Aventon is quickly evolving from a hub-drive powerhouse into a serious mid-drive contender. Their recent momentum with the Ultro X motor on the full-suspension Current EXP and ADV, alongside the refined, quieter A100 motor on the Ramblas ADV, offers impressive performance for the trails. It makes sense that it was only a matter of time before their most popular commuter model received the mid-drive treatment. Equipped with their new Ultro S motor and electronic and automatic shifting, the new Aventon Level 4 ADV is a notable step up in performance from the previous generation while still offering premium style and modern anti-theft features.
The $2,799 price tag comes in $800 above the Level 4 REC, the hub-driven alternative that recently saw its own impressive power boost and the addition of regenerative coasting and braking tech. It is also an extremely competitive, dealer-supported alternative to legacy brand offerings that often cost more for less power. This article details the standout features, our real-world performance findings, a comparison with a rival model, and the pros and cons. By the end, you should know everything you need to decide if Aventon’s first mid-drive commuter model is right for you.
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Aventon Level 4 ADV YouTube Review | See It In Action!
Our full video review takes you beyond the spec sheet for a comprehensive look at this premium commuter ebike. We guide you through every component, explore the new display and app features, and head out for real-world performance testing. Watch how the mid-drive motor and automatic shifting handle both everyday pavement and our massive test hill.
The Ultro S Mid-Drive Motor
Delivering up to 100 Nm of torque, the new Ultro S mid-drive is specifically designed for city and pavement riding. Riding in the mid-20s is a breeze and by shifting the motor weight to the center of the frame, the bike’s overall weight distribution is better when compared to a rear hub motor. While throttles are less common for mid-drive ebikes due to the added complexity of powering the drivetrain directly, the Level 4 ADV is compatible with an optional plug and play throttle for on-demand power.
Electronic and Automatic Shifting
The 10-speed Shimano CUES drivetrain allows the motor to leverage a wide gear range for highly efficient power delivery whether you are climbing steep hills or cruising on flat pavement. Shifting is handled electronically, meaning you change gears with a quick button press on the right handlebar rather than pulling a mechanical cable. For riders who want a truly seamless commute, automatic shifting determines the optimal gear based on your current speed. During our testing, this proved to be one of the smoothest automatic derailleur setups we have tested to date, but you always have the option to manually override the system at any time using the electronic shifter.
Updated Display
Front and center in the modernized cockpit is the new A280 display, featuring a clean layout packed with easily digestible ride metrics. It also has a USB-C charging port located at the bottom of the unit to keep your devices charged.
Performance Smart Features
Diving into the app unlocks deep performance customization through the Ride Assist settings. You can adjust the maximum torque, overall assistance, and pedal response for each individual pedal assist level with Ride Tune. This is also where you can change the top speed limit of the ebike to reach a Class 3 28 mph and toggle on and calibrate uphill start assist for an extra boost when climbing from a dead stop.
Security and Anti-Theft Features
Anti-theft capabilities are divided into included base features and a connected IoT service. Right out of the box, the Level 4 ADV features a keyless, top-mounted battery and a physical rear-wheel lock that easily unlocks through the display. For more advanced protection, Aventon’s IoT service provides live GPS tracking, geofencing, unusual activity notifications sent directly to your phone, and the ability to lock and power off the bike from afar. The service is free for the first year, transitioning to $20 annually or $2 per month afterward.
Commuter Inclusions
Equipped for daily commuting, the Level 4 ADV includes full-coverage plastic fenders and a rear rack with pannier hangers and a 59-pound payload capacity. Integrated front and rear lights run directly off the main battery to maintain visibility in traffic. The taillights are built directly into the seatstays and function as both active brake lights and turn signals. For riding in varied weather conditions, the ebike carries an IPX6 water resistance rating, while the motor itself is rated to IP67 for dust and rain resistance.
Frame, Sizing, and Ergonomics
Maintaining the active ride geometry the series is known for, this model introduces an adjustable stem to help dial in preferred ergonomics. Two distinct frame styles are available to accommodate different rider preferences. The step-thru model maximizes accessibility and comes in Matte Black or Haze. The step-over frame provides a more traditional look and is available in Matte Black or Camouflage.
Sizing options cover a wide range of heights to maximize rider accessibility. The step-thru frame is offered in Regular and Large sizes, fitting riders from 4’11” to 6’1″. Taller individuals can opt for the step-over frame, which includes Medium, Large, and a newly added XL size that accommodates riders up to 6’7″.
Components and Specs | Aventon Level 4 ADV Review
The Level 4 ADV is equipped with a well-rounded list of reliable commuter hardware and fully certified electrical components. Review the complete breakdown of technical specifications, drivetrain details, and hardware inclusions in the table below.
Performance and Ride Experience
Throttle-Only Acceleration on the Level 4 ADV
Testing the optional throttle reveals the distinct characteristics of a mid-drive setup. Unlike a hub motor that operates independently of the gearing, this system routes power directly through the drivetrain. Starting in a low gear naturally limits the top speed to around 10 mph, while starting in eighth gear results in a slower initial ramp-up before eventually pulling the ebike to 20 mph. This gearing dependency provides riders with precise control over the motor’s output simply by changing gears.
Pedal Assist and Speed
The integrated torque sensor smoothly scales motor power based on rider effort across the various assist levels. Eco mode delivers a modest 70 to 100 watts for gentle cruising, while Sport comfortably pushes the ebike to 20 mph with around 500 watts of assistance. Jumping into Turbo makes riding in the mid-20s feel completely effortless. Reaching the maximum 28 mph requires a bit of leg work, but hard pedal strokes easily display the full 750-watt peak power on the screen. An Auto pedal assist mode offers a smart middle ground, dynamically adjusting power between Eco and Sport levels while still allowing you to comfortably reach speeds in the 20s.
Automatic and Electronic Shifting
The system allows riders to set a target cadence to match their personal riding style. Setting this to 65 RPM was the sweet spot for our reviewer enables the ebike to seamlessly manage the 10-speed derailleur. Coasting downhill prompts the system to actively shift into higher gears based on speed, ensuring proper resistance when you resume pedaling. Approaching an incline or slowly reducing speed triggers smooth, predictable downshifts. While downshifting during an abrupt stop can occasionally feel slightly delayed, the ability to temporarily override the system with the manual shifter provides immediate control over the drivetrain.
Hill Climb Testing
We tackled our standard steep hill climb test using two different approaches. First, we relied exclusively on the throttle while leaving the automatic shifting engaged. As the ebike hit the incline, the system intelligently downshifted into third gear, maintaining a steady 7 to 8 mph while drawing roughly 575 watts from the motor. Next, we tested the hill climb using pedal assist. Starting in Eco required dropping down to first gear, resulting in a slow 5 mph climb. Bumping the assist up to Turbo the motor easily pulled 600 watts, allowing for a comfortable pedaling cadence while maintaining that same 7 to 8 mph speed with very minimal rider effort.
Aventon Level 4 ADV vs. Velotric Discover M | Mid-Drive Rivals
The closest competitor to the Level 4 ADV is Velotric’s Discover M. Priced slightly lower at $2,499, it shares a lot of foundational DNA by offering a 100 Nm mid-drive motor and a commuter-ready setup with full coverage fenders, integrated lighting with turn signals, and a MIK-HD rear rack (66 lb capacity). Dealer support is also baked in with Velotric’s 1200+ bike shop network. Unlike the ADV, the Discover M is only available in a step-thru frame with two sizes to choose from. It also prioritizes a connected smart experience, though it approaches security differently by utilizing quick NFC card unlocking and integrating natively with Apple Find My and Android FindHub rather than relying on a standalone cellular tracking subscription.
It skips electronic automatic shifting, the 9-speed Shimano CUES setup paired with a wider 11-46T rear cassette that makes hill climbs even easier. The left-side thumb throttle is also included right out of the box. A highly tunable air suspension fork and a suspension seatpost are included to soak up rough city streets. Velotric includes their SensorSwap technology that can seamlessly hot swap between a responsive torque sensor and a more relaxed cadence sensor while riding. Like the Level 4 ADV, you can fully customize the pedal assist levels using their Ride Tuning feature. However, Velotric allows these adjustments to be made directly through the display or the app, whereas Aventon reserves these deeper performance settings exclusively for their app.
For a closer look into how it handles the daily commute, check out our full Velotric Discover M review.
Pros and Cons | Aventon Level 4 ADV Review
Wrapping up our thoughts on the Level 4 ADV, here is a quick look at where this commuter shines and where we see room for improvement.
Excellent!
Final Verdict | Aventon Level 4 ADV Review
Aventon is clearly going all-in on providing high-quality options for both hub-drive and mid-drive riders. With the Level 4 ADV, they have created a premium commuter that easily holds its own against higher-priced competition. The smooth electronic shifting, refined motor, and robust smart security features make for a highly capable and intelligent ebike that takes the guesswork out of your daily ride. While it does command an $800 price premium over the standard Level 4 REC, riders who want the connected experience, added efficiency, and the natural pedal feel that only a mid-drive can deliver will find the ADV well worth the investment.
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