Aventon electric bikes come as Class 2 e-Bikes, meaning they have a top speed of 20 mph in pedal assist and throttle modes. However, some models can be unlocked to reach a maximum speed of 28 mph, effectively making them Class 3 e-Bikes.
Aventon Level 2 Review: The Ultimate Commuter E-Bike?
Written by: Rémy Rossi | March 21, 2025 | Time to read 4 min
Does the Aventon Level 2 really deliver a well-balanced commute? Here are my thoughts on Aventon’s flagship commuter e-Bike.
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
What is the Aventon Level 2?
The Level 2 is Aventon’s dedicated commuter e-Bike designed for easy riding on the daily. This second-generation model features upgrades like a torque sensor and integrated lights and typical city e-Bike parts like a rear rack and fenders. The decently wide tires and front suspension skew this bike toward the more comfortable side of the hybrid e-Bike spectrum, ideal for recreational and entry-level riders.
Aventon Level 2 specs at a glance
- E-Bike type: Commuter
- Frame: Step-thru or step-over (two sizes)
- Motor: 500W rear hub
- Battery: 672Wh
- Tires: 27.5x2.1”
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc
- Accessories: Rear rack, fenders, integrated lights
Comfortable commuter design
The Level 2 is a straight-ahead commuter e-Bike, checking all the boxes when it comes to city rider’s most desired features. The aluminum frame has an upright geometry that balances comfort and power, available in both step-thru and step-over versions. The e-Bike comes in two frame sizes, Regular (4’11”-5’7”) and Large (5’7”-61”). And there are convenient city-ready accessories like a rear rack, fenders, and integrated lights.
That said, the Level 2 isn’t your only option for commuting to work or school. I recently discussed which Aventon e-Bike is best for commuting, exploring the popular brand’s fleet of hybrid, cargo, folding, and all-terrain models that may best fit your particular daily ride.
500W motor and battery
The Level 2 is powered by a 500W rear hub motor and this second-gen model comes with a torque sensor instead of a cadence sensor. The torque sensor measures how much force you apply to the pedals to provide the ideal amount of pedal assist and acceleration for a smoother ride. Compared to similarly priced entry-level e-Bikes, I’ve always found that Aventon has some of the smoothest assistance with plenty of speed, but without feeling jerky or overpowered.
Aventon specifies that the Level 2 comes out of the box as a Class 2 e-Bike— with pedal assist and throttle up to 20 mph— and it can be unlocked to a Class 3 e-Bike for faster pedal assistance. If you’re itching for a throttle mode, this model does it well (and legally!). The 672Wh removable battery sits neatly inside the downtube and can provide a maximum range of up to 60 miles on the lowest assist levels.
Durable components for daily riding
I appreciate that Aventon beefed up its dedicated commuter e-Bike, ensuring it’s ready for heavy daily use in the city. While the sleekest or lightest weight e-Bike out there, the Level 2 uses its durable components to its advantage. Not all commuters have a front suspension fork, but the Level’s extra cushion soaks up bumps from imperfect roads and handles gravel paths well.
The 27.5x2.1” tires offer plenty of grip and stability and avoid feeling as cumbersome or overkill as wider fat tires, especially on relatively smooth city streets— plenty of so-called “hybrid bikes” come with those oversized 4” knobby tires. The hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable and controlled stopping power. There’s a Shimano 8-speed drivetrain with a trigger shifter, a significant improvement over the ubiquitous yet outdated SiS shifter on many an affordable electric bike these days.
The 27.5x2.1” tires offer plenty of grip and stability and avoid feeling as cumbersome or overkill as wider fat tires, especially on relatively smooth city streets— plenty of so-called “hybrid bikes” come with those oversized 4” knobby tires. The hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable and controlled stopping power. There’s a Shimano 8-speed drivetrain with a trigger shifter, a significant improvement over the ubiquitous yet outdated SiS shifter on many an affordable electric bike these days.
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Tech-savvy features
Aventon e-Bikes are well known for their style and innovation— especially given the accessible price point— and the Level 2 doesn’t disappoint. All Aventon models are compatible with the branded app to track ride metrics and easily adjust settings. The on-bike display is bright and simple to read as well.
The coolest tech touch on the Level 2 is probably the rear lights integrated into the seat stays. While they don’t double as turn signals (we’re waiting for that update!), they look great and are a super clean safety feature. The lights are visible from the back as well as from the side profile, enhancing rider safety at night.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast can an Aventon electric bike go?
Where are Aventon bikes made?
Aventon is an American electric bike brand, based in California. The constituent parts of their bikes are manufactured in China, before being shipped to the USA where they are inspected and assembled. They're then shipped out to bike shops around North America or can be purchased directly from Aventon on the brand's website.
Which electric bikes have the best pedal assist?
Aventon e-Bikes deliver a powerful and smooth ride at an accessible price point. The Level 2, for example, comes with a torque sensor to provide a more natural pedal assist feel that works according to the rider’s input. While mid-drive motors typically have the best quality pedal assist, the rear hub-powered Aventon models offer great assistance.
Key Takeaways
- Comfortable Commuter Design: Upright geometry, step-thru and step-over frames, front suspension, and city-ready accessories for a smooth daily ride.
- Smooth Motor Assistance: 500W rear hub motor with a torque sensor for natural pedal assist, plus a 672Wh battery with up to 60 miles of range.
- Durable & Tech-Savvy: Hydraulic disc brakes, an 8-speed Shimano drivetrain, app integration, and integrated rear lights for safety.
