Aventon vs. REI Co-op Ebikes: Comparing Features, Cost, & Versatility
September 19, 2024
REI is one of the biggest names in outdoor sports and gear, known for its creative design and community-centric approach to products. But does the company make great electric bikes (ebikes)? With several models for sale, we wanted to put them to the test in this head-to-head Aventon vs REI Co-op ebikes matchup.
So which bike brand comes out on top? Aventon delivers better technology with app connectivity and upgraded displays. Plus, the Aventon bikes in this matchup have more powerful motors and added features, like a throttle and turn signals, that are simply missing on REI Co-op bikes.
We know you have to do a lot of research to find the best electric bikes. So in this article, we’ve done the work for. We’ll pit Aventon vs REI Co-op ebikes head-to-head including overviews of:
KEY DIFFERENTIATORS
AVENTON | REI CO-OP | |
Motor Power | Aventon ebikes have motors ranging from 250 watts to 750 watts of sustained power | The REI Co-op bikes on this list only have 250-watt motors |
Pricing | Aventon bikes fit all budgets—ranging from $1,199 to $2,899 MSRP | The prices of the REI Co-op bikes on this list range from $1,299 to $5,799 MSRP. Out of the four comparisons below, three of the REI bikes are more expensive than the similar Aventon model |
Lighting and Turn Signals | Most Aventon ebikes have integrated turn signals and front and rear lights | None of the REI Co-op bikes on this list have turn signals and some only come with a front light |
Throttle | All Aventon ebikes (except the Ramblas) come with on-demand throttles that can be removed or unplugged to access additional trails | None of the REI Co-op bikes on this list have throttles |
Warranty | Two-year warranty | One-year warranty |
Technology | Aventon has a proprietary app that connects you with the community and your riding stats. All displays also come with a USB charging port | REI doesn’t have an ebike app, and none of the bikes on this list have displays with USB ports |
Batteries | Aventon batteries use high-quality LG and Samsung cells | REI doesn’t specify the composition of their batteries |
1. AVENTON LEVEL.2 VS CTY E2.2
If you’re looking for a commuter ebike, the Aventon Level.2 beats out the REI Co-op CTY e2.2 because of its affordability, more powerful motor, and improved features. With a price tag of $1,899 MSRP, the Level.2 is 36% more affordable than the CTY e2.2, which costs $2,959 MSRP. For that savings of $1,060, you also get a motor with higher wattage and more versatility.
The CTY e2.2 has a Bosch Performance Line smart system motor that only delivers 250 watts of sustained power and 600 watts of peak force. Compare that to the Level.2’s 500-watt sustained motor that can offer up to 750 watts of maximum power when you need it. With the Level.2’s added oomph, you can climb hills more easily and get going from a dead stop faster.
The CTY e2.2 is also a class 3 ebike with top speeds of 28 miles per hour (mph). That can be limiting if you want to ride on trails where ebike velocity is restricted. On the other hand, the Level.2 ships as a class 2 ebike with max speeds of 20 mph, but you have the option to unlock it in the Aventon app to make it a class 3 ebike. This gives you versatility and lets you decide how you want to use your ebike, opening access to more trails and adventures.
Some riders didn’t like that the CTY e2.2 doesn’t have a throttle or a USB port to charge your phone (the Level.2 has both features). Others felt the CTY e2.2 wasn’t worth the asking price and that other bikes have better specs.
The Aventon Level.2 is a commuter ebike that features:
Two frame styles (step-through and step-over) and three stylish colors to choose from including Clay, Glacier, and Polar. The CTY e2.2 only comes as a step-over bike and in one color.
Built-in fenders that reduce road spray and prevent the freshman strip when riding after or in light rain.
A front suspension fork with up to 65mm of travel that translates rough, bumpy surfaces into a smooth, even ride.
Hydraulic disc brakes that give you the power to stop quickly and a Shimano 8-speed drivetrain to smoothly shift gears as the terrain dictates.
Five levels of pedal assist and a torque sensor so you can get fine-tuned support that matches your peddling efforts.
2. AVENTON LEVEL.2 VS CTY E3.1
The Aventon Level.2 is an even better deal when compared to the CTY E3.1. At a $5,799 MSRP, the CTY E3.1 is 205% more expensive than the Level.2. For that price, you get the same top speed of 28 mph and the same range of up to 60 miles.
The CTY E3.1 still only has a 250-watt motor, while the Level.2 offers more power, thanks to a 500-watt motor. The CTY E3.1 is a full-suspension ebike, but that means it’s less efficient on hill climbs, has higher battery consumption, and involves more maintenance.
The Aventon Level.2 city bike boasts:
A rear rack to haul lighter gear, whether it's your office bag or a small child.
A torque sensor that matches power to how hard you pedal, improving battery life and creating an intuitive ride.
Two frame styles (step-through and step-over) so you can choose one that’s easier to mount or one with a classic look—the CTY E3.1 only has a step-over frame.
Sizing that fits riders from 4’11” to 6’1” tall and customization options with adjustable handlebar stems for a bespoke fit (the CTY E3.1 only fits riders taller than 5’).
A 500-watt sustained power motor with 750 watts of peak output, compared to just 250 watts of sustained power and 600 watts max on the CTY E3.1.
3. AVENTON PACE 500.3 VS CTY E2.1
The Aventon Pace 500.3 and REI CTY e2.1 cruiser ebikes both cost $1,799 MSRP, have maximum ranges around 60 miles, and boast Shimano 8-gear derailleurs. But the Pace 500.3 comes out the winner in this head-to-head match. That’s because the Pace 500.3 offers better lighting, a stronger motor, and higher top speeds.
The Pace 500.3 has a bright front headlight and eye-catching rear lights that ensure you can see the trail and people behind you can see where you’re at. It also boasts integrated turn signals that improve visibility when you're making moves on busy city streets. The CTY e2.1 only has a front headlight.
The Pace 500.3 features a 500-watt rear hub motor, while the CTY e2.1 only has a 250-watt motor. That means you get double the power to ride faster and with less effort when you buy the Pace 500.3.
Plus, the CTY e2.1 is only a class 1 ebike, with no throttle and a top speed of 20 mph. The Pace 500.3 offers greater functionality since it ships as a class 2 ebike but can be unlocked to a class 3 ebike for max velocity of up to 28 mph. The included throttle can be unplugged and removed in case you’re riding on trails where throttles aren’t allowed.
Some riders felt that for the same price, there were better options than the CTY e2.1 and wished the bike had more torque. Other testers commented that they would prefer if the bike had a throttle.
The Aventon Pace 500.3 is a comfortable cruiser ebike that offers:
A step-through frame that makes it easy to hop on and off the bike, even when you’re wearing a dress or if you have mobility limitations and can’t raise your leg over a top bar.
A comfortable design, including a padded saddle, ergonomic handlebar grips, and swept-back handlebars for an upright riding position.
A removable battery with 614-watt-hours of power that enables you to ride up to 60 miles without having to grab your charger.
Four levels of pedal assist (Eco, Tour, Sport, and Turbo), which means you can roll around town in style and choose how much energy you want to exert.
Compatibility with accessories including bike racks, panniers, and trailers, so you can customize your new wheels to your riding style.
4. AVENTON SOLTERA.2 VS CTY E1.1
If you’re looking for a fun urban bike or road bike, the Aventon Soltera.2 is a better pick compared to the REI CTY e1.1. The Soltera.2 is not just $100 more affordable (with a price tag of $1,199 MSRP compared to $1,299 MSRP), it also has a better motor, range, and battery.
The CTY e1.1 has a Bafang 250-watt motor that delivers less power compared to the Soltera.2’s high-quality rear hub drive motor with 350 watts of output. The Soltera.2’s 9.6-amp-hour battery goes up to 46 miles on a single charge, which is 15% more than the CTY e1.1.
Plus, the Soltera.2 has an integrated battery that is protected from the elements. The e1.1 battery is exposed, meaning it’s more likely to get damaged by weather.
Some riders felt that the CTY e1.1 gearing ratio was too low, while others didn’t like the front fork design. In addition, some riders mentioned that the CTY e1.1 platform may be too limiting for riders looking to commute.
The Aventon Soltera.2 is a fun and agile road bike featuring:
A full-color LCD display and compatible Aventon app that offer insights into your riding stats and allow customization of your ebike.
A lightweight geometrically laced frame that weighs just 46 pounds.
Mechanical disc brakes that are lighter than hydraulic brakes and require less servicing.
Integrated front and rear lights that improve visibility while built-in turn signals let people around you know when you’re going places.
A torque sensor that detects how hard you’re pedaling and matches power to your output, so you get an intuitive-feeling ride and just the right amount of boost.
5. AVENTON AVENTURE.2
The Aventon Aventure.2 is an off-road cyclist's dream and deserves a highlighted mention. It’s an all-terrain ebike that features 4-inch fat tires designed to handle everything from mud and sand to gravel and rocks.
At an MSRP of $1,999, it’s packed with features you’ll find on far more expensive bikes. It has a powerful 750-watt rear hub motor and a long battery life that gives you a range of up to 60 miles. It’s versatile since it ships as a class 2 ebike but is unlockable to class 3 top speeds.
Riders say the Aventure.2 is easy to assemble, fun to ride, and offers an easy way of getting around. Others say the features are well thought out, and it has plenty of power for climbing hills.
The Aventon Aventure.2 is an off-road ebike with specs including:
A 400-pound payload capacity that makes it ideal for heavier riders and cyclists who want to carry gear.
A front suspension fork with up to 80mm of travel to smooth out even the gnarliest terrain.
Four levels of pedal assist and a throttle take you to the farthest-flung places while letting you put in as much—or as little!—effort as you want.
A built-in rear rack that improves functionality and is compatible with a range of accessories to haul kids or bags.
A torque sensor that applies force based on your pedaling power, improving battery efficiency and making it easy to ride up the steepest inclines.
6. AVENTON SINCH.2
The Aventon Sinch.2 ($1,699 MSRP) is another stand-out model. It’s perfect for cyclists who are looking for a folding ebike. Like the Aventure.2, it has 4-inch fat tires to sail through most types of terrain. The tires’ 20-inch diameter offers a small contact patch for better handling, stability, and traction
You can use the Sinch.2 as a light cargo bike thanks to the rear rack that can hold up to 55 pounds. It’s perfect for loading up a small child or hauling your checked bag to catch the next bus out of town or a flight.
Aventon Sinch.2 riders love that the bike is adjustable to fit most rider heights, is easy to customize, and is made with high-quality materials. Others loved that the bike came mostly assembled and enjoyed having simple directions for the setup.
The Aventon Sinch.2 folding ebike boasts:
A compact foldable frame that’s easy to load into your sedan or carry up a flight of stairs to keep it safe in your apartment.
A 500-watt rear hub motor that offers plenty of power for getting around, without feeling like it’s too much bike.
Four levels of pedal assist and a throttle to power your adventures and make the journey more fun.
A front suspension fork with up to 45mm of travel that smooths out your ride.
A one-size-fits-all, low step-through frame that’s easy to mount and dismount—plus two stylish colors to choose from (Quicksilver and Sapphire).
7. AVENTON RAMBLAS
Looking for an electric mountain bike (eMTB)? The Aventon Ramblas is a trail-tested ebike that’s sure to meet your needs. It boasts a mid-drive motor with 250 watts of sustained power and 750 watts of peak power. It has a 708-watt-hour battery that offers a large range of up to 80 mi
Plus, the Ramblas has tons of features to make the adventure more fun, and it’s still affordable with a $2,899 MSRP. S Maxxis Rekon tires can handle technical terrain, while the RockShox Silver front suspension fork absorbs big impacts with its up to 130mm of travel.
Ramblas riders have commented on the high-quality components and like that the Aventon app features are easy to use. Others like that it can ascend daunting hills with ease and the long battery life.
The Aventon Ramblas is a high-quality eMTB featuring:
100 Newton-meters of torque for quick acceleration and plenty of power to get up steep inclines.
Technology like over-the-air software updates so you have the latest performance, and Ride Tune, an Aventon app upgrade that lets you customize the torque, assistance, and pedal response.
A SRAM 12-speed drivetrain for smooth gearing and a fine-tuned riding experience.
A dropper seat post that you control using a lever on the handlebars so it’s easy to raise the seat for better climbing positioning or lower it for maneuverability downhill.
Three levels of pedal assist (Eco, Trail, and Turbo) to give you a boost whether you’re riding dirt trails, paved paths, or gravel tracks.
