Looking for some advice for first bike on brand/model comparisons.

[CryptKeeper]

So I’m in the market for a new e-bike I’ve been doing research daily, reading forums left and right, watching videos (mostly paid ads so I don’t trust them) and reading articles. Still need some help though as real world experience gives the best opinions.

I’ve been looking at Aventon, Velotric, Ride1up for the most part. The models are the Aventon level 3, aventure 2, Velotric discover 2, breeze, Ride1up Vorsa mainly. I’ve looked at many others I like but kinda narrowed it down to these but each day I end up finding something that peaks my interest still.

I’ll be doing some light riding either short and long mostly on roads and paved bike paths, POSSIBLY some light trails by me like fire roads, and some easy riding with my 5 year old on his bike or as a passenger if I got something like the Vorsa. When I’m alone doing long rides I do like speed, I’m used to riding my 200 2 stroke street legal dirt bike to the trails near me on the road so the Vorsa is another perk having off road mode that does 28+ throttle only. Having a throttle is also a must bc like I said I like to just cruise around sometimes and exercise/pedaling all the time isn’t necessary for me and why I’ve ruled out the big bike brands for the most part unless they have a throttle which I think none of them do.

My LBS services all 3 of these and sells Aventon and Velotric. So no worries on service there. They also service many other DTC brands you’ve probably heard of.

My biggest selling point would be a quality ride that feels like it’s quality as well. I don’t want something that just doesn’t feel right or feels flimsy and cheap. I think Aventon might win that race but I’m not crazy about the 500w motor on them except the aventure 2 but I know the 3 is coming out in a few months but I’m impatient and don’t want to wait for that plus may be after summer and tariffs could nearly double the price, who knows. I also am not crazy about the fat tires adding all that weight since I’ll mostly be on paved surfaces, I haven’t researched yet if I can put smaller tires on it, if so that could be a big pro for me.

Anyways I could ramble all day just wondering peoples experiences with these bikes especially if they have ridden these specific models and can compare them from experience. Thanks in advance!

 

[Annieolnie]

These all seem like good choices. I have a Velotric cargo bike and it is the one I go to the most often, but I wish it had the ability to switch to a torque sensor on demand. It seems like you need to go and demo some of those that are available nearby. Also, if you are buying direct to consumer, make sure you check for coupons. I know there are some around for April. Let us know what you decide.

 

[CryptKeeper]

These all seem like good choices. I have a Velotric cargo bike and it is the one I go to the most often, but I wish it had the ability to switch to a torque sensor on demand. It seems like you need to go and demo some of those that are available nearby. Also, if you are buying direct to consumer, make sure you check for coupons. I know there are some around for April. Let us know what you decide.

Thank you! And I know there’s a 10% affiliate discount link going around.

 

[CryptKeeper]

These all seem like good choices. I have a Velotric cargo bike and it is the one I go to the most often, but I wish it had the ability to switch to a torque sensor on demand. It seems like you need to go and demo some of those that are available nearby. Also, if you are buying direct to consumer, make sure you check for coupons. I know there are some around for April. Let us know what you decide.

I do like the Velotric but I see so many conflicting reviews to go with something like a Santa Monica or Aventon etc. so hard to choose. My LBS has an Aventon level 3 and some Velotrics but not the breeze or discover 2 right now. Hopefully they get them in soon. Ride1ups are no where around me and the Vorsa matches what I want exactly but it has cheap components so I’ve been told.

 

[HumanPerson]

Upway might have something?

https://upway.co/collections/under-1500-electric-bike?msclkid=cb777d642b2013ce5e13156faf7c4b3d

 

[HumanPerson]

Welcome to our little shed in the garden of life

 

[CryptKeeper]

Upway might have something?

https://upway.co/collections/under-1500-electric-bike?msclkid=cb777d642b2013ce5e13156faf7c4b3d

Yea true I’ve seen lots on there for my budget but all the quality brand bikes like trek, specialized etc have mid drive without a throttle. I’ve been finding brands I never heard of that have Bafang motors (mid and hub with throttles) and good components. I guess that’s all that matters the frame isn’t too big a deal. Only thing is idk much about bikes so what I think are good components may not be. I just see shimano or similar and think it’s good lol

 

[HumanPerson]

Yea true I’ve seen lots on there for my budget but all the quality brand bikes like trek, specialized etc have mid drive without a throttle. I’ve been finding brands I never heard of that have Bafang motors (mid and hub with throttles) and good components. I guess that’s all that matters the frame isn’t too big a deal. Only thing is idk much about bikes so what I think are good components may not be. I just see shimano or similar and think it’s good lol

It is nice to ride before you buy

 

[Smaug]

So I’m in the market for a new e-bike I’ve been doing research daily, reading forums left and right, watching videos (mostly paid ads so I don’t trust them) and reading articles. Still need some help though as real world experience gives the best opinions.

Ah yes, Analysis Paralysis.

I’ve been looking at Aventon, Velotric, Ride1up for the most part. The models are the Aventon level 3, aventure 2, Velotric discover 2, breeze, Ride1up Vorsa mainly. I’ve looked at many others I like but kinda narrowed it down to these but each day I end up finding something that peaks my interest still.

I’ll be doing some light riding either short and long mostly on roads and paved bike paths, POSSIBLY some light trails by me like fire roads, and some easy riding with my 5 year old on his bike or as a passenger if I got something like the Vorsa. When I’m alone doing long rides I do like speed, I’m used to riding my 200 2 stroke street legal dirt bike to the trails near me on the road so the Vorsa is another perk having off road mode that does 28+ throttle only. Having a throttle is also a must bc like I said I like to just cruise around sometimes and exercise/pedaling all the time isn’t necessary for me and why I’ve ruled out the big bike brands for the most part unless they have a throttle which I think none of them do.

My LBS services all 3 of these and sells Aventon and Velotric. So no worries on service there. They also service many other DTC brands you’ve probably heard of.

My biggest selling point would be a quality ride that feels like it’s quality as well. I don’t want something that just doesn’t feel right or feels flimsy and cheap. I think Aventon might win that race but I’m not crazy about the 500w motor on them except the aventure 2 but I know the 3 is coming out in a few months but I’m impatient and don’t want to wait for that plus may be after summer and tariffs could nearly double the price, who knows. I also am not crazy about the fat tires adding all that weight since I’ll mostly be on paved surfaces, I haven’t researched yet if I can put smaller tires on it, if so that could be a big pro for me.

Anyways I could ramble all day just wondering peoples experiences with these bikes especially if they have ridden these specific models and can compare them from experience. Thanks in advance!

Since most of your riding will be on pavement, you should eliminate the ones with big, heavy tires: Aventure 2 and Vorsa are out. The 2.5" tires on the Level.3 will handle your occasional offroad needs. The heavy tires just make it so more power is NEEDED, and more battery too, and they get heavier and heavier just for the same level of performance. Just avoid muddy stuff and you'll be fine. I have no experience with Velotric, but if your LBS carries them and says they're good, they may be worth considering.

I have had Ride1UP, they're good and their after sale support is good too, but the bike quality is not quite at Aventon's level, in my experience. User interface especially is pretty amateur on Ride1UP compared to Aventon's.

Since your local shop carries Aventon, that's the way I'd go. Don't worry that it "only" has a 500 W motor; it's plenty strong, and it will be lighter and less power hungry, which leads to a more balanced bike.

I've got 2,000 trouble-free miles on my Level.2. I enjoy the fact that it's pedalable unpowered, thanks to its relatively lighter, smoother tires. If I were to do it again, I might even go with the lighter Soltera and add the rack & fenders myself.

One other thing I would consider if I were buying this style of bike again would be to get one with belt drive and Pinion gearbox. I have a belt drive gravel bike and it is awesome, not having to do chain maintenance on it. The penalty there is cost and also efficiency, the Pinion gearbox and internal gearhubs that are options with belt drive come with a 5-10% pedaling efficiency loss in exchange for the lower maintenance. This makes it less pedalable and cuts into the battery range a bit.

Ride1UP makes a belt drive eBike and Lectric does too.

 

[Annieolnie]

What I like about Ride1up is there controllers, they have all manner of adjustments on them, but the Vorsa is so new, I would let them have a few months to work out any kinks. One of my neighbors has an Aima, Santa Monica. It is one of the prettiest bikes I have ever seen. Also, just to make Smaug drool, Upway has an Lectric1 for $1699.00 and there is a $150.00 of coupon around. I wish I could buy it, choices, choices, choices, not really a bad thing. Let us know where you go with it.

 

[any name you wish]

So I’m in the market for a new e-bike I’ve been doing research daily, reading forums left and right, watching videos (mostly paid ads so I don’t trust them) and reading articles. Still need some help though as real world experience gives the best opinions.

I’ve been looking at Aventon, Velotric, Ride1up for the most part. The models are the Aventon level 3, aventure 2, Velotric discover 2, breeze, Ride1up Vorsa mainly. I’ve looked at many others I like but kinda narrowed it down to these but each day I end up finding something that peaks my interest still.

I’ll be doing some light riding either short and long mostly on roads and paved bike paths, POSSIBLY some light trails by me like fire roads, and some easy riding with my 5 year old on his bike or as a passenger if I got something like the Vorsa. When I’m alone doing long rides I do like speed, I’m used to riding my 200 2 stroke street legal dirt bike to the trails near me on the road so the Vorsa is another perk having off road mode that does 28+ throttle only. Having a throttle is also a must bc like I said I like to just cruise around sometimes and exercise/pedaling all the time isn’t necessary for me and why I’ve ruled out the big bike brands for the most part unless they have a throttle which I think none of them do.

My LBS services all 3 of these and sells Aventon and Velotric. So no worries on service there. They also service many other DTC brands you’ve probably heard of.

My biggest selling point would be a quality ride that feels like it’s quality as well. I don’t want something that just doesn’t feel right or feels flimsy and cheap. I think Aventon might win that race but I’m not crazy about the 500w motor on them except the aventure 2 but I know the 3 is coming out in a few months but I’m impatient and don’t want to wait for that plus may be after summer and tariffs could nearly double the price, who knows. I also am not crazy about the fat tires adding all that weight since I’ll mostly be on paved surfaces, I haven’t researched yet if I can put smaller tires on it, if so that could be a big pro for me.

Anyways I could ramble all day just wondering peoples experiences with these bikes especially if they have ridden these specific models and can compare them from experience. Thanks in advance!

Welcome to tje forum. I do have the velotric D2 and I am loving it. It is a good bike with some decent features, i would recommend it. Since your LBS sells ebikes i recommend going there and try a few to see which ones you like.

 

[CryptKeeper]

Welcome to tje forum. I do have the velotric D2 and I am loving it. It is a good bike with some decent features, i would recommend it. Since your LBS sells ebikes i recommend going there and try a few to see which ones you like.

Unfortunately they only have the aventons. I tested a level 3 today and really liked it. I’m actually leaning towards a Ride1up Vorsa though. It seems like the same bike but has some better features and components minus the security features although it has its own type of security features.

 

[CryptKeeper]

Upway might have something?

https://upway.co/collections/under-1500-electric-bike?msclkid=cb777d642b2013ce5e13156faf7c4b3d

I searched that site for countless sleepless nights haha

 

[CryptKeeper]

Ah yes, Analysis Paralysis.



Since most of your riding will be on pavement, you should eliminate the ones with big, heavy tires: Aventure 2 and Vorsa are out. The 2.5" tires on the Level.3 will handle your occasional offroad needs. The heavy tires just make it so more power is NEEDED, and more battery too, and they get heavier and heavier just for the same level of performance. Just avoid muddy stuff and you'll be fine. I have no experience with Velotric, but if your LBS carries them and says they're good, they may be worth considering.

I have had Ride1UP, they're good and their after sale support is good too, but the bike quality is not quite at Aventon's level, in my experience. User interface especially is pretty amateur on Ride1UP compared to Aventon's.

Since your local shop carries Aventon, that's the way I'd go. Don't worry that it "only" has a 500 W motor; it's plenty strong, and it will be lighter and less power hungry, which leads to a more balanced bike.

I've got 2,000 trouble-free miles on my Level.2. I enjoy the fact that it's pedalable unpowered, thanks to its relatively lighter, smoother tires. If I were to do it again, I might even go with the lighter Soltera and add the rack & fenders myself.

One other thing I would consider if I were buying this style of bike again would be to get one with belt drive and Pinion gearbox. I have a belt drive gravel bike and it is awesome, not having to do chain maintenance on it. The penalty there is cost and also efficiency, the Pinion gearbox and internal gearhubs that are options with belt drive come with a 5-10% pedaling efficiency loss in exchange for the lower maintenance. This makes it less pedalable and cuts into the battery range a bit.

Ride1UP makes a belt drive eBike and Lectric does too.

Thanks for the help. The Vorsa only has 2.6” tires though they’re not fatties.

I looked at the belt drive bikes mostly on mid drives but they don’t have throttles. (Some do but mostly brands I never heard of looking at bafang product list and all the e-bikes they’re on but some seemed like cheap Chinese bikes like vitilan that can be bought on Amazon/walmart) I’ll checkout the ones you mentioned though.

The main selling point of the vorsa to me is it can throttle up to top speed, still has a connected display (although not as nice as aventon) and it has much more PAS modes where the level 3 only has 3, both are customizable though I believe. And as far as I can tell the components are all equal or better than the level 3 so really just comes down to the frame and the extra 3 pounds on the vorsa which would actually be lighter if I didn’t have the fenders or rear rack.

I’m not 100% sold on it just yet but I’m really leaning towards it. The only factor holding me back is I won’t be able to test ride it, the only bikes I can test are Aventons here. At least my lbs can service them though.

 

[CryptKeeper]

What I like about Ride1up is there controllers, they have all manner of adjustments on them, but the Vorsa is so new, I would let them have a few months to work out any kinks. One of my neighbors has an Aima, Santa Monica. It is one of the prettiest bikes I have ever seen. Also, just to make Smaug drool, Upway has an Lectric1 for $1699.00 and there is a $150.00 of coupon around. I wish I could buy it, choices, choices, choices, not really a bad thing. Let us know where you go with it.

I did look at the Santa Monica’s and was intrigued from their reviews and how it compared against the discover 2. I really like them except for the step through frame. I like the step overs better. But it’s a beautiful bike! Now my heads spinning haha on the website it said $2400 just about but a dealer about 1.5 hours from me has them for 1895. I’ll have to at least consider this one. I wish it didn’t have the brown on it but I can live with it too.

 

[CryptKeeper]

What I like about Ride1up is there controllers, they have all manner of adjustments on them, but the Vorsa is so new, I would let them have a few months to work out any kinks. One of my neighbors has an Aima, Santa Monica. It is one of the prettiest bikes I have ever seen. Also, just to make Smaug drool, Upway has an Lectric1 for $1699.00 and there is a $150.00 of coupon around. I wish I could buy it, choices, choices, choices, not really a bad thing. Let us know where you go with it.

Did you ride the sant Monica? I heard it’s one of the smoothest riding bikes out there.

 

[Annieolnie]

Ride1up controllers have a wattage based controller which you can tweak for how many amps you want in each pas level. Speed based controllers, the motor will drop out on you when you reach its designated speed. I wish all my bike's had Ride1up controllers. It's not as crucial with a torque sensor option, but it is still a better all around design. Ebike Escape reviewed the Vorsa on YouTube. If you are taller, how it fits that reviewer might give you a better sense of its geometry. It looks like a very nice bike.

Did you ride the sant Monica? I heard it’s one of the smoothest riding bikes out there.

No, I just see my neighbor at the market occasionally. He's besotted with his. I think the brown is just in accents, such as the grips, which are very easy to change out.

 

[CryptKeeper]

Ride1up controllers have a wattage based controller which you can tweak for how many amps you want in each pas level. Speed based controllers, the motor will drop out on you when you reach its designated speed. I wish all my bike's had Ride1up controllers. It's not as crucial with a torque sensor option, but it is still a better all around design. Ebike Escape reviewed the Vorsa on YouTube. If you are taller, how it fits that reviewer might give you a better sense of its geometry. It looks like a very nice bike.

No, I just see my neighbor at the market occasionally. He's besotted with his. I think the brown is just in accents, such as the grips, which are very easy to change out.

Yeah it’s the seat, tire sidewalls, and grips only. The bike store I found only has the light blue I like the white tbh and the black. Ugh too many options!

And yeah that sounds like a really cool feature. I think though the vorsa has a percentage base now for the vorsa I could’ve sworn I saw on a review. I have to watch some on the SM now though lol

 

[Annieolnie]

I think the Santa Monica might be coming out with a bigger battery, although with current shipping issues, it's hard to say when.

 

[neutron]

I have the KBO Breeze and it's been great. I ride almost exclusively on paved trails and roads so no fat tires for me. Like you, I have to have a throttle for several reasons but mainly I view the throttle as a safety feature. A throttle makes the bike easier to maneuver it tight quarters and helps with quick starts at traffic signals and crossings where cars are waiting for you to cross. The 500W/750W peak motor is plenty powerful enough. The 16ah battery gives it enough juice to ride 50+ miles with minimal effort on your part. I've only needed customer service a couple of times and they responded nicely so no complaints there. I replaced the display last week and that gave me a color screen, battery percentage left, clock, 9 pedal assist modes and a higher top speed. I don't need the higher top speed but it's nice to know it's there if I need it.