I know the Level 4 is out and has regen braking and autoshift but if you want an Aventon for less you can still buy the Level 3.
If you are looking for a sleek city e-bike packed with top-tier technology and good looks, the Aventon Level 3 deserves to be at the top of your list. While Aventon recently launched the Level 4, they are still running a clearance on the Level 3 for just $1,699.
At the time of this review, inventory is getting low, leaving only the large frame size in a striking Matte Aurora Purple.
Here is a breakdown of how this forward-thinking, high-tech commuter performed on the road.
Industry-Leading Security & Tech
The crown jewel of the Level 3 is the Aventon Control Unit (ACU)—an integrated smart module that turns the bike into a fully connected gadget. It is arguably one of the safest e-bikes on the market today.
- 4G Cellular & GPS Tracking: Pinpoints your bike’s live location via the Aventon smartphone app.
- Geo-Fencing & Motion Alerts: Establish a digital perimeter and receive instant push notifications if someone bumps, moves, or tampers with your bike.
- Remote Motor Lock: You can digitally kill the motor through the app. Once locked, the rear hub completely immobilizes, meaning thieves can’t roll it away.
- Keyless Battery Ejection: In a unique design choice, there is no physical key for the battery. You pop it out entirely through the digital display settings or the smartphone app.
- Over-the-Air Updates: Firmware updates and display UI fixes download seamlessly via Bluetooth.
Power, Performance, and a “Boost Mode” Secret
The Level 3 is powered by a 36V, 500W brushless rear hub motor pushing out 60 Nm of torque. Out of the box, it ships as a Class 2 e-bike, but you can easily unlock it via the app to reach Class 3 speeds of up to 28 mph.
- Dual Ride Modes: You can switch between a highly responsive, natural-feeling torque sensor and a seamless cadence sensor inside the app depending on how much effort you want to put in.
- 30-Second Boost Mode: While the motor is a sustained 500W, switching it to “Boost” overclocks the system to 864 peak watts (120% max torque). It gives you a great surge of power for steep hills or dead-stop acceleration, though it does trigger a brief cooldown period afterward to prevent overheating.
Hardware & Ride Quality
Weighing in at a relatively nimble 67 lbs, the bike handles beautifully. It feels perfectly balanced, allowing for stable, easy tracking even at high speeds.
| Component | Specification & Experience |
| Battery & Range | 36V, 20Ah (733 Wh) featuring premium LG 21700 cells. Advertised range is up to 70 miles (on flat ground in low assist). Real-world testing in Turbo/Sport modes yields closer to 32–35 miles. Includes a 4-amp fast charger (approx. 5-hour charge time). |
| Tires & Brakes | 27.5″ x 2.2″ Kenda Quick Sport urban tires paired with Tektro hydraulic disc brakes and thick 180mm rotors. Stopping power is incredibly grippy and stable with zero fishtailing, even when breaking at 30+ mph. |
| Drivetrain | An 8-speed Shimano Altus derailleur with a 12-32T cassette and 48T chainring. Shifting is crisp, responsive, and completely free of ghost pedaling. |
| Comfort | Features a front suspension fork with lockout/preload adjustment alongside a suspension seat post that offers about 1.5 inches of highly noticeable travel over road bumps. |
| Utility & Extras | Built-in hard plastic fenders, a 60-lb rated rear rack, automatic shut-off turn signals, and integrated brake lights. |
The Verdict: Likes & Dislikes
The Good: The integration of the ACU technology is unparalleled for the price. The anti-theft tracking, wheel-locking security, keyless battery design, and crisp componentry make it an elite commuter. The color is gorgeous, the braking is stellar, and the frame geometry is remarkably stable.
The Bad: The hub motor is a bit whiny under load. If you prefer a whisper-quiet ride, the motor noise might bug you initially. Additionally, the digital display can be a little tough to read in direct, bright sunlight.
If you can snag one of the remaining clearance models for $1,699, the Aventon Level 3 offers an incredible amount of tech and refinement for your dollar. It is a tight, top-notch city e-bike that delivers exactly what it promises.
