Aventon, a brand that cut its teeth on fixed-gear bicycles before becoming a powerhouse in the e-bike market, has released its latest contender in the electric mountain bike (e-MTB) arena: the Current ADV. This full-suspension model aims to bridge the gap between heavy-duty electric assistance and the nimble, intuitive feel of a traditional analog mountain bike.
Performance on the Trail: Stability vs. Agility
The standout characteristic of the Current ADV is its performance during descents. The bike feels remarkably stable, almost as if it is “on rails.” This sensation is largely driven by the bike’s physical geometry—specifically its substantial weight and an exceptionally long wheelbase.
However, this stability comes with a trade-off. While the long wheelbase (measuring 1,288.1 mm on the XL model) makes for a smooth, planted ride on downhill stretches, it sacrifices the “snappiness” found in traditional mountain bikes. For riders tackling tight, technical switchbacks or narrow trails, the Current ADV requires more effort to maneuver than a standard analog bike, which typically features a shorter wheelbase for quicker turning.
Power and Endurance
To combat the inherent weight of an e-MTB, Aventon has equipped the Current ADV with the Ultro X mid-drive motor. This motor delivers impressive specs:
– Output: Up to 850 watts
– Torque: 120 Nm
– Modes: Five settings, including Auto, Eco, Trail, Turbo, and a specialized 30-second “Boost Mode” for steep climbs.
Despite the bike and rider combined weighing upwards of 300 pounds, the high torque makes climbing feel effortless. The power is supported by a massive 800-watt-hour battery integrated into the downtube. While the manufacturer claims a range of up to 105 miles, real-world usage depends heavily on power mode selection; however, testing showed significant longevity, with only a 20% battery drop after three hours of active riding.
Premium Components and Maintenance
Aventon has opted for a “hybrid” approach to its componentry. While the motor and battery are proprietary Aventon technology—meaning you may need specialized service for the electrical core—the rest of the bike uses industry-standard parts. This is a significant advantage for long-term ownership, as it ensures that mechanical repairs can be handled by almost any local bike shop.
Key hardware includes:
– Suspension: Rockshox Psylo Gold front fork (150mm travel) and a Rockshox Deluxe Select+ rear shock.
– Drivetrain: SRAM Eagle groupset.
– Tires: Tubeless-ready Maxxis Minion tires on 29-inch double-walled wheels.
– Dropper Post: 170-mm X Fusion Manic.
The User Interface: A Critical Flaw
While the mechanical build is top-tier, the digital interface presents a notable safety concern. The bike utilizes a touchscreen computer mounted on the top tube. While it offers impressive telemetry—including speed, power modes, a compass, and even an “air-time” tracker—its placement is problematic.
“Looking all the way down while doing anything on a mountain bike means risking going end over end.”
Riders must take their eyes completely off the trail to check settings or view data. This issue is compounded by the audio feedback system: the bike uses identical beeps for every power mode change. Without distinct tones to differentiate between modes, riders are forced to look down at the screen to confirm their settings, which can be dangerous on technical terrain.
Final Verdict
The Aventon Current ADV is a formidable entry into the e-MTB market, offering high-end components and massive torque at a competitive price point. It excels as a downhill stability machine, though its long wheelbase and top-tube display may pose challenges for those seeking high-speed technical agility or “eyes-up” riding.
The Current ADV is a powerful, well-specced machine that delivers an authentic mountain biking feel, provided you are comfortable with its specific handling and interface quirks.
