Aventon Level 2 Electric Bike Review

Offering robust performance for daily use or recreation, the Aventon Level 2 expands the accessibility of electric two-wheel transport.

Summary

The Aventon Level 2 is a versatile electric bike well-suited for daily transportation or recreational riding. Its durable 6061 aluminum alloy frame seamlessly incorporates a large-capacity removable battery. Powered by a robust 500W mid-drive motor and 11-speed drivetrain, the Level 2 handles varied terrains with ease. Loaded with top-tier components like hydraulic brakes and suspension, it expands the electric cycling experience in an approachable package.

What I Don’t Like About Aventon Level 2

Specifications

About Aventon

Aventon was started in 2015 and is headquartered in California. Within a short period, they have become a prominent manufacturer of electric bicycles. They aim to introduce more people to the fun and functional world of e-biking through affordable yet high-quality products. Aventon accomplishes this goal by designing lightweight aluminum frame bikes integrated with powerful battery and motor systems. The aesthetics of their models have a clean, modern feel and incorporate intuitive interfaces. This focus on value, style, and usability has enabled Aventon to pave the way within the electric cycling industry regarding accessibility. 

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Aventon Level 2 Test and Review

The Aventon Level 2 presents a versatile option for utilitarian transportation or recreational riding. Powered by a robust 500W rear motor and a large 672Wh battery, it handles varied terrains with aplomb. Integrated components like hydraulic brakes and suspension expand the bike's capabilities while retaining an approachable price point. The Level 2 emerges as a standout performer in Aventon's lineup.

Motor

The 500W rear hub motor integrated into the Aventon Level 2's mid-drive system provides forceful yet natural pedaling assistance. By sensing the rider's cadence through the crankset, it can deliver torque output matched to the rider's pedaling rate. This allows the motor power to feel like an extension of the rider's effort rather than something separate. Through the five pedal assist levels, riders can finely tune how much boost they receive based on terrain, load, or their own fitness needs and goals for the ride. The broad power band and sensitivity to cadence changes make the motor very adaptable.

Battery

Housed discreetly in the frame's downtube is a large 672Wh lithium-ion battery supplied by Samsung. Taking around eight hours to recharge fully, this hi-capacity cell is reported to provide a range of up to 60 miles on a single charge. However, real-world testing tends to show figures even exceeding this conservative estimate. Weighing only 13 pounds, the battery can be conveniently removed for recharging inside the home or office. Its unobtrusive location in the bike maintains a balanced center of gravity for steady handling regardless of whether the battery is installed.

Frame Design

Built from aviation-grade 6061 aluminum alloy, the Level 2's frame construction achieves an ideal balance of strength and lightweight mobility. Strategic internal routing keeps wiring, and the huge battery is stealthily out of view yet easily accessible. Up front, a suspension fork effectively soaks up road fractures and bumps to promote comfort over long hours in the saddle. Ergonomic tubing and an upright riding position complete the package. Generously placed mounting points at the front, rear, side, and even under the downtube expand how items or accessories can be securely carried along.

Riding Experience

Torquey acceleration from stops merges Level 2 effortlessly into traffic. Subtle cadence-matching assist preserves the pedaling experience while covering more ground with less exertion. Even fully loaded, rolling hills pose no hindrance. The mid-drive design supplies climbing prowess without compromising balance or control. Its nimble handling and balanced suspension soak up road imperfections so riders can focus on enjoying each excursion rather than fighting the bike.

Braking Performance

Reliable stopping power stems from Tektro hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. These provide smooth, progressive braking force whether carrying cargo or speeding downhill. An automatic motor-cutoff feature stops any forward motion when braking is applied, improving safety. Their easy modulation allows confident control, even one-handed. Riders appreciate the sure braking performance these discs provide in all road conditions and situations.

Power

The 500W rear motor is more than capable of handling any terrain riders encounter. It can supply an accelerative boost from stopped starts and uphill climbs through five customizable levels of assistance. But it also has a broad power band, allowing riders to choose extremely low levels where they experience more of a workout while still receiving some helpful propulsion up hills or into headwinds. The motor sensing of pedal cadence further preserves the feel of natural cycling but with amplified distances and loads made possible.

Range

Few other e-bikes can compete with the Aventon Level 2's lengthy range potential. Its 672Wh capacity, combined with an efficient mid-drive system, sees real-world performances reaching 60 miles or more per charge. Minimal energy is lost to rolling resistance. Riders enjoy the freedom of focusing fully on each excursion without anxiety about premature battery depletion. The sizable cell proves capable of multi-day touring on one charge for those who don't have daily access to recharging.

Drivetrain and Shifting

Shifting through the 11-speed microSHIFT cassette is delivered crisply through trigger shifters. This gives the rider precise gear adjustments useful in various cycling conditions and terrains. Whether tackling a steep technical climb or taking advantage of a long flat stretch, the gearing makes it easy to select the optimal sprocket. Adding to the drivetrain functionality is a narrow-wide chainring up front, which helps ensure perfect engagement between gears under the torque supplied by the electric motor. With 11 speed options and a narrowly-spaced rear cluster, gear transitions are fast and dependable.

Controls

Conveniently mounted on the handlebars is an intuitive backlit LCD control interface. Through simple button presses, riders can select from five customizable levels of pedal assist tailored for different speeds, loads, terrains, or fitness needs. In addition to displaying critical bike data and trip information, the screen unlocks features like integrated walk and cruise modes to expand hands-free riding. Bluetooth connectivity further empowers users by allowing adjustments and monitoring straight from the Aventon smartphone app.

Accessories

Well-placed mounting points offer flexible and sturdy anchoring options to outfit Level 2 perfectly for any need. Standard equipment like full fenders and integrated headlamp/taillights suits daily urban transportation while swapping other accessories completely transforms the bike for varied conditions and uses. Adding practical components like rear racks, baskets, or panniers vastly increases cargo options for errands, touring, or bikepacking. Off-road diversions become possible, too, by stacking on knobby tires and a suspension seatpost.

Usage Scenarios

Whether ridden as primary mobility daily or enjoyed casually on weekend joyrides, Level 2 opens up a wide range of electric cycling opportunities. Families find it a comfortable and safe way to bond over exploring natural paths. Fitness enthusiasts can take full advantage of its hill-assist and longer-distance capabilities for serious training with less effort. Ultimately, the Aventon expands the boundaries of where and how riders pedal by blending exercise with everyday transport or recreation deep into varied natural landscapes.

Customizability

With mounting points liberally located front and rear, the Level 2 invites endless personalization. Adorning it with racks, guards, or swapping tires adjusts versatility seasonally or to any passion. Options emerge to satisfy casual cruising or loaded touring alike.

Sizing

Frame sizes include small, medium, and large, accommodating heights between 5'2" and 6'2". An upright geometry provides a balanced and comfortable fit across various inseams.

To Buy or Not To Buy

For serious or casual cyclists seeking capable recreation at an honest value, the Aventon Level 2 earns clear praise. Loaded with top-shelf features, it represents the pinnacle of accessible electric performance. Exceptional ranges and balanced handling across terrains make it a standout companion for fitness or transporting cargo reliably. New and experienced electric cyclists will find it a rewarding partner to grow their passion.