Aventon offers the bike with two frame styles: a high-step/step-over and a step-thru frame, both with two frame sizes. The high-step model we tested is intended for riders from 5’3” to 6’4”, while the step-thru frame fits those between 5’3” and 6’1”. The precise breakdown of these ranges between the two frame sizes can be found in the specs section above.
We tested the L/XL frame size, so at 5’11”, I was toward the lower end of its recommended height range. Its sizing felt appropriate; with six inches of saddle height adjustment, I had plenty of leg extension. The bike’s reach was on the longer side, putting me at a moderate forward lean, but the Level includes an adjustable stem for those who prefer a more upright position.
I found the bike extremely comfortable to ride, largely thanks to the shock absorption from the suspension fork and suspension seatpost with 80mm and 50mm of travel, respectively. I also liked the custom saddle and standard rubber grips, though I’d likely swap to ergonomic grips.
The Level.3’s handling and overall sturdiness were highlights of the ride as well. Its 680mm handlebars provided a balanced feel with great steering control, while its 27.5”x2.2” tires blended maneuverability with stability and rolling efficiency. The bike’s gravity-cast aluminum frame gave it a sense of solidity without causing it to feel heavy or sluggish.
We’ve consistently been a fan of Aventon’s user interface, which includes a large central color display and a highly tactile button panel on the left handlebar. The control panel comfortably places buttons for adjusting the bike’s pedal assist setting and activating the integrated turn signals within easy reach of the grips.
I was pleased to note that the Level.3 includes standard commuter features such as integrated head/tail lights, turn signals, fenders, and a rear cargo rack with 59 lbs of carrying capacity. With no brake cutoff feature included with its brake system, however, I was disappointed that the bike did not include brake light functionality.
For safety, I consider brake lights essential on any e-bike designed to share the road with vehicular traffic and other cyclists. The Level 2 (and most of Aventon’s other e-bikes) include brake lights, so I challenge the brand to include them again in the future.
Critique aside, let’s discuss the Level.3’s integrated security features and the Aventon app in greater detail.
Without pairing to the app, the ACU module can lock the rear wheel to prevent theft—one of the best (and newest) features of the bike—and eject the battery from its dock in the underside of the down tube. These features are accessible through the Level’s display.
Once paired with the app, users can set up an unusual activity detection feature with customizable sensitivity. If the bike is jostled or moved too much, this can be linked with an audible (albeit relatively quiet) alarm. In the event of theft, the bike can also be remotely deactivated.
Geofencing boundaries can be set using a GPS feature to designate allowed or restricted areas. This seems ideal for parents who wish to control where their children can and cannot ride; if the bike enters a restricted area or leaves an allowed zone, the pedal assist system will deactivate, and the alarm will sound until it is returned to a safe area.
An annual subscription is required to connect with 4G networks and get the most out of the Level’s GPS functionality. The first year is free of charge, but subsequent years will require a (completely worthwhile) nominal fee of $20 or a monthly fee of just $2 to stay active.
In the Speed Test section above, I referenced the ability to customize the Level.3’s motor output via the Ride Tune feature. This system of three sliders allows users to change the torque, pedal sensitivity, and pedal assist (wattage) of each of the bike’s three assist levels. A helpful diagram shows the balance of each mode.
The Aventon app also gives users the ability to track and sync ride and health data with Strava and Apple Health. The bike will automatically track rides (shown in grey within the app), but manual tracking is also possible (shown in blue).
It will also show current maintenance status so riders know when to service the bike, grant access to social media features shared with all Aventon e-bike owners, and activate diagnostic tests to ensure that all of the Level’s electronics are functioning properly.
With so many integrated security features that work in tandem with the app, it is an essential component of owning the Level.3. In truth, the Aventon app is among the most synergistic and functional we have tested; it encourages users to stay connected through Bluetooth and manage the bike’s operation and location.
All of these elements combine to create a degree of ride quality that is truly a level (pun intended) above what we expect from an e-bike priced below $2k. While it does have a learning curve to understand and use all of its features, the bike is comfortable, responsive, engaging, hi-tech, and extremely secure.
