I have a few questions before purchasing.

[breadfan85]

Thanks in advance for any help. Does the 500 frame accommodate aftermarket accessories like cafe locks, racks, fenders, etc? Is it possible to adjust the assist levels so that PAS 1 is a little smoother? Can you recommend a suspension fork that is compatible?

 

[breadfan85]

Yes, no, and no.

Thanks Mike!

 

[Deleted member 4210]

Unfortunately the type of raked design they use for a fork, it does not lend itself to a suspension design. Aventon said they looked into it, after a number of requests, and found it best not to pursue further.

They will very soon launch a new model that will have a suspension fork. It'll be announced at the San Diego CABDA west show. Looks like a nice commuter design. Bigger battery than the 500, and includes rack, and fenders. Dealers will likely have in stock by early March. Possibly sooner.

 

[breadfan85]

This is very useful information, Mike! Thank you. Part of my dilemma is also deciding whether to buy now, or wait til all the 2020 models are available. In general, not regarding Aventon, specifically. What's your opinion on that?

 

[Bigal1463]

i just saw the Aventon Level. It is a two tone beauty with fenders and a rear rack with a front suspension and a larger battery. Definitely worth the $300. increase.

 

[breadfan85]

Yes, I'm seriously considering it. Especially because they have a store where I'm moving to, and they're pretty much the only brand I'm looking at that does. The only drawbacks I can see to it are the lack of integrated lights, but that might actually be a good thing, and the way the throttle and PAS don't kick in until you start pedaling and I've heard it can be a bit jerky at the start too, like the Pace 500. I've heard rumors that that can be changed though if you can get ahold of a programming device, which I can't imagine is hard to do. I'm also considering the VanMoof S3, but they don't have a store here, or where I'm moving to. Although, they do offer free shipping to and from their nearest store, and can also send you parts and help you do repairs yourself via video call, which I'm fine with as long as the parts don't take too long to ship. Have you heard of this bike? What are your impressions?

 

[Alex M]

... the throttle and PAS don't kick in until you start pedaling and I've heard it can be a bit jerky at the start too, like the Pace 500. I've heard rumors that that can be changed though if you can get ahold of a programming device, which I can't imagine is hard to do.

Changing max power at PAS 1 and making it start PAS or throttle without 1/2 pedal revolution would require something like KT LCD3 display. The controller must be capable of programming.

Not sure whether Pace controller is capable. If it's not, then you need both KT LCD3 and a new controller, the kit cost about $200 from Bolton or Aliexpress. Haven't heard anybody trying this kit on Pace, but should be possible. I would think twice before deleting that 1/2 pedal revolution - it is there to prevent an accidental start and also to protect the motor.