Dr. Naomi Lin
When I first saw the price tag for Aventon’s Ramblas, their latest electric mountain bike, I couldn’t help but wonder how they managed to keep the cost so low. At $2,699, it is significantly cheaper than most top-of-the-line e-MTBs which can easily reach prices upwards of $15,000. The absence of a rear shock can’t be the sole explanation for such a huge price difference.
Aventon, a company that has been in operation since 2013, initially focused on manufacturing fixies in Long Beach, California. However, in 2017, they made a strategic pivot into the commuter ebike market. Now, based in Ontario, California, Aventon does nearly everything in-house, from engineering and development to manufacturing their own frames. In fact, they even designed their own mid-drive motor for the Ramblas.
This vertical integration allows Aventon to eliminate the middleman and achieve higher production volumes compared to their competitors. As a result, they are able to offer their bikes at much more affordable prices to consumers. While they work with over 1,500 bike shops across the nation, Aventon also sells directly to consumers, making their products even more accessible.
When I had the opportunity to test ride the Ramblas, I was immediately impressed by its well-designed components. Equipped with a Rockshox 35 suspension fork with 130 mm of travel, a Sram NX 12-speed drivetrain, and Sram DB-8 hydraulic disc brakes, the bike offered a high level of performance and control. Additionally, it featured a dropper seat post and built-in front and rear lights.
The e-components of the Ramblas were equally impressive. It utilized an Aventon 708-watt-hour rechargeable lithium-ion battery and a brand-new Aventon-designed A100 mid-drive motor. This motor offered 250 watts of sustained power and 750 watts of peak power, with the ability to customize its settings through a companion app.
During my test ride, in which I covered a 25-mile loop of mixed terrain, the Ramblas delivered a smooth and consistent power output. Even in Eco mode, the lowest power setting, the bike provided ample assistance on steep climbs without the need to switch to higher power modes. This was thanks to the A100 motor’s impressive torque of 100 newton meters, surpassing that of many other e-MTB motors on the market.
While the Ramblas does weigh 52 pounds with a medium frame, its range proved to be exceptional. After 25 miles of riding, the battery still had 70 percent of its charge remaining, aligning with Aventon’s claim of an 80-mile range.
Aventon has truly disrupted the electric mountain bike market with the Ramblas. By combining their in-house manufacturing capabilities, affordability, and impressive performance, they have made high-quality e-MTBs more accessible to a wider range of riders. The Ramblas is a game-changer, proving that you don’t need to break the bank to experience the thrill of electric mountain biking.
The electric mountain bike (e-MTB) industry has seen significant growth in recent years, with more and more riders embracing the benefits of electric assistance for off-road adventures. Aventon’s Ramblas stands out in this rapidly expanding market, offering a high-quality e-MTB at a remarkably affordable price.
One of the key factors contributing to the Ramblas’ affordability is Aventon’s vertical integration. Unlike many other e-MTB manufacturers, Aventon handles everything in-house, from engineering and development to frame manufacturing. This allows them to eliminate the middleman and control the entire production process, resulting in cost savings that are passed on to the consumer.
In addition to their in-house capabilities, Aventon’s partnership with over 1,500 bike shops across the nation further expands their reach and accessibility. By working with these retailers while also selling directly to consumers, Aventon ensures that their bikes are widely available to riders of all backgrounds and preferences.
The market for e-MTBs is projected to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years. According to a report by Transparency Market Research, the global e-bike market is expected to reach a value of $38.6 billion by 2025, with mountain e-bikes accounting for a significant portion of this growth. This forecast highlights the promising future of the e-MTB industry, presenting opportunities for manufacturers like Aventon to thrive.
While the Ramblas stands as a testament to Aventon’s success, it’s important to note that there are still challenges facing the industry. One such issue is the perception of e-MTBs as “cheating” or not providing a true mountain biking experience. However, as more riders experience the thrill and accessibility of electric assistance, these notions are slowly fading away.
Another challenge is the weight of e-MTBs, which can be a significant factor in the overall ride experience. The Ramblas, for example, weighs 52 pounds with a medium frame. While advancements in technology have helped to reduce the weight of e-MTBs in recent years, manufacturers are continually exploring ways to make their bikes lighter without compromising on performance or durability.
Despite these challenges, the Ramblas exemplifies how Aventon has successfully addressed the industry’s demands for quality, performance, and affordability. With its impressive components, powerful motor, and exceptional range, the Ramblas has positioned itself as a game-changer in the electric mountain bike market. Aventon has proven that riders don’t need to break the bank to experience the thrill of electric mountain biking.
For more information about the electric mountain bike industry and market forecasts, you can visit industry-leading websites such as:
TMR Research
Grand View Research
Transparency Market Research
These sources provide in-depth analysis and insights into the industry trends, market forecasts, and challenges faced by manufacturers and consumers alike. They offer valuable information for anyone interested in the e-MTB market and its future prospects.
