles (60-150 km) on a single charge, whereas the Cowboy electric bike models can travel up to 43 miles (70 km).
Vanmoof e-bike models have different battery capacities. Vanmoof S3 and Vanmoof X3 have battery capacities of 504 Wh, while the Vanmoof S5 has a battery capacity of 487Wh. Vanmoof S3, Vanmoof X3, and Vanmoof S5 can travel 37-93 miles on a single charge. Furthermore, Vanmoof A5 has a battery capacity of 463Wh with an average range of 37-87 miles on a single charge.
All Cowboy electric bike models have a battery capacity of 360Wh and can travel up to 43 miles (70 km) on a single charge.
If you want an e-bike that will allow you to travel longer distances, any of the Vanmoof e-bikes would be great. However, these estimated ranges for each electric bike can be affected by several factors such as the weather conditions, rider’s weight, riding style, and type of terrain.
Weather Condition Affects Range of Vanmoof and Cowboy Electric Bikes
Regardless of brand, the range of any electric bike will be affected by the weather conditions in your area. For instance, if you live in an area where rain is frequent, there is a high possibility that your range will be shorter than expected. This is because you tend to use greater battery power when it’s raining.
Rider’s Weight Affects Range of Vanmoof and Cowboy Electric Bikes
The rider’s weight or the overall payload weight can also affect the range of Vanmoof and Cowboy electric bikes or any other e-bike. The greater the weight, the more power your motor needs to propel your electric bike. In that case, the motor will need more energy from the battery, thus shortening its range.
Riding Style Affects Range of Vanmoof and Cowboy Electric Bikes
This is also one of the critical factors that affect the range of any electric bike. For example, suppose you use your Vanmoof or Cowboy electric bike primarily for commuting or touring. In those cases, your range will be higher than when you use it for extreme riding.
Type of Terrain Affects Range of Vanmoof and Cowboy Electric Bikes
The type of terrain could significantly affect the range of any electric bike. For instance, if you are riding on smooth roads, your range will be higher. In contrast, if you are riding in muddy or rough terrains, your range will be lower.
If you would like your electric bike to travel further, you can choose to charge it on the go. With this, you won’t worry about draining your e-bike battery in the middle of nowhere. Read our article “Charging eBike on the Go (Car Battery, Inverter, Power Bank, Solar)” for more information.
Running Cost: Vanmoof vs. Cowboy
As a whole, the running cost of Vanmoof electric bike models is higher than the running cost of Cowboy electric bike models. The average running cost of Vanmoof is $0.29-$0.46 per charge, whereas Cowboy has an average running cost of $0.18 per charge.
The running cost of Vanmoof and Cowboy electric bikes can be computed when the following information is known:
- Their battery capacities
- Their charging time
- Electricity rate per state
The Vanmoof electric bike models have battery capacities of 463Wh, 487Wh, and 504Wh. The Vanmoof electric bikes with 463Wh and 487Wh battery capacities can be fully charged in 6.5 hours, whereas the Vanmoof electric bike with 504Wh battery capacity can be fully charged in four hours. On the other hand, The Cowboy electric bike models have a battery capacity of 360Wh with a charging time of 3.5 hours.
The average electricity rate in the United States as of June 2022 is $0.1447. However, this rate may be higher or lower, depending on your state. You can check your state’s electricity rate on Choose Energy website.
After taking note of the above-mentioned details, you can proceed in computing the running costs of your Vanmoof or Cowboy e-bike.
Cost of Charging e-bike= [(Voltage X Ah)/1000]X(rate of charge per KWh)X(hours of charge)
Following the equation above, the Vanmoof electric bikes will have an average running cost of $0.29-0.46 on a single charge, whereas the Cowboy electric bikes will have an average running cost of $0.18 on a single charge. Vanmoof electric bike models may have higher running costs than Cowboy electric bike models, but the difference is negligible.
Regardless of the brand, any electric bike’s running cost is affected by how frequently you charge it. If you ride your electric bike regularly, you will need to charge your battery more often. Hence, your e-bike running cost will be greater.
Maintenance Cost: Vanmoof vs. Cowboy
On average, Vanmoof and Cowboy have different maintenance service costs. Vanmoof services cost $348-$690 for 3-year coverage, while the Cowboy services cost $361.47-$722.94 for 3-year coverage. You can choose not to utilize any of their maintenance services and pay $150 a year for a professional mechanic.
Vanmoof offers a service called “Peace of Mind” services. These plans cost $348, $398, or $690 for three-year coverage. There are three services under “Peace of Mind”— Theft, Maintenance, and Theft + Maintenance.
The chart below shows the one-time payment of each Cowboy’s “Peace of Mind” services for 3-year coverage.
| Peace of Mind Services | One-time Payment |
| Peace of Mind Theft | $398 or as monthly payments of $11 for three-year coverage |
| Peace of Mind Maintenance | $348 or under $10 per month for a three-year coverage |
| Peace of Mind Theft + Maintenance | $348 or over $19 per month for a three-year coverage |
The Peace of Mind Theft service includes recovering or replacing your Vanmoof electric bike if it is stolen. In a span of three years, Vanmoof will recover or replace your electric bike up to three times. You can read more about this Peace of Mind Theft service here.
Vanmoof’s Peace of Mind Maintenance service includes regular preventive check-ups to ensure that your electric bike will run at its optimal capabilities. It also includes the replacement of certain parts that naturally wear and tear. You can read more about this Peace of Mind Maintenance service here.
The Peace of Mind Theft + Maintenance includes the services covered by both Peace of Mind Theft and Peace of Mind Maintenance.
These Peace of Mind services are incredibly helpful. However, if you are in the United States, they are only available in large cities such as Austin, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington, D.C. These services are also available in some countries such as Japan and selected European countries.
If these services are not available in your area, you will need to ask for help from a professional mechanic when your electric bike needs to be fixed. The service fee may be around $150 per year, excluding the cost of parts that need replacement.
Cowboy also has maintenance services, namely Cowboy Care and Cowboy Theft insurance. The Cowboy Care costs €20 ($20.09)/month, while the Cowboy Theft insurance costs €10 ($10.04)/month.
The Cowboy Care service includes Cowboy electric bike maintenance and free replacement parts, such as brakes, tires, and inner tubes. It also includes unlimited appointments, so you can contact them and book an appointment whenever you need one. Learn more about Cowboy Care service here.
The Cowboy Theft insurance service includes theft alerts when someone attempts to steal your electric bike. Additionally, if your electric bike is stolen, Cowboy will reimburse you. Learn more about Cowboy Theft Insurance service here.
Unfortunately, the Cowboy Care and Cowboy Theft Insurance services are only available in some European countries. However, if you are from a different country, you can bring your electric bike to any e-bike shop, where you will pay around $150 per year, excluding the cost of replacement parts.
Regardless of whether you choose to purchase a service package, it would be best to familiarize yourself with the essentials of electric bike maintenance. You’ll need basic electric bike cleaning tools. You can buy this Muc Off electric bike essential kit on Amazon.
How to Maintain Your eBike
- Clean your e-bike regularly
- Check your e-bike for any wear and tear
- Waterproof your e-bike if needed
- Do not overcharge your battery
- Store your electric bike properly when not in use
- Check for software updates regularly
Cleaning your electric bike regularly will keep it well-maintained, allowing it to perform at its utmost capacity. Cleaning your e-bike is a must, especially if riding on dirty, muddy, or rocky roads. Dirt, mud, debris, or grease can wear your electric bike components quickly.
Most parts of electric bikes acquire wear and tear over time. Some parts prone to damage from use are the chain, brake pads, cranks, rotor, and pedals. If you observe any wear and tear in your electric bike, it is always best to clean or replace the damaged parts. To learn more about electric bike brake pads, check out our article “How Long eBike Brake Pads Last (We Tested 97 Electric Bikes).” In addition, you should always lube your chain. Clean and lubricated chains provide a smoother, better riding experience.
If you live in an area where rain is frequent, you can choose to waterproof your electric bike. That way, you won’t worry much about damaging your electric bike (especially the electrical components such as the battery and motor) while riding. Learn more about waterproofing your electric bike by reading our article “How To Waterproof Your eBike (Avoid This Mistake).”
Most electric bike companies publicize the charging time for each electric bike model. It is recommended that you avoid overcharging your electric bike battery to avoid a short circuit or possible fire.
If you decide to store your electric bike battery, ensure it is only partially charged. Your battery should be between 40%-80% charged before storing. Storing your e-bike battery with nearly 100% charge will reduce the battery life. Furthermore, storing a drained battery will damage it because the battery drains over time.
If you decide not to use your electric bike for a little while, storing it properly will protect it. Read our article “17 Electric Bike Storage Ideas You Can Actually Use (Home, Garage, Outside)” to learn more.
Most electric bikes have software, and updating them is a must for efficiency and to maintain your e-bike’s peak performance.
You can watch the video below for professional advice on maintaining an e-bike.
Warranty Period: Vanmoof vs. Cowboy
As a general rule, Vanmoof electric bike models have a longer warranty period than Cowboy electric bike models. Vanmoof e-bikes are guaranteed under a three-year limited warranty, whereas Cowboy e-bikes come with a two-year limited warranty.
The Vanmoof three-year limited warranty covers the replacement of any defective parts due to workmanship. However, it does not cover the replacement of damaged components due to improper installation, improper use, and improper maintenance. Read more about Vanmoof’s warranty services.
The Cowboy two-year limited warranty covers the replacement of any defective parts due to workmanship. The limited warranty does not include replacing defective parts due to improper installation, use, or maintenance. Read more about Cowboy’s warranty services.
Reliability: Vanmoof vs. Cowboy
As a whole, there is no significant difference in the reliability of Vanmoof and Cowboy electric bikes. When bought new, Vanmoof and Cowboy electric bikes are both highly reliable when properly maintained and used.
No electric bike is perfect. Some Vanmoof and Cowboy owners experience minor issues with their electric bikes. Some problems have been known to occur in their drive train, wheels, displays, and the app. If you discover that some of the parts were defective when delivered, it is recommended to reach out to each company’s respective contact support. For Vanmoof contact support, click here. For Cowboy contact support, click here.
Is a VanMoof Worth It?
As a general rule, Vanmoof e-bikes are worth the cost. Vanmoof electric bike models are incredibly reliable because of their high-tech riding features, impressive battery life and range, and fantastic security features.
Some high-tech riding features of Vanmoof are the automatic electronic gear shifter, LED Halo Ring display for some e-bike models, and anti-theft technology.
Another thing that makes Vanmoof e-bikes worth it is their range. The range of Vanmoof e-bike models is between 37 miles and 93 miles on a single charge.
The security features of Vanmoof are also one of the reasons they are worth every penny. The security features include automatic rider recognition, multi-technology location/theft tracking, manual disarm, and kick lock.
Can You Ride VanMoof Without Battery?
As a general rule, you can ride any Vanmoof electric bike model without a battery. When you pedal, the battery provides the power to start the motor, assisting you. If you run out of battery, you can always ride your Vanmoof e-bike without assistance.
Regardless of the brand, any electric bike can be ridden without a battery. However, note that the battery is responsible for powering your motor and assisting you. Without it, you’ll ride your electric bike just like a traditional bicycle.
If you run out of battery, you can choose to charge it on the go. Read our article “Charging eBike on the Go (Car Battery, Inverter, Power Bank, Solar)” for more details.
Where Are Cowboy Bikes Made?
As a whole, Cowboy electric bikes are made in Belgium. Cowboy was founded in 2017. Though they are based in Belgium, they can now ship electric bikes to all US states except Alaska and Hawaii.
You can also check out our article “Best Electric Bike Brands (Ranked by Budget Level & Style)” if you think neither Vanmoof nor Cowboy e-bike suits your needs.
