Cowboy 4 E-Bike: New Model with Step-Through & Phone Charger

Cowboy Unveils the Next Generation of Urban E-Bikes: The Cowboy 4

Cowboy, an innovative e-bike startup, has announced the release of its latest urban electric bicycle, the Cowboy 4. This new model is available in two frame styles: a traditional frame and a convenient step-through design.

Introducing the C4 and C4 ST

The C4 represents a significant advancement over the previous version 3. Meanwhile, the C4 ST, the step-through variant, is anticipated to resonate particularly with younger riders accustomed to city-focused bicycles.

Both the C4 and C4 ST are offered at a price of £2,290/€2,490, including mudguards. Pre-orders are currently being accepted at cowboy.com with a deposit of €100/£100, and deliveries are scheduled to commence in September 2021.

Competitive Landscape

Cowboy has secured $46.1 million in venture funding, positioning it as a key competitor alongside VanMoof ($61.1 million) and, to a lesser degree, Furo Systems (£750,000). A primary distinction lies in Cowboy’s increasing emphasis on cloud technology and app integration.

In contrast, VanMoof tends to integrate features, such as a screen, directly into the bike’s hardware, while also offering an accompanying app. Furo prioritizes ease of maintenance and lightweight construction.

Enhanced Performance and Features

Cowboy states that both bicycle models boast a 50% increase in torque through their automatic transmission system. The engine engages seamlessly as the pedals are turned, eliminating the need for manual gear changes.

The removable battery, weighing 2.4 kg, provides a range of up to 70 km. The heaviest configuration of the bikes, including the battery, weighs 19.2 kg, and they are capable of reaching a top speed of 25 km/h (15 mph).

According to Adrien Roose, co-founder and CEO of Cowboy:

The step-through model is designed to comfortably accommodate riders between 160-190 cm in height, while the standard C4 is suitable for individuals ranging from 170-195 cm tall.

Initial testing on a London basketball court and surrounding streets revealed both bikes to be remarkably responsive and enjoyable to ride. The step-through version is expected to appeal to a broad spectrum of cyclists.

Custom Design and Accessories

Roose emphasized that the bike has been entirely custom-designed. Only the saddle, sourced from Selle Royal, and the carbon belt, provided by Gates, are supplied by third-party manufacturers.

Improvements include integrated brake cables within the handlebars and stem, redesigned angles for the brakes and pedals, and a novel “dropout” design for the rear wheel.

Cowboy will also offer a range of custom-designed accessories, beginning with a rear rack and kickstand. The C4 and C4 ST will be available in Black, Khaki, and Sand, with pre-orders open now and deliveries starting in September. Mudguards are included as standard.

Integrated Technology and App Features

A wireless charging mount is now integrated into the stem, featuring a Quad Lock mount for securely holding the rider’s smartphone and wirelessly charging it using the bike’s internal battery.

Tanguy Goretti, co-founder and VP of Software, explained: “The updated Cowboy app [will display] remaining battery life, air quality along the route, and a comprehensive suite of real-time fitness metrics.”

The app also features a redesigned navigation screen, 3D map rendering, turn-by-turn directions, air quality index information for routes, live fitness data, leaderboard rankings, and a new community feature enabling participation in organized group rides in European cities.

Support and Services

Cowboy provides a complimentary repair network across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Austria, and Luxembourg. Customers also benefit from six days a week customer support and a subscription plan, in partnership with Qover, offering theft detection and insurance coverage throughout Europe.