Aventon Aventure 3 Review | Recapturing the Fat Tire Crown?

As with any battery-powered device, battery life is an important consideration. With e-bikes, this equates to the amount of time you can ride and the distance you can cover. The goal of our Range Test is to determine a bike’s minimum and maximum range in the real world; we used the process explained above to test the Aventure 3.

Similar bikes we’ve tested, including the best fat tire e-bikes on the market, averaged 32.1 and 60.1 miles, so the Aventure’s results lined up well with its competitors. At face value, Aventon’s range may seem relatively average—which shows it is specced appropriately—but there is one more less obvious piece to the picture to note.

The Aventure 3 uses Aventon’s almost-universal 733-watt-hour (Wh) battery, while the bikes we used for comparison had batteries that averaged a significantly larger 814 Wh. Therefore, the Aventure’s managed average results on a smaller battery with about 80 fewer watt hours—truly excellent efficiency!

To prove the Aventure’s efficiency, we can compare its Turbo mode results with an estimate based on its motor and battery specs. With a 750W motor and 733-Wh battery, we anticipated this test would last roughly 58 minutes with the bike covering about 17 miles. Its real-world results yielded an additional hour of ride time and 18 miles of range.

The bike’s Eco mode test was likely helped out by the relatively low power output I mentioned in the Speed Test section above. Riders increasing the power level of Eco mode (again, as I would likely do) should expect to get fewer miles. Additionally, we did our testing in Class 2 mode, so riders increasing the maximum speed should also expect less range.

Regardless, the Aventure 3’s results were impressive! The bike proved capable of long-distance rides, whether that means commuting to work during the week or exploring rail trails on the weekends.

Aventon advertises up to 65 miles with the Aventure 3. We were pleased with its test results, and consider our distances close enough to consider the advertised range accurate. Additionally, I was also happy to note that the bike ships with a 4-amp fast charger that should be able to recharge the battery in about 5 hours.

Fat tire e-bikes are typically some of the best at providing enough power to handle steep hills, but we tested the Aventure 3 to ensure this was still the case. As with the Range Test section above, the methods used for our test and the Aventure’s results are shown in the graphic above.

In both cases, the Aventure 3’s results were slightly above average, though within the margin of error. The pool of similar fat tire e-bikes we’ve tested averaged 1:22 in the throttle test and 1:13 when pedaling, so the Aventure’s times were 5 and 4 seconds above average, respectively.

These results make sense when considering the Aventure’s motor output and weight. Its peak of 1188W is slightly above the current category average of 1136W, while its maximum of 80 Newton meters (Nm) of torque is somewhat below the average of 87 Nm. Its motor proved effective, especially when combined with the bike’s relatively average weight of 77 lbs (technically 2 lbs below average).

Like the other new Aventon models we’ve tested, the Aventure 3 uses a 36V motor and battery, which is relatively unusual when compared with most other fat tire bikes on the market. This switch from the more common 48V systems caused a stir, as at least on paper, it makes Aventon’s e-bikes appear less powerful in comparison.

Speaking specifically about peak watts, a motor’s power is a function of both its electrical system’s voltage and its controller’s amperage. A 36V system can reach the same peak as a 48V system when combined with a higher-amp controller, but increased heat and faster degradation are legitimate concerns.

Our contact at Aventon advised us that the development team implemented changes to mitigate these concerns, including thicker wiring and a finned cover for the controller, but we still saw our Hill Test with the Aventure 3 as the true test of whether or not a 36V system could match a 48V system. As they say, the proof is in the pudding.

With results of 1:19 and 1:13 in its throttle and pedal tests, respectively, the previous model of the Aventure was two seconds slower than this bike in its throttle test and four seconds slower in its pedal test. Its motor peaked a little lower at 1130W, but with results so close, we think it’s fair to say that Aventon’s development team did their homework and their changes were successful.

Clearly, the Aventure 3 is plenty able to handle hills of both the common and relatively extreme varieties (like Hell Hole Trail). It’s powerful enough to carry you on its own if you prefer to let the motor do all the work. If you choose to pedal actively, the bike’s highest power level should allow most riders to get to the top of most hills without much exertion.

The Aventure 3 is equipped with a familiar brake system that has appeared on many e-bikes we’ve reviewed previously: the e-bike-specific Tektro HD-E3520 hydraulic disc system. We tested its performance using the method explained above. The bike’s results were 21’6”, which is 13 inches shorter than the current fat tire category average of 22’7”.

Weight, tires, and brake specs are three major factors influencing our test results. The Aventure’s Tektro E3520 hydraulic disc brake system is extremely common on e-bikes of all styles. The bike’s 26-by-4-inch knobby tires and weight of roughly 77 lbs are relatively standard for the fat tire category, so no obvious reason stood out as to why it did so well.

In my personal testing, the brakes felt good without being too aggressive or sluggish. I’d describe their forcefulness as approachable. As our test showed, they get the job done safely and effectively, and I think their characteristics will be suitable for riders who haven’t been on a bike in a while.

All in all, the Aventure gave us solid performance, so it earns our stamp of approval.

Ride Quality is a summary of what a bike feels like to ride; it includes a myriad of elements from sizing and riding position to overall handling, motor engagement, and the user interface. The Aventure 3, like nearly all Aventon models at the time of writing, also includes less common elements such as the brand’s app and the ACU module’s features.

Starting with sizing, the Aventure 3 is available in two frame sizes with either a high-step (HS) or step-thru (ST) frame style. The HS model focused on in this review accommodates riders from 5’3” to 6’4”, with a split between the Regular and Large frame sizes at 5’10”. The Regular ST model fits riders from 4’11” to 5’7”, while the Large is suitable for those between 5’7” and 6’1”.

In contrast with many other fat tire e-bikes we’ve reviewed, the Aventure’s riding position is considerably upright, encouraging comfort and a strain-free experience. In my experience, it felt sporty yet relaxed, and in combination with the bike’s suspension fork and suspension seatpost, it made an hour-plus ride enjoyable and smooth.

The bike’s tires add an additional layer of comfort, particularly when riding with low air pressure. Their knobby tread gives the bike a level of versatility that largely defines the fat tire category; like most bikes of its kind, the Aventure is appropriate for on-road travel and off-road adventuring.

As part of my testing process, I rode the Aventure on gravel roads, rocky dirt roads, and dirt paths in the nearby desert. I appreciated the bike’s power, traction, and suspension, as it kept the ride comfortable while allowing me to speed over these loose and rough types of terrain; it’s well-suited for riding fire roads, multi-use trails, etc.

I found the Aventure’s handling to be surprisingly agile for a fat tire e-bike; bikes in this category are typically heavy and somewhat sluggish. The Aventure is not a light e-bike by any stretch, but it felt more lively and nimble than most similar models I’ve tested.

The bike’s motor engagement is highly responsive. When testing the bike, I noticed that it delivered power smoothly and adapted its power output almost immediately when I changed the amount of pressure I applied to the pedals. Aventon’s e-bikes have proven some of the best at combining hub motors with torque sensors; the Aventure seemed to only continue this trend.

The Aventure 3 comes equipped for commuting with integrated lights, fenders, and a cargo rack, but there are many smaller and less obvious features I appreciated. Many of the brand’s newer models eschewed tail lights that function as brake lights, but I was pleased to see this feature included, along with the bike’s turn signals and crisp color display.

A few of the bike’s main security features, such as a passcode, the rear wheel lock, and the ejection of the integrated battery, are accessible through the display’s settings menu. It’s entirely possible to make do with these features alone, and even these limited options would make the Aventure a great purchase, but the Aventon app opens up even more.

The bike’s ACU module connects to 4G networks, enabling many of the more advanced features in the Aventon app once a subscription is activated. The first year is free, but subsequent years will require a $20 annual fee or a $2/month subscription.

In addition to the location monitoring, remote disabling, and geofencing features mentioned previously, users can set up a motion detection system that can notify the owner’s phone when jostled and engage an audible (though fairly quiet) alarm when moved.

Additionally, the Aventon app grants access to the Ride Tune feature, which allows users to customize the motor’s power and the torque sensor’s sensitivity for each of its three PAS settings. I found this system of three sliders (accompanied by a helpful diagram) easy to use and intuitive.

The bike’s geofencing feature is relatively unique and ideal for situations where a bike is shared between family members, including teenagers. Once boundaries are established via GPS, the pedal assist system will deactivate (and an optional alarm can sound) if the bike exits an allowed area or enters a prohibited zone.

The app can also be used to track ride data, sync with Strava and Apple Health, interact with a community of other Aventon e-bike owners, and adjust minor settings such as the display’s brightness or the length of time it will remain on when parked.

All-in-all, these elements combined to grant the Aventure 3 an uncommonly high level of ride quality. In my experience, the bike felt sturdy, comfortable, and powerful while remaining controlled and approachable. The ACU and Aventon app added a layer of connectivity that felt high-tech and useful—especially in areas where theft may be a concern.

Considering the Aventure.2’s status as one of our most highly recommended e-bikes, we had extremely high hopes for the Aventure 3. I’m happy to say that it met our expectations.

Based on my previous experiences reviewing Aventon’s other newly-redesigned and updated models, which have each differed significantly from their previous versions, I wasn’t sure if I should expect a completely different ride from the Aventure or a series of noticeable but relatively minor improvements.

The end result was something between those two extremes. Aventon didn’t reinvent the wheel with the Aventure 3, but instead, the brand added to and improved what was already a great bike.

The biggest upgrade was, of course, the ACU module and the advanced security features that come along with it. We’ve seen many similar features on a handful of other e-bikes, but in most of those cases, the other bikes were priced well above what the Aventure costs—sometimes two to three times as much or more.

As shown in the sections above, the Aventure 3 scored well in all areas of our testing. It proved to have intuitive programming with a good distribution of power and an efficient motor and battery, resulting in great range. It also demonstrated appropriate stopping power with its hydraulic brake system and solid climbing ability, thanks to its powerful and responsive motor.

The bar is generally high for most e-bikes these days, so while the Aventure’s performance on paper may appear relatively average when compared to its peers, it’s important to recognize average as great. We’re extremely pleased with where the bike landed in comparison to similar models, though its competition is fierce.

No bike is perfect, but we struggled to find a downside of the Aventure worth pointing out. I’m sure I could find a few things to tweak with more time in the saddle, but I suspect that those would largely come down to personal preference. If I had to be nitpicky, I wouldn’t mind a louder alarm system, but otherwise, I think Aventon nailed the Aventure 3.

If you identify any other areas with room for improvement, we’d love to hear your thoughts down in the comments section below this review. As it is, however, I’m happy to recommend the Aventure 3 for young or aging riders alike.

We consider the Aventure a great e-bike for aging riders who want a stable ride and enough power to handle hills. It would also be a comfortable and capable e-bike for commuting while offering the versatility for those looking to go adventuring—or should I say, Aventuring—in their off time.

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Aventon Aventure 3 down in our comments section.