Electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, are becoming increasingly popular for commuting, exercise, and recreational riding. Two of the biggest names in the e-bike market are Propella and Aventon.
But with so many models to choose from, how do you decide which brand is right for you? This in-depth comparison examines the key differences between Propella and Aventon e-bikes across a range of factors.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Propella | Aventon |
| Number of models | 3 | 15+ |
| Frame material | Aluminum alloy | Aluminum alloy, carbon fiber |
| Motor power | 250W | 350W – 750W |
| Max range | 25 mi | 50-80 mi |
| Battery type | 36V 7.8Ah LG | 36V 10Ah-17.5Ah Samsung |
| Gears | Single speed or 7 speed | 1 to 9 speed |
| Brakes | Mechanical disc | Mech. disc or hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None | Some models have front suspension |
| Weight | 45-50 lb | 50-80 lb |
| Prices | $1699 – $1999 | $999 – $4499 |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year (can extend) |
Overview Of Propella And Aventon
Propella and Aventon are both US-based companies selling direct-to-consumer e-bikes that are designed for urban transportation.
Propella was founded in 2017 in San Francisco and offers a small lineup of lightweight aluminum frame e-bikes ranging from a single speed to 7 speed models. Propella e-bikes have 250W motors and LG battery cells. They are known for their simple, straightforward design focused on commuters.
Aventon launched in 2009 and is headquartered in Ontario, California. Aventon sells a wide selection of e-bike styles catering to commuting, recreation, and performance. Their bikes are equipped with 350W to 750W motors and Samsung battery cells. Aventon focuses more on the lifestyle and performance aspects with models built for speed and riding experience.
Now let’s take a detailed look at how these two popular e-bike brands compare across some of the most important factors for consumers.
Product Selection And Design
Both Aventon and Propella offer practical e-bikes meant for urban transportation, but Aventon has a much wider range of styles and types to choose from including commuters, cruisers, folding bikes, cargo bikes, fat tire bikes, and high-performance models.
Propella currently has just 3 e-bike models which all look very similar – the standard 7 speed, single speed, and a lightweight step-through version. The styling is minimalist with a casual, understated look.
Aventon has over 15 different e-bike models with more variety in colors and finishes too. So if you want more options to find a bike with the right look and features for your needs, Aventon will offer more choices.
Components And Build Quality
Propella e-bikes live up to their simple, no-frills reputation when it comes to components. They use basic Shimano Tourney derailleurs and gearing paired with Promax mechanical disc brakes. While these are functional, recreational riders may want higher performance parts. The Propella frames are aluminum alloy which reduces weight compared to steel.
Aventon uses a mix of Shimano and SRAM components ranging from entry level to higher end depending on the model. Mechanical and hydraulic disc brakes provide good stopping power. The frames are aluminum alloy as well as carbon fiber on select models. Overall Aventon offers a wider range of components and more premium build options for performance and durability.
Motor, Battery, And Range
All Propella bikes have a 250W geared rear hub motor while Aventon offers motors ranging from 350W to 750W depending on the model. More power in the motor makes it easier to ride up hills without working as hard.
For the battery, Propella e-bikes come with a 36V 7.8Ah LG lithium-ion battery. Aventon uses 36V batteries from Samsung with capacities between 10Ah to 17.5Ah for longer range. The Propella bikes will max out around 25 miles per charge, while some Aventon models can reach 50-80 miles on a single charge. So Aventon wins for battery life.
In terms of overall range, Aventon has the advantage thanks to the more powerful motors and higher capacity batteries offered. But Propella’s pared down components help reduce weight for potentially more efficiency.
Ride Quality And Handling
Propella bikes have a very approachable ride feel that works well for casual around town riding and short commutes. The single speed model keeps things simple by eliminating gear shifts. The 7 speed gives you more versatility for hills and changing speeds. The riding position is comfortable and upright. Propella bikes work best on flatter terrain.
Riders praise Aventon bikes for their smooth power delivery and stable handling at faster speeds. The ride feel can vary depending on the model – some are optimized for comfort while others are performance-focused. Suspension forks help absorb bumps on certain Aventon e-bikes. Overall Aventon offers e-bikes more suitable for long distances, higher speeds, and trickier terrain.
Also Read: Is Aventon Better Than Trek?
Weight
Propella e-bikes weigh around 45-50 lb on average. Their use of a small 250W motor and aluminum alloy frame helps keep weight lower. This improves portability for carrying up stairs or onto public transportation.
Aventon e-bikes range from around 50 lb for lightweight commuters up to nearly 80 lb for full-size cargo bikes. The focus is less on minimum weight and more on features, versatility, and ride comfort. But folding models like the Aventon Pace 500 weigh about 44 lb for better portability.
So Propella earns the win for lower overall weight, but Aventon still offers lighter options for those prioritizing easier transportation.
Price And Value
MSRP for a Propella e-bike is $1699 – $1999 making them among the most affordable premium e-bikes on the market. You get an easy-to-use lightweight commuter e-bike backed by great customer service at a wallet-friendly price.
Aventon e-bikes span a wide gamut from $999 to $4499 depending on the model and features. Their commuter-focused e-bikes under $2000 offer nice value similar to Propella. But for riders wanting high-performance, fat tire, or cargo capabilities, Aventon shines for offering advanced e-bikes at reasonable price points compared to competitors.
Both brands arguably offer solid value, just in different ways. Propella for simplicity and minimum cost, Aventon for a wider range of features and capabilities at each price increment.
Also Read: Choose Between Sondors And Rad Power Bikes.
Warranty And Customer Service
Propella e-bikes come with a 2 year comprehensive warranty. Aventon offers a 1 year limited warranty which can be extended by registering your e-bike. In terms of customer service and support, both brands aim to provide helpful sales and technical assistance via phone, email, and online ticketing. Propella seems to have a slight edge according to online reviews describing responsive and speedy communications with the company. But Aventon gets good marks too for honorable warranty claims and service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Propella sources and assembles their e-bike components from various factories in China. The bikes are shipped to the US where final inspection and quality control is done before sending them out to customers.
Aventon is considered a reliable e-bike brand that makes fairly good quality and well-designed bikes especially in the sub-$2000 category. They’ve been around for over 10 years and offer decent warranties and support. Most Aventon owners are happy with their purchases.
Yes, Aventon e-bikes are designed in California but manufactured in China. Many e-bike brands use Chinese factories to build their bikes. Aventon oversees production and quality control closely. Once the bikes arrive in the US, local technicians do final assembly and tuning.
Currently Rad Power Bikes is the largest ebike seller in the US holding the biggest market share. Other top-selling brands include Aventon, Ride1Up, Prodecotech, and Lectric eBikes – all US consumer direct companies offering good value. The ebike market continues to grow rapidly.
Also watch the review of Propella!
The Verdict
So, should you go with Propella or Aventon for your e-bike needs? Here’s a quick recap of the main pros for each brand:
Propella advantages:
- Lower pricing starting at just $1699
- Lightweight slick-looking commuters around 45 lb
- Simplified single and 7 speed options
- Quick and helpful customer service
Aventon advantages:
- Huge selection of e-bike styles and models
- More powerful motors and longer battery range
- Quality components and premium details
- Versatility for commuting, recreation, performance
Casual riders on a budget who want an easy to operate lightweight e-bike for flat urban commuting are probably better off choosing Propella. The simplicity, value, and portable size are perfect for this use.
For everyone else, Aventon offers many more options to suit your needs whether it’s a folding bike for your multi-modal commute, a high-speed e-bike for exercise, or a cargo bike to haul kids and gear. The more powerful motors and premium components allow Aventon bikes to handle more types of riding.
Hopefully this detailed overview gives you a better sense of how Propella and Aventon e-bikes compare. It really comes down to your budget and intended riding needs. Both brands make quality affordable electric bikes, just with different strengths based on the type of rider.