A year after its launch, the Cowboy Cross has undergone extensive testing, showcasing its all-terrain capabilities and innovative features. The bike retains the brand’s sleek design while enhancing versatility with a semi-open frame and improved suspension. It offers practical elements like a rear rack, integrated GPS, and a user-friendly app for monitoring performance. Although heavier than its predecessors, it maintains a minimalist aesthetic, focusing on comfort and advanced technology for an engaging riding experience.
Reflecting on the Cowboy Cross: A Year in Review
It has been a whole year since the Cowboy Cross was launched, and our team had the opportunity to put it to the test. This lengthy wait is somewhat uncommon in the electric bike arena; however, the Belgian manufacturer has been focused on optimizing customer feedback and production capabilities. Recently, they transitioned their assembly operations from Hungary to France, specifically at the ReCycles factory in Romilly-sur-Seine, which is still finding its operational rhythm.
This past spring of 2025 marked our chance to ride the Cowboy Cross for several days. This model is particularly significant as it represents the first major innovation from Cowboy since its inception in 2017. Prior to this, the brand focused on refining its original model, evolving through Cowboy 2, 3, and 4, while introducing variations like the ST (low frame) and Cruiser (for enhanced comfort), alongside continuous upgrades in AdaptivePower assistance and connectivity features.
Versatility Meets Aesthetic Design
The Cowboy Cross aims to embody all the hallmarks of the Cowboy brand, including its sleek design and app functionalities, while expanding its versatility for all-terrain adventures. Equipped with a robust battery, wide tires, and both a suspended fork and seat, the question remains: does it truly enhance the e-bike experience without compromising the original charm?
In crafting this new model, Cowboy retained a family resemblance, steering clear of the conventional electric hybrid bike aesthetic. The geometry has been modified with an elongated wheelbase and a semi-open frame that aligns with the top tube. Additionally, the battery placement has been lowered to enhance the center of gravity, and an alternative fully open ST frame is also available.
The riding position is semi-active, featuring a saddle at handlebar height (similar to the Cowboy Cruiser), but riders can adjust the seat to their preferred height. One of the standout features of this electric bike is the front fork, which is welded to the frame. Its inverted design brings the travel close to the front wheel axle, complemented by a color-matched cover and a striking golden inner tube.
In keeping with its minimalist ethos, the handlebar is free of buttons, with the battery positioned strategically behind the seat tube. The matte paint finish elegantly conceals the welds, contributing to its eye-catching allure, making it an attractive option for potential buyers.
Practical Features and Advanced Technology
While Cowboy embraces minimalism, the Cross incorporates practical enhancements, such as a standard rear rack that matches the frame’s color and supports up to 27 kg. Although it lacks a MIK HD standard for accessories, it still accommodates child seats and side bags. The Cowboy Cross is also equipped with sturdy black metal fenders, a kickstand, and improved rear lighting integrated into the fender for visibility, along with front lighting. However, it’s worth noting that the lighting does not function as a headlight for road illumination—a missed opportunity for an urban-friendly electric bike.
As a more luxurious model with suspension and comprehensive equipment, the Cowboy Cross weighs in at 28.5 kg for the high frame version, which is heavier than its predecessors, yet typical for electric hybrids. This adds about 9 kg compared to the Cruiser model!
Staying true to its minimalist approach, the Cowboy Cross features a handlebar free of screens. The only indicators are a line of light dots that display battery status, signaling when the bike is on (which also includes lighting). Riders will find that all modifications and settings are managed through the Cowboy app.
To facilitate app usage, a Quad Lock mount is integrated into the stem, allowing users to attach their smartphones for access to riding data. A 35-euro case is available for iPhone users, with alternatives for various Android models, and an adapter can be purchased for an additional 20 euros.
With the app, riders are not left without information. Simply inserting the battery activates the Cowboy Cross (provided your smartphone’s Bluetooth is enabled). Unlocking is straightforward, either through a button in the app or automatically when approaching the bike. Riding settings are limited, enabling users to switch off lights or adjust to Eco mode.
The app interface features a speedometer encircled by a power gauge, displaying trip mileage and remaining battery range in kilometers. Additional details such as movement duration and estimated calories burned can be accessed by scrolling through the app. A minimal overlay screen remains visible when exiting the app, showing current mileage and estimated range.
Integrated GPS and Security Features
A small window in the app provides access to integrated Google Maps for navigation, along with estimated battery levels upon arrival. In case of theft, any movement triggers a notification to your smartphone, though there can be a delay of up to 15 minutes. Users can dismiss the alert if it’s a false alarm or activate the Find My Bike feature to track their bicycle’s location live. The app allows for reviewing location history and even sending proof of theft to your insurance provider.
The app also contains a section for games—previously known as challenges. In 2024, a game called Race gained attention for promoting speed over a short distance, leading to its ban in Amsterdam due to safety concerns. Currently, only two simpler games remain, designed to be played solo and requiring focus while pedaling, which may not be practical in busy urban environments. The community aspect persists, allowing users to track their trips and compete with friends through platforms like Geovelo or Strava based on mileage.
Equipped with a rear motor activated by pedaling through a belt, the Cowboy Cross features a single-speed transmission enhanced by AdaptivePower. This algorithm adjusts pedal resistance based on speed and power, enabling a comfortable cadence regardless of whether you’re cruising at 10 km/h or tackling steep inclines at 25 km/h. Although there may be slight latency at startup, the overall experience is smooth.
Although the motor specifications remain consistent across models, delivering a torque of 45 Nm, it offers lively assistance for lighter models while being slightly less responsive for the heavier Cowboy Cross. While the bike is capable of maintaining 25 km/h on steep gradients, the acceleration may not feel as instantaneous as with other brands.