VanMoof Alternative: Should I Consider Aventon Instead?
October 16, 2023
Looking good doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, after examining 7,100 reviews, a VanMoof ebike typically translated to an additional upfront cost of around $1,550 and an ongoing monthly expense of $250 on average compared to an Aventon ebike. Plus, service wait times for a VanMoof ebike took 2-3 months. With Aventon’s 1,000+ dealers in the US as compared to VanMoof’s 11, riders have the convenience to get assistance with immediate maintenance needs.
Unfortunately, due to a significant increase in maintenance problems and a shortage of service centers, VanMoof filed for bankruptcy in July of 2023. However, there is positive news suggesting that they are preparing for a comeback in the bicycle market.
After comparing VanMoof to Aventon, we’ll be comparing the following models:
Key Differentiators
Aventon | | VanMoof |
| 1000+ Nationwide | Service DealersWaiting a month for simple repairs seems excessive. Find nearby service and support when you need it most to get you back on the road faster. | Less than 10 in USA |
| 2-year | WarrantyGet more protection for the long road ahead. Servicing your ebike could get real expensive, real fast. Imagine shipping your bike with a 50 cent repair now becoming a $200 fix because it wasn’t covered by a longer warranty. | 1-year |
| TUV | CertificationAftermarket components that haven’t been rigorously tested to the proper safety requirements may lead to unforeseen circumstances, such as faulty components, or even worse, ebike fires. Certification ensures quality and reliability you can rely on. | Self-certified |
| Free | Ebike ShippingShipping costs can be deceptive and tend to fluctuate depending on the shipping zone. Add delays into the mix and it can have a huge effect on your ebike purchasing experience. Aventon ebikes ship free within 2 weeks nationwide. | Up To $150 |
| Yes | Removable BatteryWith a removable battery you can charge it wherever, whenever, and be back on the road in no time. | No |
| Full Color Display | DisplayNo smartphone necessary. Get real time riding metrics right from your handlebars without the added costs of extra accessories. Connect to the Aventon app to track routes, connect with friends, and unlock rewards points for more savings. The Halo Ring only lights up for battery life and current speed. | Halo Ring Interface |
| 7/12
| Suspension ForksTiny holes on and off the road can be a big problem without suspension. Let your shoulders relax when riding on rough roads around town. | 0/5 |
* The information found in this article is accurate as of October 2023.
VanMoof S3 & S4 vs. Soltera
Reliability is an integral part of rolling around the city on two wheels. When you’re on the go, you want to ride assured your ebike has the right technology for smoother rolling wherever the streets take you.
At more than double Soltera’s price tag of $1,199, VanMoof S3 and VanMoof S4 riders have expressed frustrations with recurring technical issues, specifically the automatic shifter and haloring error codes.
Get more for less with Soltera, including:
$1,199 price tag vs VanMoof S3 and VanMoof S4's $2,298, saving you $1,099 on total cost.
-
Soltera’s torque sensor provides a smoother riding experience than VanMoof’s cadence sensor. This is especially valuable for first-time ebike owners who want the same pedaling feel as a traditional bike.
-
-
Built-in turn-signals are safety tech that provides riders with extra confidence when riding on the streets, day or night. The VanMoof S3 & S4 don't have turn signals.
-
Thumb Throttle gives rider’s the option to take a break from pedaling when they want. The VanMoof S3 and VanMoof S4 don’t give you a choice.
-
Agile, Lightweight Frame at only 41 lbs, the Soltera offers more control and better handling compared to the VanMoof S3’s 46.3 lbs and the VanMoof S4’s 47.6 lbs. The 5-pound difference in weight is similar to that of a cast iron skillet.
Soltera’s 7-speed drivetrain is rideability you can rely on, offering smooth shifting from gear to gear as compared to VanMoof’s automatic shifter consistently having issues changing gears.
VanMoof S5 vs. Aventon Pace
Easy assembly and comfortable riding at the price of $1,899, has made the Pace 500 a rider’s favorite in the Aventon line-up. But if curb appeal is what you're after for $3,998, then the VanMoof S5 will be worth the wait from delayed shipping.
Pace touts:
-
Pace’s 500 watt rear hub motor doubles the power output of VanMoof S5’s 250 watt motor, allowing you to go faster on flat roads and climb hills with ease. No wonder VanMoof S5 riders have expressed that their bikes have weak pedal assist levels.
-
-
Built-in turn signals provide Pace riders with the confidence they need to communicate clearly from the bike lane and beyond any time of day. The VanMoof S5 doesn’t have turn signals.
-
Thumb Throttle will let the bike do most of the work once in a while, if you want. Sometimes a longer ride calls for just cruising. VanMoof S5 doesn’t give you the option.
-
Pace’s 8-speed drivetrain lets you take control of how you ride, compared to VanMoof S5’s 3-speed automatic shifter that has been said to break down easily.
-
Multiple Frame Sizes - One-size doesn’t not fit all. Find more comfort in the way you ride by choosing the right size ebike with Pace’s four size options. VanMoof only offers one.
-
A step-through frame option gives more riders the opportunity to say “yes” to the opportunity of longer, more comfortable rides. Pace.3’s makes it easier for people with physical limitations to get in the saddle and ride, where VanMoof doesn’t.
VanMoof X3 vs. Soltera
Consistency in product quality is key when it comes to trusting a brand, especially if you're paying a high price. The Soltera costs only $1,199, and provides a smooth ride with responsive handling in all the right ways. For a price tag of $2,448, VanMoof X3 riders have commented about frequent technical issues, and inconsistencies in quality.
Soltera owns the road with:
$1,199 price tag vs VanMoof X3 's $2,448, saving you $1,249 on total cost.
-
Soltera.s torque sensor provides riders with a smooth ride, similar to a traditional bike, the whole ride through. The VanMoof X3’s cadence sensor uses a prescribed amount of assistance that loses pedaling power past its output limit.
-
-
Soltera has built-in turn signals. The VanMoof X3 doesn’t. Invest in safety tech that’ll have you change lanes with confidence any time of day.
-
Thumb Throttle - It’s nice to have options. Should you need a break from pedaling through the city, simply thumb-down on the throttle and let Soltera take over.
-
Agile, Lightweight Frame - The Soltera is a lighter, more agile ride weighing only 41 lbs, while the VanMoof X3 weighs 46.3 lbs. That five pound difference is like a sack of potatoes. Stay nimble.
7-speed Drivetrain - When you get to choose which gear you're riding in, it leaves less room for shifting issues. VanMoof rider’s have had constant issues with the 4-speed automatic shifter. The Soltera gives you seven options to tackle any route, hills or no hills.
VanMoof A5 vs. Level
For only $1,899, Aventon’s Level commuter ebike comes equipped with everything you need to make the long ride feel more like a roll around the block.
While the VanMoof A5 does have some flashy features, its ticket price of $3,995 comes with the possibility of upwards of $500 in additional costs if something goes wrong. Let’s see what all the fuss is about.
Level is the ultimate commuter ebike with:
-
500 watt rear hub motor - Paying a high price for performance with the VanMoof A5, and not seeing results? Level’s powerful motor provides a smooth ride with responsive pedal assist levels, making the ride feel like a regular bike with a boost. The VanMoof A5’s 250 watt motor doesn’t quite compare.
-
-
Turn-signals - Invest in safety tech that’ll enhance your confidence on the road by communicating clearly from the bike lane and beyond any time of day.
-
8-speed drivetrain - Wondering if your ebike will be able to automatically shift gears in the middle of a steep hill? Leave the guessing out of the equation. With eight gears to choose from, the Level puts you in control of how you ride.
-
Thumb Throttle - Need to rest a little? There’s no shame in that. That’s what the throttle is there for, so you can sit back and enjoy the ride. VanMoof A5 doesn’t have a throttle.
-
Multiple Frame Sizes - The Level’s durable frame comes in four different size options to add more comfort to your ride while the VanMoof A5 only comes in one.
-
Color Options - Need more color in your life? The VanMoof A5 comes in only two shades of gray, while the Level adds a brighter side to the ride with Glacier Blue, Himalayan Pink, and Polar White.
VanMoof X4 vs. Level
Ensuring your ebike can provide peace of mind on the ride to work and back is an important part of the buying process. The Level priced at $1,899 comes with power and performance for your daily commute. For $2,468, the VanMoof X4 has its rider’s concerned about the inconsistent quality.
Level can go the distance with:
-
500 Watt Rear Hub Motor - The Level’s rear hub motor has twice the power compared to VanMoof’s 250 watt motor. This extra power gives a boost the whole ride through. VanMoof A4 riders have complained they don’t get enough power in their pedal assistance.
-
-
Thumb Throttle - Pedaling is an option with the Level. Its thumb throttle will do the work for you if you need a break. Our competitors don’t even give you a choice.
-
8-speed drivetrain - Trusting your ebike is an important part of the ride. The Level’s 8-speed drivetrain will shift smoothly on flat roads or up steep hills. We can’t say the same for the VanMoof A4’s automatic 2-speed shifter that riders have expressed tends to break mid-ride.
-
Multiple Frame Sizes - We believe you should feel comfortable every time you ride. With 4 different sized frame options, the Level’s durable frame accommodates. The VanMoof A5’s one size doesn't seem like it does.
Color Options - Express yourself with Level’s four different colors: Glacier Blue, Himalayan Pink, Clay and Polar White. The VanMoof A4 only gives you two options, gray or dark gray.
Electric Mountain Bike (eMTB) Models
Ramblas, priced at $2,899, is Aventon's first electric mountain bike. It features a custom-tunable, smart mid-drive motor and quality components for comfort on any terrain. Enjoy every ride, from rugged trails to city streets.
Ramblas boasts:
-
250W Mid Drive Motor - The Aventon A100 mid drive motor with app tune capabilities was designed to give riders full control over their riding experience. Tune it to how you use it, and let the bike do the rest.
-
20 mph Top Speed - A top speed of 20 mph means you can cut through trails faster than ever before. Plus, going fast is more fun.
-
Up To 80 Miles In Range - Ride farther than ever before on trail or road without worrying about range anxiety. With up to 80 miles in range you can make it there and back and there again, no sweat.
-
Torque Sensor - Smooth riding at its finest. A torque sensor has a natural feel, while amplifying your pedaling efforts. This can ultimately extend range and conserve battery life for more riding fun.
-
12-Speed Drivetrain - The Ramblas is outfitted with a Sram NX 12-speed drivetrain, enhancing hill-climbing and speed on flat terrain for greater efficiency.
-
Hardtail Frame - The Ramblas' hardtail frame is perfect for all-terrain adventures, offering a lightweight, durable, and reliable build for mountain trails and rugged roads.
-
Versatile Pedal Assist - Choose from three pedal assist modes: eco, trail, and turbo. Boost your mountain and street rides with a top speed of 20 mph and an 80-mile range.
-
High-Performance Brakes - Navigate steep inclines and loose terrain confidently with the Ramblas’ Sram DB8 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes, offering enhanced modulation for reliable stopping power.
-
Superior Fork Suspension - The Rockshox 35 suspension with 130mm travel on the Ramblas provides comfort on the toughest terrains. Smoothly roll over obstacles and let the suspension handle the rough patches.
-
Adjustable Dropper Post - The Ramblas features a dropper post for improved control and comfort. Adjust it easily from the handlebars for better maneuverability on steep or technical terrains, or optimize it for efficient riding positions.
Aventon Foldable Models
Not enough storage space for an ebike? Our foldable Sinch can fit just about any place most ebikes can’t. Perfectly priced at $1,699, you can make more room for adventures on or off the road. Our competitor, VanMoof, doesn’t offer a foldable frame.
Sinch is the best road sidekick with:
-
500 Watt Rear Hub Motor - The Sinch’s powerful motor can propel your pedaling to new levels. Shift between four levels of pedal assist that will give you a boost wherever the road takes you.
-
20 mph Top Speed - Sinch can make your rides go by quicker than a traditional bike with a fast top speed.
-
Torque Sensor - Looking for a more comfortable and traditional bike-like riding experience? The Sinch's torque sensor delivers a familiar feel and helps extend your riding range up to 55 miles.
-
Built-in turn signals - Enhance your road confidence with the latest safety technology that ensures clear communication, day or night, whether you're in the bike lane or beyond.
-
Thumb Throttle - Use the Sinch’s thumb throttle and take a break from pedaling. It’s great to have options. In contrast, VanMoof doesn't even give you a choice.
8-speed Drivetrain - Having trust in your ebike is crucial during your ride. The Sinch's 8-speed drivetrain ensures smooth shifting, adapting seamlessly to the road conditions you encounter.
Aventon Fat Tire Models
Craving more off-road adventures in your life? With the Aventure priced at just $1,999, its 4-inch fat tires, powerful motor, and torque sensor can take you places street bikes can only dream of. Blaze your own trail, whether you're venturing off-road or navigating the city streets, to unlock new horizons.
Aventure goes off-road and much more with:
-
750 Watt Rear Hub Motor - The robust motor of the Aventure can elevate your pedaling experience to greater heights. Switch between four levels of pedal assist, providing you with an extra boost on your journey, regardless of your route.
-
20 mph Top Speed - Aventure’s top speed of 20 mph can make every ride feel like an adventure. Go farther, faster, then keep going.
-
Torque Sensor - Enjoy a more comfortable biking experience on your next off-road journey. The Adventure features a torque sensor that provides that traditional bike feel while extending your riding range up to 60 miles.
-
Built-in turn signals - Boost riding confidence with cutting-edge safety technology. Communicate clearly, day or night, from on the bike lane or exploring off-road trails.
-
Thumb Throttle - Utilize the Aventure's thumb throttle to take a break from pedaling. It’s wonderful to have a choice on long off-road adventures.
8-speed Drivetrain - Confidence in your ebike is paramount on your journey. The Aventure's 8-speed drivetrain guarantees effortless gear shifts, effortlessly adapting to the changing road terrain.
Aventon Cargo Models
Abound, priced at $1,999, is a cargo ebike designed for safety and comfort, whether you're riding during the day or at night. This bike features a torque sensor for a smoother ride, built-in turn signals to boost your confidence on daily journeys, 50mm of suspension travel for enhanced comfort, and ample storage capacity to ensure a smooth and secure transport of both you and your valuable cargo to your destination.
Abound will haul your precious cargo with:
-
Torque Sensor - Enjoy a more comfortable biking experience on your next off-road journey. Abound features a torque sensor that provides that traditional bike feel while extending your riding range up to 50 miles.
-
Integrated lights with built-in turn signals - Boost riding confidence with cutting-edge safety technology. Communicate clearly, day or night, from on the bike lane or exploring off-road trails.
-
7-speed Drivetrain - Confidence in your ebike is paramount on your journey. The Abound’s 7-speed drivetrain guarantees effortless gear shifts, effortlessly adapting to the changing road terrain.
-
50mm of suspension travel provides extra comfort while hauling your precious cargo all over town.
-
A step-through frame option gives more riders the opportunity to say “yes” to the opportunity of longer, more comfortable rides. Abound makes it easier for commuters, delivery services or anyone with physical limitations to get in the saddle and ride.
-
Reliable hydraulic brakes - Abound comes with quality components for precision brakes for when you need to stop on a dime.
