Amflow’s PL Carbon Pro eMTB Smashes onto the Scene, Velotric Releases the Triker E-Trike, Aventon’s Update Adds Sensor Switch | TWR Ep 42

The latest release from Velotric, the Triker, incorporates the brand’s signature style and features into a three-wheeled micromobility device. Its angular frame comes in a handful of bold colors, and it is decked out with an impressive list of specs and components.

The Triker’s 750W motor is paired with a sizable 48V, 792 Wh battery. It has both torque and cadence sensors that users can switch between with the brand’s SensorSwap feature. Like many of Velotric’s other models, it also features three riding modes, a total of 15 pedal assist levels, Bluetooth connectivity with the Velotric app, and integrated Apple Find My technology.

According to the brand’s website, the Triker has a maximum speed of 20 mph, though it also features a beginner mode with just three assist levels and a restricted 8 mph top speed.

Other specs include a 7-speed drivetrain, knobby 20×3” Kenda tires, and hydraulic brakes. It also features a supportive saddle with a backrest, an adjustable stem, an 80mm suspension fork, and a folding frame.

Velotric advertises a 500-lb total payload capacity, a maximum range of up to 60 miles, and a price of $2399.

Our Take: While the Triker’s price point makes it one of the more expensive options from electric bike brands, its specs and features do support a higher price than other popular budget-tier models.

Overall, the trike seems to be well-specced, and we expect many riders will appreciate its customization options, extremely high payload capacity, and overall comfort factor.

We anticipate that the Triker will perform well, but even more so, we expect it to be an extremely comfortable ride. Its slackened seat tube and adjustable stem should make for a roomy cockpit with a customizable fit, and we also expect that pedaling will feel relaxed and enjoyable.

The PL Carbon Pro is Amflow’s debut model, boasting a 45-lb total weight due to its combination of a carbon fiber frame and a lightweight Avinox mid-drive. With 1000W of peak power and up to 120 Nm of torque, its power-to-weight ratio is among the highest currently on the market.

The bike carries an 800 Wh battery in its down tube that can be recharged quickly using the included 12-amp charger. Additionally, the PL Carbon Pro is outfitted with a Fox Factory fork and shock, with 160mm and 150mm of travel, respectively. It’s equipped with Magura’s MT7 hydraulic brake system and a 12-speed SRAM Eagle drivetrain with wireless shifting.

Amflow is offering the PL Carbon Pro for $10,199; however, a more affordable version of the bike with more economical components is priced at $ 7,499.

Our Take: We were fortunate to test the bike prior to launch, and we’ve been highly impressed with it. There’s a reason (or ten) it has been making waves in the industry. In our experience, the motor delivers heaps of power smoothly, intuitively, and quietly, which complements the bike’s (figuratively) featherweight frame to give the bike a nimble, lively feel.

We also liked the ability to tune the bike’s motor output; the pedal assist system is impressively customizable. The Amflow app also enables security features such as location tracking and 4G connectivity, which helps to make the user experience more premium and robust.

You can read more about the Amflow PL Carbon Pro in our full review.

A new over-the-air (OTA) firmware update, which is available through the Aventon:MyRide app, continues the brand’s recent trend of adding new features to its e-bikes.

Recently, an update previously added Boost Mode to Aventon’s models with rear hub motors and its ACU smart module. The temporary riding mode allows riders to get a 30-second burst of power (120% of the bike’s specced torque and peak wattage) when needed.

Aventon’s latest update adds the Sensor Switch feature to the Level 3, Aventure 3, Pace 4, and Abound SR/LR models. This allows riders to toggle between torque- and cadence-sensing modes for either an active or low-effort ride experience.

A new Hold Mode has also been added to the aforementioned e-bikes, as well as the mid-drive-equipped Aventure M. This feature prevents the bike from rolling backward when using Walk Mode, allowing users to take a 30-second break on inclines.

Additionally, the Aventure 3, Pace 4, and both Abound models have now been given a cruise control feature that functions similarly to an automobile. The feature can be engaged between 5 and 20 mph, and once activated, it maintains the bike’s speed without the need to pedal or hold the throttle.

Our Take: Aventon seems to be taking a page from Velotric’s book with this new update. It’s a smart move that shows the utility and adaptation offered by the ACU module.

Ultimately, we think these new features are great! Sensor Switch (again, very close to Velotric’s e-bikes’ SensorSwap function) is likely to be one of Aventon’s best customization options, as it will allow riders to choose how their bike feels and functions. We’ve largely enjoyed the natural-feeling pedal assistance of Aventon’s latest e-bikes, but this feature makes them more adaptable for riders who prefer an easier, more relaxed ride.

Cruise control is another exciting feature, as it can become tiring to hold a throttle lever in place for long periods of time. This mode should make the experience more comfortable for those who prefer cruising for extended rides on throttle power.