An electric balance bike for €79/month: Vässla arrives in Paris

Vässla aims to attract city dwellers with a “light cyclomobile,” pedal-free and powered by a small electric motor.

Neither scooter, nor motorcycle, nor truly bicycle either, the electric balance bike blends genres. In itself, this quirky pedal-less device isn’t new, as some brands have been selling them for some time. But seeing a mobility operator offer one through a subscription plan is a first.

An all-inclusive plan

Since the publication of the decree of January 14, 2022, electric balance bikes can legally use bike lanes and roads limited to 50 km/h. This regulatory change opens new opportunities for players in urban mobility.

Based in Sweden, the first company to seize this opportunity is called Vässla. It has chosen Paris to launch its bike rental offer. The cost? €79 per month, or €84 if you opt for the optional basket. The two available plans differ mainly by commitment duration: the Urban Pro lasts 6 months, while the Urban Flex requires only a 1-month commitment. The monthly payments are the same, but the registration fees differ: they are free with the Urban Pro but cost €49 on the Urban Flex. Insurance, maintenance, and home delivery are included in both plans. Vässla also provides customers with a helmet and a lock.

Limited to 25 km/h

Vässla’s balance bike weighs about 25 kilograms. It features disc brakes front and rear, as well as a small display on the handlebar. It can be driven without a license but cannot exceed 25 km/h (as per the conditions set by the decree). Wearing a helmet is not mandatory but highly recommended.

The motor is integrated into the rear wheel hub. The removable 3.5-kilogram battery is located inside the seat tube. According to the Swedish operator, it offers up to 40 km of range. Charging takes place via a standard household outlet.

Also read: Dott scooters and bikes arrive in Grenoble