The new Raleigh One e-bike has officially hit the market, following its first detailed reveal last week. Developed by the Accell Group’s Raleigh brand with input from VanMoof’s co-founders, Ties and Taco Carlier, this bike aims to blend sleek design with practical features. While the announcement doesn’t explicitly mention their involvement, many enthusiasts see the influence—especially considering the VanMoof-inspired look and feel.
However, the pricing and subscription model might raise some eyebrows. Priced at around £2,399 / €2,699 (approximately $3,000 USD), the Raleigh One is positioned in a competitive yet expensive range for European e-bikes, which average around €2,681. Plus, several key features are locked behind monthly subscription tiers starting at just £6.99 / €7.99 (about $9), which could be a sticking point for many buyers.
Design-wise, the Raleigh One bears a striking resemblance to VanMoof bikes, but it also includes features requested by riders and critics alike. The removable 360Wh battery makes charging more convenient, and the bike’s single-speed belt drive paired with a rear hub motor provides a clean, low-maintenance ride. Available in two colors and a single frame size, it also offers options for front carry mounts—perfect for urban commuters.
When asked about the Carlier brothers’ role, Accell Group’s brand lead confirmed that “some former VanMoof team members have brought their experience” to the Raleigh One, emphasizing that it remains “very much a product of the Accell Group.” The bike is built for city life, with durable tires to handle bumps and multiple mounts for gear. Its integrated lighting system adapts to riding conditions, featuring a dual-front light that can be detached and mounted on the optional front rack. Riders can easily adjust power settings via a simple onboard controller or through the Raleigh app, which also offers features like GPS tracking and an integrated alarm system.
Weighing in at 21 kg (46.3 pounds), the Raleigh One is a single-step-over model that ships with a fast-charging brick capable of reaching 50% in just one hour and full charge in about 2 hours and 20 minutes. Its estimated range is around 80 km (50 miles) in eco mode, or approximately 50 km (31 miles) with pedal assistance. Notably, this European-only model lacks a throttle or boost button—emphasizing its focus on pedal-powered performance.
Unlike VanMoof bikes, which often used custom parts, the Raleigh One features readily available components like hydraulic disc brakes from Tektro, a Gates Carbon belt drive, and a 250W Mivice motor. Built with durability and low maintenance in mind, the bike is backed by a comprehensive dealer network, promising reliability and ease of service—an important reassurance given VanMoof’s past challenges with product durability.
One of the more controversial aspects is the subscription model. The basic tier offers features like a rider dashboard, security, stolen mode, and Bluetooth updates for free. A monthly fee of around £6.99 / €7.99 (about $9) unlocks additional benefits such as automatic stolen mode activation and smart maintenance alerts. For a limited time, riders can access over-the-air updates, a bike-sharing option for up to four users, and remote arming—though these features are set to move to a more premium “Icon” tier in 2026.
Subscription-based models are increasingly common across industries, including e-bikes, with VanMoof and Bosch also adopting similar approaches. While these recurring revenue streams help brands cope with inventory and demand fluctuations, they can also be a turnoff for consumers used to owning their bikes outright.
Despite recent financial struggles—including recalls and the bankruptcy of some brands—Accell Group remains a resilient player in the cycling industry. Its portfolio includes brands like Batavus, Sparta, and Babboe, and it navigated the recent supply chain crises better than many competitors. The Carlier brothers, known for transforming e-bike design and bringing a sleek, modern aesthetic to urban transportation, have left a notable mark, albeit with some questions about trust given VanMoof’s past issues.
Historically, Raleigh has faced its own challenges, especially as it shifted toward mass-market retail channels that often pushed its lower-end models. The launch of the Raleigh One on a dedicated new website signals a fresh start—aiming to re-establish the brand’s reputation and appeal to urban riders seeking reliable, stylish e-bikes.
This new chapter for Raleigh and the One e-bike combines innovative design, practical features, and a modern subscription approach—marking an exciting, if complex, evolution in urban mobility.
