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VanMoof error 44: E-shifter fault

VanMoof S3 / X3 (also S5 / A5 where applicable)Dealer neededRide with caution

The automatic electronic shifter in the rear hub (S3/X3: 4-speed, S5/A5: 3-speed) reports a fault. Either it cannot reach the requested gear, its position sensor is confused, or it is not responding at all. The bike may stay stuck in one gear or hunt between gears.

Likely causes

E-shifter motor or position sensor failure (a known weak point on early S3/X3)
Water inside the hub shifter after a wet winter
Shifter cable or connector damaged near the rear dropout
Hub not indexed correctly after a wheel or tyre change
Firmware glitch after an update
Chain or belt tension far outside spec putting load on the hub

How to fix VanMoof error 44

Power cycle the bike and roll it a few metres to let the shifter re-home
Run the shifter calibration from the app (Settings, Gears) if your firmware offers it
Check that the rear wheel is straight in the dropouts and the shifter connector at the hub is clean and seated
Install any pending firmware update
If the bike stays stuck in one gear or the code returns, an independent VanMoof-capable shop can test, repair or replace the e-shifter unit; many can now do this without VanMoof parts

Go to a dealer if: Go to a shop if calibration does not help, if the hub is stuck in one gear, or if there are grinding noises from the rear hub.
Warranty: Warranty from the original VanMoof B.V. died with the 2023 bankruptcy; the relaunched VanMoof (LAVOIE/McLaren Applied) only covers bikes sold by them after the relaunch, so most S3/X3 owners pay for repairs.
Typical cost: E-shifter repair or a refurbished unit is roughly EUR 150-350; a full hub replacement EUR 300-600 depending on parts.

Still stuck? Take a photo of the display and show it to a local e-bike workshop. Bring the bike's system name (e.g. Bosch Performance Line CX) and the exact code; that saves diagnostic time and money.

Frequently asked

Can I ride with error 44?

Usually yes, in whatever gear the hub is stuck in. Avoid steep hills and get it looked at soon.

Is the VanMoof e-shifter a known problem?

Yes. It is one of the most common S3/X3 repairs. Independent shops have rebuilt many of them since the bankruptcy.

Can I convert my VanMoof to a manual hub?

Some shops offer a conversion to a conventional hub gear or single speed when the e-shifter is beyond repair. It is a real option if parts are scarce.

Related VanMoof codes

45 · Motor communication error 48 · Motor speed signal unreadable

Not an official VanMoof document. Compiled from workshop experience and public service information; details can differ per system version and bike brand.