Red-Will expands its electric bike rental offering

After a first electric bike and then a cargo bike, the Red-Will rental service announces a third connected model and a subscription plan with commitment.

Launched in December 2020, Red-Will aimed to meet the demand for bike rentals, previously exclusive to Véligo, then joined by others including Swapfiets. But in 2022, a single offer is no longer enough, as users are diverse and varied. The brand had thus proposed the cargo bike, now renamed “Family 500”.

A new connected Red-Will electric bike

The new Red-Will electric bike is the Connect 500. This e-bike no longer has a retro look like the “Classique 500”. Unlike the latter assembled by Arcade Cycles, this model is more modern and city-oriented with its high handlebar, for a Dutch-style riding position. Sitting on wheels that look like 26 inches, it has replaced the red tires with Schwalbe Big Apple Plus. However, the brand color remains on the rims, which will provide more comfort.

As for the frame, which is still open, it now contains the central battery, slightly protruding from the main tube. The generous 80 Nm mid-drive motor is from Egoing, powering a fully enclosed chain. This is well thought out for durability and to prevent derailment (which we occasionally experienced on the Classique). The chain links to a Shimano Nexus 5 gear hub in the rear wheel, combined with five assistance modes. The battery size is 500 Wh, enough to ensure 100 km (theoretically, depending on modes and usage).

Finally, hydraulic disc brakes, a large comfortable saddle, and an 27 kg rear rack are still included. A small bonus, a front basket of 10 kg joins the equipment. Of course, the Connect name suggests connection to a mobile app. This app manages several functions:

• Information (distance, range, etc.)
• Bike geolocation, with theft and damage insurance included
• Suspicious movement alert + activation of the alarm and remote motor cutoff

A Price Increase, Available for Rental with or Without Commitment!

Bad news, Red-Will has taken advantage of its new model to increase prices. The Classique 500 still starts at €75/month as before, but now with a 6-month commitment. For the no-commitment rental, the price is increased by €8 to €83.

As for the Connect 500, the rate with a 6-month commitment is €79/month, and €87/month without. Note that the contract with a commitment is automatically renewed for an additional 6 months.

Is it expensive? Yes, compared to the new entrant Dance, which starts at €49/month with a 1-year commitment (then €59). It is more advantageous compared to the premium Swapfiets (Power 7) at €109.90/month. Without commitment and in Paris, Red-Will is more costly than Dance and Motto. In the other city of the offer, Bordeaux, the company faces Zoov, which drops to €69/month with its connected Fusion.

Also read: Motto: electric bike subscription starting at 75 euros/month