If you’re thinking about making the switch to an electric bike, or perhaps upgrading your current eBike, it’s very possible you’re on the horns of a dilemma.
With so many seemingly similar models on the market, it can be so hard to tell which one is best for your needs.
In this article, we’re focusing on one of the best-selling eBikes out there: the Aventon Pace 500.2.
But is it really worth the hype it gets?
To give you the lowdown on the Aventon Pace 500.2 and whether it’s right for you, we’ll be covering:
- Introduction to eBikes
- Aventon Pace 500.2: Bike Specification
- What Are The Strengths Of The Aventon Pace 500.2?
- What Are The Weaknesses Of The Aventon Pace 500.2?
- Aventon Pace 500.2: Review Verdict
Let’s dive in!
What Is An eBike?
eBikes have surged in popularity in recent years. Sales are soaring, with an estimated 36 million eBikes sold globally in 2022.
But what exactly is an eBike, and how do they work?
You’ll probably already know that the term ‘eBike’ is short for ‘electric bike’. However, that doesn’t mean that there’s no pedaling power involved.
Electric bikes are very similar to regular push bikes. The major difference is that eBikes rely on extra components that work together to ensure a smooth ride.
These components are an electric motor, a battery, a sensor, and an electric display.
eBike motors aim to provide torque (rotational force applied to the pedals) when you’re pedaling. The two types of eBike sensors (torque sensor and speed sensor) respond to your cycling to provide ride assistance.
Electric displays add a splash of intelligence to your handlebars, tracking a range of performance indicators. Finally, the battery is a rechargeable element of the bike that can be located in a few different places.
Essentially, eBikes use a motor to assist each pedal stroke, boosting the power generated by your own movements. This lowers the amount of effort riders need to apply to pick up speed and move along.
Sensors recognize when the pedals are turned, and the motor responds by producing the right level of power to help you along – especially useful when going uphill!
Given the smoother, easier ride that this mechanism can create, it’s no surprise that many people have transitioned from regular bicycles to eBikes. After all, there are tons of great electric bikes available for under $500.
But are these models really worth investing in? Let’s take a deeper look into the benefits of owning an eBike.
What Are The Benefits Of Having An eBike?
Before we hone in on the Aventon Pace 500.2, it’s worth taking you through some of the main benefits of owning an eBike.
You might think that getting an electric bicycle will remove the need for you to do any work at all, but you’d be wrong.
That being said, there are still plenty of plus sides to having an eBike:
#1. Easier Pedalling
eBikes are fitted with a battery-powered “assist” that makes pedaling much easier. When you push the pedals, you engage the motor, which gives you a little boost that you wouldn’t get with an ordinary bicycle.
This makes climbing up hills or switching between different terrains and gradients much easier than it would be without an electric motor.
And crucially, you’re still totally in control of your speed – the bike’s sensors ensure that you’re given the right level of pedal assist.
#2. Increased Speed
The harder you pedal, the more of a boost you’ll get, and the faster you’ll ride – but only up to a certain point. Most motors are designed to stop propelling you further as soon as you hit between 20 and 28 mph.
This helps you generate speed easily, without compromising safety.
#3. More Time Riding Your Bike
According to one study, eBikes considerably increase the amount of time that users spend on their bikes.
This is simply because cycling can be tiring, but with an eBike, you’re able to easily give your legs a break and continue riding even when you feel shattered. Increased riding time means more exercise and more time spent out in the fresh air.
But beware: there are a few disadvantages of eBikes to make a quick note of:
- eBikes can be heavy – The added weight of a battery means you have to think a little more about stopping distance and safety.
- Charging can be an issue – While eBike batteries are getting better, one practical disadvantage is that they have to charge in a wall outlet, which usually takes 2-8 hours.
- Trail access can be difficult – Many non-motorized tracks prohibit eBike use, although this is something that’s might change over time.
The Aventon Pace 500.2: Bike Specifications
Frame: 6061 Single-Butted Aluminum Alloy
This frame is pretty light for an inner-city commuter bike.
Battery: Removable Internal Lithium-ion 48V, 12.8Ah(614Wh)
Mounted on the center downtube for easy access and charging, this battery can last for 40 miles of cycling on a single charge.
Motor: 48V, 500w Brushless Rear Hub Motor
This Brushless motor is highly capable when it comes to maintaining speed, climbing hills, and keeping up with traffic.
Saddle: Aventon by SelleRoyal
A comfortable saddle is crucial for any longer riders you take this bike on.
Cassette: 12-32T, 8 Speed
This gives substantial gearing options, particularly for an entry-level bike.
Brakes: Hydraulic Disc Brakes
These hydraulic disc brakes have impressive stopping power, even when you’re traveling downhill with some speed.
UI/Remote: Smart LCD Easy Read Display With Backlight
You can ride safely and confidently at any time of day or night with this clear backlight display.
What Are The Strengths Of The Aventon Pace 500.2?
The Aventon Pace 500.2 is packed with superb features designed to make your ride as smooth, comfy, and quick as possible.
Let’s explore some of the highlights.
#1. Light Frame
Helped out by a 6061 aluminum frame, the full assembly weight of this bike is around 52 lbs, which is on the lighter end of the commuter city eBike spectrum.
#2. Affordable Price
At around $1400, the Aventon Pace 500.2 is excellent value considering the large range of features it has.
eBikes aren’t cheap, but you’re getting plenty of bang for your buck with this one.
#3. Strong Charge
Not only does the battery of this eBike last for 40 miles on a single charge, but it’s also super easy to charge, thanks to the placement of the battery.
The Aventon Pace 500.2 has a premium level 3 amp charger that you don’t often see at this price point.
#4. Quality Brakes
This model has hydraulic disc brakes with 180 mm rotors, which provide impressive stopping power, even when riding downhill at high speeds.
They’re also highly responsive and easy to maintain.
#5. Excellent Entry-Level Commuter eBike
Given its excellent handling, substantial gearing options, and speed (plus all the added features mentioned above), we think this is an excellent entry-level commuter eBike.
What Are The Weaknesses Of The Aventon Pace 500.2?
There are certainly more strengths than weaknesses when it comes to the Aventon Pace 500.2. That being said, there are still a few things we should pick up on:
#1. Limited light support
Rider safety could be improved by a few upgrades, seeing as there is no headlight or tail light built in, and minimal reflection provided by the tires and pedals.
#2. Ride Comfort Over Bumps could be improved
As we mentioned earlier, many eBikes aren’t suited for mountain biking conditions. This Aventon model can get shaky riding over gravel, cobblestone, or other bumpy terrains.
#3. Arrives mostly unassembled
It’ll take you at least an hour or two to put this one together once it arrives.
Aventon Pace 500.2 Review Verdict
Put simply, this is a fast, effective eBike perfect for zipping around urban areas with speed and comfort.
The 28 mph max pedal-assisted speed and the throttle is impressive, and it’s pretty light for an eBike, too.
It has a stylish look to it, but it doesn’t hold back on features designed to ensure comfort, like the cushy Aventon saddle. Charging also shouldn’t be an issue, as we mentioned previously.
All in all, if you’re looking for a speedy, comfortable eBike that’s not going to break the bank, this model could be the one for you.
And if you want a cheaper option, you could always check out the previous iteration of the bike too: the Aventon Pace 500.
