Pedelecs, i.e., bicycles with electric assist, has been experiencing a boom since at least 2018. The trend has accelerated as a result of the Coronavirus crisis, as commuters try to avoid public transport, among other things.
After Gogoro Eeyo 1, VanMoof S3 and X3, and the new Specialized Turbo Vado SL, it’s the Belgian start-up Cowboy’s turn to use the favor of the hour to unveil the third generation of its pedelec with technical innovations. Simple, but still good looking! This is how the new “Cowboy 3” electric bike can be outlined.
The ultimate riding experience:
Among other things, the Cowboy 3 uses a new single-speed automatic transmission to enable smooth gear changes and user-friendly drive. The new version also features a Gates carbon belt drive that, according to the manufacturer, offers maintenance-free clean ride up to 30,000 kilometers.
Credits: Cowboy
A 36-volt, 250-watt motor with 30 Nm of torque is responsible for the power. The maximum speed is the 25 km/h (15 mph) prescribed in Germany. The manufacturer specifies the maximum range as 70 km (43 miles). This is made possible by the removable 360-Wh battery that is perfectly integrated into the frame. The frame is made entirely of aluminum, which means that the e-Bike, even with a battery, only weighs 16.9 kg.
When it comes to braking, the start-up uses Tektro discs that are hydraulically controlled. Probably the biggest innovation in hardware is the possibility of attaching fenders specially made for the Cowboy 3. This enables the Belgians to drive in the rain without the tires throwing dirt from the road onto the driver.
Smartphone as a control center:
Everything is controlled from a smartphone application; the Cowboy 3 does not have a control screen. The users not only have the opportunity to view traditional information (speeds, range, various parameters) but also to start navigation and control the lighting systems. The brake lights and the headlights are – just like the previous model – integrated into the frame.
Cowboy also integrates the new bike with numerous new functions. This includes automatic unlocking (when you approach the bike), theft alert to be alerted if the bike is moving, accident detection (to call an emergency contact) as well as some information on the quality of air.
Price and availability:
The Cowboy 3 is now available in the Belgian company’s in-house online shop. The only two options when buying are the choice of the fender and the color (there are three – black and two shades of gray). The price is €2,290 (about US$2,600). The fenders described are optionally available and cost €89. The first orders are expected to be delivered at the end of July.
