eBikes.org is supported by readers. When you buy with our links, we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Aventon Ramblas eMTB Review

Aventon Ramblas studio profile
By
Will Roberson,
Electric Bike Enthusiast
Aventon Ramblas studio profile
By
Ashley Reid,
Managing Editor
Images from manufacturer's website

80 mi

RANGE

20 mph

TOP SPEED

6 hrs

CHARGE TIME

56 lbs

WEIGHT

Mid-drive

MOTOR TYPE

Sponsors keep us charged up

Ideal for...

  • MTB-Curious Riders: People interested in hardcore mountain biking but want the support of pedal assistance (and an affordable price tag)
  • Re-Entry MTB Riders: Former analog MTB riders looking to get back into the sport
  • Aggressive Urban Riding: Large wheels, strong assist, big brakes, and front suspension perfect for rough urban roads (and shortcuts)
  • Apocalyptic Commuting: Bright LED headlight and taillights, long battery range, and tough construction for commuting anywhere

Aventon Ramblas eMTB Review Overview

As a longtime favorite casual riding brand, Aventon is best known for affordable and reliable fat-tire e-bikes. It’s also made a mark with commuters, offering urban lightweights like the skinny-tire Soltera. All that has changed with the new Aventon Ramblas.

This 2024 release is the company’s first foray into a new market: serious electrified mountain biking. With brand-name componentry and a new, small but powerful mid-drive motor, the Ramblas clearly shows Aventon is looking to branch out into more specialized niches.

As usual, the Ramblas eMTB sports a standard-style hardtail aluminum frame holding the battery in the lower frame spar. It also gave a nod to its typical market of city riders with built-in rear marker lights and an LED headlight. What sets the Ramblas apart, though, is the all-new design, reminiscent of Aventon Aventure models but with a hardtail frame.

Aventon also designed the Ramblas’ small mid-mount motor, rated at just 250 W. It still offers 100 Nm of torque, readily apparent while riding. While most Aventon models include a Class 2 throttle or an option to unlock Class 3 capabilities on the app, the Ramblas is a straight Class 1 design with no throttle and a capped 20 mph top assist speed.

Since Ramblas includes high-performance components from SRAM, RockShox, and KS for the first time, it’s clearly not targeting the typical Aventon clientele of commuters and pleasure riders. Instead, it seems more geared toward people looking to do some serious off-roading.

The $2,699 price point — quite cost-effective for an eMTB — keeps with Aventon’s focus on affordability. It provides a high-quality eMTB option for people not interested in spending a significant amount on a bicycle.

But how does the Ramblas perform in its target environment? Aventon sent eBikes.org a Ramblas model just ahead of the big reveal, and we took it to the hills — and city street — to find out.

What We Like

check icon
Solid up-spec components for serious off-road riding
check icon
Plenty of features for the price, including a dropper post, SRAM brakes, and a RockShox fork
check icon
Surprisingly stout motor that offers incredible power despite its small size
check icon
Adjustable RockShox front suspension for real-deal mountain biking performance
check icon
12-speed rear cassette plus motor for pretty much any situation

What We Don't Like

con icon
Not exactly a lightweight mountain bike at nearly 60 lbs
con icon
Battery cover could be tougher and more secure
con icon
Assembly not for beginners — bike shops may charge extra
con icon
Bottom-mounted front fork compression adjuster seems vulnerable to impact
con icon
Just the one color (Borealis)

Specs: Weight & Dimensions

Weight
56 lbs
Battery weight
7.7 lbs
Rider height range
Sizes S-XL: 5’1” to 6’5”
Max. cargo weight
300 lbs

Specs: Electrical

Battery
708 Wh 36 V; LG 21700 cells
Charge time
6 hrs
Motor
250W
Mid-drive
Aventon A100; IP67 rated
Motor sensor
Torque Sensor
Torque
100 Nm
Safety certifications
UL 2849  More Info

Shipping and Assembly

First, I must commend Aventon for its continued use of recyclable cardboard packaging. The Ramblas seemed to have even less packing material than usual, so points for eco-friendly delivery.

The Ramblas arrived mostly assembled in a typical cardboard bike box. Pieces that usually come attached to Aventon e-bikes, like the reflectors, headlight, and kickstand, were included but not installed. Given the new MTB market, this decision makes sense and allows the user to equip the bike as needed. I left them off during the assembly process, except for the small, well-designed headlight.

The model I received — XL size — also came with the seat unattached, so everything would fit in the box. That gave me the extra step of connecting the saddle to the dropper post, but all other sizes would arrive with the seat installed.

It took me about an hour and a half to put together, but it was well worth it.

Despite the bike coming mostly assembled, it took me the better part of 90 minutes to put it together. I’ve assembled many e-bikes, and this one took almost twice as long as usual. That said, Aventon provides extensive video instruction via a QR code on the manual’s cover.

The most time-consuming steps included the front wheel installation, dropper post connection, and seat installation. They fall more on the more technical side, even with professional tools.

Aventon includes a decent multi-tool in the box for DIYers. However, if you have little or no experience building a bicycle or are admittedly not handy with the needed tools, we strongly suggest getting some support. You can enlist an experienced helper or pay a bike shop to get the Ramblas safely up and running.

Apps and Connectivity

Like most Aventon e-bikes, the Ramblas includes Bluetooth connectivity to the Aventon app. However, there are some extra perks like Ride Tune. This feature allows Ramblas riders to tweak the performance in every ride mode by adjusting assistance level, maximum torque output, and acceleration metrics.

You can save your settings changes to the cloud for easy transfer to a new phone — or simply reset the bike to factory defaults. The application also records ride data, shows battery levels, and automatically adjusts lighting to turn on or off in certain conditions.

How the Aventon Ramblas Performed

Eager to test the Aventon Ramblas’ off-road prowess, I headed for a nearby small mountain biking and BMX facility. The long ride through the city to get there provided ample opportunity to also check out the Ramblas’ talents on pavement and crumbling infrastructure.

Performance: Urban Overview

I pumped the tires up to 40 psi and set the assist mode at Eco, and the Ramblas rode beautifully. It felt confident and controlled on the pavement, fairly whistling down the road at 20 mph — even slightly faster on some light downhill bits as the assist trailed off.

While designed for heavier e-bikes, the RockShox 35 Silver TK performed well and allowed for some urban stunts. Lofting off curbs, bunny hopping up other curbs, and getting a bit of air off driveway rises increased the fun factor of riding through the city.

I quickly felt the bike’s heavier weight when it headed back down to earth. Still, it was far more precise, responsive, and fun to ride than Aventon’s more commuter-focused models.

Performance: Off-Road Overview

Aventon Ramblas Woods Stunt
The Aventon Ramblas was a lot of fun, both on and off the trails.

At the off-road facility, I aired down the tires to about 27 psi and railed the Ramblas through numerous challenges, including winding forest singletrack, downhill freeride sections, and even a pump and stunt track. While I hesitate to call it a scalpel, it’s certainly a sharp enough tool for most riders who like to get in some off-road riding fun.

I also got to test the Ramblas on some less-than-ideal terrain on the ride home. One particular road had bits of mud, gravel and even a sheen of moss in spots, which can be slippery. The pavement ranged from smooth to pock-marked, with shallow potholes and sharp creases.

These different riding environments let the Ramblas show off its diverse capabilities.

Performance: Pedal Assist Modes and the Motor

Whoever tuned Aventon’s motor and assist profiles did their homework. The factory default settings felt the best — especially compared to when I tried to fuss with the motor and assist profiles in the app. In particular, the Trail setting felt spot-on for almost any situation, with smooth engagement and noticeable — but not overwhelming — assistance.

Switching the motor assist to Trail mode pops the torque up to 80 Nm (from 60 Nm in Eco mode), lowers acceleration a bit, and increases the assist to 60%. Only for the most severe climbs did I dial in Turbo’s full 100 Nm boost to conquer an incline.

While I did not expect the Aventon’s A100 motor to be a silent partner, the sound level was a bit louder than expected but far from annoying or disruptive. If anything, it gives an audible clue as to how hard it’s working. That way, you don’t have to peek at the small but sharp and colorful LCD display, which also features a graphical motor output indicator.

Performance: Dropper Post

Aventon Ramblas Studio Seat
The Aventon Ramblas includes a dropper post, which is impressive for the price.

As I mentioned before, installing the dropper post and the small control lever posed quite a challenge. The lever even felt a bit loose during the rides.

Fortunately, I had stuffed the multitool in my shorts and was able to quickly tighten it. It gave no further trouble and allowed me to enjoy the sturdy KS dropper post with quick, silent action — quite a treat on an e-bike at this price point.

Performance: Hill Climb Test

The SRAM NX Eagle rear cassette dropped to granny gear as the climb began, and the motor went to Eco mode. However, I had to click up two gears as the torque (set to factory specifications) boosted the Ramblas up the long climb to between 11 and 13 miles an hour with seated but purposeful effort on the pedals.

On a steep section, I turned off the assist, dropped the KS post, and stood on the pedals for some additional cardio — and that’s when Ramblas’ weight became most apparent. However, returning to Eco mode boosted the speed, and I returned to a seated position to finish the ascent.

Considering the motor’s small size, it’s remarkably powerful and well-mannered, with smooth engagement and no slop in the pedals. It appears Aventon did the needed R&D before finalizing the production specs.

The second round up the hill, I set the motor at Turbo and gave a moderate effort pedaling, this time reaching 14-17 mph as the motor whirred along at peak power.

Attempt #PAS LevelAvg. Speed
1Eco11 mph
2Turbo16 mph
Tester: Will Roberson, 6’1″, 220 lbs
The Ramblas’ hill test was done on a paved road about ⅚ of a mile long, with a grade varying between 6% and 10% with some short flat sections. It had an approximately 700-foot elevation gain over a trail just under a mile long.

Performance: Brake Test

The braking power on the Ramblas was excellent, with the SRAM rotors never fading or squealing during aggressive use. Feel and feedback through the lever are good, with most braking requiring only one or two fingers on the lever.

Heading down the singletrack hills at the ride park proved that the SRAM brake rotors and single-pot calipers are perfectly capable of slowing the Ramblas and rider in a controlled fashion with good feedback through the lever. I didn’t encounter any brake fade, but the riding area was not pro-level steep either.

Even on the roughest and steepest outdoor paths I rode home, the Ramblas felt secure and planted. With the SRAM cassette in top gear and pedals turning quickly, I topped 40 mph downhill before completing a sharp but banked 90-degree turn. The Ramblas railed through the turn at speed after a soft touch on the SRAM brakes, which never squealed or faded during the test rides.

The 2.4-inch wide Maxxis Rekon tires also have a very good bite. However, they can be overwhelmed with thick mud, leading to a bit of slip until a few rotations clear some tread.

The only adjustment made to the Ramblas during the test rides was a slight handlebar rotation to allow better braking control while riding in the standover position.

Performance: Range and Battery Test

Aventon claims the range reaches 80 miles. While that seems overly optimistic, the battery did perform better than expected during my brief review period (although I did not run it to complete exhaustion). It would be fair to expect 50 miles of assist range in mixed riding, perhaps more if mostly using Eco mode.

After biking all the way to the BMX facility and starting the trek home, the battery read 60%. It dropped to 50% after the first hill test. I then rode through another hill test in Turbo mode before switching to Trail mode and turning on the head and taillights for the ride home.

After hours of mixed riding, the battery meter read 22%, an impressive display of both capacity and battery management by the Ramblas’ power management systems.

Things to Consider

For more experienced mountain bike riders looking to go electric, the Aventon Ramblas may underwhelm — especially considering the broad offerings currently available. Yes, it includes some clear upgrades from Aventon’s more utilitarian rigs, but even the SRAM bits and RockShox 35 fork may not meet experienced off-road cyclists’ expectations.

Another potential issue is the weight. Aventon prioritized strength and durability, so the Ramblas totals nearly 60 pounds. It may not be a dealbreaker, but it’s certainly something to keep in mind.

On top of that, there are a few details that could use some improvements. The plastic battery cover, for example, feels cheap and unlatches perhaps a bit too easily. That said, it stayed in place during the aggressive ride.

Aventon Ramblas eMTB Review: Takeaway

The Aventon Ramblas is a capable, comfortable, and fun off-road e-bike that can both tame singletracks and conquer urban challenges. The tiny motor produces surprising power, while the SRAM component set offers a pro-gear feel that’s a clear step up from Aventon’s commuter offerings.

While not ideal for professional mountain biking, the Ramblas allows riders to enjoy aggressive off-roading and daily urban use. Although I hesitate to press it into commuter duty, it certainly could do the job with its flexibility and included lights. It may also appeal to other riders like me, who used to mountain bike decades ago and are now looking for a way to get back in the MTB saddle.

Overall, the Aventon Ramblas offers a cohesive, high-value package of power, components, and ride dynamics for a very budget-friendly price.

Specs & Components

Number of Pedal Assist Levels
3: Eco, Trail, and Turbo
Display
LCD smart display with backlight; more compact version of the Aventon Full Color Display; app connectivity via Bluetooth
Taillight
Dual rear red LED taillights built into frame; no brake light function; auto on/off ability in darkness (tested)
App
“Aventon,” available on iOS and Android
Charger
42 V, 4 A Aventon charger
Wheel Size
27.5”x2.4” (S); 29”x2.4” (M-XL)
Tire Brand + Model
Maxxis Rekon
Brake Brand
SRAM DB8
Brake Type
Hydraulic disc
Rotor Size
200 mm (front); 180 mm (rear)
Front Suspension Brand
RockShox 35 Silver TK
Front Travel Amount
130 mm
Shifter Brand + Model
SRAM NX Eagle 1x12 single click
Derailleur Brand + Model
SRAM NX Eagle 1x12
Cassette Size
11-50 t
Chain Ring Size
SRAM Nx 34 t
Crank Arm Length
165 mm
Frame
6061 single-butted aluminum alloy

The specs above come from the manufacturer and may vary from what you’ve experienced. Notice something that needs correcting? Let us know.

Ratings

Power
5/5
5

Don’t be put off by the motor’s small size and 250 W rating. The 100 Nm of torque powers the Ramblas up hills, even in Eco mode. Engagement is smooth and unobtrusive in all modes.

Range
5/5
5

Big bike, big battery. I spent most of the day riding through the city and on trails and still had power remaining in the battery. While not the best choice for a commuter bike, it has the range for a long round trip if needed.

Comfort
5/5
5

The included dropper post makes a big difference, allowing instant adjustment for blasting down a trail or pedaling through town. Even the seat was comfortable on long rides. The XL frame geometry was just about perfect for me.

Durability
4/5
4

Overall, the Ramblas feels very sturdy. However, the thin plastic cover over the battery compartment and the latch seem weak. The bottom-mounted adjuster on the fork also might be vulnerable to impact damage.

Style
3.5/5
3.5

The Ramblas isn’t the prettiest eMTB ever offered, nor is it ugly. The single color (Borealis) looks good, offering subtle shifts in sunlight. The large downtube betrays its electric nature but is also an Aventon trademark of sorts. More color options would be nice.

Our Research Methodology

We personally research and test every e-bike featured in our reviews and guides to provide accurate, data-driven recommendations. Learn how we review.

About Our Editorial Team

Will Roberson
Written by Will Roberson
Electric Bike Enthusiast
Will Roberson is a transportation technologies writer in Portland, Oregon, and writes for many publications about e-bikes, motorcycles, cars, and new transportation technologies. He got his first e-bike in 2016 and never looked back.
ashley reid headshot
Edited by Ashley Reid
Managing Editor
Ashley is a professional writer, editor, and teacher with over ten years of experience. Her real passion is traveling — and biking — around the world.

E-Bikes From the Same Brand

Aventon Sinch.2
All Terrain, Fat-tire, Folding, Step-thru
4
4
Rating
55 mi
Range
Rear Hub
Motor
Aventon Aventure.2
All Terrain, City, Fat-tire
4.4
4.4
Rating
60 mi
Range
Rear Hub
Motor
Aventon Pace 500.2
City, Commuter, Road
4.5
4.5
Rating
48 mi
Range
Rear Hub
Motor
Aventon Level.2
Cargo, City, Commuter, Touring
3.6
3.6
Rating
42 mi
Range
Rear Hub
Motor
Aventon Sinch
All Terrain, City, Commuter, Folding
3.7
3.7
Rating
40 mi
Range
Rear Hub
Motor
Aventon Soltera Step-Through
City, Commuter, Step-thru
3.6
3.6
Rating
41 mi
Range
Rear Hub
Motor
These ads keep the power on

Reviews of E-Bikes for Similar Activities

Ride1Up CF Racer1
All Terrain, City, Commuter, Gravel, Road
4.2
4.2
Rating
24 mi
Range
Rear Hub
Motor
Heybike Tyson
All Terrain, City, Commuter, Road
4.5
4.5
Rating
55 mi
Range
Rear Hub
Motor
QuietKat Lynx
All Terrain, City, Fat-tire
4.1
4.1
Rating
35 mi
Range
Rear Hub
Motor

Other E-Bike Reviews

Heybike Tyson
All Terrain, City, Commuter, Road
4.5
4.5
Rating
55 mi
Range
Rear Hub
Motor
Kona Coco HD
Beach Cruiser, Commuter, Step-thru
4.7
4.7
Rating
50 mi
Range
Rear Hub
Motor
TENWAYS CGO800S
City, Commuter, Step-thru
4.8
4.8
Rating
48 mi
Range
Rear Hub
Motor

Be The First To Know

Sign up for eBikes.org emails to be the first to see reviews, news, and exclusive deals and discounts from e-bike brands.