Latest news with #Aventon
CNET
22-07-2025
- Automotive
- CNET
Get Yourself a Rideable for Less and Score $500 Off the Aventon Level 2 E-Bike
Table of Contents Get Yourself a Rideable for Less and Score $500 Off the Aventon Level 2 E-Bike If you didn't get the chance to shop during July 4th or Prime Day, rest assured that there are still some fantastic summer deals across the internet, especially if you're looking for an e-bike or scooter. Right now, we've spotted a great deal that drops the Aventon Level 2 e-bike down to just $1,399, saving you a massive $500 over the usual asking price of $1,899. This e-bike can be purchased online or you can use Aventon's locator to help you find a local shop. Though there's no advertised end to this deal, we suggest acting fast if interested. The Aventon Level 2 e-bike can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour (adjustable to 28mph) and has a range of up to 60 miles per charge. With this power, you can comfortably explore your city or even commute. Our overall favorite e-bike of the year is the Aventon Soltera 2, and while this Level 2 e-bike is a different model, our experts noted in our roundup that "the entire Aventon lineup offers affordability and versatility," so this is a deal you'll want to consider if you're in the market for an eco-friendly rideable. Aventon makes this bike in two sizes. R is for people between 5'3" - 5'10" and L is for anyone between 5'10" - 6'4". And it has a payload capacity of up to 300 pounds. While it technically comes in both a step over or step through frame, only the step over frame is currently in stock. However, this e-bike includes fenders and a rear rack so you'll be better protected from the elements and can carry your items with ease. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. This e-bike includes plenty of other excellent features, too, such as lights for visibility, a torque sensor, front suspension and pedal assist. Its backlit LCD display keeps you informed with charge status, distance and miles per hour so you can plan your trip accordingly. It also includes iOS and Android app compatibility. If you want to explore more options, check out Aventon's sale page, which includes other sale items such as the Ramblas mountain e-bike for $300 off. Why this deal matters The Aventon Level 2 is now a massive $500 off when you purchase directly from them. Not only that, but their sale page also includes deals on portable, mountain bikes and all-terrain bikes. Though these discounts aren't as substantial, it still makes now a great time to buy an e-bike if you've been looking for one.
Digital Trends
14-07-2025
- Automotive
- Digital Trends
This power station changed the way we camp as a family
We recently decided to take a family camping trip – something I used to love to do with my husband but not dared since I became a mom to my children. So it was with some trepidation that we packed up the car to the brim and headed to the coast with toddlers in tow. Recommended Videos While previously we've 'gone basic' when it comes to camping, this time we decided we needed a couple of reinforcements. While we enjoy biking on the trails, with toddlers tagging along we decided to upgrade the experience to e-bikes to make things a little more manageable, so we added the Aventon e-bikes—the Aventure 3 ($1,999) and Pace 4 (which some may remember from my last article, where I got hooked on the e-bike world). With the added weight which comes with e-bikes, we needed to make sure we had a bike rack that couldn't accommodate them, and we went with the 2-Bike Hitch Electric Bike Rack from Young Electric ($359.99). There's also the question of getting comfortable sleep – sure, we can't expect amazing slumber when out under the stars, but we wanted to smooth the experience over for the kids. To that end, we went for the Jackery HomePower 3000 ($2,499), a portable generator that stole the spotlight, with the goal of making bedtimes a bit more like home while getting all the benefits of the outdoors (and hopefully giving my kids a lifelong love of camping…). A rocky start We arrived at the campsite at 10:30pm, which was a bit of a nightmare. The kids had been asleep in the car and woke up cranky and confused as we started digging through everything in the dark (although somehow, our two dogs were a sleepy dream to manage). It quickly turned into a one-person race against time with my husband setting up our giant cabin tent solo while I tried to keep the peace. We couldn't get to the Jackery without unloading the kids, and we didn't want to risk waking everyone in the campground. An important note: the Jackery is heavy, at nearly 60lbs. Ours doesn't have wheels, and it's not specifically designed for portability or outdoor use. You definitely feel it when you're moving it around. However, once the tent was up and we got the generator inside, everything shifted. We powered on some lights and the iPad, and suddenly the mood turned from meltdown to magical. The kids were calm again and cozy in their sleeping bags. That moment set the tone for the rest of the trip and it finally felt like our adventure had begun. E-bikes that changed the game In my last article, I shared more about my very first experience riding an e-bike, specifically the Aventon Pace 4 Step-Through ($1,699), so I decided to bring it along on our trip. If you've ever tried managing a large campground with young kids and dogs, you know it can feel like a workout. This time, my husband and I each rode an e-bike. To get them to the coast, we used a heavy-duty e-bike rack with a built-in ramp, meaning we thankfully didn't need to lift the 50lb bikes. I'd strongly recommend a similar setup for anyone taking e-bikes on a road trip, as it really takes the stress out of things, even if it does add to the cost. When it came to our ride, my husband took the Aventure 3 while I rode the Pace 4, each towing a trailer with a kid and a dog in tow. We glided across packed trails and winding paths without breaking a sweat. The Aventure 3 is designed to be more rugged, and it handled the rougher terrain and gravel with much greater aplomb thanks to its wide tires and rugged frame. The Pace 4 gave me a smooth and comfortable ride on paved stretches and light trails – but it's definitely not made for rugged terrain. On one ride near the beach, the gravel got a little too rough and I had to hop off and walk it back. Sand was a total no-go. That definitely took some of the 'adventure' out of the ride and reminded me that if we want to tackle more off-road trails next time, it might be better for both of us to bring fat-tire bikes like the Aventure 3. For parents juggling kids and gear across big campgrounds, having an e-bike can be a total game-changer, turning what could be a tiring trek into an easy, even fun, ride. We didn't have to worry about charging the bikes during our two-night trip—we'd gotten to know their range around our neighborhood and were confident they'd last. They were mostly used for joy rides around the site and trips to the beach, so charging never became a concern. That said, if we were planning to clock serious miles, we'd definitely need to plan for a power source. Gear Upgrades That Made a Difference Since my first ride, I've added a few upgrades to both bikes that made a big difference when heading away from the city. Front (Aventon, $59.99) and rear racks (Aventon, $65.99) were great for storage, especially with kids, and gave us a place to stash snacks, water bottles, and random treasures picked up along the trail. Fenders (Aventon, $69.99) helped keep them dry in the trailer after a muddy shortcut back to camp. Those little additions made the ride more comfortable for everyone, and a lot less messy. One thing I didn't expect: my water bottle flew out of its holder during a bumpy stretch of road while we were cruising downhill. It caught me off guard, and next time I'll make sure it's secured a little better—or opt for a different cage altogether. Mornings made better Every morning started with something that felt downright luxurious. Using our small coffee maker plugged into the Jackery generator felt ridiculously luxurious, as we brewed hot java right at our site. Sipping a fresh cup beside the fire as the coastal clouds rolled in was a quiet moment of joy that made everything feel just right. It set the tone for the entire day—and quietly reminded me how much comfort a little power can bring, even in the wild. Camp cooking for the modern era We also brought a compact air fryer, and at first it felt a little silly to pack it for a camping trip. But once we started using it, we couldn't stop. It wasn't necessary, but it turned out to be surprisingly fun and effortless. We didn't have to tend to a grill, cook in shifts, or keep kids away from a hot BBQ. It made mealtimes easier and gave us more time to actually relax and enjoy being together, making breakfast sausages and hot dogs with no mess and no waiting. Comforts of home, under the stars Nights were one of my biggest worries, as settling the kids in for the night is hard enough at home, let alone doing it in an unfamiliar place and terrain. That's a big part of why I wanted to bring power, to help recreate some of the home ambiance, and I was surprised, if I'm honest, with how well it worked. At night, our campsite glowed with twinkle lights, phones stayed charged, music played, and the kids curled up with an iPad, fully charged and ready for Curious George under the stars. We powered their nightlight and sound machine too, just like at home. It made bedtime feel completely familiar, even while camping. That small sense of routine helped the kids settle quickly and gave us all a better night's sleep. One of the coolest things was that the Jackery generator also powered my husband's CPAP machine. I've never been camping with him while he was able to use it, and it was an absolute game changer. No snoring. No interruptions. He woke up feeling great. I did too. If you know CPAPs, you know how rare that kind of peaceful night can be while camping. Final thoughts: camping, reimagined To reiterate, the Jackery HomePower 3000 is no joke—it's nearly 60 pounds and doesn't have wheels, so it's not the easiest thing to move around, especially if you're dealing with limited mobility. But it consistently delivered comfort and ease—from lighting to coffee to sleep—I still think it's absolutely worth it. That said, for a two-night weekend with fairly heavy use—including running lights, an iPad, a coffee maker, a sound machine, a CPAP, and even an air fryer—it held up surprisingly well. We didn't run out of power, and by 9:30am on Sunday the Jackery was at 32% and after our last ride through the campsite, while the bikes were at 24% for the Aventure 3 and 31% for the Pace 4. If we'd stayed longer or used the air fryer more often, a solar panel or power top-up would've been a smart backup. If you plan to use it the way we did, I'd recommend having a solar panel for backup just in case. If you're thinking about upgrading your camping setup, a power generator would be a great addition. I never thought we'd be camping with toddlers, let alone brewing coffee and watching cartoons under the stars. But with the right gear, we didn't just survive the trip, we actually had a great time. The Jackery, in particular, made everything seem seamless in a way I would have never expected when camping, especially with kids. Now we're already planning the next one.
Digital Trends
30-06-2025
- Automotive
- Digital Trends
Aventon Abound LR e-bike review: greater capacity, comfort, and security
Aventon Abound LR MSRP $1,999.00 Score Details 'The versatile Abound LR includes a reassuring array of electronic security features.' Pros Generous cargo capacity Adaptable for many uses Suspension seatpost softens the ride Cargo accessories standard Comprehensive security features Competitive price for benefits Cons Mirrors not standard Pedaling without power is hard Heavy weight is awkward to move around The Aventon Abound LR rounds out the brand's purpose-focused e-bike lineup with a stretch version of the Abound SR cargo and utility bike. Capacity, comfort, and security matter for all e-bikes, but particularly for cargo bikes that regularly transport children, groceries, equipment, and gear. The Abound LR wins on all fronts and is available at a price that allows you to stock up on a selection of accessories for carrying kids, touring, hauling groceries, or even delivering pizza. Recommended Videos Aventon Abound LR e-bike: highest and best use At 88 pounds without added accessories such as child seats or cargo baskets, the Abound LR outweighs the Abound SR by 8 pounds. The LR is also 7 inches longer than the SR model. Right from the start, it's clear that the Abound LR isn't designed for agility or off-road riding. Some might consider using the Abound LR primarily for one-up riding with extra carrying capacity in reserve, the way many of us buy SUVs. That logic falls short if you also want to ride the bike for exercise, where the weight and size are more noticeable. Pedaling the Abound LR without battery power assistance is too hard. You can think of the LR as a long-wheelbase utility bike, a category where versatility and durability are primary factors. Perhaps the simplest way to consider the difference between the Abound SR and LR is to think of the SR as one-child transportation and the LR as the better choice for carrying two kids. The same factors that argue against the Abound LR for casual use make it an excellent choice as a versatile hauler. The overall cargo capacity is 440 pounds, with a maximum of 123 pounds that can be placed on top of or hung from the long rear rack. Aventon Abound LR e-bike: the numbers The Abound LR shares most components and capacities with SR; the only significant differences are length and weight. Power from a 36-volt, 20-amp-hour Lithium-ion battery supplies a rear hub drive motor that generates 750 watts continuously and 1,188 watts peak power. The maximum torque rating is 80 Newton-meters, which corresponds to a pulling power that's especially helpful when you're getting started with a heavy load and encountering steep inclines in your travels. The Abound LR is configured as a Class 2 e-bike with a top speed of 20 mph, whether accessed through the thumb throttle or with pedal-assisted support. There are three riding modes, Eco, Sport, and Turbo, with correspondingly increased power, torque availability, and speed. You select the ride mode using a small control pad on the left side of the Abound's handlebars. Aventon's FineTune software, available on the Aventon app, lets you configure power delivery for each mode to suit your preferences. Aventon recently utilized the LR's over-the-air update feature (OTA) to introduce a new mode that provides temporary additional power. Boost mode can only be used for a maximum of 30 seconds, after which you must wait five minutes to reaccess Boost. While in Boost, the Abound's motor provides up to 120% of the normally available torque. Using Boost continuously would significantly cut the bike's maximum range and likely cause the motor to run too hot for too long, affecting durability. You can use the Aventon app to reconfigure the Abound LR as a Class 3 e-bike for a higher top speed. With throttle use, the Class 3 top speed remains limited to 20 mph, but the pedaling assistance maximum increases to 25 mph. Normally, Class 3 e-bikes have a maximum speed of 28 mph with pedal assistance, but limiting the top speed to 25 mph is a good idea for a cargo bike, as it likely also conserves battery range. Aventon rates the Abound LR's range per charge up to 60 miles. Many factors affect battery range, including overall cargo weight, travel speed, acceleration patterns, elevation, temperature, and others. It's safe to assume that you'll only get close to the range maximum if you ride primarily in Eco mode and use pedaling assistance power for long inclines or to get started from intersections. Aventon stands out among its competitors by including a 4-amp charger with the Abound LR, which will charge a 20 amp-hour battery from 0 to 100% in about 5 hours, twice as fast as the 2-amp chargers standard with most cargo e-bikes. Aventon Abound LR e-bike: comfort and convenience Heavier e-bikes often feel more stable than lightweight models, and that's the case with the Abound LR. However, Aventon also includes an adjustable front fork suspension and a suspension seat post that's adjustable. The bike lacks a rear suspension, but the seat's suspension, with 50mm of travel and rebound, helps soften the ride when you hit a bump, a stone, or a crack in the road surface. Handlebar and seat adjustments also contribute to the Abound LR's comfort, as well as rider sizing. Aventon offers just one frame size for the Abound LR, but rates it for riders from 4 feet 11 inches to 6 feet 3 inches. You can adjust the height of the handlebar stem and the angle to suit your preferred riding geometry. I like to ride with the handlebars at an angle, maintaining an upright posture rather than leaning forward and bending over. I'll sacrifice the minimal aerodynamics loss for great back and neck comfort every time and appreciate the ability to set up the Abound LR to my liking. The Abound LR's standard rear rack, footboards, and wheel guards provide a valuable base setup for additional accessories. Most e-bike rear racks range from 15 to 17 inches in length, but the Abound LR's 27.5-inch length can accommodate two child seats or one child and additional cargo. You'll need to add a seat pad or child seat adapters to carry passengers, but having the wheelguards already installed to protect feet, shoe laces, and clothing from getting caught in the spokes is a great idea. Another convenience, which is a must for cargo bikes, is the installed center stand. A typical kick stand isn't much help when you're loading children or cargo on the back of a bike. Keeping the bike level makes loading easier and safer. Aventon Abound LR e-bike: safety and security Because cargo bikes typically cost more than regular e-bikes, and because there are times when you might need to leave a loaded bike unattended for a short period, security is a particular concern. Fortunately, the Abound LR is one of Aventon's ACU-equipped e-bikes. ACU stands for Aventon Control Unit. The ACU employs GPS and 4G connectivity, included free for the first year and renewable by subscription for $20 per year. The 4G service isn't necessary to ride the bike, but the connectivity adds functions that can give you peace of mind, including unusual activity detection, GPS tracking, and geofencing. Unusual activity detection can be configured to sound an alarm and send a notification if the bike is moved. With GPS tracking, you can contact law enforcement for assistance in locating and retrieving your bike. Geofencing enables you to define areas where a bike can be ridden, including both permitted and restricted zones. If someone borrows or steals your bike, for example, and rides away from an allowed area, the ACU can cut power assistance. Standard Aventon Abound LR security features also include a startup password, keyless battery access, and an integrated bike lock that secures the rear wheel. Aventon Abound LR e-bike: riding impressions I rode the Aventon Abound LR in traffic on city streets in Long Beach, California, at a pre-launch press event in February, and in suburban Connecticut on town streets and park pathways. In that type of riding, torque for quick starts from intersections and for tackling inclines is more important than a high top speed. I used the Aventon app to configure the bike as a Class 3 e-bike, but found that the only time I ever hit the 25 mph top speed was when I tested to see if it was possible. Otherwise, most of the time was ridden between 15 and 20 mph. There is a noticeable difference between Eco, Sport, and Turbo modes. I generally kept the bike in Turbo mode because I wasn't concerned about range. Aventon utilizes a torque sensor for pedal power assistance, which responds to the force applied by your pedaling. I never experienced a sudden power surge, which can occur with some cadence sensors that apply full power whenever the pedals are turning. Boost mode certainly adds the sensation of extra power, but again, it was modulated by pedaling force. The Aventon features an unobtrusive, compact display and button control module located on the left side of the handlebars. Operating the controls is pretty intuitive, and using the Aventon app makes it even simpler. The headlight is mounted low on the front fender, which is OK for visibility, but if I were going to travel extensively at night, I'd want a larger light. The horizontal taillight is noticeable, and it brightens significantly when the brakes are applied. I was particularly pleased to find that Aventon's turn signals automatically turn off after 15 seconds. Like almost all e-bike brands, Aventon does not include mirrors as standard equipment. I wish they did and wonder why any e-bike company that sells bikes that share the road with cars doesn't equip their bikes with at least one mirror. Aventon sells an accessory handlebar grip mirror for $20. Aventon Abound LR e-bike: options and accessories Aventon offers a diverse range of baskets, racks, bags, seats, and other accessories for the Abound LR. Because cargo bike buyers typically shop with specific uses in mind, it's a good idea to be sure you can also buy the accessories that you need. Aventon's broad selection should meet the needs of most cargo bike users. Aventon Abound LR e-bike: our take I keep coming back to the concept of 'the complete package' when I think of the Aventon Abound LR. It's easy to recommend such an evolved vehicle, especially now with its OTA update and upgrade functionality. The Abound LR's rider comfort and convenience, standard cargo-bike accessories, and the security elements of its ACU all justify the $1,999 price. Other cargo bikes to consider include the $1,725 Lectric Expedition 2.0, $2,399 Rad Power Bikes Radwagon 5, $3,895 Pedego Cargo. The Expedition 2.0 can utilize a second battery to double its range, and the price is slightly lower. The RadWagon 5 has a higher starting price and has less cargo capacity. The Pedego Cargo is a gorgeous cargo bike, but it costs twice as much as the Abound LR and weighs significantly more at 114 pounds. None of those cargo bikes has the Abound LR's range of security features. The last alternative cargo bike to consider is the Abound SR, which is essentially the same bike, but shorter and slightly lighter. Choosing between those two would depend only on the size of the cargo you'll haul or whether you are carrying one child or two.
Digital Trends
30-06-2025
- Automotive
- Digital Trends
Aventure 3 is the best-selling fat tire ebike yet — here's why that matters
If you thought Aventon's top-selling fat tire ebike had already hit its peak, think again. The new Aventure 3 takes everything riders loved about its predecessor and layers in smarter tech, stronger components, and a ride experience that feels genuinely elevated. It still comes equipped with those beastly 26 x 4-inch fat tires and a 750W motor that eats up dirt trails, sand, snow, and pothole-pocked city streets with equal ease. But now, the Aventure 3 isn't just built for anywhere, it's built for anything. New tech, real benefits Aventon's Aventure 3 now includes the brand's latest innovation: the Aventon Control Unit (ACU). This powerful onboard system unlocks features like 4G connectivity, GPS tracking, and motion detection alerts. Translation: Your bike is now more secure, more customizable, and always connected. The theft deterrence suite alone is a major upgrade. The Aventure 3 includes an integrated rear wheel lock, keyless battery removal, and the ability to lock and unlock the bike remotely via the Aventon app. If someone tampers with your ride, you'll get a real-time alert. Combine that with geofencing, which lets you create no-go zones for your bike, and you've got the kind of security most ebikes only wish they had. Personalized performance Every rider is different so why should every ride feel the same? The Aventure 3's ACU also introduces Ride Tune, a feature that lets you tweak the bike's performance profile. Want more power off the line? Prefer to stretch your battery for longer weekend adventures? With Ride Tune, you control how the Aventure 3 responds. And yes, that range is impressive: the Aventure 3 delivers up to 65 miles on a single charge, depending on your settings and terrain. That's not just enough for commuting, it's enough for going completely off-grid and still making it home before dark. Built to handle it all Smart tech aside, the Aventure 3 doesn't lose focus on the fundamentals. It includes Tektro hydraulic disc brakes for powerful, consistent stopping in all conditions. It ships with a rear rack and full fenders, so you're ready to haul gear or groceries in any weather. And the wide tires aren't just about grip — they help absorb shock for a smoother, more forgiving ride on rough surfaces. Whether you're navigating snowy backroads, rocky trails, or uneven pavement, the Aventure 3 delivers a ride that's both rugged and refined. An upgrade that actually means something Too many product updates focus on flashy features that sound good in a press release but add little to the experience. Not here. The Aventure 3 is a thoughtful evolution: a smarter, tougher, and more responsive version of Aventon's best-selling fat tire ebike. This isn't just an upgrade. It's a redefinition of what a fat tire ebike can be. With the ACU now standard, the Aventure 3 is ahead of the curve. And that makes all the difference, whether you're ripping through a mountain trail or just locking up outside your favorite coffee shop.
Digital Trends
27-06-2025
- Automotive
- Digital Trends
Aventon Level.3 e-bike review: the smarter commuter
Aventon Level.3 MSRP $1,899.00 Score Details 'Aventon focuses on what matters for commuters: comfort and security.' Pros Adapts to rider size and riding geometry Dual suspension softens ride Uncluttered controls and cables GPS-enabled app includes several security features Stays current with over-the-air updates High value cost-quality ratio Cons No brake lights Mirrors not standard Security features require 4G subscription All-terrain e-bikes, cruisers, and other models acquired for casual riding or recreational transportation are convenient and fun, but they don't have to justify their cost. That's not the case with e-bikes used for commuting. Good commuter e-bikes prove their value every day. The Aventon Level.3 e-bike for commuters is the latest model from a company with a history of producing solid e-bikes that offer the durability and comfort features required for daily commuting. Two years ago, when I reviewed the Aventon Soltera.2, I praised its power, light weight, and value as a city bike for commuters, although I wished it had hydraulic brakes, fenders, and a rear rack as standard equipment. The Level.3 has the brakes, fenders, and rack I asked for, but also goes far beyond the Soltera.2 with security and other smart features supported by the Aventon Control Unit (ACU) electronic technology that can keep the Level.3 and other ACU-equipped e-bikes current via over-the-air (OTA) updating. Recommended Videos Aventon Level.3 commuter e-bike: highest and best use The Level.3 ships as a Class 2 e-bike, with a maximum power-assisted top speed of 20 mph. Battery power is accessed via three levels of pedal power assistance or a thumb throttle located on the handlebar, adjacent to the hand grip. You can change the configuration to Class 3 via the Aventon app, which sets the top assisted speed at 28 mph with pedal assistance. The maximum speed remains 20 mph with throttle use only. You certainly aren't restricted to riding on pavement only with the Level.3, but it's not intended for heavy off-road terrain. The standard rear rack can carry up to 60 pounds and accepts a set of optional panniers, so light touring is a possibility. With a total cargo capacity of 300 pounds, including the rider, gear, and cargo, the Level.3 wouldn't be a great choice for long-distance touring or as a cargo bike. I tested the Level.3 Step Through e-bike during an Aventon pre-launch editorial event in Long Beach, California, in February 2025, and in late spring and early summer with a production model at home in Connecticut. Aventon also sells the Level.3 with a more traditional crossbar frame. Aventon claims that the Step Through version weighs 66 pounds, and the crossbar version weighs 68 pounds. According to my digital scale, the test e-bike weighed 67.8 pounds, which is approximately average for e-bikes overall. Commuter e-bikes and city e-bikes need to be sturdy and up to the challenge of frequent encounters with potholes and street curbing. The Level.3 boosts a gravity-cast 6061 aluminum frame, cited for its toughness and durability. Gravity-cast aluminum is particularly valued for its strength-to-weight ratio. The Level.3's highest and best use is as a commuter e-bike, preferably for someone who doesn't need to carry it up and down stairs every day. I'll delve into the bike's various comfort, convenience, performance, and security features below, but the Level.3 is purpose-built for commuting and is an excellent choice for that purpose. Aventon Level 3 commuter e-bike: power to go A 36V electric motor, rated at 500 watts sustained and 864 watts peak output, powers the Level.3. Torque is rated at 60 Newton-meters, but frankly, it felt like the bike had more pulling power when I rode up my long, steep driveway. When using pedal power assistance, a pedaling torque sensor adjusts the power delivery based on the force with which you pedal. Power is delivered in one of three riding modes: Eco, Sport, and Turbo. You can adjust the percentage of power assistance in each mode using Aventon's FineTune feature, although I found the power gradients to be sufficient and felt natural. And then this happened: Aventon added a Boost mode. Aventon began shipping the Level.3 in the spring. As I was finishing my testing for this review, however, the company issued a firmware update OTA for all Aventon models with an ACU unit and a hub drive motor. That update included Boost Mode. Boost Mode isn't a normal mode because you cannot select it and stay in it all the time, unlike Eco, Sport, and Turbo. Boost Mode allows you to use up to 120% of the motor's peak power and torque, but only for 30 seconds at a time. After 30 seconds, the motor reverts to the previous power mode. Boost is designed for a quick burst of extra power to clear an intersection, tackle a challenging incline, or other situations when you need a bit more power. When the time is up, however, you have to wait five minutes before you can reaccess Boost Mode. Aventon lists the Level.3's maximum range as 70 miles, which is much more than most e-bikes with single batteries, and 10 miles more than the previous model. To reach 70 miles per charge, you'll undoubtedly need to stay in Eco mode and restrict your speed somewhat, but few e-bike commuters will need more power for a daily round trip. The 36V battery, a 20-amp battery certified to UL 2271, supplies up to 733 Wh using its LG Lithium-ion cells. Aventon includes a more powerful-than-average 4 Amp charger, which can charge the battery from 0 to 100% in approximately five hours. Aventon Level.3 commuter e-bike: rider comfort and convenience Any bike that you'll ride on a daily basis has to be comfortable. Aventon addresses rider comfort with rider fit dimensional choices, handlebar and seat adjustments, and front wheel and seat suspension elements. The Level.3 traditional and step-through frames are each available in two sizes, regular and large. Aventon lists height and inseam ranges for both frame sizes. Frame Size Height Inseam Step Through Regular 4′ 11″ to 5′ 7″ 24″ to 29″ Step Through Large 5′ 7″ to 6′ 1″ 29″ to 33″ Traditional Regular 5′ 3″ to 5′ 10″ 26″ to 31″ Traditional Large 5′ 10″ to 6′ 4″ 31″ t0 35″ To accommodate rider size, the Level.3 seat and handlebar heights are adjustable. In addition, the handlebar angle adjusts from a range of forward or upright riding postures. I'm 5'7″ tall with a 29-inch inseam, and the large step through frame was a great fit. Because I've spent decades leaning over keyboards, my neck falls a bit forward, so Iwhen setting it up, I rolled back the handlebar to its most upright position for the most comfortable riding geometry. Road irregularities are a given, whether you're ridng in a city or the country. Aventon upgraded this lastest commuter e-bike with a suspension seat post with 50mm of travel to add to the adjustable front suspension fork which has 80mm travel. Aventon's seat is reasonably comfortable, but on my first rides the suspension fork's travel surprised me when it moved up and down with bumps in the road. I soon get used to it and became less concerned about road and sidewalk seams, joints, and cracks. The handlebar hardware organization and function is a less-obvious factor in rider comfort, but the simplicity of the Level,3's controls and its uncluttered appearance means there's less to keep track of and the contol you need is easy to find. The 2.75-inch diagonal measure, full-color LCD display is bright and easy to read. Aventon Level.3 commuter e-bike: security features E-bike security is a concern if you have to leave your ride unattended. I still recommend that you use at least two physical locks any time you park a bike in a public space, but the Aventon Control Unit (ACU) is packed with security features to protect your ride so it will be where you left it when your're ready to ride home. The ACI relies on 4G connectivity, with a one year subscription included with the bike purchase. Additional years cost just $20, but if you don't use the ACU features you don't need to resubscribe. The ACU's features include integrated GPS so you can track your bike if someone takes it or find it if you can't remember where you parked. There's also a motion sensor to detect unusual activity and geofencing, both can be configured to send an alert plus you can cut power assistance outside approved boundaries. There is a keyless battery fearture so you can remove the battery for charging or protection, even when you don't have the key. The integrated electronic rear wheel lock prevents the Level.3's long kickstand from being raised and locks the rear wheel. All of the ACU features are selectable with the Aventon app so you can use them selectively as needed. Aventon Level 3 commuter e-bike: riding impressions I wouldn't want to ride the Level.3 on a regular basis for exercise without power assistance, but avid bicyclists or fitness riders might think it's OK. I rode it with the power turned off on flat terrain and it was doable and even pleasant until I came to an incline, at which point the fun was over. I'm generally partial to fat tire all-terrain e-bikes and off-road bikes, but have come to appreciate well-sorted road bikes and city bikes. The demands differ between e-bike applications, and Aventon has clearly nailed the requirements for e-bike commuting. The Level.3 is a lightweight like the Soltera city bike models, but it's a sturdier bike designed for frequent, heavier use than the city bikes. I particularly enjoyed going into Boost Mode when it was available at the end of my testing the bursts of speed and power, but I also appreciated the Level.3's ability to weave around obstacles. The bike's 27.5-inch diameter 2.2-inch wide Kendra tires are by no means fat tires and don't soften the ride, but they added to the bike's agiity while still presenting a wider tread with more protection than a slim road bike tire. I do have two knocks against the Level.3, however. The lights are fine and I appreciate the Level.3's turn signals. The brake levers don't cut battery power when applied, however, and, even more significantly, there are no brake lights. The taillights are nice and bright, but Aventon missed a step. I also wish the Level.3 included at least one rear view mirror. The demo bikes at the pre-lanch press event had optional bar-end mirrors that worked very well, but they arent standard. Almost no brands include mirrors, but I think any bike, powered or not, that shares roads with motor vehicles needs at least one mirror. Aventon's Handlebar Grip Mirror is a $20 option. Aventon Level.3 commuter e-bike: our take You should absolutely choose Aventon's Level.3 if you're looking for a dependable e-bike for daily commuting. The rider accommodation and comfort features, standard smart security apps, and the overall quality of the Level.3 make it a bargain at its $1,899 list price. The Gazelle Eclipse e-bike is another highly evolved e-bike the standard wheel locking and its 100 mile range is greater than the Aventon Level.3's 70 miles, but the Gazelle sells for $6,000, which is more than three times the cost. The Lectric One commuter e-bike has advanced drive train components designed for durability and low maintenance. The One's $2,199 price isn't that much more than the Level.3, which makes it a tempting choice, but the lack of front or rear suspension can deliver a jarring ride.
