Total Weight:
58.6 lbs (26.58 kg)
Battery Weight:
7.9 lbs (3.58 kg)
Motor Weight:
9 lbs (4.08 kg)
Frame Material:
6061 Double-Butted Aluminum Alloy
Frame Sizes:
15 in (38.1 cm)17.5 in (44.45 cm)20 in (50.8 cm)Geometry Measurements:
Large 51cm Measurements: 20" Seat Tube Length, 27" Stand Over Height, 34" Minimum Saddle Height, 27" Width, 72" Length
Frame Types:
High-Step
Frame Colors:
Earth Grey
Frame Fork Details:
SR Suntour MOBIE A32 Coil Suspension, 75mm Travel, 32mm Steel Stanchions, Compression Adjust with Lockout, Preload Adjust, 100mm Hub Spacing, 9mm Thru-Axle with Nuts
Frame Rear Details:
135mm Hub Spacing, 9mm Axle with Nuts
Attachment Points:
Rear Rack Mount, Fender Mounts
Gearing Details:
8
Speed 1x8 Shimano Hyperglide CS-HG200-8 12-32 Tooth Cassette, Shimano Acera DerailleurShifter Details:
Shimano Acera Triggers on Right (Two-Way High, Three-Shift Low)
Cranks:
Aluminum Alloy, 170mm Length, 46 Tooth Steel Chainring, Double-Sided Aluminum Alloy Guard
Pedals:
Wellgo Aluminum Alloy, Wide with Pins
Headset:
Semi-Integrated, Sealed Cartridge Bearings, Straight 1-1/8"
Stem:
Aluminum Alloy, Threadless, 7 Degree Rise, Three 10mm Spacers, 95mm Length, 31.8mm Clamp Diameter
Handlebar:
Aluminum Alloy, Low-Rise, 690mm Width, 31.8mm Bore
Brake Details:
Bengal Aries 3 Hydraulic Disc with 180mm Rotors, Dual-Piston Calipers, Bengal Aries 3 Three-Finger Levers with Adjustable Reach and Motor Inhibitors
Grips:
Velo Comfort, Lock-On, Rubber, Dark Grey
Saddle:
Aventon by Velo, Foam
Seat Post:
Aluminum Alloy
Seat Post Length:
310 mm
Seat Post Diameter:
27.2 mm
Rims:
Aluminum Alloy, Double Wall, 32mm Outer Width, 36 Hole
Spokes:
Stainless Steel, 13 Gauge, Black with Silver Nipples
Tire Brand:
Kenda Quik Drumlin, 27.5" x 2.2" (56-584)
Wheel Sizes:
27.5 in (69.85cm)Tire Details:
50 to 80 PSI, 3.4 to 5.5 BAR, Ebike-Specific, KS+ Puncture Protection, Hybrid Tread Pattern, Reflective Sidewall Striping
Tube Details:
Schrader Valve
Accessories:
Aluminum Alloy Fenders (Black), Rear-Mount Adjustable Length Kickstand, Aluminum Alloy Rear Rack with 25kg/52lb Weight Limit (Black)
Other:
Locking Removable Downtube-Integrated Battery Pack, 1.8lb 3 Amp Charger
David
5 years agoAwesome review, I am currently looking into purchasing an e-bike for commuting in the city. If you were to pick between the Aventon Sinch and the Level, what would your choice be?
Thank you in advance.
ReplyTyson Roehrkasse
5 years agoHi David, thanks for the question! The Level is my personal favorite, but I think they’re both great bikes and it really comes down to how you’ll be using it. For commuting, I would prefer the Level, you get better range and higher speeds, the rack and fenders are great, and it also performs better for just “riding like a bike” without any electric assist. I think where the Sinch shines is all-terrain capability with those fat tires, as well as being more portable and easier to store thanks to the folding.
The Sinch also only has one frame size, so you’ll probably be able to find a better fit on the Level since there are three frame sizes to work with.
ReplyBen G
5 years agoI am in the market for my first ebike. I’m looking at the Level, and the ride 1 up 700. Of the two, which would you choose? Love the site and I appreciate the help.
ReplyCourt
5 years agoHi Ben! Man… these are both sweet ebikes. I think it might come down to geometry of the frame. Look at the step-thru of the 700 series and the swept-back handlebars vs. the more aggressive forward flat bar and stiffer high-step frame on the Level. I’m a more comfort oriented rider who uses a rack, so I’d probably aim for the step-thru for myself… but Tyson said that he loved the Level, and he’s a taller heavier rider. I think you’ll be happy with either, but those are my thoughts and reasoning. You can see all of the stat’s for both bikes at this link that I setup for you, so you can really scrutinize the details. One final thought, the Ride1Up 700 Series is less expensive, has a bottle cage mount, and also has lights. To me, that shows that they really thought it out and scrutinized the details. However, Aventon is a bigger company and might have more resources and staying power in the industry. I have however, heard that their ebikes are more difficult to assemble if you’re ordering online direct (at least for the older models that I covered and talked with shops about).
ReplyWendy B.
4 years agoMy husband and I are looking to purchase our first Ebikes, through a local bicycle shop .We live in a rural area, so we will be on roads and dirt trails. We are older. We aren’t sure if we should get the Pace 500, or the Level . Will the extra weight of the Level not work out so good for dirt trails? We are so new to this, any info or suggestions would be helpful.
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Wendy! Either of these two ebikes should work well for you… and it might come down to what’s available without a wait time! I’ve heard that some brands are low on stock… The Level really impressed Tyson when he performed this review, so I might nod towards that one between the two :)
ReplyTyson Roehrkasse
4 years agoHey Wendy, I’ll echo what Court said that I personally would prefer the Level over the Pace 500 because the Level is more rigid and sturdy, yes it does weigh more but I think that will help it to feel even more stable on trails. I think an important thing to consider is the frame style, the Level is a more forward seating position, while on the Pace 500 you would be more upright and relaxed. That part really comes down to preference, though, and honestly, I think both bikes will do just fine on your trails as long as you aren’t talking about intense mountain biking trails. I recommend test riding both at your local shop if you can!
ReplyAna
4 years agoHey there! Thanks so much for your reviews and all your work. I’m trying to decide between the Pace 500 and the Level. I appreciate the accessories that come with the level, but when I do a side by side idea comparison of the two on their website, the Pace 500 says “great for hills” which isn’t mentioned for the level. It looks like the Level has everything the pace does and more, but I’m just concerned about the hills. I live in Providence, which is pretty hilly, and I’d be going up and down hills every day on my commute. Any insight here as to which would be better?
Thanks!
ReplyTyson Roehrkasse
4 years agoHi Ana, great question! The Level should perform equally on hills as both bikes are using similar electronics including the same rear hub motor.
ReplyCourt
4 years agoGreat question, Ana! I’d say that these two ebikes are going to perform very similarly. Perhaps you just got some marketing speak there… because they both have 500 watt planetary geared motors from what I can tell, and they both seem to have 48 volt batteries. Now, the Level has a higher capacity battery… so it could probably climb for longer distances. I personally prefer how it looks, and appreciate the added fenders and rear rack. If you want the step-thru, don’t mind a slightly smaller battery pack, and are looking to save $200… then the Aventon Pace 500 should be very comparable, based on the stats I’m seeing, and my experience reviewing ebikes :)
ReplyScott Chadwick
4 years agoI enjoy riding road bikes and my wife would like to join me, but her speed is an average of 11 mph and mine is closer to 19-22 mph. I thought about getting her an ebike so that she could join me for a 30-40 mile ride every now and then. My budget is $1400-$1800, does the Aventon Level make sense for what I am trying to do?
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Scott! The Level is an awesome bike for the money… but you might be just fine getting your wife the cheaper, more approachable Pace 350 from Aventon. That ebike doesn’t have the fenders or rack, but it does have disc brakes and reflective tires. If you decide on this one, you’ll be getting less power, but if she is already close to your speed and used to a traditional bicycle, it will probably still be enough to keep up ;)
The big downside that I’ve heard about for the Pace 350 is that it might require more assembly than average ebikes. If possible, try to buy it from a local dealer, or pay a shop to build it for you (cost of $150+). Here are some other affordable ebikes worth considering, they’re all made with cheaper parts, but they should accomplish your goal of having her keep up. One of my personal favorites for direct-order is the RadCity Step-Thru 3 because the company offers great support.
ReplyDon
4 years agoHi, thanks for the review. I thought it was very thorough and enjoyed the read. Me and my wife are looking at E bikes and we’ve recently tested the Como from Specialized. How would you rate the Aveton Level in comparison to the Como? There’s obviously a huge price difference and I’m thinking the Como may be more than I want to spend but I would like something comparable in the $1,500-$1,800 price range. My wife likes to be upright on her bike as she has some back issues so leaning forward for long periods is difficult. Look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Thanks,
ReplyDon
Court
4 years agoHi Don! The Level has a more forward body position and that’s probably not ideal for your wife. You could swap the stem and get some swept back handlebars… but the bike is more sporty than it sounds like she might prefer. The Como from Specialized is excellent, but yea… costs more. It’s a much more upright cruiser type of ebike, and it’s sold in multiple sizes through dealers who can help dial in the body position and fit. If you’re looking for some alternative products for the both of you, consider the RadCity models, which come in high-step (larger frame) and step-thru (smaller frame and much more approachable). It hits your price range, but is only sold online (or delivered with a van in some big cities). There are many others to consider here, just look at the best ebike guides I’ve made to explore best cruiser and best city ebikes ;)
ReplyGEORGE LEWIS
4 years agoI am considering the aventon level and am about 5’10 and 1/2. I have a 32-33 inch inseam. The company recommends the medium. Any reason to buy the large instead?
ReplyCourt
4 years agoYeah! Hey George. You and I seem very similar. I’m 5’9″ and have a 32-inch inseam (long legs), so people at bike shops usually say that I’m in between medium and large. For road bikes, I almost always go medium because they are slightly lighter and let me sit more upright vs. tucked forward. I feel like I have more control of the bike and it’s a part of me vs. me riding on top of something big, long, and heavy. Frankly, there isn’t that much difference between most sizes, just a bit more reach and possibly higher standover by like half an inch. I wouldn’t sweat it too much… but look at the longer stem here, that makes you lean forward a bit but also gives your legs and knees space. I actually think that you’d be a great candidate for a large if you have longer arms (most guys do compared to girls), but sticking with a Medium is the safest bet and probably more comfortable, it’s what I would get :)
ReplyMax
4 years agoHmm comparing to all other ebikes here, including Rad I feel like this one is the best in terms of price/quality/power. Amazing battery, powerful high torque motor, quick charge, pretty lightweight, hydraulic brakes. I might be wrong, but this bike looks like an ultimate win!
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Max! I agree with you, Aventon is doing an excellent job with their bikes. I wish I had gotten to test ride it vs. Tyson, but he did a great job. I like that some shops carry this brand, but have heard that they require a bit more assembly time. It’s so nice to see multiple affordably priced fully-specced ebikes hitting the market now! Do you think you’re going to go for it? Please share your thoughts if so, once you’ve ridden and dug in a bit ;)
ReplyTom Meyers
4 years agoFantastic review! Concise, objective, and comprehensive. I wish every internet review could be this good!
ReplyCourt
4 years agoWow, thanks Tom! That means a lot. We are doing our best here to be thorough, critical, but also constructive. I’m glad this one helped you out :)
ReplyDerek Eder
4 years agoGreat and good looking review!
ReplyCourt
4 years agoThanks Derek! I’m glad you enjoyed it or found it useful :)
ReplyJohn
4 years agoTruly appreciate your thorough and well written reviews. I purchased my first e-bike (Aventon Pace 500) based partially on your review. I purchased it before the Level came out (in 2009). Overall I was incredibly happy with the purchase. Unfortunately my garage got broken into and it was stolen. Thankfully insurance should cover it and I was thinking about purchasing the Level. In your view would you recommend the Level over the Pace 500 (there’s only a slight price delta – so that doesn’t matter in this case)?
Thanks!
ReplyCourt
4 years agoOh man! I’m so sorry to hear about the break in, that’s a bummer. Yeah, maybe this is a blessing in disguise?! Aside from the lost time, you may get an upgrade to the Level now. Yes, I would choose the Level if I was given an option between the two. I love how it looks and appreciate the fenders, rear rack, and suspension. Hands down, worth the extra money for me! At some point if you go that route, I’d love to hear how the two compare to you since you will have ridden them for longer times and might have some insights to share :D
ReplyJohn
4 years agoWill do and thank you again!
Stacey Codlin
4 years agoHi! Thanks for all the reviews you do – they are really helpful. I’m looking for my first e-bike and I want something that I can ride on gravel and dirt paths, including some easy mountain biking trails (nothing hard core). I’ll be on paved roads quite a bit, too. Would the Level bike be good off road? It’s described as a commuter bike so that throws me off. Thanks!
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Stacey, great question… I categorize all ebikes that come stock with fenders, rack, and lights as being “commuter ready” but this is also light-trail capable because of the suspension fork and wider hybrid puncture protected tires. The travel for the fork is something like 75mm, which isn’t a lot, but that will definitely smooth out the gravel paths and you shouldn’t be slipping around too much. Aventon makes the Pace 500 and 350 if you don’t care about the fenders, rack, and lights but want to save some money. There are many ebikes out there that can handle trails, and then there are actual “cross country ebikes” which are rated with 100mm+ travel and occasionally even offer full suspension. Those tend to cost more but are really designed with trail riding in mind… which is a step up from packed dirt or gravel roads. I hope this helps ;)
ReplyStacey Codlin
4 years agoHi Court – thanks so much for your quick response. I plan to be on some wooded trails – so roots and rocks would be common obstacles. with that in mind sounds like I should be looking at the cross country ebikes or a mountain bike. I’d still like something that would be comfortable to ride on paved surfaces (so not a fat bike) and it’d be nice if I could add a rack. Can I do that on those sort of bikes? Also, I definitely want something that I could ride throttle only. Can you recommend a good entry level bike ($2,000 or less) that would fit those wants or am I asking too much :) ? Also – is it worth the extra cost for hydraulic disc brakes over mechanical disc?
Kevin
4 years agoLove the reviews! Thank You! Can you recommend other bikes from different manufacturers that have throttles as well as pedal assist, such as the Level, for comparison? It is a feature that I really like. Have it on my current e-bike which I’m looking to replace.
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Kevin! Sorry for the very slow reply here. Yes! I like Magnum, Rad Power Bikes, DOST, and I think Blix as well as Biktrix, and a few others that are online direct, RIZE too. Those are each brands that I’ve covered which have pedal assist and throttle. I hope this helps you, and you can also ask around in the EBR forums for feedback too :)
ReplyGary
4 years agoGreat review. Thanks. I live in a very hilly town with steep long hills and need something that will get me to the top. I currently have one of the original Sondors Thin single speeds and it just doesn’t cut it on the hills, but I otherwise love it. I have been looking at some of the more powerful bikes like the Sondors MXS, the Dost Kope and the Ride1Up Limt’d, but I’m wondering if the Aventon Level will be enough. I’m 190 lbs., and I ride mostly paved roads with some light trails. What do you think? Will the Level cut it, or should I step up to something with even more power? Thanks.
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Gary! Congrats on getting your second ebike. I hope you’ve enjoyed the Sondors Thin… that was a special bike, one of the first super affordable and simple ones. It looks like other companies are going that route now too, cough, Rad, cough. Anyway, I think the Level would work very well for what you’re talking about. The power should be higher, and the gears would help for climbing if you decide to pedal a bit on really steep sections. The Sondors MXS is awesome, but doesn’t offers as much utility as the Level (no rack or fenders). I think it’s a great choice for mostly off-road riding. If you can spare the change and wait for shipping (because they’re backordered) the DOST Kope and Drop are an awesome combination of utility and power with good off-road capability. Their mid-drive motor is super powerful, but done really well with shift detection. I hope these different considerations help you, I’d love to hear what you choose and how you like it someday :D
ReplyGary
4 years agoHey Court thanks for the quick reply. I really appreciate it. One more question — between the Aventon Level and the Ride1up 700 which do you prefer?
El Kati
4 years agoThanks! I love your reviews. Could you help me understand the cadence sensors? It seems each successive power assist level will assist you to a higher speed with little or no pressure on the pedals. Do you get any exercise? If using PAS level 1, does the power assistance stop at say 12 mph or does it still help as you pedal faster? It seems that a cadence sensing PAS is either doing all the work or none of the work.
I test rode an Aventon Level today. It’s a beautiful machine but it didn’t feel like pedaling a bike. I also tried a Vado 4.0 with torque sensing (which I’m afraid I can’t afford). It felt more natural – like pedaling a regular bike, but easier. Maybe I’ll buy the Level and learn to love it. Thanks again.
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi El Kati! Great description of both PAS and the advanced multi-sensing assist. You’re comparing one of the most affordable and simplistic drive systems to one of the fanciest, newest, and most advanced. The Vado, and most of the new Specialized models, are some of my favorite. That said, when you could afford two or more of one bike for the same price as just one of another, I can see how it becomes difficult to justify. Yes, the pedal assist is more of an all or none, but you can utilize the lower 1, 2, and 3 levels to limit motor power and top speed, then pedal along blending your physical effort with the motor. It’s less dynamic, satisfying, and responsive (or too responsive for some PAS systems which go blasting off), but it is less expensive. I hope this helps :)
ReplyEl Kati
4 years agoCourt, based on your comment, I’ve decided the multi-sensing assist including torque is what I want. And your advanced search tab shows me the ones in my price range.
Without your site and reviews, I doubt I would have become interested in ebikes and confident enough to make a decision. I suspect this is true of others as well. I bought a RideKick electric trailer 5 yr ago based on your review and my experience with it is exactly what your review said it would be. I still love it and will continue to use it for groceries.
Thank you so much!
Bye.
Bill Hobson
4 years agoI love my Aventon Level EXCEPT for ONE thing. There is ZERO variability to the PAS setup.This may be due to the cadence sensor employed, but is there any way to change its behavior so that the boost doesn’t come out full force all at once. If it were to ramp up, even if it ramped up too much at 11mph, it would be MUCH safer. Has anybody come up with a mod for this?
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Bill! I’ve noticed this feeling with certain ebikes, and I think it has more to do with the controller setup than the cadence sensor itself. Some companies, like Rad Power Bikes, have adjusted their controllers in recent years so the bikes ramp up more smoothly and there’s more variation between the levels. It has been a while since I covered an Aventon myself, so perhaps someone else will chime in with some feedback and help for you. It would be great if there was a software update or some settings that you could adjust in the display. Consider asking around in the Aventon forums too.
ReplyBill Hobson
4 years agoThanks Court. Do you know what controller Aventon uses for the Level? Also, would you happen to know if the handlebars on the Level can be adjusted up and down. I see a hidden hex nut below a rubber cover but I imagine that only allows the handlebars to be adjusted side-to-side and I see no mention of any such adjustment in the Owner’s Manual. Thanks.
Bill Hobson
4 years agoThanks Court. Aventon was kind enough to verify that the handlebars cannot be adjusted up and down but also suggested a $20 item from Amazon called a Fomtor Adjustable Stem that looks like it will do what I need done. Basically I would like to raise the handlebars and move them a bit closer to the seat. I’ve been trying to ID the display used on the Level and it may be the King-meter Nokee-U. Aventon has “locked” some of the settable parameters of the Level and it seems to me one way to “fix” this would be to just replace the display with a plug-compatible unit. My local dealer appears to be clueless on this matter.
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Bill! I like both ideas, the stem upgrade and display swap. I don’t know where to get a King Meter Nokee-U but perhaps someone in the forums would be able to help. I hope things work out, and I’d love to hear the result someday if you go for it ;)
Replywilliam Hobson
4 years agoThanks Court. The more I ride the bike the more I am coming to accept that 11mph for PAS 1 is not really so bad. If one just keeps light pressure on the rear brake lever the over-boost can be controlled when necessary. The bike is quite heavy and most of my concerns come from a difficulty in getting going from a dead stop. I have about 50 miles on the bike so far and it looks like 40 miles on a single charge is what I can expect for my local riding conditions (fairly flat paved terrain). I’ve replaced the seat twice now and just can’t find one that I can sit on for more than about 3 minutes without having to stand and reposition my skinny butt. My latest is called a Giddy-Up. Keep up the great work!
Baz
4 years agoHi Court. I’ve never owned an ebike. I’ve been researching for over a year. I had finally settled on the Aventon Level (large frame as I am 6’5” tall and 210 lbs). I went to a dealer near me that carries this model, test drove it, and was impressed. I love the price/quality. I have since seen a review of the Ride 1Up 700 series hi-step. It looks great. Many similarities to the Aventon Level. I suspect that it would probably be a toss up. Can you give any insight as to which you think is the better choice based on quality and value? Thanks.
ReplyCourt
4 years agoYeah, I see a lot of similarities between the Level and 700 Series too. Honestly, I think they are the same hardware like 90%+ but you may prefer the look, support, or availability of one over the other. I tend to like buying from a dealer when it’s possible, because they help to set the bike up nicely and provide ongoing support. Consider the accessories, the price, which one you really want and then whether you want that dealer relationship :)
ReplyBaz
4 years agoThe 700 Series having integrated front and rear lights is the most notable difference. Does either bike have a handlebar stem adjustment? I would like the ability to make my ride more upright.
Mark Jackson
4 years agoHi there, love your reviews! After reading 20 to 30 reviews my head was spinning! Finally decided for what we needed the Aventon Level would serve us well. The wife and I (in our early 60s) just bought the Aventon Level a week ago and we love them! We bought the Level at a local shop who had them in stock and we were able to test ride them. That sold me! Most other comparable bikes were DTC internet purchase only, buying 2 bikes and spending over $3K I wanted to see and test what we were buying.
The one little issue is, we both seem to feel like we want to be more upright. The wife has a S/M step thru frame and I got the Large stepover. I was looking at getting adjustable stems, they look like an easy conversion, then we can experiment with angles for riding. Aventon has one for the Pace, but not the Level. There are a lot of different ones on Amazon, I assume they will work!
Thanks for all your hard work on the reviews! Mark
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Mark! Someone else was commenting about this same topic. They thought this one was good because it adds height and has options for a longer stem portion 90mm to 110mm.
ReplyPaul
4 years agoHi there. I have come down to a choice between the Level and the Envo D35 2020. The Envo is significantly lighter but I prefer the look of the Level. Is the weight a big issue? Both seem to get good reviews and are similarly priced but I’d be interested in your thoughts. Thanks
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Paul! Well, I definitely prefer lightweight ebikes… but I’m a skinny guy with small muscles. I only weigh 135lbs and have some back and shoulder injuries from sports. I usually ride a non-electric bike, so I prefer my ebikes to be as light as possible. It makes them easier to lift and transport on car racks! Of course, that usually raises the price and lowers the battery range and motor power. You can usually remove ebike batteries to temporarily reduce weight for transport. Since these ebikes are both top picks for you, I’d say to go with your gut or your heart (which one looks cooler or really appeals to you?) the a few extra pounds usually isn’t noticeable once you’re riding. Imagine riding a bike without a 10lb backpack, or with it, the bike probably feels the same in many ways. Hope this helps ;)
ReplyPaul
4 years agoThanks Court, I finally went with the Amego Infinite. Decent specs and locally made for service etc.
Steve
4 years agoI went to a bike shop today in Santa Barbara to test ride an Aventon Level. They had a medium in stock – I’m 5’10 and 175Lbs (inseam 32). I liked the bike a lot. On the test ride I tried adjusting the seat higher so that my legs extended more during pedaling. The downside was that I was leaning forward and down more which felt uncomfortable. If I were to get this bike, I feel that I would need a seat or seat post with some suspension/shock absorption and handle bars that were somewhat swept back so that I would sit more upright.
After that, I test rode a large Aventon Pace 500 which was a better fit and allowed me to sit more upright. I think that the Level has a lot of upgrades that make it an all around better bike than the Pace 500. Would it be possible/practical to add a rise extension on the handlebars or maybe handlebars that are swept back and what changes would you recommend to the seat? Thanks
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Steve, I think you’re on the right path. My buddy Sam (really big guy who ran a bike shop in Fullerton, California years ago) would purchase these stem risers and occasionally swap handlebars (cruiser, upright, mid rise or riser) for customers. There are lots of affordable ways to improve body position such as sliding the saddle back further. You can definitely get a suspension post, and Thudbuster has a LT (long travel) which is sometimes connected to a longer 400mm post. Sometimes the actual difference between a medium and large frame is one inch reach and one inch higher seat tube, so getting these aftermarket parts for $30 a piece can transform a medium into a large or extra large ;)
ReplyRay
4 years agoLove your reviews! I’m been researching ebikes for a couple months now and don’t feel like I have all the info I need unless I see your review on a specific brand/model! I took my first test ride today on an Aventon Level and think that is the bike for me, but I need to test my friend’s Rad City or he’ll never let me hear the end of it. My wife liked the Level as well, but she then rode a BagiBike B20 (or similar) folding bike and liked the ride as well. I wish you had any reviews for the Bagi as the ones I find look to be more advertising than review. Thanks again for your help! I will be a frequent visitor!
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHey! Thanks for the compliment, Ray. I have heard of BagiBike but never seen one in person. Is the B20 the specific model your wife is interested in? Maybe I can get in touch with them and do a deep review on it :) It looks like there are a few different versions of the B20 build, which one stands out as being the most interesting to you?
ReplyOlga
4 years agoThank you so much for such detailed review of the Level Step Through commuter by Aventon. I am pretty close to buy it but, would you believe, the lack of lights really broke my heart. Not that I’m a night rider. But sometimes I bike at night. I know, I know…. Does it really matter? I live in Lima, Peru. As you know, this is a land of earthquakes. So, even the most modern and upscale neighborhoods have uneven roads and sidewalks. I’m 70 years old and I return home with pain in my shoulders. So, I will not be driving it in dirt roads or trecks but in city street with a permanent rattling.. Is this bike model up to this?
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Olga, I love it when ebikes have the integrated lights too! I think Aventon was trying to keep the price low and found that lights can get damaged in shipping more easily, so they skipped it. Before falling in love with a model, I’d suggest checking with local shops to see what they carry, and also checking with online brands to see if they are even willing to ship to Peru… because I suspect that many will not. I hope you find a great product locally, and I think that having slightly wider tires and a suspension fork will really improve your comfort, and help to reduce shoulder pain. I also think that having a handlebar that sweeps back a bit will make it more comfortable for you, like a cruiser bike :)
ReplyPhil
4 years agoHi, and thank you so much for the great, in depth reviews. I’ve watched many of them from EBR. I’ve been trying to determine first which type of ebike will be right for me, and how much I need to spend to get a good, solid bike. I’m 6’2 and 230 lbs. and 58 years old. I mostly plan to ride on neighborhood roads, and bike / cart paths. I’m leaning toward a commuter style, class 3 bike with peddle assist as well as a throttle and cargo rack and fenders, though it’s not practical for me to actually commute to work on it. We live in the Atlanta suburbs, and unfortunately there isn’t a lot of choice when it comes to ebikes at local shops here.
So after watching many of your reviews, I’m strongly considering one of two bikes with some major differences. First, I’m very impressed with the Aventon Level. I think it delivers a lot of bang for the buck. My biggest concern with this bike though, is the availability of parts, and finding a local shop that can (and will) help me with maintenance when needed. I called Aventon’s toll free number today, and actually spoke with someone in CA that was able to answer a lot of my questions, and address some of my concerns. I’d be happy to buy from a dealer, but the nearest Aventon dealer to me is four and a half hours from me in Tallahassee, Florida, so not that convenient. I do feel that I can probably accomplish the initial assembly myself, and I did find a local shop willing to do for me if I decide to go that route.
The other bike I’m considering is at the other end of the spectrum, from a well known leader in the biking industry, Specialized, and is just over twice the price at about $3,650, and that is the Turbo Vado SL 4.0 EQ. That’s pretty much the high end of my budget. For the considerably higher price, you don’t get front or rear suspension, and a seemingly less powerful motor and lower battery capacity, but on the other hand, it is a sleek design and noticeably lighter, plus comes with integrated front and rear lights and higher end components. Most of all, there are lots of Specialized dealers, and getting the bike serviced shouldn’t be a problem. So I know this is kind of apples and oranges, but what are your thoughts and insights when comparing these two bikes? And again, thanks for providing such great reviews on both of these bikes.
ReplyGary Johnson
4 years agoHow will the Level 3 do on hills? Can it make a 400 foot climb? I also have a step hill up to my house that I can’t climb with a conventual bike. I want a bike for rolling hills and also for flat trails. Will the Level work for me?
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Gary! This ebike should perform at the higher end when compared to all hub-motor electric bikes, but you could get even more climbing power from a mid-drive ebike. The thing is, not all mid-drives have throttle operation. One that offers a lot of power and range is the DOST KOPE (or they have a step-thru called the DROP). Aventon is known for their affordability and good mix of quality and availability through some shops. DOST and some other brands are only sold on line. You could go with almost anything from Trek, Giant, or Specialized and do well with climbing power, but none of the mid-motor products have throttles. I hope this helps! You might get more feedback and insights on the Aventon forums from actual owners who could consider your body weight when making recommendations on climbing ability.
ReplyJeff Olszewski
4 years agoHow do you think this bike would handle on crushed limestone and/or some dirt/gravel trails? Plan is mostly paved but sometimes the trails I ride have some other portions unpaved.
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Jeff! I think it would be just fine… the tires are hybrid with some tread, and they aren’t supper narrow. You’ll get added stability and comfort, as well as traction based on this setup 27.5″ x 2.2″ and the suspension fork should also improve handling and comfort. I hope this helps… yes, there are other products with even deeper tread and wider tires, such as the Surface 604 Shred, but this Aventon should work alright.
ReplyAlgernum Van Voorthuizen
4 years agoHi, I am looking for a good e-bike class 3 if possible, step thru or low step under 50 pounds weight e bike, which one will you sugest to me? Thanks
ReplyCourt
4 years agoHi Algernum, I think the Aventon Level is a great ebike… and it does offer the higher 28mph top speed as a Class 3 model. You could also check out Surface 604 models, which look similar and can usually be unlocked to go ~26mph. Here’s a whole category of Class 3 ebikes for you to explore. The prices are all listed, so you can just skim through and explore a bit until something pops out. They are listed by review date.
ReplyChuck
3 years agoI just ordered my Level ST this week and they are shipping today! Update: the default throttle now, per discussion with Aventon, is throttle on demand. I think this is actually safer, as it lets me get out of the way quickly or cross a street. I have indeed hit the throttle by accident on my previous bike (stolen), but it doesn’t happen nearly as often as my need to get moving. Thanks for the very informative review!
ReplyCourt
3 years agoThat’s great! Thanks for the update Chuck. I hope the bike works great for you, and I agree that throttle on demand is handy for those “catch up” moments, or starting from standstill at a sign or light. Hope the bike comes soon!
ReplyChuck Fields
3 years agoHere’s a follow-up on my Level ST. It arrived in good time with no visible shipping damage and was easy to assemble. I was being extra careful so it was a few hours. I like it a lot, but have had some issues. Not surprised that I was not satisfied with the forward position of the handlebars, which I find uncomfortable and too much strain on my wrists, so I bought and installed a variable angle stem to move the bars back and up. I also like a softer seat so got a suspension post and a seat pad. Really getting it dialed in!
Sadly, there was a warranty issue; the shifter was very stiff and the return spring broke, becoming unusable. My bike shop replaced it and I filed the receipt with Aventon as warranty. Almost a month now and no response on that, but at least it was inexpensive and the replacement is working fine. Range is very good, 50+ miles, which covers my riding.
Chuck Fields
3 years agoTo follow up on my last post, there have been no more warranty issues and today a check arrived for the parts and labor of the failed shifter. Loving the bike and all is well!
People familiar with my previous bike model, the Magnum Metro, may be interested in comparison of the PAS levels. They are similar, with the key difference at low speed. Magnum’s 2 is about like Aventon’s 1, so the gentlest assist is just not there. I find if I just want a little assist I can pedal some, then stop pedaling until I want more. It’s a niche situation. Most of the time I’m making full use of PAS 1 or 2.
Bob De Dea
3 years agoCourt,
I love your reviews, thanks for sharing your enthusiasm and expertise! I have a friend who bought the Aventon Level (he lives in Santa Fe) and loves it. But I’m torn. Your review of the RAD Runner Plus is awesome, too. They’re such different bikes that it’s not easy to choose between them. For example 60# v. 75#, disc brakes v. mechanical, 27″ tires v. 20″, functionality v. style.
I am 63, fit, 5;10″, a long-time biker who likes trails and paths as well as city streets. I also recently moved and live at the top of a hella-big hill that I never want to pedal up 8] Although I rode a street bike for years, my current (and 15-year) ride of choice is a Gary Fisher Sugar 2 mountain bike. I also had a 500cc scooter so I’m not afraid of the Class 3 challenge :)
Any insights you could offer? And thanks, again, for all you do.
ReplyB^D Bob
Court
3 years agoHi Bob! You’re right, these two ebikes are very different… but both awesome for the price! I see two ways to approach this! Since you already have an active pedaling traditional bicycle, the RadRunner Plus would be more of a funky scooter experience. I love that it still has the fenders, suspension post, lights, and a throttle. I suspect that I’d pedal less on the RadRunner because of the unique saddle (at least it can be raised up), but it’s less traditional and less comfortable to pedal for long distances (at least for me). By comparison, the Aventon Level is more “normal” and probably more natural to pedal with. You don’t get the fun wide tires and unique form factor. It might duplicate the experience of your Gary Fisher Sugar 2, even though it’s not a mountain bike. I hope that this gives you another perspective to consider… I like how the RadRunner looks, appreciate the stability it offers, and feel that Rad is a good brand with good customer support, but the Level is an easier bike to recommend here. It’s a lot like the RadCity models, in my opinion. You might actually want to check on backorder times because I suspect that both Rad and Aventon have some wait times for both of the bikes you’re interested in! Let me know what you decide, I’d love to hear your thoughts ;)
ReplyJamie
3 years agoThis is a great question. I wish there was an answer! I’m also wondering if the higher end components/higher price is worth it. I had a Giant LaFree in the 2000s that had a lead acid battery and weighed 75 lbs. and had a range of like 15 miles. I rode it 12 miles a day for years until the charger died and I couldn’t find a replacement. The technology has come a long way since then and I just don’t think I need to spend an extra $2k to commute comfortably. I’m trying to decide between the Level and the Rad City 4. I’m not too worried about the lights because I think the batteries on the rechargeable lights are great and LED tech is also great now, and I can get a brighter rechargeable light that I don’t have to mess w/ too much for the Level. I’m going to test ride both and we’ll see.
ReplyKathryn
3 years agoTest rode my first bike today, a Vado Specialized Turbo. Lovely but expensive. So looking at the Aventon and wondering does it shift as smoothly? I am also concerned about the comments about sitting forward since I do have lower back trouble. Looking to use a bike on pavement like running to the library or store as well as on a rail trail surface. Is there a better option I should look at? Thanks. I appreciate the unbiased detail you gave in your review.
ReplyCourt
3 years agoHi Kathryn! Glad to hear you’ve been enjoying your first ebike experiences. You went straight to the top with Specialized! Their products tend to be the smoothest, lightest, most responsive, and have the nicest smartphone apps in my experience. Aventon is definitely more of a value product, but they are producing nicer and nicer stuff all the time. The Level is an awesome product, in my opinion, that might sacrifice a bit of smoothness in favor of power and speed and throttle options. None of the high-end bicycle companies like Trek, Specialized, Giant etc. offer throttles since they are all using European mid-drives with more sensors to make pedal assist feel natural. Aventon is using a hub motor in combination with a cadence sensor, so it senses pedal movement but not pedal torque. I love the look of this bike, the battery position, and I think they have decent dealer support… so the value is higher than some of the direct to consumer products. It could be a good option if you’re price sensitive, but it might not come in step-thru so keep the mounting and body position in mind as you consider the weight of the bike at 58.6lbs vs. the Vado (could be very light if you’re looking at Vado SL). I hope this helps! Good luck :)
ReplyRobert
3 years agoI have not read through all the comments, so please forgive if any of this is redundant. For the 2022 model, I found several differences in the 2020 review from the Level bikes that my wife and I bought. First, on the color, there are two colors available. Earth-grey, and rose-gold. We have one of each. The throttle does kick in from a dead stop. It’s an excellent way to get going across intersections to get you quickly across the street. For the step-thru, there are only 2 frame sizes, S for small, and M/L which I assume means medium/large. Other than those differences, it seems consistent from that year to this. That, to me, means that Aventon is very happy with its specs overall.
We love the bikes. Yes, they’re a little heavy, but a bit lighter than the Magnum I had before, so I’m happy. You can remove the battery when transporting if you wish, or for charging off of the bike. The dealer sells some kind of wraparound bag or the like to protect the open compartment when on a bike rack. There are surely better e-bikes out there, but for the price, which is up $200 from 2021, it’s still a bargain with all its features.
ReplyCourt
3 years agoHi Robert! Thanks for sharing the updates that you noticed with the 2022 model. It sounds like you and your wife chose well! Glad you’re enjoying them. Hope the Spring and Summer months are full of fun rides together :)
Replyd.d.
3 years agoWASTE OF MONEY! You get what you pay for, no long-term support.
Just a bit more than one year after getting a Level V1, they are not making batteries for it anymore. I get less than 40 km (24 miles) on a charge doing pedal assist level 1 on relatively flat ground. I’ve been proactively trying to buy a spare for my level since last summer for longer rides. Never in stock, even though I signed up for notifications. Now with the battery lasting half what it should, a back up is going from a nice-to-have to a need-to-have. You can only use Aventon’s custom batteries with the bike; if they don’t make it you can’t get one.
I get that batteries can degrade, I am not here to argue about whether it is Aventon’s fault or not. I should be able to buy a battery for a bike that is so new. Buy a bike from someone else who cares about their product over the long-term, or accept that once Aventon has your money and the warranty is done, your bike is essentially disposable.
ReplyCourt
3 years agoWow, thanks for the cautionary feedback d.d. it sounds like you were very proactive, and you’ve communicated the steps you took clearly. Yeah, this is one of the benefits that spending more for a Bosch ebike, or even Rad Power Bikes can have. Some companies go above and beyond to carry replacement parts and support old formats on batteries, and it really makes a difference. It’s difficult to know this in advance how things will play out, all you can do is look at past performance… One possible solution could be to contact FTH Power, which is a company in California that repacks some batteries. They can even put in higher capacity cells so you come out with more range than stock! Not every battery allows this, many of the fancier ones have special systems that limit modification. Check them out and hopefully it will keep your Level V1 on the road for many more years.
ReplyKP
2 years agoBefore I ordered a new battery to extend the range on my wife’s Level (purchased August 2021) I was on chat with an Aventon rep that assured me that the battery labeled “V2” was compatible with the bike.
When the battery arrived with a new terminal package, I inquired as to whether it was necessary to change the terminal as the new battery fit, charged, and turned on the bike’s display. I was told that it was required for the new battery and that my original battery required the original terminal.
If that’s true, the battery will only “extend the range” of the bike, as the website stated, if you take the time and effort to change the terminal every time you change the battery.
I also ordered an additional battery for my Aventure, but it doesn’t come with a battery cover. That leaves the battery compartment exposed to the elements unless you take the time to unscrew the the cover from the original battery and transfer it to the one for which it was swapped.
Before buying from Aventon, make sure you understand that Aventon’s à la carte batteries may be out of stock or otherwise incompatible with the version of the bike you own.
ReplyCourt
2 years agoHmm, this is interesting feedback KP. Thanks for going into detail about what you’ve observed and heard from Aventon. Yeah, it’s not as convenient as portrayed if the extra battery requires an interface change.
ReplyDavid Pfister
2 years agoI have had my level for 6 weeks and 150 miles. Bike cuts out and displays Error Code 30 (Communication Error) every ride after 30-45 min. The bike has cut out at several critical times like crossing a busy street. So far no help or support from Aventon. The internet is full of people with this same error. Search for Aventon Level Error code 30. Aventon’s web help says error code 30 is lost communication between the display and the controller. I tried a new color display and had the same issues but no error code read out. Also the color display is unreadable in bright sunlight. Overall this bike is a disappointment and would not recommend purchase. I am going to return and obtain a refund.
ReplyCourt
2 years agoThanks for posting your review of the bike, and sharing the parts that have issues. This helps others who might be considering the bike, and I hope that your return goes smoothly. Bummer to hear that they didn’t follow up with you to address the issues :(
ReplyAdam
2 years agoThanks so much for this thorough review! I have a local Aventon dealer, so I will be doing some test drives soon.
So I have not been trail riding for some time, but I live in Eugene, Oregon and there are plenty of opportunities. I am largely interested in an all-around commuter (mix of paved and in-town trails), maybe pull toddlers around as well. But I want to feel that I can confidently enjoy non-technical, easy to moderate dirt/gravel trails at any time.
Would you recommend I stick with the Level or bump up to the Aventure? The Aventure is certainly more bike, but I’m not sure I need that much bike (and weight) if I’m not interested in super technical, muddy/sandy/snowy trails. But I just want to feel confident in doing weekend, non-technical trail riding, along with an everyday commute.
Thanks!
ReplyCourt
2 years agoHi Adam! It’s cool that you have an Aventon dealer nearby. Definitely check the Level and Aventure out. I think both could be a fit for your ride plans, but I agree with what you said about saving weight. The Level will be easier to lift, transport, and handle while riding. It’s still probably enough for gravel paths and packed dirt trails, and it will be more efficient than the Aventure. Some people like the “truck” or “SUV” style of fat tire bikes, and they do offer some stability and comfort, but the way you described your plans for commuting and non-technical riding made me think the Level could be a good fit. I’d love to hear what you think after riding some! Good luck :)
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