Depending on the e-bike and its features, the subject of ride quality can be relatively simple or decidedly complex. The Level 4 REC, with all of its customization options, security features, riding modes, and integrated technology, is firmly on the latter side. Regardless, it manages to excel in nearly all areas we will discuss.
Beginning with sizing, Aventon offers the Level 4 REC in two frame styles—high-step (HS) and step-thru (ST)—with two size options for each. The ST model, intended for shorter riders, has options for riders between 4’11” and 6’1”, while the HS frame has a recommended height range from 5’3” to 6’4”.
I tested the L/XL ST model, intended for those between 5’7” and 6’1”. At 5’11”, I am near the top end of its recommended range, and while I could tell this primarily by the frame’s reach distance, I found the bike comfortable and well-fitting. There was enough room in the seatpost to set proper saddle height for riders slightly taller than I, and I appreciated that the adjustable stem allowed me to find a comfortable and practical handlebar position.
Handling felt sharp and crisp; I could feel the bike’s weight keeping it planted while riding, but it was more nimble than I expected from its size. Its agility was well-balanced by the stability of its 2.2”-wide tires, and the Level’s overall feel matched its sporty looks and riding position.
Like the previous-gen model, the REC is equipped with both a suspension fork and seatpost. The fork’s 80mm of travel and the seatpost’s 50mm of cushion felt appropriate for its style, effectively smoothing cracks, small bumps, and rough pavement. I also liked the custom sport-style saddle and ergonomic rubber grips, which felt comfortable without being too large or chunky.
As mentioned previously, the bike’s motor felt strong, lively, and responsive. At minimum, it provided reserved yet impactful power, effectively making pedaling both active and enjoyable. At maximum, cruising could be fast, rewarding, and extremely low-effort. In all cases, it responded smoothly and quickly, making the ride intuitive and fun.
The Level 4 REC includes a color display with a clean new user interface. It pairs an easily readable display and a squared control panel with rubberized buttons. Riders can scroll through multiple pages of ride data, adjust pedal assist levels, activate lights and turn signals, or engage walk mode via these controls. There’s a fair amount of information to absorb, but it’s also relatively intuitive and easy to grasp.
Riders can also use the control panel to access the Level’s settings menu, where they can then pair with the Aventon app, release the battery lock for removal, engage and disengage the wheel lock, etc.
Once paired with the Aventon app, Level 4 REC users have access to the full scope of its features, including speed adjustment, motor tuning, location tracking, and beyond. I’ll give a brief description of some of the major elements below:
RideTune: this feature allows users to tailor the power and responsiveness of each pedal assist level (Eco, Sport, and Turbo) using sliders for the Torque, Assistance (peak watts), and Pedal Response parameters.
Regenerative Braking: there are two modes for this feature that can be enabled/disabled and adjusted separately. Braking Regen allows energy to be recovered when the brake levers are squeezed, while Coasting Regen automatically slows the bike when coasting to engage the recovery mode.
Display Customization: riders can choose which ride data metrics are displayed on the screen’s scrollable pages. Up to three metrics can be displayed on a single page, and users can alter, reorder, or add/remove pages as desired.
GO: this central button starts a ride tracking feature. Rides can be tracked in the Rides tab, synced with other apps (Strava and Apple Health) for fitness, or shared with a community of other Aventon riders via the Discover panel.
Security & Anti-Theft: this menu offers options for the Level 4 REC’s security and 4G-enabled location tracking system. When enabled (free for the first year and then $20 annually), it allows users to see their bike’s location, remotely deactivate the bike, set the sensitivity and alarm function of its motion detection system, etc.
Geofencing: users can set boundaries via GPS, either to contain the bike or discourage riders from entering certain areas. When inside a restricted area or outside of an allowed area, the bike’s pedal assist system does not function, and its alarm sounds when enabled.
All in all, the features listed above make owning the Level 4 REC one of the most secure and connected e-bikes in its price range. Considering that e-bikes are such a significant investment for many riders—especially those commuting by bike daily—we greatly value the inclusion of these features for both peace of mind and overall functionality.
My only real critique of the Level 4 REC is its weight of around 71 lbs. While I don’t feel that its performance is negatively affected by this aspect of the bike, it can be somewhat cumbersome to move around or lift onto a bike rack.
Otherwise, the bike offers an impressive selection of qualities and features that I believe most commuters will appreciate. The REC is speedy, sporty, comfortable, high-tech, nimble, responsive, and well-equipped for its purpose. Simply put, the bike’s overall ride quality is great.
