Aventon Level versus Ride1Up 700 Series, 2022 Update

Two electric bikes that offer quite a bit for the money are the Aventon Level and the 700 Series from Ride1Up. We’re going to take a look at the specs of each there and pros and cons depending upon a rider’s needs.

Latest Update:  Since writing this comparison, Aventon has updated the Level, now called the Level.2 to include a torque sensor, integrated lights, and a color display.  It’s also priced a little higher.  The 700 Series still provides very good value, but the Level.2 will have a different riding experience with a torque sensor.  You can read the full review of the new Level here.

Both bikes would be considered the commuter style with included fenders and a rear rack.  The 700 Series has integrated lights that draw power from the main battery.  You’ll have to add third-party lights to the Level as it isn’t equipped with them.  However, the level does have reflective pin striping on the tires.

Here’s a comparison of the specs of both bikes, side-by-side.

2022 Update:  This has been one of the most popular articles on the site, and for good reason.  These are two very popular ebikes that many people find themselves trying to decide between.

There are have been some updates to the Aventon Level, including throttle on demand.  You no longer have to pedal first before using the throttle.  You can also purchase an upgraded display.  It doesn’t allow the customization of pedal assist levels, like the display on the 700 Series, but it is a very intuitive display that connects to the Aventon app.

The 700 Series has remained largely the same, except that the kickstand is now located on the chain stay, so no more pedal lock when rolling the bike backward.

Both bikes have increased in price since 2020, but then hasn’t everything!

I also want to point out that both the 700 Series and Level have step-thru versions.

As you can see, the two bikes have very similar components, but there are some notable difference depending upon your wants and needs. The Aventon Level is an 8-speed, while the 700 Series is a 7-speed.  Not a huge difference, but the Level also has the slightly larger 32 tooth gear for just a little more help on hills.  Again, not a glaring difference, but it’s a difference.

The tires on the Level are 2.2 inches wide, while the 700 Series are 2.4 inches.  An advantage to a slightly more narrow tire is improved efficiency, but an advantage to a wider tire is greater balance and improved ability to get through sandy or looser soil conditions.

Weight capacity looks to be a big difference, but the 700 Series lists total weight capacity at 300 pounds, but that is adding rider weight and cargo weight together.  The Level lists 250 pounds for max rider weight and 50 pounds for cargo weight for a total of 300 pounds, so really they are essentially the same.

An advantage of the Aventon Level is that it is available in three frame sizes, which for a more modestly priced ebike is rare.  However, the 700 Series has a step-thru frame available, which is great for shorter riders and those with knee or hip sensitivity.  Step-thru’s are also nice when a bag or cargo on the rear rack makes it difficult to swing a leg over the frame.  Aventon also released a step-thru version of the Level, after this was originally written.

A possibly more significant difference is the throttle.  The Level’s throttle isn’t available for use from a dead stop.  You have to begin pedaling first and reach a speed of about 8 mph before you can use the throttle.  This is a safety feature in case you accidentally activate the throttle.

The 700 Series allows throttle on demand even from a dead stop which can be very useful when you’re on a hill, trying to cross traffic, or maybe have difficulty pedaling because of the weight of cargo you are hauling or possibly from pulling a trailer, etc.  The Aventon Level, now also has throttle on demand.

But both bikes are pretty fast, reaching a top speed of about 28 mph with pedal assist and 20 mph when using only the throttle.  This makes both bikes Class 3.

It’s great that both bikes include the fenders and a rear rack to make them commuter ready right off the bat.  It’s also great that the 700 Series includes integrated lights; the Level doesn’t.

It can be tough deciding between these two bikes since they offer many of the same good quality components.  Both companies are known for good customer service, though Aventon has the advantage of having dealers located throughout the United States, who can service your bike.

To see current availability, latest features, and pricing of both bikes, visit Ride1Up and Aventon.

-Affiliate links were used in this article. Thanks!