Aventon Soltera 2.5 Review | Precise Handling; Lightweight Feel

The battery life on the Soltera 2.5 proved to be excellent. In our Max Power Range Test, we managed to cover 29.26 miles, and in our Min Power Range Test, using only Eco assist, we hit an impressive 55 miles. Aventon advertises a range of “up to 46 miles,” so while our results exceeded expectations, it’s worth noting that your mileage may vary based on factors like terrain, rider weight, and riding habits.

City bikes are typically known for their efficiency, but the Soltera 2.5 stands out as better than most. As shown in the scatter plot above, most of the city bikes we’ve tested with similar 350W motors and 350Wh batteries fall into the 23–43 mile range. The Soltera 2.5 outperformed this average, solidifying its place as a top performer in its category.

On a personal note, I found the Soltera 2.5 particularly comfortable for longer rides—a rarity for me on city bikes. If the riding position is too forward, my back tends to tire out (I’m 6’1”, with a longer torso). However, the shorter top tube and the rise in the handlebars kept me in a more upright, relaxed position, making longer trips far more enjoyable.

In our Hill Test, the Soltera 2.5 proved capable of handling steep climbs, provided you’re willing to put in some effort.

The bike wasn’t able to conquer the hill on throttle power alone—but don’t hold that against it. We’ve yet to see a city bike with a 250–500W hub motor achieve that feat. With some pedal effort, our tester managed to make it up the hill, though the time was on the slower side of average.

Overall, I’d call the Soltera 2.5 a solid climber for what it is. If you’re an active rider looking for a bike that gives you a slight boost, this might be right up your alley. That said, it’s not going to be the ideal bike for everyone. If you live in a particularly hilly area and want something that makes climbing significantly easier, you might want to consider options like the Aventon Level 2, or even the Pace 500.3 instead.

However, if your goal is to take the edge off your rides—lessen the sting of hills and avoid huffing and puffing too much—the Soltera 2.5 does that really well. The bike’s overarching theme is meaningful assistance that complements an active riding experience. Or, in other words, it’s a bike designed to be pedaled.

After testing the brakes, the Soltera 2.5 delivered a solid average braking distance of 22’4”. For context, the average for city-style e-bikes is around 23’8”, so this result puts the Soltera ahead of the pack.

One of the standout upgrades on this model is the Tektro hydraulic brakes. They perform reliably, offering good stopping power and overall value.

In the city/urban e-bike category, it’s common to see mechanical brakes and smaller 160mm rotors due to the lighter weight of these bikes. While we don’t typically fault other brands for going that route, the inclusion of hydraulic brakes with 180mm rotors on the Soltera feels like a meaningful value add. It’s a thoughtful upgrade that enhances performance while staying true to the bike’s lightweight design.

The e-bike market is saturated with powerful options, but that often comes at the cost of added bulk, which can detract from handling. The Soltera 2.5 stands out as a refreshing alternative—it’s noticeably lighter than most e-bikes, and the handling benefits significantly.

The ride can best be described as agile. The narrow handlebars and 700x38c tires give the bike a precise feel, perfect for darting into alleys or taking corners at speed. The handlebars also feature a slight rise and a mild sweep, keeping your posture more upright and less strenuous. Purists might prefer a flat road bar, but I found this design fitting for a bike intended to appeal to a broader audience.

Aventon continues to impress with its sleek aesthetics. The clean frame lines, neatly managed cables, integrated taillights, and vibrant color display enhance both the look and functionality of the bike.

With three frame sizes available, most riders should find a proper fit. However, unlike previous iterations, the 2.5 doesn’t come in a mid-step frame, which might limit accessibility for shorter riders due to the 29” minimum standover height. Taller riders, on the other hand, will likely feel right at home. At 6’1”, I felt comfortable on the large test bike, and the shorter top tube, while unexpected, didn’t feel cramped—a pleasant surprise.

The Shimano Tourney derailleur is a standard entry-level choice, but the Revoshift shifter really stood out. Its satisfying click and ergonomic design allow you to shift gears while keeping your fingers securely wrapped around the grips.

Aventon ships the Soltera 2.5 at a highly competitive price point, but to fully maximize its commuter potential, you might want to consider adding some accessories. Fenders, racks, and a suspension seatpost are available at checkout, which will enable you to get even more out of your ride.

While it’s not a necessity to use on each ride, Aventon also includes an app that’s one of the nicer ones on the market. You can adjust speed, socialize with other Aventon owners, schedule maintenance, and push yourself by unlocking gamified medals as the app counts up your rides.

As its name suggests, the Aventon Soltera 2.5 isn’t a completely new model but rather an updated version with a handful of enhanced features.

The main updates focus on the frame, brakes, and tires.

While the frame retains its familiar geometry, it’s now more reinforced, made from double-butted aluminum alloy instead of single-butted. Additionally, Aventon has introduced new cable routing through the headset, replacing the previous design where cables ran near the downtube and headtube junction on the 2.0. The result is a cleaner, more polished appearance.

The brakes have been upgraded from mechanical to hydraulic, offering improved stopping power. However, this change also comes with trade-offs. The new brake system no longer includes motor cutoff functionality, meaning the integrated taillights no longer double as brake lights. While I missed that feature, there is a silver lining—tapping the brake lever no longer disrupts your momentum, which anyone who’s accidentally braked mid-climb can appreciate.

The tires are still 700x38c in size, but the updated Kenda model features a road-style tread designed for faster rolling performance. On the road, the tires feel grippy and secure, delivering reliable traction despite their narrower profile.

A value-driven lightweight e-bike needs to excel when it comes to on-road performance, and the Soltera 2.5 delivers on this front.

The motor provides smooth and natural engagement, empowering you to do more without feeling overpowered. It strikes the perfect balance, making your ride feel both capable and enjoyable.

The handling is another standout feature. It’s nimble and precise, as you’d expect from a city bike, but it’s also more forgiving and comfortable than most when it comes to body posture. The shorter top tube and the rise in the handlebar reduce strain on the rider, especially over longer distances. Combined with the impressive battery efficiency the Soltera demonstrated, this is a bike built for extended rides.

For anyone in search of an e-bike that’s easy to carry up a few flights of stairs and won’t break the bank, the Soltera 2.5 is an excellent choice. It has plenty to satisfy first-time city riders while offering seasoned cyclists the enhanced capabilities and enjoyable rides they’ll appreciate.

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 Soltera 2.5 down in our comments section.