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WIRED
2 days ago
- Automotive
- WIRED
How to Convert an Analog Bike to an Electric Bike
Michael Venutolo-Mantovani You can save yourself thousands of dollars on an electric bike by upgrading your current ride. Let us walk (or cycle!) you through it. Courtesy of Science Photo Library via Getty Images All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links. Say you want to get a bicycle up and down hills with a minimal amount of pedal power. What do you do? The first option is simple: buy an electric bike. However, ebikes aren't cheap. These days, the least expensive but still reliable ebike you can buy is Aventon Soltera 2.5, which costs around $1,200. You can rent an ebike, or find a city bike program that uses them, or, if you're really lucky, find an ebike in a lending library. Or you can just make your regular bike into an electric bike. That is, you can slap an aftermarket unit on your traditional bike, creating a motor-assisted ebike with little more than your bicycle and any of a variety of aftermarket power sources. What used to be a very niche field with only a small handful of offerings has become a cottage industry full of contenders and pretenders, and any number of startups offering a readymade conversion for your bike. So how do you turn your traditional bike into an ebike? And what are some of the best offerings out there? We'll walk you through it. If you don't see anything you like, make sure you check out our guides to the Best Electric Bikes or the Best Electric Scooters. Hot to Throt Well, first, you need to decide what kind of conversion you want. There are two basic kinds of ebikes, pedal-assist and throttle, with many newer models boasting some combination of both. Pedal assist is a mechanism that provides an added boost of electric power when you're pedaling. Via the use of cadence and/or torque sensors (how fast your pedals are rotating and the power that's being applied to them, respectively), pedal-assist units kick on at a certain point, making pedaling easier. Sometimes pedal assist can be so minimal, it's difficult to tell just how much work you're doing versus how much of the load your bike is handling. Throttle units act more like a motorcycle or moped, allowing the rider to either twist a tube mounted near the handgrip or use a thumb-based knob to deliver immediate power to the wheels. Throttle-based ebikes can be ridden without pedaling. When it comes to ebike conversions, where your power comes from and how it's delivered can look several different ways. Some mechanisms deliver power to either your bicycle's rear or front hub. Others are situated in the bottom bracket (that is, where the cranks meet the bike frame). And some newer conversion kits act something like a treadmill mounted to your bike, using rollers to help propel your wheel forward. Roll the Clip Photograph: Stephanie Pearson Having said all that, it's important to consider your level of bicycle know-how when it comes to what kind of ebike conversion you want to undertake. If you're a wrencher, the conversion process is generally straightforward, regardless of the type of unit. If you can change a tire or swap out your cassette, you'll probably be fine with a bit of trial and error and the help of YouTube tutorials. If you're asking yourself, 'What's a cassette?' it's probably best to visit your local bike shop and have a pro handle the work. Those 'treadmill' style conversion kits—such as the Rubbee X, Livall PikaBoost 2 rear-wheel units, or the Clip front-wheel unit—are typically the easiest to install, as you simply need to fix the machine to either your bike's seatpost frame or its fork, make sure its rollers are contacting your tire, and off you go. However, that 'contacting your tire' bit is a bit of a rub (pun intended), as the added contact with your rubber might lead to some extra wear. As disc brakes are becoming ever more the norm (as opposed to a traditional rim brake), Skarper offers a conversion unit that is equally as simple to install to your bike's disc-brake mounts and can be done by almost anyone who knows how to use an Allen wrench. The cool thing about each of these aforementioned units is the ease with which they can be attached and removed, meaning your ebike conversion isn't permanent. With them, you can use your road bike as a commuter during the week, yet keep on with your weekend group rides on the weekend. Hub It Out If you're looking for something more permanent (and way more powerful), units such as the Bafang M-Series replace your traditional bottom bracket with a motor that can deliver up to 1,000 watts of added power to the crank arms of your bike. However, as replacing a bottom bracket is one of the more involved things you can do on a bike, this isn't something you'll want to swap in and out. Somewhere in between the clip-on ease of units like the PikaBoost and the more permanent solution the M-Series offers, are the aforementioned hub-based power units, which tuck motors into the hubs of your wheels. Many of these units also offer battery packs that are meant to be attached to your bike's existing bottle cage mounts. Among the many options for hub-based power units, it's hard to beat the Zehus, which requires nothing more than replacing your existing rear wheel with a Zehus-outfitted wheel. Similarly, Cytronex, one of the earliest and longest-standing ebike brands around, offers a hub-based conversion kit that, while a bit more involved, should take no more than a few minutes of setup. With the explosion in popularity in ebikes, this list is barely scratching the surface. For each of the units mentioned here, there are a dozen or more aftermarket competitors offering similar products. Do your research, talk to the experts at your local bike shop, and decide which unit is right for you and your needs. Once you do that, keep the rubber side down! Power up with unlimited access to WIRED . Get best-in-class reporting that's too important to ignore for just $2.50 $1 per month for 1 year. Includes unlimited digital access and exclusive subscriber-only content. Subscribe Today .
Digital Trends
12-06-2025
- Automotive
- Digital Trends
I tried an e-bike for the first time and now I'm hooked
Before this year, I'd never even touched an e-bike before, and the thought of riding one was never on my radar. With life already in constant motion thanks to two toddlers, biking wasn't something I ever considered adding to the mix. I'd always assumed e-bikes were for hardcore commuters or serious cyclists, not someone like me. I wasn't looking for a big lifestyle change. I just wanted a quicker way to get to the park so we'd have more time to play before dinner. Recommended Videos Ideally, I'd avoid pushing a double stroller and maybe even enjoy the ride myself. I didn't really know what to expect that first time, but the second I started pedaling, it just felt easy. Not dramatic or overwhelming, just smoother than I thought it would be. I had never even considered hauling my kids in a bike trailer before. The thought alone sounded exhausting. But with the Aventon Pace 4, I actually did it, and it felt surprisingly manageable. What used to seem like a huge effort suddenly became a quick and efficient way for us to get to different parks around our neighborhood. Instead of packing everyone into the car or convincing them to get into the stroller, we were cruising to the swings in no time, and having fun getting there too. Understanding the ride modes The Aventon Pace 4 offers three pedal assist levels — Eco, Sport, and Turbo — plus a throttle. With pedal assist, you still have to pedal, but the motor gives you a helpful boost based on the mode you're in. It makes everything feel easier and smoother, especially when you're hauling kids. The throttle is a separate feature that lets you press a small lever on the handlebar to make the bike go without pedaling at all. I found it super helpful for starting from a stop or giving my legs a break on longer rides, especially when pulling the trailer. I typically stay in Eco mode because it gives just enough help to make rides smooth without using up too much battery. It's perfect for casual cruising or when I'm towing the kids and we're not in a rush. Sport mode kicked things up a notch and became my go-to when I needed to move fast — like during a toddler meltdown when I just wanted to race home. Turbo was the real powerhouse. I used it on big hills or when the trailer felt extra heavy, and it made those moments feel a lot more manageable. I did notice that Sport and Turbo drain the battery more quickly, especially if I relied on the throttle. But having that power when I needed it made the bike feel like a tool I could trust to adapt to my day. Terrain limitations One limitation I did run into was terrain. The Pace 4 does great on pavement, bike paths, and even slightly bumpy or uneven roads. It handled dry grass fine too. But on gravel? Not a chance. I attempted a short trail detour and had to hop off and walk the bike back. It simply isn't built for loose gravel or off-road use, and the tires do not grip well in that setting. That wasn't a dealbreaker for me — most of our rides are on city or suburban streets — but it's something to be aware of if you're thinking of taking it anywhere rugged. Setup and accessories Putting the bike together was pretty straightforward. I'm not super handy, and with a little help from my husband and a YouTube video, I had it ready to go. We also added a few accessories to make it more family-friendly, like a rear rack and front and rear fenders. Most of the add-ons were simple enough to install, but the rear fenders were a serious challenge. There was one bolt on the underside of the bike that was especially difficult to remove, and it was almost stripped when we tried to take it off. Thankfully, the kit included a replacement, and once we swapped it out, we were able to finish the install. Still, that part took more time and effort than expected. Once everything was in place, though, the fenders really helped keep the trailer and kids cleaner on muddy rides. I have the bike in the color Mica, which looks sleek in person, but I do wish there were more color options to choose from. A few brighter or fun family-friendly shades would be nice, especially for a bike that gets so much everyday use. Comfort on the go I've done plenty of indoor rides — I used to take spin classes regularly and now have a Peloton at home, so I'm used to being on a bike. But I wasn't sure how an outdoor cruiser-style e-bike would feel in comparison. The Pace 4 surprised me with how smooth and comfortable it was for casual rides. The upright posture was easy on my back and shoulders, and the wide saddle felt comfortable throughout, even on longer trips with the trailer. It handled uneven pavement and neighborhood speed bumps with no issues. It's not meant for hardcore trails or rugged paths, but for daily rides and weekend adventures, the comfort totally holds up. Everyday use and app experience On the bike itself, the display shows your speed and battery level clearly, and switching between assist modes is just a tap of a button. I didn't need to study a manual or fiddle with settings — everything was intuitive enough that I felt confident riding it right away. I also used the Aventon app, which pairs with the bike via Bluetooth. I liked being able to adjust assist levels and track rides from my phone. The speed boost feature, which unlocks a slightly faster top speed, was fun, but I did find it odd that it's only accessible through the app and not directly from the bike itself. The security features, like the motion alert and rear wheel lock, are nice extras, though I still recommend using a physical lock too. The app works well once you get used to it, but the interface could be simpler for people who just want quick access to the essentials. Value and practical use The Pace 4 is definitely priced higher than a traditional bike – starting at $1,799, but after using it regularly, I can see how the features and ride quality justify it. I would recommend adding the fender kit and rack, which come in at $69.99 and $65.99 respectively, as these really added to the experience – but does mean the costs tops $1800. For someone who's just looking for a way to make everyday outings more fun and a little faster, it absolutely holds value. It's not something I'd use for every errand or to replace the car, but for getting the kids from one place to another quickly — and making it fun — it fits perfectly into our routine. It's a break from the stroller grind, and honestly, the kids love the speed of the trailer just as much as I do. Final thoughts I wasn't looking to overhaul my lifestyle or swap my SUV for a bike. I just wanted something that made getting outside with my kids easier and more fun. The Aventon Pace 4 gave us that. It's quick, smooth and park runs and neighborhood rides feel like little mini adventures. This bike surprised me in all the right ways. It's not about being a 'bike person.' It's about finding small upgrades to everyday life, and this one genuinely delivered. If you're considering an e-bike, make sure you read our e-bike buying guide before you purchase one.
Daily Mail
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mail
Travel smarter and save big this Memorial Day with HUNDREDS off high-performance e-bikes - get up to 60% off
There are countless reasons to consider investing in an e-bike. They're good for the planet. They're good for you. Sure, you aren't always breaking a sweat to reach your destination (thank you, pedal assist!), but you're definitely soaking up more sunshine and breathing in more fresh air. Whether you're in the market for a new model or you're ready to hop on for the first time, you can't beat the deal Upway has this Memorial Day weekend. The e-bike retailer is offering a generous $150 discount off orders $2,000 or more when you enter code MEMORIAL25 at checkout through May 30, 2025. Upway Memorial Day Sale Get riding! Nothing can come between you and the open road when you're cruising on an e-bike. Not only do these gorgeous rides help you save on gas money, but they're a joy to ride. Upway makes it easy to find exactly the right model for your needs. Whether you're looking for a sleek commuter e-bike, something for your next mountain adventure, or a compact folding option, you'll find it here. Save big during Upway's Memorial Day savings event with $150 off through May 30, 2025, when you enter MEMORIAL25 at checkout. Save $150 Shop With e-bike leaders like Aventon, Specialized, and Cannondale available at up to 60 percent off retail, Upway makes shopping for your next ride affordable. The selection is vast, with models for every type of ride and rider. Looking for something for your commute? Or maybe you're a road warrior looking for an agile companion for distance riding, or in the market for a mountain e-bike to accompany you on your next great adventure. It doesn't matter what you have in mind — Upway has a model that's just right for you. There are even space-saving folding e-bikes that are great for commutes or when you want to bring it along while traveling. Need to carry heavier loads? A cargo e-bike was made for that, whether you're transporting shopping bags or little humans! And everything Upway carries is beautiful, with a sleek and modern vibe you'll love. The fact that they'll save you gas money is just an added bonus, along with the undeniable benefits of spending more time outside and getting a little more exercise. The retailer has e-bikes at all price points, making it easy to get in on the action even if you're on a budget. Ready to shop? Here are some of our top picks to keep in mind as you browse Upway's e-bike Memorial Day sale.
New York Post
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- New York Post
The best e-bikes for everything from city commutes to weekend trail rides
New York Post may receive revenue from affiliate and advertising partnerships for sharing this content and/or when you make a purchase. Let's face it, between subway delays, Uber surge pricing, and the daily cardio workout that is hailing a cab in Midtown (not to mention the expense!), New Yorkers are officially over it. It might be time for you to join the e-bike community. Now, we've already tested the best electric scooters out there, but it's not everyone's cup of tea, especially if you want to feel more secure when riding through potholes and traffic. Learn everything there is to know about e-bikes and where to buy them below. Advertisement If you enjoy dodging gridlock on the way to the office or coasting your way in through a park route to the office, e-bikes are quickly becoming the city's most stylish (and secretly practical) mode of transportation. They're fast, quiet, and cost-efficient once you count in how much it costs to maintain a car, insurance and gasoline, or pay for a monthly transit card. Before you swipe your credit card on the best e-bikes out there, there are a few things to keep in mind. Not all e-bikes are created equal; what's perfect for a weekend cruise along the Santa Monica boardwalk might fall short on the streets of Fifth Avenue. Some riders worry about range anxiety, others need a bike that's easy to store, and some want big, flat tires to conquer rugged terrain. Whatever your riding style or needs, we've got an e-bike that's ready to roll with you. Product Spotlight Best Overall: Aventon Level 3 Commuter Aventon Pros: Long battery life Free shipping Integrated smart features like GPS tracking, auto-lock, and theft alerts Multiple sizing and frame options for all body types Class 2 bike Cons: At times, the weight was hard to control Takes a long time to charge New York Post Review: 'Riding through streets battered by salt, heavy traffic, and relentless wear and tear, I felt surprisingly secure on the Aventon Level 3 Commuter. Even hitting potholes at 20 miles per hour, the bike's suspension seat took on the impact, keeping the ride smooth and stable. No jolts, no bounce, just a calm, confident cruise that eased my worries about wiping out on rough city pavement. Designed with city commuters in mind, this bike features an upright, relaxed riding position that's perfect for navigating traffic and tight spaces. A rear rack makes hauling your essentials a breeze, while front and rear fenders protect your clothes from splashes and grime. The battery offers up to 70 miles on a single charge, and the bike can handle riders up to 300 pounds. Aventon's thoughtful sizing includes both regular (4 feet 11 inches to 5 feet 7 inches) and large (5 feet 7 inches to 6 feet 1 inch) frame options, so nearly everyone can find their fit. Yes, charging takes a few hours, but worst-case scenario? It's still a bike. You can always pedal home. Besides feeling secure, the Level 3 offers an easier ride with pedal assist to suit your pace and preference. It's a smart choice for anyone who wants to commute in comfort while cutting down on emissions or on physical effort. After all, showing up to work drenched in sweat isn't exactly a great look, and Aventon clearly understands that, which is why it has made life so much easier. Available in two frame styles and four colors, Sandstone and Glacier Mint for the step-through, or Black and Aurora for the step-over. Plus, it comes with a two-year warranty and a 14-day return policy.' – Emma Sutton-Williams, commerce reporter Emma Sutton-Williams Weight: N/A| Weight supported: 300 pounds | Range: Up to 70 miles | Motor: 500-Watt AVENTON $1,899.00 New York Post receives revenue from affiliate and advertising partnerships for sharing this content and when you make a purchase. Amazon Pros: 30-day returns when you buy from Amazon 6 colors available 7 levels of speed The bike is versatile because it's foldable UL-2849 certified Cons: A 350-watt rear wheel motor may not be great for long distances Get the ultimate in urban mobility with this foldable electric bike, designed for city dwellers navigating tight spaces and priced lower than most competitors. With thick 14-inch wheels built to absorb bumps and a convenient twist throttle for smooth, effortless riding, you'll cruise through busy streets with ease. Built-in cruise control, along with an LED headlight and rear light, that not only keeps you visible to cars but also helps you spot potholes and street hazards at night. This compact commuter bike is a smart, budget-friendly choice and is available in six colors and backed by a 30-day return policy when purchased from a trusted third party on Amazon. Weight: 41 Pounds | Weight Supported: 265 pounds | | Range: 15 miles with motor, 30 with pedal assist | Motor: 350-Watt Rad Power Bikes Pros: Two-year warranty Fast, free shipping Available in two different colors This bike was designed for riders between the height of 4 feet 11 inches to 6 feet 4 inches Cons: Very heavy to hold up at 74.5 pounds If you're in the market for a fast e-bike, it's essential to consider your city's regulations. Most e-bikes are limited to a top speed of 28 miles per hour, as per Class regulations, which you can learn more about in our detailed article on everything to know about e-bikes. Bikes that exceed this speed, such as certain models from Yamaha, would be classified as motorcycles. For safety reasons, we're only recommending e-bikes that reach the fastest speeds allowed within regulations. Most e-bikes top out at 20 miles per hour, but the Radster pushes that limit with a top speed of 28 miles per hour and keeps with regulations. Designed for all-weather riding, this e-bike is tough enough for rough terrain and built to last. It also offers peace of mind when it comes to theft protection, just lock it with a security code on the controls or use the included fob for quick access. Additionally, the rear of the bike features a rack that can carry personal items or even a child, making it versatile for daily use. Weight: 74.5 pounds | Weight Supported: 320 pounds | Range: 65+ miles | Motor: 750-Watt Lectric Pros: Comes with a one-year warranty Provides an electric pedal-assist wattage regulation The battery is removable and weighs only 7 pounds Cons: The weight was hard to control, so you need to be a strong person to hold it up This e-bike is built for convenience and comfort, starting with its no-tools-required assembly, just unfold, charge, and ride. You can choose between a standard battery with up to 45 miles of range or upgrade to a long-range option that delivers up to 65 miles, perfect for short commutes or longer city adventures. The front oil suspension fork smooths out rough roads, while the foldable design at both the handlebar stem and main frame makes it incredibly easy to store in small apartments, offices, or car trunks. Despite its compact build, it supports up to 330 pounds and features a powerful 1,000-watt peak motor for a strong, steady ride. You'll feel comfortable with the wide tires for uneven terrain, so overall, we found this bike to be our top winner in the foldable category. Weight: 57 pounds | Weight Supported: 330 pounds | Range: 45 miles | Motor: 1,000-Watt Peak Best for Commuters and Adventurers: Himiway D5 (Zebra) Premium All-terrain Electric Fat Bike Himiway Pros: Free shipping 15-day return policy allowed Comes with a 2-year warranty Cons: The weight was hard to control, so you need to be a strong person to hold it up at 79 pounds The D5 Electric Mountain Bike is the ultimate ride for adventurers seeking to conquer any road, trail, or sidewalk. Powered by a 750-watt fat e-bike motor and paired with 4.0-inch Kenda fat tires, it's engineered to tackle everything from snow-packed trails to deep sand beaches and muddy mountain passes. With an impressive 80-mile range powered by a high-capacity Samsung 48-volt battery, this bike lasts three times longer than most standard mountain e-bikes. So you can commute to work or scale steep inclines with the Shimano Altus 7-speed gears. The D5 is built to handle extreme conditions, so it's great for rough terrain from winter through summer. Weight: 79 pounds | Weight Supported: 400 pounds | | Range: 80 miles | Motor: 750-Watt How we tested Emma Sutton-Williams We didn't take every e-bike on the market for a joyride through Manhattan. But we did personally test one standout, the Aventon Level 3 Commuter. See our full review here. We rode it straight into Times Square, then cruised up to Central Park, weaving through traffic, potholes, and the occasional confused tourist. We pushed the Aventon across different assist modes, tested its e-bike battery range, braking power, comfort level, and just how fast it could actually go. As for the other bikes featured in this guide? We did a deep dive into e-bike reviews, user feedback, spec sheets, and expert roundups. We compared motors, frames, features, e-bike accessories, and prices to help you figure out what's legit—and what's better left in the 'wish' section of your shopping cart. Whether you're eyeing the fastest e-bike on the road, a versatile folding e-bike, or one of the more affordable options in the cheap e-bikes category, we read the fine print so you don't have to. FAQ Are fat tire e-bikes worth it? If your idea of a bike path includes sand, snow, or questionable city streets, a fat-tire e-bike offers killer stability and comfort. I'd say 100%, it might make the difference between death and life when you hit a bump and fall into traffic. Wider tires give peace of mind and a smoother ride. They're also great for larger riders or anyone who wants to feel extra grounded. Can I find a good e-bike on a budget? You can! Less expensive e-bikes that don't fall apart after three rides exist; you just have to know where to find them. We focused on models with reliable e-bike motors, decent battery life, and good warranty coverage. Other great places to look are Walmart, Amazon and Target. How long does an e-bike battery last? A quality e-bike battery typically lasts between 3 to 9 years, depending on how often and how well it's used. Factors like battery type, riding habits, terrain, and maintenance all play a role in its lifespan. According to Tom Sweeny, Affiliate Marketing Specialist from Aventon, it's important to remember that all bikes, including e-bikes, need regular maintenance from time to time, so it matters greatly how well you take care of them and how often you use them. To help extend your battery's life, avoid letting it fully drain regularly, keep it away from extreme temperatures, and store it indoors when not in use. Regularly charging the battery even when it's not in use and keeping it clean and dry can also help maintain its performance over time. What motor size do I need? Commuters can get by with a 250-watt motor, but for real power, especially uphill, you'll want 500 watts or more. The Aventon Level 3 Commuter, for example, packs a 500-watt motor that makes climbing or coasting feel like cheating (in a good way). Read our full review here. What are some other good places to consider when buying an e-bike? You can also check out other great e-bike options from Trek, Walmart, Jasion, Jetson, Talaria, and Sondors, each offering something unique, from high-performance trail machines to budget-friendly urban cruisers. For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America's go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We're not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren't already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we're known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change. Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted.
New York Post
08-05-2025
- Automotive
- New York Post
Aventon e-bike review: How it handled the hustle of NYC traffic
New York Post may receive revenue from affiliate and advertising partnerships for sharing this content and/or when you make a purchase. Although riding a bike through Times Square might sound scary, I was surprised by how easy and secure it felt zipping through on my very steady, secure steed: the Aventon Level 3 Commuter. The sturdy frame gave me the boost of confidence I needed to ride through the chaos like a pro. I then took it all the way to Central Park to see how far this machine could really go — all in the name of journalism, of course. But before I get into my thrilling experience on two wheels, let's talk about the brand behind the ride. About Aventon Bikes When it comes to reliable, high-performance electric bikes, Aventon has quickly earned its place as one of the top players in the game. The California-based company blends sleek design with sustainable innovation, and its e-bikes are consistently praised for comfort, performance, and smart tech. Advertisement From commuters and casual riders to adventurers and trail junkies, Aventon offers something for every type of rider. Its lineup includes city cruisers, hybrid commuters, and rugged all-terrain models, each one built with thoughtful features and powerful motors that get you everywhere you need to be. The bike I tested was the Aventon Level 3 Commuter, designed for long-distance travel, going up to 70 miles on a single charge. It can hold up to 300 pounds and has a rack on the back for groceries and packages, and even a seat for your child (sold separately). Although I can lock this bike up safely in the basement of my building, not everyone is as lucky as me. For those commuters, Aventon has ACU (Aventon Control Unit) technology built in, so you'll get GPS tracking, auto-lock, unusual movement detection, and an alarm system to monitor your bike's security. Emma Sutton-Williams It's not completely theft-proof, after all, this is New York, but there are plenty of precautions in place to make stealing it a lot more difficult. Set up Emma Sutton-Williams Setting up the Aventon took a little time and patience, but it certainly could have been much worse. I suggest grabbing a friend, neighbor, or partner. The bike is solid (AKA heavy), and while the instructions are clear, you'll definitely appreciate an extra set of hands to help with lifting the frame and tightening things down. One hiccup I ran into? A bolt that was tightened a bit too tightly from the factory. I had to call in backup with stronger arms, but we got the job done. So, unless you're hitting the gym on the regular, you may find yourself wrestling a bit here and there. Tip: I found watching this YouTube video from the brand helpful for setup. One thing to note is that it did skip over a few crucial moments that took some effort to put together. The Ride Once assembled, the real experience begins. The cast aluminum frame gives the bike a sturdy, grounded feel, which is exactly what you want when you're weaving through city traffic. Compared to a bunch of collapsible scooters I have tested before, this bike feels like a tank in the best possible way. However, in retrospect, I would recommend the Step-Through model for city traffic because I needed to hop on and off while riding on Broadway, and I don't know about you, but I only have so many step-overs in me a day. Yes, it's heavier than a standard pedal bike, and you'll notice it when trying to make tight turns. But that added heft also gives you unmatched stability, and it shines when the roads get bumpy. There's a very nasty pothole on my commute that my scooter does not make it through, and yet I glided through on my Level 3 Commuter without an issue or injury. Honestly, I barely even noticed it. The seat has a great suspension system that allows me to hit bumps and not get a sore bum, something I haven't experienced on other bikes. Emma Sutton-Williams The bike has blinkers controlled on the digital display with a left and right arrow button. I did hit them, but I felt that the lights were smaller on the back, making them less noticeable. Unless it's dark outside, I'm not sure it's helpful in the middle of New York City traffic. But, it was a nice touch, if only it were higher on the bike where drivers could see it more clearly. Let's talk specs. This model is a Class 2 e-bike. What does that mean? It has pedal assist with a top speed of 20 miles per hour, plus a throttle so you can cruise without pedaling. Just keep in mind that regulations vary by district, so it's important to know what's allowed where you live. Check out our latest article for everything you need to know about e-bikes, and read more about how the classes break down. There are three power modes: Eco, Sport and Turbo. Eco Mode – Gentle pedal assist, great for saving battery on longer rides. – Gentle pedal assist, great for saving battery on longer rides. Sport Mode – Noticeably zippier, ideal for city traffic and keeping up the pace (my go-to in Central Park). – Noticeably zippier, ideal for city traffic and keeping up the pace (my go-to in Central Park). Turbo Mode – All gas, no brakes. You'll hit top speeds fast. Just hold on, and be sure you're in full control. Pro tip: I suggest not using this in Times Square but rather in long stretches of road where you can think quickly on your feet. Emma Sutton-Williams I clocked my speed going 21 miles per hour downhill using Turbo mode, so keep in mind that you can really fly with the 500-watt motor that can push you past 25 miles per hour, depending on leg power and terrain. The acceleration is impressively smooth. You don't need much effort to get rolling, and once you're moving, it practically glides. The breaks get a 10 out of 10. They stopped instantly but safely. And trust me, I had a few cabs cut me off, turning into my bike, so I needed to slam on them now and then. Best for Commuters: Aventon Level 3 Commuter Aventon Pros: Long battery life Free shipping Integrated smart features like GPS tracking, auto-lock, and theft alerts Multiple sizing and frame options for all body types Cons: This bike is very heavy, so you need to be strong enough to hold it up Takes three to four hours to charge For city commuters looking for a smooth and comfortable ride, the Aventon Commuter Level 3 provides a comfortable, relaxed riding position, perfect for navigating busy streets and weaving through traffic. It has a rear rack to hold your necessities, with front and rear fenders to prevent mud from splattering your work clothes while you ride. The battery life on a single charge is up to 70 miles, and the bike can carry up to 300 pounds. Aventon offers regular and large sizes for all body types, so even the tallest riders feel comfortable. The regular size fits riders from 4-foot-11 to 5-foot-7, and the large size fits those from 5-foot-7 to 6-foot-1. For perspective, I'm 5-foot-9 and rode the regular, but it fit my frame comfortably, allowing my feet to reach the ground when stopped. Plan ahead because charging takes three to four hours, but just know it's still a bike, so even if you run out of battery, you can still pedal home. Beyond convenience, the Level 3 Commuter offers a smooth ride with customizable assistance levels to match your pace. It's an excellent solution for anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint while still getting where they need to go in style and comfort. You can choose from two frame styles, each available in two color options: Sandstone and Glacier Mint for step-through frames and Black and Aurora for step-over frames. This bike comes with a two-year warranty and a 14-day return policy. The final verdict Emma Sutton-Williams I highly recommend this for people looking for a bit of assistance in their daily lives, even when working out. It gives you the ability to travel to places you may not have been able to go or get more done in a shorter amount of time without paying for the bus, gas, or a monthly metro card. I'd recommend a folding bike for those who live in walkups like myself, but if you have access to an elevator or storage room or live in a home, this bike is for you. And before you ride anything, please wear a helmet. We highly recommend the Kali Protectives Lunati 2.0 Helmet because of the aggressive ventilation and secure locking sliders that custom fit your head. Happy riding! How we tested For this Aventon e-bike review, we didn't just take it for a spin around the block; we took it straight into the urban jungle. This wasn't your average Sunday ride. We pushed the bike through the ultimate real-world gauntlet, Times Square traffic, Central Park's tourist-covered paths, and a few steep inclines just for good measure. We wanted to know how the Aventon would handle high-stress conditions, fast-paced commutes, and leisurely cruising alike. We tested across multiple power modes (Eco, Sport, and Turbo), checked battery longevity, and paid close attention to how it handled cornering, braking, and quick acceleration. We also evaluated comfort over time because what good is an awesome e-bike if your back is wrecked 15 minutes in? Or worse, brakes didn't prevent oncoming traffic. Lastly, if you're looking to get the most value, definitely check out Aventon e-bike deals by signing up with an email address to get a discount on your first purchase. For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America's go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We're not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren't already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we're known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change. Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted.
