Aventon Aventure 2.0 E-Bike Review

The new Aventon Aventure 2.0 is a burly e-bike that’ll spice up your riding, letting you take on virtually any terrain out there. It’s not a sleek commuter or lightweight setup but that wasn’t part of its design brief anyway— this all-terrain workhorse flies through trails, bike paths, and streets. We recently tested the Aventure 2.0 to see how this second-generation model compares to its well-liked predecessor. Keep reading for a deep dive into the specs and performance rating of this go-anywhere e-bike.

About Aventon

Aventon has become a giant in the North American e-bike game, specializing in affordable, quality electric bikes with better aesthetics than most of its rivals. The current Aventon catalog is mostly made up of second-gen models, a result of the brand’s recent success that has propelled it into the industry’s top spots with enough resources to continue developing. I already reviewed several of these improved iterations and Aventon consistently delivers smart tweaks and added features.

Aventon Aventure 2.0 Step-Through Design

If you’re a fan of labels, the Aventure 2.0 fits squarely into the all-terrain fat e-bike category. The beefy step-through frame (it also comes in a step-over version) pairs with 26×4.0” fat tires that provide a serious amount of cushion and grip. One could make the argument that the Aventure 2.0 is probably too much bike for simple commuters or recreational riders who stick to paved surfaces— its off-road capabilities are best suited for riders who are a bit more, well… adventurous and who like to go off-piste every once in a while.

That said, the super stable ride feel means the 2.0 is great for cruising around town, capable also of carrying up to 55 lbs. of cargo on the included rear rack. The ebike can support a maximum payload of 400 lbs including the rider.

Aventon Aventure 2.0 vs 1.0

The newer Aventure 2.0 differs from the original version because of the added torque sensor, rear rack, and turn signal functionality. Aventon hasn’t reinvented the wheel here, but they simply didn’t need to. The first-gen Aventure was a hit and performed very well given its sub-$2,000 price, all-terrain capabilities, and smoother-than-most motor.

The 2.0 preserves these ride qualities and takes it a step further, swapping the old cadence sensor for a torque sensor for more responsive acceleration. During testing, I noticed the pedal assist felt more dialed in than that of its predecessor. For example, pedal assist levels 1 and 2 were more efficient up hills so you could stay in lower levels for longer without resorting to higher-powered pedaling or having to hit the throttle.

Frame Size

Once again, Aventon employed its keen eye for aesthetics to create a frame design that makes the robust 2.0 appear sleeker than it actually is— the streamlined curves and chiseled edges look great. Remember, though, that the 2.0 still weighs in at a hefty 77 lbs. so it’ll be cumbersome to carry upstairs and you’ll need an e-bike-specfic car rack when transporting it.

I tested the Large frame size that’s recommended for riders between 5’7” and 6’1”, but there’s a Regular size for shorter riders. The 2.0 is available in either Cobalt Blue or Midnight Black colorways that are a step up from the ubiquitous grey hues that flood the market these days. The e-bike currently costs just $1,799 after a price drop a few months ago from the original $1,999 MRSP.

750W Rear Hub Motor

The Aventure 2.0 gets its pace from a 750W rear hub motor now outfitted with that torque sensor for incredibly smooth power-assisted pedaling. The model comes out of the box as a Class 2 e-bike and can be unlocked to Class 3 settings with a top speed of 28 mph. There are 5 modes of pedal assist as well as a left-thumb throttle mode.

The 2.0 can really move and the overall drive unit feels more responsive and natural than the last Aventure model, as if you are moving with the bike rather than simply going along for the ride. While not the lightest setup, the 2.0 is a powerful hill climber and can attack slopes with up to a 15% grade fairly comfortably.

15Ah Battery

As with most Aventon models, the battery is integrated inside the large, beveled downtube. The 15Ah on this e-bike is rated for up to 60 miles of extended riding on a single charge and, as long as you stay in the lower PAS levels, you should expect to get decently close to that distance. The removable battery life provides a good range given the powerful motor specs and added weight from the fat tires.

4″ Fat Tires on the Aventon Aventure 2.0

Arguably, the hallmark of this bike is the fat tire wheelset with monstrous 4” Innova tires that’ll float over just about anything. The smaller 26” wheels prevent the bike from entering into “way too big” territory that 27.5” fat bikes can be guilty of (unless you’re really tackling some wild terrain, of course).

During testing our staff noticed that the Aventure 2.0 rode with remarkable agility and natural handling considering its large physical footprint. The wide tires add stability without taking away the playful and nimble performance that’s so much fun, especially with a motor attached. The knobby fat tires will make some noise on smooth pavement and aren’t as efficient, but are great for loose dirt, snow, and getting through slippery mud.

Components

The Aventure 2.0 relies on 8-speed Shimano gearing with a quality trigger shifter as well as powerful Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. Technology and the popularity of hydraulic disc brakes have progressed enough that I’d be wary of any ebike that comes with mechanical disc brakes, these days. Hydraulic brakes for me are a must for such powerful and heavy ebikes. Brands have all seemed to agree that they are the way forward and aren’t charging a high premium for better brakes anymore— alas, the bike safety gods give thanks. For a cushier ride but a bit of extra weight, there’s 80mm of travel in the front suspension fork.

The Aventure 2.0’s integrated tech flies under the radar at first, but there’s plenty of sleek and useful functionality at your fingertips. The handlebar display is an industry favorite— bright and easy to understand— and even includes a concealed USB port to charge your smaller electronics.

Behind the display is a small but powerful headlight; I like this design choice that’s much cleaner than a hunky and oversized headlamp positioned above the front fender. There are now turn signal integrated lights into the lower part of the seatstays! While you’ll still want to indicate your next move with your arms, the added visibility of the rear lights and lighted communication with other cyclists and motorists is a great idea. As with all Aventon models, users can access the proprietary Aventon app to customize additional settings on their e-bike.

Aventon Aventure 2.0 E-Bike Pros:

• Versatile: Handles a variety of terrain including trails, streets, and bike paths.
• Powerful Motor: 750W rear hub motor with good acceleration and hill climbing ability.
• Long Range: Up to 60 miles on a single charge (depending on use).
• Comfortable Ride: Fat tires, front suspension, and hydraulic disc brakes.
• Durable: Aluminum frame with a weight capacity of 400 lbs.
• Affordable: $1,799.
• Easy to Use: Torque sensor for smooth power delivery, multiple pedal assist levels, and a throttle.
• Integrated Tech: Includes a color display, USB port, integrated lights with turn signals, and a phone app for customization.
• Sleek Design: Modern frame design and integrated lights.
• Step-Through Frame Option: Makes it easier to get on and off the bike.
• Rear Rack Included: Can haul up to 55 lbs of cargo.

Aventon Aventure 2.0 E-Bike Cons:

• Heavy: Weighs 77 lbs, making it difficult to carry upstairs or transport.
• Large and Bulky: May not be suitable for smaller riders or tight spaces.
• Limited Top Speed: Class 2 e-bike with a 28 mph maximum speed (can be unlocked to Class 3).
• Not the Most Efficient on Pavement: Fat tires can be noisy and not as efficient as regular tires on smooth surfaces.
• Shimano Shifter Not on Handlebar: Uses an 8-speed Shimano drivetrain but the shifters are not located on the handlebars.

Overall Impression

The Aventon Aventure 2.0 ($1,799) is a highly capable e-bike that will follow you on varied terrain and perform excellently. For cyclists who don’t want to limit themselves to one type of riding, this rugged e-bike rolls through trails, city streets, bike paths, and errands while hauling cargo. The enjoyable stability and smooth power delivery outshine the noticeable burliness of this large adventure e-bike, making it a fun choice to ride all year round.

Related Fat Tire E-Bikes

1. Aventon Aventure E-Bike
2. Magicycle Deer E-Bike
3. OKAI EB50 E-Bike