Living in Berlin, I’ve had two bikes stolen. That’s far fewer than many of my friends; it becomes something you accept about the city. But now, in the age of super technology, what if you knew that if your bike was stolen it could be tracked, located, and make its way back to you within 14 days? That’s at least what Dutch company VanMoofpromises. Equipped with an inbuilt speed display, linked to your phone for recording your route, keyless unlocking, and constantly updating technology, their new SmartBike is also as close to theft proof as possible, with a lack of external screws, an integrated lock, and an anti-theft tracking system. While this is all fantastic, the term “SmartBike” perhaps doesn’t sound too stylish. Yet smart is the new sexy; like all the VanMoof creations, their newest product is characteristically minimal, with all cables and cogs tucked within a sleek matte frame to form a feather light, super smooth ride. I cycled around the city for hours, comfortable and delighted by the biking experience. Pre-order one online before midnight on Friday for a special early bird price, or head to the Charlottenburg showroom to try the bikes before you buy one – we promise you’ll be won over as soon as you start pedalling. (Text: Antonia Harris / Photo: Ira Bolsinger)
VanMoof Showroom, Walter-Benjamin-Platz 2, 10629 Berlin-Charlottenburg; map
Tue-Fri 11-19h, Sat 11-18h
