NYC To Lower E-Bike Speeds, Specialized Globe Haul Recall, Vanmoof Launches New Rides | TWR Ep 35

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has announced that the speed limit for e-bikes and e-scooters will be reduced to 15 mph—down from the previous 25 mph—on city streets and bike lanes. The decision, he said, comes in response to growing public concerns over pedestrian safety.

“I have heard, over and over again, from New Yorkers about how their safety — and the safety of their children — has been put at risk due to speeding e-bikes and e-scooters,” Adams said.

Conventional bicycles will still be allowed to reach speeds up to 25 mph unless otherwise designated, as long as riders can do so under their own power.

Our Take: We’re all for safety, but this move feels conflicted and somewhat at odds with the city’s broader transportation goals.

Specialized is issuing a recall on more than 11,000 bikes after reports of seatposts that can break when fully extended. The company is working with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to address the issue.

To determine if your bike is affected, check the seatpost for a stamped length. If it reads 13 inches, it’s part of the recall and should be taken to a Specialized dealer for a free replacement. Bikes with 15-inch seatposts are not affected.

So far, there have been 13 reported incidents, including two minor injuries involving scrapes and bruises. Affected riders are advised to stop riding and contact their nearest Specialized dealer or reach out through the official recall link provided in the description.

Dutch e-bike brand VanMoof has officially launched its first new model since being rescued from bankruptcy in 2023. Once considered a futuristic leader in the industry, VanMoof’s sleek designs and high-tech features were both its hallmark and its downfall, as the company struggled with serviceability issues and a reliance on app connectivity that left many users stranded when its servers were shut down during its financial collapse.

The company declared bankruptcy in mid-2023, but was later acquired by Lavoie, an e-mobility brand owned by the McLaren Group. Following a limited relaunch of its S5 and A5 bikes, VanMoof has now introduced two new models: the S6 and the S6 Open. The S6 rolls on 27.5” wheels, while the mid-step S6 Open features smaller 24” wheels for a more accessible fit.

The new S6 models maintain VanMoof’s signature minimalist aesthetic and come equipped with a 250W front hub motor producing 68Nm of torque, paired with a 487Wh battery offering a reported range between 37 and 93 miles. Other features include:

Each bike weighs approximately 51 pounds and retails for €3,298 (around $3,750 USD), with pre-orders available for €150. Deliveries are expected to begin in August

Our Take: This marks a new chapter for the brand under Lavoie’s stewardship, with hopes of regaining consumer trust and proving that VanMoof can deliver on its futuristic promise—this time with better support and stability behind it.