The Aventon Pace 500.3 is the third generation of this popular lightweight city or commuter ebike. The second generation was only released in the spring of 2022, and Aventon is already making improvements! Read ahead for our review of the Aventon Pace 500.3 or check out our Pace 500.3 video review below, which will get you up to speed on all the upgrades and differences between the second and the third generation.
Aventon Pace 500.3 Pricing
The Aventon Pace 500.3 is selling for $100 more than the Pace 500.2 and is currently listed at $1,699. Note that the new Pace 350.3 was also launched, but is now a bike shop exclusive priced around $1,500.
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Aventon Pace 500.3 Video Review
Overall similar frame design with new color options
Our review of the Aventon Pace 500.3 finds more similarities than differences compared to the prior model. The frame is identical, as near as we could tell. We are happy to see it still comes in both a traditional step-over frame and, our preference, a step-through.
Aventon is known for its well-made frames, which feature smooth welds, and contribute to the sleek appearance of the frame. The handlebars are swept back to increase riding comfort, and there is an adjustable stem on the handlebars so you can customize the position to fit your size and riding preference.
Ghost White 
Camouflage 
Midnight Black 
Steel Blue
Two color options remained the same, the step-over in midnight black and the ghost white for the step-through. A seafoam green colorway, called celeste, was replaced with blue steel in the step-through. The other color option for the step-over is camouflage, a muted green.
Similar to the prior generation, the Aventon Pace 500.3 comes in two sizes for each of the styles: regular and large. The step-over frame is recommended for riders from 5’3″ to 5’10”, while the large is for those between 5’10” and 6’4″.
The step-through is for a slightly shorter crowd, with the regular sized for riders from 4’11” to 5’7″ and the large for those between 5’7″ and 6’1″. It has a standover height of 16.34 ” for the regular and 17.52 ” for the larger frame.
Aventon Pace 500.3 vs Aventon Level
There is no front suspension fork so the Pace 500.3 will do better on smoother terrain, but you could upgrade to a suspension seat post for small bumps (see our favorites on this list). If a suspension front fork is a requirement be sure to check out the Aventon Level which for $100 more also features a larger 14Ah battery, 750-watt peak motor, fenders, rear rack, and a through axle.
Features unique to the Pace 500.3 are the turn signals and the adjustable stem with swept-back handlebars. Overall, both ebikes are great options so choose the one that fits your needs.
Aventon Pace 500.3 Weight and Payload Capacity
The payload capacity of the Pace 500.3 is 300 lbs. The weight of the Aventon Pace 500.3 is the same as the prior generation, but at 52 lbs, it certainly needs to be commented on further. That weight is on the lighter side for ebikes and is a great selling point for the Pace. Many ebikes weigh closer to 75 lbs. If you are looking for more affordable lightweight ebikes, check out our list of ebikes under 50 lbs and less than $1,600.
Torque vs. Cadence Sensor
The pedal assist is the main difference between the Aventon Pace 500.3 and the 500.2. The earlier generation has a cadence sensor compared to the new release, which has a torque sensor. We prefer torque sensors because it provides a more natural pedaling experience. The more human power you input, the more power you receive from the motor in accordance with the pedal assist level you’re in. Torque sensor ebikes feel like you have more control over what the motor is doing.
Alternatively, some people may prefer the cadence sensor as it provides the same amount of power (based on the level of pedal assist) as long as your feet are spinning – whether you’re putting in little or significant effort.
The change in the sensor naturally affects the range because the motor on a torque sensor is engaged smoothly. With the torque sensor on the Pace 500.3, the estimated range is 60 miles per charge (pedal assist level eco with a 160 lb rider on flat ground). The 500.2 with its cadence sensor is estimated to get 40 miles per charge. Both models have an estimated 30 miles with throttle only.
Pace 500.3 Motor, Battery, and Electronics
Many of the electronic features stayed the same on the Aventon Pace 500.3. It has the same 500-watt brushless rear hub motor. This ebike is neither over nor underpowered. It comes shipped as a Class 2 ebike with a top speed of 20 mph while using the throttle or pedal assist. Using the app, riders can change the Pace 500.3 to a Class 3 ebike with a top speed of 28 mph while pedaling. The battery size is also the same. It is a 48V, 12.8 Ah battery providing 614 watt-hours. This is slightly below average the average 14Ah battery though the bike still offers plenty of range for most riders.
An Aventon backlit color display is centered on the handlebars which can also be paired with your phone. Once connected, you can see all the helpful information, including speed, odometer, trip odometer, battery life remaining, and more. The app also has a feature helping connect you with other Aventon riders. Riders can also track riders and receive medals for distance milestones tracked on the bike.
Don’t worry about your phone battery either, the display has a USB port in case you need to charge your phone as you ride. All of Aventon’s ebikes have gone from numbered levels to named pedal assist levels: eco, tour, sport, and turbo.
Aventon Pace 500.3 Components
The Aventon Pace 500.3 has a bright integrated headlight located on the handlebars and integrated taillights that are now located further down the rear seat stays. Not only are the rear taillights brake activated, but they have also been combined with turn signals. Yup, ebikes come with blinkers now! They are controlled via the display controls by pressing the left or right arrow. After about ten seconds the blinkers automatically turn off.
The rear derailleur and cassette remained with the higher-level components. It features a 12-32T rear cassette and eight speeds using a Shimano trigger shifter and Altus derailleur. The front chainring increased from 46T to 48T. The tire size changed slightly from 27.5″ x 2.2″ to the current size of 27.5″ x 2.1″. They are puncture-resistant tires with reflective sidewalls and not surprisingly, are best suited for paved riding.
Aventon equipped the Pace 500.3 with high-quality Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. These offer more stopping power with less pressure on the brake levers as compared to mechanical brakes.
Recommended Upgrades for the Aventon Pace 500.3
The Pace 500.3 does not come with fenders or a rear rack. However, Aventon does offer them at checkout and even has an option for a front rack. Other accessories you might want to consider for your Pace 500.3:
- Increase your visibility with a more powerful front and rear light, especially if you plan to ride at night.
- Add a cellphone holder to the handlebars
- Add a suspension seatpost for additional comfort
See our specific ebike accessory list for more suggestions.
Our take on the Aventon Pace 500.3
Overall, the Aventon Pace 500.3 is a great option for anyone looking for a city or commuter electric bike. Highlights of the Pace 500.3 include Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, Shimano trigger shifter, and integrated taillights which now include blinkers. The handlebars and adjustable stem provide a comfortable ride but consider adding a suspension seatpost for improved comfort.
The motor is appropriately sized, and the battery is adequate but a smidge under average. We appreciate Aventon differentiating their ebikes by offering torque sensors, a more expensive component, at a still reasonable cost. At $1,699 the bike is well-priced especially considering Aventon’s dealer network. Many buyers may also want to strongly consider the $1,799 Level.2 as an alternative.
Beyond the bike, Aventon is a well-established ebike brand with a solid reputation. Check out all of our Aventon reviews to learn more.
Other Options
If you like the Aventon Pace 500.3 you may also like the Ride1Up LMT’D, the RadCity 5 Plus, the Velotric Discover 1, or the Denago Commute Model 1.
