The Aventon Pace 500.3 is a cruiser-style e-bike with a smooth, relaxed ride quality provided by the torque-sensing hub drive and comfort-optimized components and geometry.
The Pace 500 was Aventon Bikes’ first model, and it’s now in its third iteration. This type of bike is popular partly because it can serve as a comfortable commuter and leisurely recreation bike. Some similar models include the Ride1UP LMT’D and Blix Sol Eclipse, though the Pace 500 leads in tech and features.
All of Aventon’s most up-to-date technology and features are first tested on the Pace 500, so you can be sure you’re getting the best the brand has to offer. This includes features like a torque sensor, turn signals, and Aventon App connectivity.
Our Aventon Pace 500.3 review will discuss the main specs and take a detailed look at the key features. To finish, we will compare the Pace 500.3 to the competition and offer our final takeaways to help you decide if it’s the right bike for you.
Contents
Aventon Pace 500.3 Main Specifications
The Aventon Pace 500.3 is an affordable cruiser priced at $1,799. Adding components like fenders or a rack will cost an extra $100, so consider this if you require the bike for commuting.
The Pace 500.3 stands out for its quality across the board. Aventon didn’t settle for the bottom-tier options but, instead, chose options such as an 8-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, and puncture-resistant tires.
- Motor: 500W, 48V hub
- Battery: 12.8Ah, 614Wh
- Range: 60 miles
- Charge time: 4.5 hours
- Top speed: 28mph
- Weight capacity: 300lb
- Bike weight: 52lb
- Drivetrain: Shimano Altus 8-speed
- Brakes: Tektro Hydraulic disc brakes
- Tires: 27.5″ x 2.1″, puncture-resistant
- Accessories: Lights, turn signals, and kickstand
See the Model on Aventon.com
Detailed Aventon Pace 500.3 Review
Step-Through or Step-Over Cruiser Frame
The Aventon Pace 500.3 electric bike is available as a step-over or step-through, each with two sizes and slightly different height ranges. The step-over fits riders from 5’3″ to 6’4″ and is available in two dark finishes: Midnight Black or Camouflage.
The Aventon Pace 500.3 step-through will fit riders from 4’11” to 6’1″ and comes in two bright finishes: Ghost White or Blue Steel. Regardless of the frame layout you choose, the geometry is relaxed, and the swept-back handlebars help put you in an upright position.
The Aventon Pace 500.3 e-bike caters to various rider heights with its step-over and step-through models, featuring comfortable geometries and integrated batteries, with a choice between dark and bright finishes.
This single-butted aluminum frame has a decent payload capacity of 300 lb, and an optional rear rack can support up to 55lb.
The battery and cabling are integrated neatly into the frame, and polished welds add to the refined look. The Aventon Pace 500.3 weighs 52lb, which is about average for this range, given the lack of rack and fenders.
Smooth Torque-Sensing Pedal Assist
The entire Aventon lineup uses torque sensors instead of the more commonly found cadence sensors used on hub-drive e-bikes. This means the motor will provide power in response to the power you provide, not the turning of the pedals alone.
This method has its pros and cons. The main disadvantage (for some) is that you will, on average, have to put more effort into riding, especially on hills. However, the ride quality is much smoother, and the power transfer is more natural compared to cadence sensors, with less delay between activation and deactivation of assistance. Additionally, it uses power more efficiently, increasing range.
The Pace 500.3 gets its name from its 500W motor, which provides enough kick for most hills. You can choose between four levels of pedal assist or the throttle to get you where you need to go.
To maintain a narrow tubing profile, the Aventon Pace 500.3 battery is a 614 Wh unit. It returns up to 60 miles of range, which is more than enough for most riders.
Minimalist Design With High-Value Components
Though it functions well for commuting, Aventon sells the Pace 500.3 without the standard rack and fenders seen on the best commuter e-bikes. This helps keep the weight and price down and simplifies things for those who don’t require those accessories.
Aventon’s focus on quality components starts with puncture-resistant tires. They decided on an 8-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain instead of the 7-speed Tourney we often see at this price point. In addition, you get Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, which we know to be reliable and adequate for powerful e-bikes.
The Aventon Pace 500.3 omits standard commuter features like racks and fenders for a lighter build, boasting quality components and customization options.
Other highlights include the adjustable stem for finding a more comfortable fit, lights with turn signals and brake activation, and Aventon’s premium color display.
You can personalize your Aventon Pace 500.3 electric bike with a range of affordable accessories such as fenders, a rack, bags, and baskets.
Aventon Pace 500.3 vs Competition: Key Differences
As mentioned in the introduction, the Pace 500.3 competes with models from other popular brands like Ride1UP Bikes and Blix Bikes. These bikes offer similar specs and pricing, with some slight differences that may sway you one way or the other.
Aventon Pace 500.3 vs. Ride1UP LMT’D
The Ride1UP LMT’D is another torque-sensing commuter with similar geometry and a slightly lower price of $1,695. This bike stands out with its high-power 750W, 95Nm motor that blows the Pace 500.3 out of the water.
The LMT’D also has wider 2.4″ tires and an 80mm suspension fork to add comfort on bumpy terrain and off-road capability. Surprisingly, this bike only weighs one pound more. The rest of the electronics are lower-end. This includes a smaller 2A charger for a longer charge time and a basic display. In addition, there is no companion app.
Overall, the Aventon Pace 500.3 electric bike is better suited to those who want more range and an easier-to-maintain ride, while the LMT’D will suit those who value power and off-road ability.
Aventon Pace 500.3 vs. Blix Sol Eclipse
The Sol Eclipse from Blix is a classic beach cruiser e-bike with an ultra-relaxed ride position and a plush saddle. This model also offers more power than the Pace 500.3. However, it has less gearing (7-speed), 25% less range, a longer charge time, and a monochrome display.
The Blix Sol Eclipse offers a relaxed beach cruiser ride with simple controls, contrasting with the Pace 500.3’s smoother, tech-enhanced experience.
The Sol Eclipse also doesn’t have a torque sensor, so the ride quality won’t be as natural or smooth as the Pace 500.3. However, this translates to more effortless riding.
If you’re looking for pure comfort and a ride quality that requires almost no exertion, the Blix Sol Eclipse is for you, but the smoother ride, higher range, and premium electronics the Pace 500.3 offers will tempt those who like the finer things in life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Aventon Pace 500.3 step-through weigh?
The Aventon Pace 500.3 step-through weighs 52lb. This is the same weight as the step-over frame, which is typical for a bike of this type without extras like a rack and fenders. This is the second lightest Aventon e-bike after the Soltera.2.
What is the range of the Aventon Pace 500.3 battery?
The range of the Aventon Pace 500.3 battery is 60 miles at a maximum. This test was done on the lowest pedal assist level by a 160lb rider on flat terrain. As such, if you use higher assistance on hilly terrain, expect closer to 30 miles of range.
What kind of motor is on an Aventon Pace 500.3?
The Aventon Pace 500.3 motor is a 500W rear hub motor that's unbranded and doesn't come with a rating for peak power or torque (Nm). This motor performs well on flat ground and light inclines but struggles on steep hills.
How much weight can a Pace 500.3 e-bike hold?
The Pace 500.3 e-bike can hold up to 300lb, including the rider's weight and any cargo, accessories, or gear. If you purchase and install the Aventon rear rack, it can support up to 55lb, leaving roughly 245lb for the rider and other gear.
Final Verdict About the Aventon Pace 500.3
The Aventon Pace 500.3 is a well-rounded cruiser-style e-bike, offering a smooth, relaxed ride with its torque-sensing hub-drive system and comfort-focused components.
High-quality specs, including an 8-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, and puncture-resistant tires, help it stand out. It competes well with similar models, offering a smoother and more natural ride quality and a higher range.
Whether for commuting or leisurely recreation, the Pace 500.3 is a solid choice, reflecting the best of Aventon’s technology and features.
Buy from Aventon.comAventon Pace 500.3
$1,799
Pros
- 60-mile max range
- Torque-sensing motor
- Comfortable ride
- Above-average drivetrain and brakes
- Turn signals
Cons
- No rack or fenders
- Not the most powerful on hills
A birthday /holiday gift the pace 500 .3 has
Provided me with way to get back on a bicycle. At 74 years of age sidelined by long term Valley fever, &muscle atrophy Was having difficulty swing my leg over bar.
My balance was off. The step through pace with torque sensor allows me to ride like a regular bike. I love it 💕
That is wonderful to hear, William! We wish you many more years of good health and cycling!