dance E-Bike Subscription - Berlin | Affordable & Flexible

Dance Launches E-Bike Subscription in Berlin

A new subscription service for electric bikes has been initiated by German startup Dance, beginning in Berlin. For a consistent monthly charge of €79 (approximately $93 based on current exchange rates), subscribers receive a uniquely designed electric bicycle alongside comprehensive on-demand repair and maintenance support.

Founding and Funding

The company was established by the original founders of both SoundCloud and Jimdo. Prior to the service launch, Dance successfully secured substantial investment. BlueYard spearheaded the startup’s initial seed funding round, while HV Capital (previously HV Holtzbrinck Ventures) led the €15 million Series A funding, equivalent to $17.7 million at the time of investment.

The significant capital requirements stemmed from Dance’s decision to internally design and develop its own e-bike.

Introducing the Dance One

The bicycle, named the Dance One, boasts an aluminum alloy frame and a weight of approximately 22 kg (48.5 lbs). It features a single-speed drivetrain and utilizes an electric motor to facilitate speeds up to 25 kph (15.5 mph).

A key advantage of the Dance One is the removable lithium battery, allowing for convenient charging at home. This addresses a notable shortcoming found in VanMoof e-bikes, eliminating the need to bring the entire bicycle indoors for charging. This feature will be particularly appreciated by apartment dwellers, who can expect a range of 55 km per charge.

Design and Features

The Dance One incorporates a carbon belt drive, minimizing the need for frequent maintenance. An integrated smartphone mount is positioned at the front, designed for compatibility with commonly used phone cases. Electric assistance levels are controlled via handlebar-mounted buttons, offering three modes: high, low, and no assistance.

Integrated front and rear lights are activated with a simple button press. Hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power, and optional accessories such as baskets or saddlebags can be added.

Smart Features and Security

Similar to e-bikes from brands like VanMoof and Cowboy, the Dance bike can be locked and unlocked through a dedicated mobile application. GPS and Bluetooth technology are integrated into the bike’s frame. However, the company recommends supplementing the smart lock with a traditional physical lock for enhanced security.

Subscription Details and Availability

The subscription costs €79 per month, providing access to a bicycle without long-term commitments or upfront fees. Subscribers can opt for short-term subscriptions, such as for the summer months. Maintenance and repairs are included, with a mechanic dispatched to address any issues.

Following testing with hundreds of beta users, “thousands” of bikes are now available to the public. Currently, the service is focused on Berlin, with plans for expansion to other cities throughout Germany and Europe.

Competition and Outlook

Dance will face competition from existing subscription services like Swapfiets and Véligo (Paris). It will also contend with on-demand bike-sharing programs like Lime and various public-private bike-sharing initiatives. Furthermore, some consumers may still choose to purchase their own e-bikes.

However, Dance presents a compelling offering, combining an aesthetically pleasing bicycle design with a high degree of flexibility for users. The startup is well-positioned to attract customers seeking a streamlined and comprehensive e-bike experience.