Table of Contents
The Aventon Pace 500 commuter electric bike is one of those models that could provide versatility around pedaling, but it might be limited to be used in certain countries.
Aventon Pace 500 Tech Specs (basic)
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MOTOR & TOP SPEED
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BATTERY & RANGE
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CONTROLLER & RIDING MODES
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FRAME
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DRIVE-TRAIN SYSTEM
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BRAKING SYSTEM
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OVERALL WEIGHT & CARRYING CAPACITY
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TYRES AND SUSPENSION
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ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES
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My Experience Riding the Aventon Pace 500
The first thing I noticed was its weight, which was tested at 23 kg. This is a heavy e-bike, something I was not expecting. Regardless of its weight, it felt balanced on each corner.
It felt good when sitting. The saddle springs were great, and I felt minimal vibration when riding.
After checking out all the default controller features, I noticed the throttle didn’t activate immediately. This was great, as this feature is meant to operate after reaching a minimum speed of 6 km/h.
Even though the torque was low (50 Nm), it responded well considering the Aventon Pace 500 weight (23 kg). It was easy to reach top speed in less than 10 seconds.
On the throttle side, the motor responded beautifully before cutting off at 20 mph. The only thing I didn’t like was that my thumb muscle became stiff after 5 minutes of continuous operation.
The braking test was not bad. Of course, it had to be done at top speed. It took me approximately 10 meters to come to a full stop.
A suspension system would have enhanced comfort and vibration. However, given that this e-bike was already heavy, this could have been negative.
Lastly, the battery. After 30 km of riding on Lv 5 mode (highest), the battery still had around 25% left of juice. Great.
The Frame
The fact that this e-bike was built with an aluminum frame is a double-edged sword.
On the one end, aluminum is corrosion-resistant, boasts a massive strength-to-weight ratio, and is lightweight. On the other hand, it sucks at absorbing road vibrations.
The frame, handlebar, fork, and battery cover were made of aluminum.
That is why this model weighs around 50 lbs (23 kg), which is heavy for an electric bike made of this material.
The Design (Standard Vs. Step Through)
These are other main differences I found:
- Standard Frame
It is also known as a diamond frame because of how its main frame and the rear triangle connect.
This standard frame is ideal for riders looking for less air resistance and it was designed for tall riders.
- Step through Frame
The two advantages of having this frame were that access to the bike was easy, and the overall weight was reduced by 2 kg.
The joints look strong, providing confidence to the rider that they won’t break easily.
The Hub Motor
It was equipped with a decent Bafang hub motor, which provided enough torque to climb with ease some of the inclines I tackled.
If I go into the watts provided by the motor (500), it would be only within the e-bike laws in the US or on private property. This configuration was not surprising, as generally (but not always) throttle e-bikes would have motors over 250w.
I know there are ways to alter the maximum speed, but it is the rider’s responsibility to ask the dealer to set the correct configuration.
The sensors (speed, torque, and Cadence)
Due to the above features, this bike’s hub-drive motor was capable of offering 750 watts of peak power and 20 miles of top speed on throttle.
In general, I found the sensors well calibrated, as I didn’t notice the usual extra push of some Bafang motors.
Aventon Pace 500 Battery
The battery (48V, 11.6Ah(556.8Wh) Samsung Cells battery) placement blended with the frame made it look bad. Just sitting on the downtube, completely exposed to the elements, made it look like a low-quality e-bike (which is not the case, though).
I’m sure the battery was made to be water-resistant; however, I would not ride it under heavy rain.
The battery’s range was influenced by which of the five (5) assistance modes was selected. My numbers were the following:
- Level 1, which puts the lowest pressure on the motor, allowing the battery to keep going for 50 miles (80 km – not too bad).
- Level 5, meanwhile, drained the battery within 30 miles (50 km).
The company rated its charging time at four (4) hours. I have nothing to say about it because it’s pretty average for an e-bike built for urban roads.
The M5 controller and display
Most commuter electric bikes have a single option to control and power the system – through the control unit.
It was not different for this e-bike, but the big display made it different.
What I also liked about the M5 was its location, right in the middle, and ease of reading the information, even on a bright day. If I’m correct, its operation could be similar to the SW900 LCD Controller Operation Guide.
Also, for more info on the M5 display, check this post.
The riding modes
For a class 2 e-bike, a few riding modes were given.
Based on what the display showed me, there are five (5) alternatives:
- Level 1: 13 mph
- Level 2: 18 mph
- Level 3: 20 mph (max for throttle use).
- Level 4: 23 mph
- Level 5: 28 mph
As indicated above, two things I observed:
- the throttle mode will only get up to 20 mph (32 km/h).
- the assistance is based on the speed wanted, not much of the torque and power required at a specific moment.
Even if riding at top speed (28 mph—45 km/h), the motor will slow you down to 20 mph when activating the throttle.
This was great since many countries have strict regulations about top speed.
Lastly, the walking mode. This can be engaged by going through the modes the LCD offers.
Brakes and drive-train system
Tektro Hydraulic Brakes
Here’s one feature of this e-bike that impressed me the most. I was surprised to note that its Tektro hydraulic brakes (considered one of the best after-disc brakes) are supplemented with a safety cut-off sensor.
Located in the brake lever, it cut off the assistance the moment I engaged the brake lever.
Aventon Pace 500 Accessories
In addition to the already mentioned parts, the Aventon Pace 500 accessories may help you decide whether to buy this model.
Although it didn’t come with anything else fitted, the frame had all the required holes to attach a few racks. This was great to see has there would be the possibility to make it a cargo one. Yet to test with all that extra weight.
The Aventon Pace 500 Regulation
Under the electric bike laws in California, it will be a class 3 e-bike, so you won’t need to worry about a license. However, the laws in other States may be different—check your local laws!
Unfortunately, in Australia, any rider wanting to get this commuter model will require a license due to its power output.
For the E.U. in general, this would also be considered above the minimum requirements; therefore, you may need a license.
All in all, some sellers can configure the controller to limit the power output.
Is it worth buying the Aventon Pace 500?
I’ve juxtaposed this model’s benefits and shortcomings to help answer this question:
Why yes?
- Lithium-ion battery: What keeps most people from trying electric bikes? Anxiety about their range. The brand rectified this issue with its newest battery, which kept it going for up to 50 miles (80 km).
- Five support modes: While the lower levels (1 to 3) conserve power in favor of better range, the last two (2) modes made the most of this 500W motor.
- Large LCD: Its convenient placement between the two handlebars made viewing readings on the go easy.
- Big, comfortable, and upright seat: Even though the saddle was not one of those famous branded ones, it gave me enough comfort for my lower back.
Why no?
- No suspension: If you care about the lack of suspension, this is not the model for you.
- The throttle can’t be activated from a complete stop: The company stated that this feature was intended to prevent accidental throttle engagements.
- Regulations: as a class 3, it will be heavily regulated. Check your local law and see if the standard specifications are not in line with the local rules.
Aventon Pace 500 Review Wrap-Up
This commuter electric bike was a ride that gave me more than most other competitors.
The two (2) riding configurations (pedal and throttle) gave enough freedom for more speed but also the advantage of reducing the pressure on my knees.
It was very simple in design and had few impressive features—aside from the internal cable distribution along the down tube.
Reaching 45 km/h was way too high for my liking. Maybe others could enjoy this speed better.
For a price point, I reckon the Aventon Pace 500 electric bike is not that bad as is, however matching what other competitors are offering like the Cannondale Adventure Neo 4 offers, it will leave you thinking.
Images courtesy of Aventon
