5 best alternatives to Cowboy e-bikes
In the early 2020s, Cowboy was hot and happening among trendy urban cyclists. As the first truly connected e-bike, the brand won awards and won over many users. However, after being taken over by a French group, some are hesitant. Fortunately, there are similar concepts from other manufacturers. Here are 5 excellent alternatives to Cowboy.
Written by: Dieter Devriendt | February 13, 2026 | Reading time: 6 minutes
About the author: Dieter Devriendt
A journalist specializing in cycling, Dieter writes passionately and expertly about the world of cycling. True to the motto "we write – we ride," he willingly shares his experience with cyclists to make their lives easier, both on and off the saddle.
Key findings
- There are many alternatives to Cowboy e-bikes.
- VanMoof S5: a technological marvel with built-in anti-theft system
- Tenways CGO600 Pro: affordable and lightweight model with a discreet battery
- Veloretti Electric Ace Two: an elegant combination of classic Dutch design and smart features
- Ampler Stout: an e-bike with invisible technology, almost indistinguishable from a conventional bike
- Schindelhauer Arthur: a purist, ultra-lightweight model focused on mechanical quality
Cowboy, from Brussels to France
Founded in 2017, Cowboy targeted a young, urban audience with its minimalist design. During the Covid period, the Belgian brand reached its peak: riding a Cowboy was a must for trendy city dwellers. After experiencing growth difficulties and a market slowdown, the brand was eventually taken over by a French manufacturer.
Fans of the concept—a sleek frame with no visible cables or buttons, controlled by an intuitive app that serves as a dashboard—can, however, turn to other brands offering bikes with similar positioning. Here are five solid alternatives.
VanMoof S5
The VanMoof S5 is a direct competitor, renowned for its highly integrated design. Its thick top tube incorporates the battery and lighting, offering an ultra-minimalist aesthetic.
It offers advanced features that the Cowboy does not always have, including a unique anti-theft system with built-in alarm and location technology, as well as automatic electronic gear shifting.
Controls are operated via minimalist "Halo Rings" LEDs on the handlebars and the comprehensive VanMoof app. Unlike the Cowboy, a smartphone is not required as a dashboard. The riding position is more upright, designed for comfort in urban environments.
Tenways CGO600 Pro
The Tenways CGO600 Pro is often considered a more affordable and stylish alternative. Its slim, sleek design conceals the battery in the down tube, making it almost indistinguishable from a conventional bike.
It delivers smooth, natural handling thanks to the Gates Carbon Belt Drive (quiet and low-maintenance) and a torque sensor that adapts the assistance to the pressure exerted on the pedals.
Connectivity is slightly less advanced than Cowboy, but the Tenways app provides essential data and useful route information. Its light weight promotes the agility sought by urban cyclists.
Veloretti Electric Ace Two
The Veloretti Electric Ace Two combines classic Dutch design with modern technology and premium finishes. Its minimalist, elegant frame is designed for sustainable everyday use in the city.
Like Cowboy, it uses a Gates belt drive, which is easy to maintain. It also incorporates smart features such as GPS tracking and automatic lighting, which can be controlled via an intuitive app.
The comfortable, upright riding position, combined with sturdy construction and attention to aesthetic detail, make it an attractive option for those looking for a stylish and reliable city bike.
Ampler Stout
The Ampler Stout is ideal if you want an e-bike that looks like a traditional bike. The battery and motor are almost invisible, resulting in an exceptionally light frame and a very understated aesthetic.
Designed for quick daily commutes, it offers natural assistance thanks to its rear motor and intuitive sensors. The Ampler app allows you to adjust motor settings, plan routes, and perform diagnostics.
The absence of a large screen on the handlebars further enhances its sleek design.
Schindelhauer Arthur
The Schindelhauer Arthur features a minimalist design and durable, high-end components. Its finely crafted aluminum frame, combined with a Gates belt drive, emphasizes the essence of cycling.
It is one of the lightest options in this segment, which makes it easy to handle in the city.
Less focused on advanced connectivity than Cowboy or VanMoof, it is aimed at young urbanites who value timeless design and mechanical reliability over digital gadgets. Its Mahle rear motor provides smooth assistance that is perfectly in line with this minimalist concept.
FAQ
Which alternative is best if I want an e-bike that looks like a conventional bike?
The Ampler Stout integrates the battery and motor almost invisibly, allowing it to look and behave like a traditional bike. The Tenways CGO600 Pro, with its sleek design and discreet battery, is also difficult to distinguish from an e-bike.
Which model offers an integrated anti-theft system with alarm?
The VanMoof S5 features a unique, integrated anti-theft system that includes an alarm and tracking technology to combat theft.
Are there any models with belt drives that require little maintenance?
Yes. The Tenways CGO600 Pro, the Veloretti Electric Ace Two, and the Schindelhauer Arthur use the Gates Carbon Belt Drive. This transmission is quiet and requires very little maintenance.
Which e-bike should you choose if mechanical quality is more important than digital features?
The Schindelhauer Arthur is therefore the best choice. It prioritizes a purist design, high-end components, and mechanical reliability, with less emphasis on extensive connectivity via an app.