How to update VanMoof firmware and what to do when the update fails
Firmware for the motor, battery, lock and display is updated over the air from the VanMoof app. Updates are rarer since the bankruptcy, but they still arrive and can fix lock and battery quirks.
Step by step
- Charge the bike to at least 50% and put the phone on charge too.
- Open the app next to the bike; if an update is available, a banner 'Firmware update available' shows on the bike screen. Otherwise Settings > 'Bike' > 'Firmware' > 'Check for updates'.
- Tap 'Update' and keep the phone within a metre of the top tube. Do not lock the screen; on iPhone the update stops if the app goes to the background.
- The bike may reboot several times (display flickers, Halo Ring cycles). A full update takes 5 to 20 minutes.
- When the app says 'Up to date', lock and unlock the bike once and check units, region and alarm settings; some updates reset them.
- If the update fails midway: leave the bike on, reopen the app and tap 'Retry'. The bike keeps the old firmware until the new one is fully written, so a failed update rarely bricks anything.
Can't find it?
No 'Firmware' entry means your app version is old or your account is not the owner of the bike. Update the app from the App Store / Play Store first. On the S5/A5 the entry is under Settings > 'About this bike'.
Frequently asked
The bike is stuck with a flashing display after a failed update.
Hold the power button for 10 seconds to reboot. If it comes back, retry the update. If it stays dark, the battery may have hit its cut-off during the update: charge for an hour and try again.
Do I have to install updates?
No, but firmware around 2023-2024 fixed known Kick Lock and battery-communication faults on the S3/X3, so it is worth it.
Are updates still released after the takeover?
Yes, but infrequently. The new VanMoof concentrates on the S6; S3/X3 receive maintenance updates only.
Manuals and video
Videos found on YouTube and checked automatically; they are other people's work, not ours.
- VanMoof S3/X3 New Feature - change Motor Assist Levels while riding #update #vanmoof #assist vanmoofer
- VanMoof update Anleitung Life Hacks - Tipps & Tricks