How to transfer a VanMoof S3, X3, S5 or A5 to a new owner (and what to do if the seller is unreachable)
A VanMoof is tied to the seller's account; the buyer cannot unlock it or pair the app until the seller releases it. The transfer is done in the app, and since the bankruptcy the fallback via support is slow and needs proof of purchase.
Step by step
- Seller: open the VanMoof app, connect to the bike, go to Settings > 'Bike' > 'Transfer ownership' (older app: 'Remove bike from account').
- Seller: enter the buyer's email address (the buyer must already have a VanMoof account with that email) and confirm.
- Buyer: log in to the VanMoof app; the bike appears under 'My bikes' with a 'Accept' prompt. Accept while standing next to the unlocked bike.
- Buyer: set a new backup code (Settings > Security > Backup code) and check region, units and alarm settings.
- Seller: log out; the bike disappears from your account and the old backup code stops working.
- Also hand over the physical keys (if any), the charger and the original invoice; VanMoof asks for the invoice if anything about the transfer needs to be fixed.
Can't find it?
If 'Transfer ownership' is missing, the seller's app is out of date. Update it. If the seller no longer has the app, they can transfer from the VanMoof website under 'My account' > 'Bikes'.
Frequently asked
The previous owner cannot be reached. Can I still use the bike?
The bike is rideable only if it was left unlocked and you know the backup code. To get it onto your account you must contact VanMoof support ([email protected] or a service partner) with proof of purchase, the frame number and ideally the seller's name. Since the takeover this can take weeks; without proof of purchase they will refuse, as the bike may be stolen.
Does the transfer still work after the bankruptcy?
Yes, the app flow works because the servers are still running under Lavoie / McLaren Applied. Support-assisted transfers are the slow part.
Is a VanMoof without app transfer worth buying?
Only at scrap-part prices. Without account access you cannot change the region, update firmware, use Theft defence or reset the backup code.