How the VanMoof Kick Lock, auto-unlock and alarm work (S3, X3, S5, A5)
The Kick Lock blocks the rear wheel electronically; unlocking is done from the app, by phone proximity, or with the backup code on the bike. The alarm and 'Theft defence' are separate app settings.
Step by step
- To lock: stand next to the rear wheel and kick the small button on the right-hand side of the rear hub (S3/X3) or on the rear wheel lock (S5/A5). The bike beeps and the wheel is blocked.
- To unlock with the phone: open the app with Bluetooth on; with 'Auto-unlock' enabled the bike unlocks when your phone is within about a metre. Otherwise tap 'Unlock' in the app.
- To unlock without the phone: tap the backup code on the bike. S3/X3: hold the power button on the top tube and enter the 3-digit code using the left handlebar button (press count = digit, pause between digits). S5/A5: same idea using the left button and the Halo Ring feedback.
- To turn the alarm on/off: Settings > 'Security' > 'Alarm'. The alarm escalates from a short beep to a continuous siren if the bike is moved while locked.
- To enable 'Theft defence' (S3/X3): Settings > 'Security' > toggle 'Theft defence'. It disables the motor and lights until a rightful unlock.
- Set or view your backup code: Settings > 'Security' > 'Backup code'. Write it down; without it a dead phone means a locked bike.
Can't find it?
Older app versions call it 'Kick Lock' under Settings > 'Bike'. The backup code is called 'Unlock code' on the S3/X3. If you bought the bike second-hand and never set a code, the previous owner's code still applies until the bike is transferred to your account.
Frequently asked
The bike unlocks by itself in the shed. Why?
Auto-unlock is on and your phone is within range through the wall. Turn off 'Auto-unlock' or reduce its range in Settings > Security.
Does the Kick Lock still work if VanMoof's servers go down?
Yes. Locking, unlocking by proximity and the backup code work over Bluetooth only. You do need to have logged in to the app at least once so the bike keys are on your phone.
The alarm goes off every time a bus passes.
Lower the alarm sensitivity (Settings > Security > 'Alarm sensitivity') or turn the alarm off and rely on the lock and Theft defence.
Manuals and video
Videos found on YouTube and checked automatically; they are other people's work, not ours.
- VanMoof S3 & X3 | Three ways to unlock the VanMoof S3 & X3 VanMoof
- Unstoppable Anti-Theft? Testing VanMoof S3 Kick Lock & Apple Find My Tech Ebikesarehere
- LOST YOUR iPhone? No Problem! VanMoof S3 Secret PIN Code Unlocks! Ebikesarehere