Aventon Level.2 Review: Driving Experience and It’s Worth It!
Aventon improved the Level e-outstanding bike’s ride quality and visibility. The rear hub motor on the bike of the current generation is powered more evenly thanks to a new torque sensor. When cycling, the Level.2 feels more instinctive and natural. One of our favorite commuting e-bikes has been improved with the inclusion of integrated lights and a smaller, simpler display.
Nearly two years ago, I evaluated the original Aventon Level and in essence said, “Please take my money!” The bike is even better and more commuter-ready than before thanks to the new Aventon Level.2.
Aventon.com
Aventon got its origins in the fixed-gear and track racing scenes, for those who are unfamiliar with the company or are new to e-bikes. The Los Angeles-based business recently shifted its emphasis to electric motorcycles. By providing performance and value, Aventon e-bikes, which are sold direct to consumers and through dealers, have gained a loyal following among commuters and e-bike riders.
Prior to its release, I got the opportunity to test out the new e-bike during the past few weeks. I’ll be posting a detailed review soon, including with a video of my testing procedure. Expect that in the upcoming days.
Aventon Level.2: Design and Build Quality
That frame is a rolling work of art with Aventon’s distinctive smooth welds, and I wish other manufacturers would better replicate it. Such beautiful manufacturing at this pricing point is uncommon.
The Aventon team has been quite busy this year, rolling out improvements to current platforms and releasing new models. The new Soltera came first, and we thought it was so great that we named it one of the Best Bikes of 2022. The Pace 350 and Pace 500 cruising e-bikes were then updated by Aventon. In recent months, it also revised the Sinch folding model.
Regarding frame integrations, have a look at those tail lights. The business integrated the tail lights directly into the seat stays on the back of the frame, just like on Aventon’s other well-liked electric bicycles. This means that at night, you have good sight from the side and rear. Since the front headlight is handlebar mounted, you can steer around a corner while it turns using the bars. Polar White, Himalayan Pink, Glacier Blue, and Clay are the available hues.
We were curious to discover what was inside when two parcels from Aventon recently arrived at Bicycling’s front door. A fresh iteration of the Level was the surprise. Our gear team was eager to test these upgraded bikes because they are a popular e-bike among our readers.
It might be simple to miss the changes Aventon made to the Level at first sight. This updated Level is of the second generation and features a full-color display, an upgraded torque sensor, and integrated lighting. They contribute to the improvement of an already superb commuter and town bike.
A pair of maintenance-free hydraulic disc brakes provide strong stopping force. Hydraulic brakes, in contrast to mechanical cable disc brakes, essentially maintain tuning until the brake pads eventually fail. It could take a year before you need to undertake maintenance and get the pads changed, depending on how often you ride.
The left controller is also used to control the built-in lighting of the Level.2. Although we didn’t have many complaints about the original Level, we did wish the bike came standard with lights. Any e-bike that is used on the roadway must have lights. They are especially important for commuter bikes used in the early morning or late evening when it can be dark or bad weather.
The Aventon Level.2 has 27.5 x 2.1 inches tires, and it also has a full fender package to keep dirt and water from splashing all over you. The back of the bike has a rear rack that commuters can use to attach panniers or an additional cargo box for carrying items.
Both a step-over frame (54 pounds) and a step-through frame are available for the bicycle (52 pounds).
For the step-over and step-through frame types, respectively, Regular and Large and S/M and M/L, are the two sizes that are offered. The size Large step-over frame fit our test rider, who is 6 feet tall, fairly well. But the M/L size step-through frame was a little too narrow, so she had to lift the seatpost to the top height permitted. Choose the Large step-over frame if you are taller than 6 feet.
The Level.2 has a more expensive appearance thanks to a new color display. Last year, Aventon bikes like the Aventure fat-tire bike started to get similar LCD displays. The head unit displays important riding data like speed, distance, and level of assistance. The new device is smaller and includes an easy-to-use menu system that can be accessed by pressing the controller next to the left-hand grip.
The only aspect of the Level.2 that we didn’t like was the Zoom Aria suspension fork. The Aria tops out forcefully on larger bumps, while having a nice appearance. For our test riders, the fork was also under-sprung. Fortunately, the lockout function is reliable.
Aventon Level.2: Motor and Drive
How the motor gets turned on is one of the bike’s most significant recent updates. With pedal assistance, the bike can reach speeds of 28 mph or 20 mph thanks to a 500W continuous-rated back hub motor.
We sometimes found ourselves zipping across town in mode 4 or 5 for shorter rides. We kept the controller’s lower setting of 2 or 3 when on the bike path. Only when cycling in a busy environment did we actually use mode 1.
Speaking of pedal assistance, the new torque sensor makes it better than before. Contrary to cheaper cadence sensors, a torque sensor measures the force of your pedaling rather than the speed. This enables the bike to give a pedal assist that is significantly more responsive and intuitive and better imitates your own power delivery.
With the Level.2 unlocked as a class-3 e-bike and a rider weighing 200 pounds, we got roughly 30 miles of range. We used a combination of the throttle, pedal assistance, climbing hills, and riding on various terrains. That range will be increased by lighter riders, maintaining the Level.2 in class-2 mode, and using the throttle more carefully.
The eight-speed gearbox offers for even more pleasant pedaling and enables riders to select the ideal gearing for their speed and terrain.
The Level.2 is described as a class-2 e-bike having a top pedal-assist speed of 20 mph when it is taken out of the box. You may easily increase the top speed of the pedaling assistance via the Aventon app to 31.7 mph if you choose. Without pedaling, you can travel up to 20 mph using the throttle control. This throttle is useful for restarting the bike after stopping or, if you are in an excessively large gear, for climbing an unexpected incline.
Aventon Level.2: Battery and Range
Aventon Level.2 are provided by a frame-integrated 14Ah battery. Riders should be able to get about 40 miles of use out of the battery with only light pedal assistance. While the battery may discharge more quickly if you ride at full power, a reasonable range of 25 miles is still most likely acceptable.
The Aventon Level.2’s battery can be locked inside the frame, but it can also be taken out and charged separately if the rider has to lock the bike outdoors.
The Aventon’s downtube is neatly home to a 672 Watt-hour battery. Although it is the same component as the bike from the prior generation, the Level.2’s new torque sensor could aid to extend range. The battery can be readily removed and charged either installed or off the bike. The battery recharged fully in under 4.5 hours from a 15-percent charge.
Aventon Level.2: Conclusions
One of the greatest streetbikes you can buy overall and the best passenger e-bike under 2,000 is still the Aventon Level.2. The platform changes improve an already excellent bike.
We put the Level.2 through it’s own trials in daily commuter life for two weeks. We utilized it for enjoyable rides about town, errand runs, and transportation to work. We rode it across crushed gravel bike trails, freshly constructed asphalt roads, and unkempt city streets. On level terrain and up some of the city’s steepest streets, we rode it.
Comparable passenger versions from rival companies don’t compare favorably to the Level.2 ride in terms of premium quality, use, or polish. The ride is not nearly as comfortable and natural-feeling as on e-bikes with mid-drive motors, but it is arguably the best-feeling hub motor we have experienced on a bike under 2,000.
The new Aventon Level.2 is currently offered on Aventon’s website for a price of 1,949.
Aventon Level.2 vs. Denago Commute Model 1. commuter eBikes compared
Two commuter-focused eBikes, the Denago Commute Model 1 and the refreshed Aventon Level.2 share quite a few features and specifications. Both are designed to replace your car for commuting to work or school, and also work for casual and comfort-focused riding as well.
Comparisons between these two models are easy because their retail (1,999 for the Denago, 1,949 for the Aventon) are so close, making a head-to-head inspection of the pros and cons of each simple.
Let’s dig into the differences and what these two models share.
The primary difference between the Aventon Level.2 and Denago Commute Model 1
Aventon’s Level.2 uses a torque sensor, while the Denago Commute Model 1 uses a cadence sensor. Torque sensors are generally acknowledged as superior for off-road riding, because they offer the most natural pedaling feel. The jury is out, however, for riding on paved surfaces, and torque and cadence sensors both have pros and cons.
On a cadence sensor eBike, simply turning the pedals engages the motor. regardless of how hard you pedal. That means you can “ghost pedal” if desired. putting minimal pedaling input in, but still getting a ton of motor power (and thus higher speeds) back, allowing you to climb hills without much effort if desired. On a torque sensor eBike, in contrast, the motor output is a direct result of how hard you pedal. This means “ghost-pedaling” isn’t possible on a torque sensor bike, because if you barely move your legs, the motor will barely respond!
The bottom line. on a torque sensor eBike, the rider has to work. That’s fine when you want to pedal for fitness, but less than ideal if you’re trying to arrive to work or school without being a sweaty mess. If that’s a concern, a cadence sensor might better suit your needs for this type of use.
What features Aventon Level.2 and Denago Commute Model 1 eBikes have in common
The Aventon Level.2 and Denago City Model 1 eBikes have many specs and features in common, some of which are identical, while others are so close most riders will perceive them as the same:
- A very similar retail price
- Choice of traditional top tube or step-thru frame styles, each in two sizes to suit riders of different heights
- Both are Class III eBikes, capable of up to 28 MPH on pedal assist and 20 MPH on throttle
- Sleek, integrated batteries that make it less obvious you’re riding an eBike
- 8 speed drivetrains
- Convenience features like kickstands, rear racks, fenders, and lights
- Hydraulic disc brakes with oversized 180mm rotors
- eBike-rated tires with reflective sidewalls
Aventon Level.2 and Denago Commute Model 1 eBikes. key differences
The Aventon Level.2 and Denago Commute Model 1 eBikes are different in some key areas:
- While both brands use 27.5″ rims, the Denago offers significantly wider (2.6″ vs. 2.1″) tires. Wider tires offer more air volume, which adds comfort and control on rough streets.
- The Denago Commute 1 includes a suspension seatpost for extra comfort, the Level.2 uses a standard non-suspension seatpost.
- Denago uses premium LG cells in the battery, Aventon does not disclose the manufacturer used for the Aventon Level.2 battery cells.
- The stem used on the Denago features an adjustable angle for rider comfort, while the stem on the Aventon is fixed and the angle can’t be changed to suit the rider.
- The Denago Commute Model 1 uses a greyscale screen; the Aventon Level.2 uses a color display.
- The Level.2 offers the ability to sync with the rider’s mobile phone via an app.
Which commuter eBike should you buy?
The Aventon Level.2 and Denago Commute Model 1 eBikes are very similar in terms of specs and intended use, and most riders would be happy with either! Make your decision here based primarily on the type of riding you plan to do. if you need to arrive at work or school without breaking a sweat, the cadence sensor used on the Denago Commute Model 1 might better meet your needs, while a torque sensor makes the rider work, and could make the Aventon better for riders interested in a workout.
Riders focused on comfort might also lean toward the Denago, because it includes two features the Aventon lacks: a suspension seatpost that takes the edge off road bumps, and an adjustable angle stem, which can be dialed in to suit the rider. This can eliminate the need to hunch over to reach the handlebar.
The Bike.com team is here to help you choose the best eBike for your needs. Call us at (877) 755-2454 to chat anytime.
AVENTON LEVEL
Aventon got their start in 2015 making non-motorized, fixed-gear bikes, but they now also have a growing stable of e-bikes. We’ve reviewed a couple of them over the years: the Pace 350, a 350-watt, barebones, basic e-bike for just over 1000; and the Sinch, an interesting, folding fat bike powered by a 500-watt motor.
Now we have the Level. With its fully integrated battery, beautiful styling and a great-looking, two-tone colorway, this is a bike unlike the others we’ve seen from the brand.
THE BIKE
The hydro-formed aluminum frame has a reasonably low-slung top tube to provide a low stand-over height. Like the cables, the battery is integrated into the downtube. The SR Suntour Mobie A32 coil-spring fork offers plenty of travel to take out the bumps in the front, but the rest of the shock absorption will come from the 2.2-inch Kenda Kwick Drumlin tires. The seatpost clamp is fairly low, so most riders could add a suspension post to add comfort, especially if you live in a place with imperfect roads.
THE PARTS
As a commuter bike, this is outfitted with quite a bit of creature comforts. The saddle is a wide, comfortable, padded Velo saddle with the Aventon name on it. Grips are round and soft, and the handlebars have a nice rise and a very slight sweep. Full aluminum fenders will keep splashes off of your clothes, and they’re probably the perfect material. Aluminum fenders don’t flex and rattle like plastic ones do.
The eight-speed Shimano Acera drivetrain relies on an e-bike-specific KMC chain to keeps things going. Included pedals are aluminum platforms that provide good grip and stability with most types of shoes.
THE MOTOR
Aventon has gone with a 72-volt system here, which provides tremendous power at your disposal. The Shengyi brushless rear-hub motor is rated at 500 watts at 750 watts peak. It’s rated at 50 N/m of torque, and that is delivered almost right away via a cadence sensor. It takes about 1/3 to 1/2 revolution of the pedals to engage the system, but it’s almost jarring when it kicks in.
Depending on which pedal-assist level you choose, it controls the top speed, not the amount of power. Level 0 is off, level 1 gets you to about 13 mph, level 2 gets you to about 15 mph, level 3 gets you to 18, level 4 to about 23 mph and level 5 will get you to 28 mph.
The difference is the top speed for all of these, as it relies on the pedals spinning, not on the torque input from the rider. If you put no pressure on the pedals but keep spinning them, you’ll effortlessly be driven by the motor up to the top speed of that pedal-assist mode. This is great if you don’t want to sweat on your way to work, but if you’re trying to sweat a little and get some exercise, you’ll have to select a power level lower than the pace you want to hit. You can also set it to level 0 or ride with the system entirely turned off. Other than the weight of the battery and motor, there’s virtually no drag from the motor, and the bike rides quite nicely.
The bike comes with a throttle that can get you to 20 mph in any mode. Depending on the legality of having a throttle in your state, Aventon has designed the throttle to be easily disabled and removed if needed.
“The bike comes with a throttle that can get you to 20 mph in any mode. Depending on the legality of having a throttle in your state, Aventon has designed the throttle to be easily disabled and removed if needed.”
The battery is integrated into the downtube of the frame. It’s a massive 672 Wh, which you would think would give you quite a lot of range. Being a 72-volt system, it pulls power out of it quickly, far more so than a 36- or 48-volt system. That being said, Aventon offers the most realistic range we’ve ever heard from a manufacturer at 40 miles. We found that to be quite accurate with a 160-pound rider, a combination of hills, flat ground and even some strong headwinds.
The backlit LCD is as big as a smartphone and offers information on remaining battery capacity, speed, power-assist level, and your choice of odometer, trip meter, ride time and voltage at the bottom.
WHO IT’S MADE FOR
The Level is a really versatile, inexpensive commuter bike. It’s a Class 3 bike, providing pedal assist to 28 mph, but also offering a throttle that will get you to 20 mph. It can carry up to nearly 60 pounds on the rear rack, and the bike itself is rated for riders up to 250 pounds. With tons of options for accessories (Aventon has a whole section of their website devoted to these), it’s pretty easy to configure the bike for a wide variety of use.
THE RIDE
Despite knowing how instant the acceleration is once you start pedaling, it still surprised us a couple of times. The implementation of the throttle is a bit unusual in that it doesn’t engage from a stop. You have to pedal to get it started. If a rider has joint problems, this is a real consideration, as some riders with bad knees or other leg problems, the kind that are helped by using a throttle to get going, may have issues with this.
We always ride test bikes with the power off for a bit to see how it rides as a regular bicycle (or in case we don’t have enough range to get where we are going and have to ride without power). This showcases how well the bike is designed. The Level passes this test with flying colors. It’s a very pleasant ride even without power.
We rode quite a bit in level 5, so getting around was pretty quick. It really likes going 25–26 mph easily in level 5, but 28 mph, like most Class 3 bikes, takes more effort.
The 2.2-inch Kenda Kwick Drumlin tires have enough volume to take out some of the bumps in the road, and its size is enough to roll over even some roots coming up in the street quite easily. They’re e-bike-rated to handle the extra forces demanded of them by an e-bike, and the compound is soft and grippy, so the bike feels planted even in off-camber corners while still offering low rolling resistance.
“Acceleration is instant once you start pedaling, so you have to be ready for it.”
The hydraulic disc brakes use 180mm rotors for ample stopping power, even at 28 mph. The levers have cutoff switches, which is a great thing to have with a powerful, fast motor. The moment you actuate the levers even slightly, the power instantly cuts, making braking more effective. For those that ride with a finger or fingers on the lever, you just have to make sure you put zero pressure on them, or you’ll find the motor cutting out at inopportune times.
Aventon sells direct to consumers, and ships the bike free in the continental U.S. Assembly is pretty simple; it’s mostly put together inside the box, and Aventon has great instructions and videos on their website to show how to correctly assemble and maintain your bike. Aventon offers a one-year warranty on the bike and a lifetime warranty on the frame.
THE VERDICT
We think the Level is a tremendous amount of e-bike for 1599. A few years ago, a similarly built bike would cost twice as much. It’s a good-looking bike with decent components, and as a commuter bike, it has plenty of range to get most riders to and from work as a daily rider. It’s great that they’ve made the throttle removable for those states/localities that don’t allow throttles.
AVENTON LEVEL
Motor: 500W, 72V brushless rear hub motor (750W peak)
Battery: 672 Wh, integrated
Charge time: 4–5 hours
Top speed: 28 mph (Class 3)
Drive: Shimano Acera 8-speed
Brakes: Bengal Ares 3 hydraulic disc brakes, 180mm rotors
Controls: M5 LCD Smart Easy Read display with backlight
Fork: SR Suntour Mobie A32 coil spring, thru-axle, 75mm travel with lockout
Frame: Hydro-formed 6061 double-butted aluminum
Tires: Kenda Kwik Drumlin, e-bike-rated, 27.5×2.2”
Color choice: Earth grey
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New 2022 Aventon Level.2 Ebike Review: This Update Changes Everything!
The Aventon Level ebike has been a wildly popular ebike over the past two years. Aventon just released the Level.2 and it has one major upgrade that has completely changed the ride quality.
By replacing the cadence sensor with a coveted torque sensor, the Aventon Level.2 has become one of my favorite ebikes of 2022.
In this review, we will tell you what we love and hate about the Aventon Level.2
Click here for the current pricing on the Level.2Click here for the current pricing on the Level.2 Step Through
The Color Display on the Aventon Level.2 is Filled with Features
In the past, the Aventon Level used a black and white display like many other ebike companies. When Aventon released the Aventure, they came out with their own color display along with a lot of new features.
Some features I like about the display is that it shows you calories burned, kilograms of CO2 emissions saved, and how many trees saved during your ride. It’s a fun way to track your ride progress. While it can be kind of gimicky, it gamifies my ride experience.
The display is easily controlled with the buttons on the left side of the handlebar.
What type of brakes are on the Aventon Level.2?
The Level.2 features 2 piston Tektro hydraulic brakes paired with 180mm brake discs.
Tektro hydraulic brakes are some of my favorite brakes compared to unbranded or zoom brakes that we see on a lot of ebikes.
The Aventon Level.2 Ebike Has a Premium Feel and Construction
Jimmy and I have reviewed numerous ebikes, and most have chunky weld marks giving the bikes a very industrial feel. Aventon grinds down their weld marks to make the frame look flawless. Their frames also have a lifetime warranty.
It is a detail that really help Aventon stand out from their competitors.
The Aventon Level.2 Mobile App brings it to the future
The color display on the Aventon Level.2 is Bluetooth enabled. One of my favorite features of the app is that it allows you to track your rides.
The app stores your current and previous rides, giving details of your average speed, top speed, distance traveled, CO2 emissions saved, and calories burnt.
You can also use the app to motivate you against other Aventon riders. There is a section in the app for cycling rank. The cycling rank will show you how you rank against other Aventon riders for the day, week, month, and total.
There is a discover tab in the app that allows you to share pictures and post with other Aventon riders. The app even allows you to find local Aventon dealers for repairs.
Aventon is looking to capitalize on the popularity of social bike competitive apps and programs such as Peloton and Strava.
Does the Aventon Level.2 come with fenders and rack?
The Level.2 comes stock with aluminum fenders and rear rack.
The fenders come preinstalled and offer great coverage from water and dirt. Aventon even integrated a light into the rear fender which we have never seen before.
Aventon listened to feedback because a lot of people complained about the Aventure only having one brake light integrated into one side of the frame. The Level.2 has three brake lights, one for each side of the frame and the fender.
Does the Aventon Level.2 ride like a mechanical bike?
One of my favorite things about the Level.2 is that the bike rides like a traditional mechanical bike. A lot of ebikes feel awkward when you are not using pedal assist levels.
The geometry and gearing on the Level.2 is true to a traditional bike, so if you run out of power you can easily ride it home.
Aventon Level.2 brake lights look sharp!
The Aventon Level.2, Pace, and Soltera have the most amazing brake lights. The Level.2 has brake lights integrated into the frame and rear fender, making them seamless and beautiful.
When you have the lights on, the rear taillight is always on and gets brighter when braking.
Click here for the current pricing on the Level.2Click here for the current pricing on the Level.2 Step Through
Does the Aventon Level.2 allow you to use the throttle in PAS 0?
No, you cannot use the throttle when on Pedal Assist mode 0.
I hate when ebikes don’t allow you to use the throttle when in pedal assist mode 0. Sometimes I like to manually pedal an ebike and only use the throttle when trying to start from being completely stopped or when riding up hills.
The Aventon Level.2 does not allow you to use throttle only when in PAS 0. I am always confused why some ebikes allow you to throttle in PAS 0 and some ebikes do not.
What type of suspension is on the Aventon Level.2?
The Level.2 features Zoom coil spring suspension with 65mm of travel.
I am not a big fan of the front suspension on the Level.2 and would have preferred hydraulic suspension. It is easy to bottom out underneath my 200 lb frame and it is not designed for heavy offroading.
The suspension is designed to make the ride more comfortable. It will dampen the chatter on trails and rough roads, but don’t plan on doing any technical mountain biking trails with the Level.2
What water resistance rating is on the Aventon Level.2?
The Aventon Level.2 has an IPX4 water resistance rating.
IPX4 means the bike is protected from splashing water, no matter the direction. You do not want to ride the Level.2 in heavy rain.
Most dealers do not cover water damage to PEVS, even when there is a high IP rating.
Click here for the current pricing on the Level.2Click here for the current pricing on the Level.2 Step Through
Should I buy the Aventon Level.2 over the Original Level Ebike?
If you have an extra 150 to spare, I would definitely get the Level.2. The torque sensor makes a significant difference in the ride quality and this alone is reason enough to spend the extra money.
Add in the integrated lights, color display, and bluetooth app and you have a high tech commuter bike that is fit for 2022.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a commuter ebike that has all the latest and greatest technology, look no further than the Level.2. The Level.2 combines amazing ride quality with advanced features all packaged into an aesthically beautiful ebike.
Aventon is leading the way in ebike technology and design, and the Level.2 comes in at a reasonable price.
By adding a torque sensor, color display, and integrated lights to the Level.2, Aventon has nearly made a fantastic ebike for work and for play.
Aventon Level.2 Discount Codes, Coupon Codes, and Pricing
Click here for the current pricing on the Aventon Level.2
Click here for the current pricing on the Aventon Level.2 Step Through.
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New Aventon Level.2 is Almost 2 Good 2 Be True!
The Level.2 is almost too good to be true. It’s a cush commuter I put to the test on the hills of San Francisco. It’s the easy, breezy city bike you’ve been looking for, but has enough oompf for a little off-roading and trails, and oh boy, does it GO.
A new, comfy city cruiser with a lot of kick. The folks at Aventon were kind enough to send me the newest addition to the Aventon e-bike family — the Level.2, an upgrade to Aventon’s flagship commuter – so I could give it a whirl on the streets of San Francisco.
Assembling the Aventon Level.2
The box arrived at my Ocean Beach apartment and I joyfully opened and removed the pieces of the e-bike. Putting the bike together was mercilessly uneventful and straightforward — what you hope for when you’re staring down the barrel of a pile of partially put together machinery. It took less than an hour to get the bike assembled and wheeling about.
The most challenging aspect of assembly, which was pretty minor, was tightening the Allen bolts to attach the front mudguard, as the factory Allen wrench (that’s a “hex key” –Ed.) sent with the bike was too short for the job. The factory multi tool provided made assembly easy for all other aspects, it was just that darn mudguard that caused some issues.
The seat, handlebars, and all major components were all easy to get in place and adjust. The majority of the accessories were pre-installed — easy as pie. The brakes came tightened and the derailleur came ready to go. The battery even had a 40% charge out of the box, so I could test ride as soon as it was put together. What a dream!
The Ride
Compared to other e-bikes I’ve ridden, the Level.2 is a smooth operator. As with most commuter e-bikes in the sub 2,000 price point, this one has a cadence sensor, which means the motor engages once the sensor realizes you are pedaling. Though the most exciting thing about the Level.2, the newest bike from Aventon, is that it’s engineered with a torque sensor, which is a revolutionary first for the company.
The torque sensor reads the level of force you are putting into the cranks and then tells the motor to multiply the amount of power the rider is inputting by a specific factor, set by the assist level you have selected. The higher level, higher force multiplying factor, the more assist. This makes for a more natural, less jerky feel to the bike and its assist, which are great things for e-bikers everywhere.
While this torque sensor does smooth out the ride significantly, there is still a bit of jerk as the assist boosts into gear, so it’s not completely seamless. The Level.2 also has the signature e-bike hum as it boosts you forward, though it’s not particularly loud and I stopped noticing once I was zipping around fast enough to produce a goofy grin on my face. The e-bike offers both pedal and throttle assist options. These features make the Level.2 versatile and able to take on just about anything a city or suburban commute could throw at it. Similar to other e-bikes, you can also pedal without the assist options and get your old-fashioned bike ride on. Though, if you have this kind of power on your bike, it’s hard to resist really “going for it” on this new Aventon.
I took the bike up some pretty intense SF hills (ones that typically burn out my quads when riding my city bike) and the Level.2 breezed right up those suckers without batting an eye. I was quite impressed. The full color display on the handlebars shows everything from battery life to app syncing (say what?!) to phone charging.
I also took this gleaming beast through some of the off-road trails in Golden Gate Park. This included sand, gravel, some rocky paths, and grass. The Level.2 crushed it all and I hardly felt the bumps and stones as I whizzed along. That cushioned suspension fork the Level.2 features is downright luxurious. Ten out of 10 for comfy rides, for sure. And the hydraulic disc brakes were smooth and (thankfully) effective, no jerking at all.
The Level.2 comes with a rear rack, which is great for attaching panniers or a basket so you can let the bike carry your stuff instead of using a backpack. This e-bike is a bit on the bulkier side for my taste (though I’m a minimalist when it comes to bike aesthetics). While the accessories are very useful and have a thoughtful purpose, I would personally prefer a tad more streamlining.
During one of my test rides, I stopped at a local market to grab a few things. The frame is beefier than a regular bike (often the case with e-bikes), though I was still able to get my U-lock around the frame to lock it up, which is utterly critical in San Francisco. Even with a full (reusable) grocery bag slung atop one of the handle bars, the Level.2 was incredibly balanced and easy to ride. It offers stability and an ease I haven’t felt with other e-bikes. Not to mention it’s fun to ride. The pedal assist really gets you going, transforming your commute or errands into a bit of a joy ride. A much less physically taxing joy ride.
Closing Thoughts
If you’re looking for a commuter or leisure e-bike with great range that can tackle a variety of terrain, trails, even roads slick from the foggy San Francisco skies, the Aventon Level.2 is an excellent option. It has just enough bells and whistles to make your ride (and your life) easier, without looking too done up or extra. The Level.2 is a zippy e-bike with a lot of kick, though I can’t emphasize enough how smooth and comfortable this bike is to ride. So it’s really the best of both worlds — easy, comfy, smooth, but with power and versatility.
Aventon Level.2 Product Specs:
- Motor: 48v, 500W Brushless Hub Motor with Torque Sensor
- Display: BC280 LCD Color Display with Backlight, w/ App Connectivity
- Brakes: Hydraulic Disc Brakes
- Weight: Traditional 54 LBS. | Step-Through 52 LBS.
- Size: Traditional Reg/Large | Step-Through S/M or M/L
- Drivetrain: 8-Speed
- Frame type: 6061 Double-Butted Aluminum Alloy with Internal Battery
- Tires: 27.5” X 2.1”
- Assistance: Throttle Pedal Assist Modes
- COLORS Polar White, Himalayan Pink, Glacier Blue, and Clay
- MSRP: 1,949.00
This article is supported by Aventon.
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California native and long-time San Francisco resident, Danielle is passionate about all things sustainable. She loves hiking, backpacking, cycling, plant-based cooking, and traveling just about anywhere, near and far. With a background in project management, writing/editing, and communication, Danielle joined the CleanTechnica staff in 2020. She is thrilled to be part of this committed, enthusiastic team with a critical mission to foster the clean tech revolution.