Choosing between Aventon Pace 500.2 and 350.2 Electric Bikes
November 4, 2019
Aventon manufactures two ebikes in our top-rated Pace line, the 500.2 and 350.2. One of the most common questions we receive from customers is “How do I choose between the Pace 500.2 and 350.2?”
First we’ll cover the similarities, then review each model’s distinct advantages. Read on to learn how to choose between the Pace 500.2 and Pace 350.2:
How fast do you want to go, and what's the law in your state?
The key difference between the Pace 500.2 and 350.2 is speed. Both the Pace 500.2 and 350.2 ship as Class II ebikes, equipped with a throttle and pedal assist that both reach a maximum speed of 20 MPH. Pace 500.2 is the only ebike in this line that can be modified into a Class III ebike, reaching a top speed of 28 MPH on pedal assist only.
As mentioned earlier, both the Pace 500.2 and 350.2 have a throttle that’s capable of reaching a top speed of 20 MPH without pedaling. One major difference is that the Pace 500.2 uses a 48-volt system with a 500-watt motor, compared to the 36-volt and 350-watt system on Pace 350.2. This allows Pace 500.2 to produce more torque and accelerate faster.
To sum, riders who want to go as fast as possible will appreciate the Pace 500.2’s extra power. Riders who don’t want to go that fast yet still want the look and performance of a cruiser style ebike can save some dollars with the more economical Pace 350.2.
It’s important to also know that some states restrict the use of certain classes of ebikes. For example, Class II ebikes might be allowed in your location, but not Class III ebikes. So, always check your local laws when deciding between the Pace 500.2 or 350.2 ebike.
What terrain will you be cycling in?
The performance of an ebike, on varying terrains, will vary depending on rider weight, steepness of the terrain, and how much the rider contributes with their pedaling power. Throughout flat terrain, both the Pace 500.2 and 350.2 will easily get most riders up to 20 MPH on pedal-assist. While they can both effortlessly climb hills, heavier riders who often ride on steep, hilly terrain may appreciate the extra power and torque of the Pace 500.2, which can maintain a higher top speed on steep hills for longer than the Pace 350.2 can. Not to mention, the Pace 500.2 is equipped with 8 gears in comparison to the Pace 350.2’s 7 gears. While 7-speed systems are generally a standard gearing mechanism on ebikes, making them great for casual riders, having that additional gear on the Pace 500.2 will give riders a bit more flexibility with speed and smoother transitions when shifting in hillier terrains.
What's your skill level?
Pace 500.2 has a more powerful motor that produces more torque than the Pace 350.2. Meaning, it accelerates faster and reaches top speed sooner. More skilled riders who want to ride as fast as possible will appreciate the extra power of the Pace 500.2. Casual riders who aren’t comfortable with higher top speeds and faster acceleration may be better served by the Pace 350.2; It still has plenty of power but takes slightly longer to reach its top speed, making it easier for new riders, lapsed riders, those with injuries or poor flexibility, or balance issues discover their pace.
Are you looking for adjustable features?
Both the Pace 500.2 and 350.2 have sweptback-style handlebars which provide riders with the most comfortable riding posture possible: relaxed shoulders and minimal wrist pain. The Pace 500.2 is the only Aventon ebike to arrive with a pre-installed adjustable stem; Adjusting the stem angle allows riders to either lower or raise their handlebar to find their most comfortable fit.
Will you be riding in or near traffic?
Ebikes can help many riders feel more comfortable when sharing roads or riding near automobile traffic. If you often ride alongside cars, you might appreciate the higher top speed of the Pace 500.2 (28 MPH) vs. Pace 350.2 (factory set at 20 MPH) since the additional speed can help you keep up with car traffic. Keeping up with car traffic can allow you to “take the lane,” preventing unsafe passing when the road is too narrow to accommodate both a bike and a car at the same time. If you often ride where you share space with other cyclists and pedestrians, Pace 500.2 might be too fast. The Pace 350.2 might be a better match for casual bike paths, downtown sidewalks, or beach boardwalks.
Do you need big braking power?
Larger, heavier riders may appreciate the extra stopping power that comes with the hydraulic disc brakes that are used on the Pace 500.2. Using mechanical disc brakes, the Pace 350.2 still has plenty of braking power for most riders, but the Pace 500.2 is a better bet for bigger riders and those who ride at higher speeds.
What do the Pace 500.2 and 350.2 have in common?
Pace 500.2 and 350.2 models are both cruiser style ebikes that feature a sweptback style handlebar, situating riders in a comfortable and relaxed, upright riding position. They are among our lightest electric bikes, with the Pace 500.2 weighing 52lbs and the Pace 350.2 weighing 49lbs. Upgraded with Aventon’s latest features, both models come with a sleek, integrated battery, a front headlight, rear brake lights, a thumb throttle that can activate from a complete stop, and the Aventon Full Color Display. Both Pace.2 models come in multiple sizes and frame styles, so whether you find a Step-through ebike more comfortable than a step-over electric bike, the choice to find your perfect pace is ultimately in your hands.
