We told you about VanMoof's Electrified S bike last year, and Now the company has launched a new model, the Electrified X, which they say is specifically designed for the mean streets of Tokyo.
"Tsukin jigoku, the Japanese term for riding the Tokyo subway, translates literally as 'commuter hell.' Pure inspiration for VanMoof, that believes the ultimate bike is the key to the most effortless city A to B", the press release tells us. "The VanMoof Electrified X is the first of its kind, designed specifically with the Mega Cities of the world in mind. By rethinking the city cycling experience, VanMoof has invented a bike that removes all barriers to a two-wheeled commute."
So what's been updated? Well the frame has, which has influenced the name change. The cruciform design lines up the top tube with the bottom of the head tube rather than the top, giving a lower standover height. With the average Japanese man standing some 13cm shorter than his counterpart in the Netherlands, where VanMoof is based, that will make the one-size-fits-all frame design work better.
Much of the tech is ported over from the Electrified S. The battery and electronics are integrated into the frams, with a small display on the top tube that also acts as a fingerprint sensor to activate or release the bike's in-built lock. Well, sort of: the bike is controlled via an app, and a touch on the screen when your phone is close by (ie in your pocket) will unlock it so you can be on your way.
Lighting is also fully integrated, and VanMoof claim the 418Wh internal battery and 250W hub motor will give the Electrified X a range of 120km. It'll propel you up to 36km/h, although they'll have to tone that down a bit for most of the rest of the world. Full mudguards and a fully-enclosed chain make the bike city-friendly in Tokyo, where it rains on about one in three days through the year.
What if your bike goes missing? VanMoof's Bike Hunters will track it down for you. The service is free for the first year and VanMoof commit to finding your bike within two weeks, or replacing it free of charge. That's got to be good for your peace of mind. As well as that, all components are scured with anti-theft bolts to deter the casual seat-swiper.
The Electrified X will go on sale this year in Japan for 370,000 Yen (about £2,600) with the global roll-out of the model scheduled for 2018.
