2023 Aventon

Abound

While Aventon has a long-tail cargo bike in their lineup, they were missing the short-tail, utility bike that has been so popular with people of all ages. The Abound SR fills that gap.

Aventon takes a very big step up in technology with the introduction of their ‘ACU’, or Aventon Control Unit. The ACU provides some really standout security features that we don’t generally see on a bike at this price range, including: a lockable kickstand, a lockable battery, password protection for the bike, theft/bike movement notifications, and geofencing. Aventon is pretty proud of this technology, and I think that pride is warranted.

The Abound SR pairs with the well-designed Aventon App, which allows for OTA (over-the-air) updates. We’ve even worked with Aventon the last 2 weeks to improve the motor performance, and appreciate how Aventon could continually improve the ride experience and keep the bike updated in the future.

At first glance, we were wary of the 36V system. Most cargo bikes tend to come with 48V systems. We’ll discuss it more below, but Aventon chose the 36V system to use less raw materials while still trying to match the performance of a 48V system. After riding the bike for 2 weeks and working through the motor settings with Aventon, we would agree and think they did a good job on the motor output and power levels. See Latest Price

Everything needed for carrying cargo is included right out of the box. The rear rack and running boards come standard on the bike, as well as a small bag / compartment that fits behind the seatpost. Many cargo e-bikes ship barebones and have you add these later. Aventon also offers a range of accessories to expand the Abound’s functionality.

As a dedicated cargo bike, the Abound allows you to carry up to an impressive 143 lbs in gear or extra riders on the rear rack, with a total payload capacity of 440 lbs. Loading up is made easier by the motorcycle-style kickstand and low center of gravity.

The Abound is responsive and pedals smoothly, thanks to the torque sensor that Aventon has added to all of its newest models.

The Abound handles well and demonstrates great maneuverability even when loaded with weight.

We noticed tons of little details on the bike that make it more enjoyable to use – from smaller things like the handle on the rear of the saddle and the chain guard, to more significant inclusions like the integrated taillight with turn signals and the quick-adjust seatpost.

The Abound has the power to move its payload confidently even on an incline thanks to its 750W rear hub motor.

Visually, the Abound really stands out. Most other dedicated cargo carriers have a straightforward, utilitarian design even at higher price points, while the Abound offers much appreciated style.

While it makes transporting the bike easier – thereby expanding its usefulness to a wider range of situations – the Abound’s extended, collapsible stem can feel a bit wobbly at times when the bike is loaded down with cargo.

This is admittedly nitpicky, but the Abound’s cable management leaves something to be desired.

Not so much a con, but something to be aware of: riders with shoe sizes around or above a US Mens size 12 may need to be careful of their foot placement to avoid scraping their heels on the running boards.