Aventon Aventure M vs Aventure 3: Which Electric Fat Bike Is Right for You?

At a glance, the Aventon Aventure M and the Aventure 3 might look nearly identical. Both feature fat tires, step-through options, and a rugged aesthetic Aventon riders have come to expect. But under the surface, these two fat tire e-bikes offer distinctly different riding experiences. We took them out for a real-world test across pavement, gravel, and hills to help you figure out which one’s right for your ride style.

Motor Setup and Power Delivery

The most significant difference between the two bikes is the motor system. The Aventure M uses Aventon’s in-house A100 mid-drive motor, which also powers their Ramblas mountain bike. It delivers 100Nm of torque and is centrally located on the bike, providing better weight balance and a more natural pedal feel. The Aventure 3, on the other hand, sticks with the familiar rear hub motor, offering a more traditional e-bike experience where the power pushes from the rear wheel.

Both models can be configured through the Aventon app and support Class 1 through Class 3 riding modes. The Aventure 3 comes with a throttle already installed, making it a great choice for those who want effortless cruising. The Aventure M does not come with a throttle by default, but one can be added as an accessory if desired.

Aventon has also introduced battery compatibility across much of its new lineup. That means if you already own an Aventon Abound or another 2025 model, you’ll be able to swap batteries between bikes. It’s a welcome update for anyone managing multiple bikes in one household or just looking for convenience on longer rides.

Both the Aventure M and Aventure 3 also feature Aventon’s ACU, or Aventon Control Unit. This adds a suite of smart features including GPS tracking, geofencing, and the ability to lock the rear wheel digitally. These are the kinds of details that offer real-world peace of mind, especially when parking your bike in public areas or commuting daily.

There’s a noticeable price difference between the two models. The Aventure 3 is priced at $1,999, while the Aventure M comes in at $2,899. That $900 difference is largely due to the upgraded mid-drive motor, drivetrain, and braking components found on the M. Whether or not that added cost is worth it depends entirely on your preferred riding style and where you’ll be taking the bike.

Aventure M – $2899

Aventure 3 – $1999

From a components standpoint, the two bikes also part ways in terms of drivetrain and braking systems. The Aventure 3 features an 8-speed manual drivetrain and Tektro hydraulic brakes. It’s simple, reliable, and easy to use and ideal for riders who just want to hop on and go. The Aventure M takes a more performance-oriented approach with a 10-speed drivetrain featuring auto-shift capabilities. Riders can tune their cadence preferences through the onboard computer, and the bike will automatically adjust gears in real-time. That level of technology is something typically found on premium e-MTBs, not utility-focused fat bikes.

Braking also gets an upgrade on the Aventure M with SRAM DB4 brakes, which offer more precision and stopping power compared to the Tektros. While the Tektros are perfectly functional for most riders, the SRAM system provides a more responsive brake feel, especially helpful in variable terrain or at higher speeds.

On the pavement, both bikes offer a smooth and stable ride. The Aventure 3, thanks to its hub-drive system and included throttle, feels especially easy to cruise with. Riders can simply hit the throttle and enjoy the ride with minimal effort, making it ideal for daily commutes or relaxed rides around town.

However, when it comes to off-road performance, the Aventure M clearly stands out. The centered mid-drive motor results in a more balanced ride on uneven surfaces, allowing for better traction and more responsive handling. This becomes particularly noticeable on steeper climbs or when navigating roots and rocks. The pedal feel is more connected, with the motor supplementing your own effort in a way that feels intuitive rather than overwhelming.

Climbing Power and Torque

We tested both bikes on steep hill climbs, paved and unpaved, in Eco and Turbo modes. The Aventure 3 performed well overall, but you can feel that the hub motor puts more strain on the rider when the grade increases. In Turbo mode, it becomes much easier, but you’ll still be aware of the rear weight bias when climbing. The Aventure M, on the other hand, climbed effortlessly. Even in Eco mode, the torque was immediate and strong, making hills feel far less intimidating. Turbo mode provided even more impressive performance, keeping speeds higher with less leg effort.

This makes the Aventure M an excellent choice for hilly neighborhoods, trail riding, or anyone who simply wants that high-performance pedal feel. Despite its modest 250-watt rating, the motor’s torque output and responsiveness are what really matter here, and they shine during every climb.

If your rides are primarily urban or suburban, with occasional detours onto dirt paths, the Aventure 3 makes a ton of sense. It’s affordable, comfortable, and gets the job done with ease. For $900 less, you can buy a nice trailer, some cargo bags, or even invest in a second bike.

However, if you’re the kind of rider who prioritizes performance and wants that refined riding experience, the Aventure M offers significant upgrades that justify the price. From the drivetrain to the motor to the brakes, it’s built for riders who want their input to be part of the ride, not overridden by it. The handling is more responsive, the power delivery more immediate, and the overall experience more engaging, especially on variable terrain.

Both the Aventure 3 and Aventure M are great bikes—but they serve slightly different needs. The Aventure 3 is approachable, friendly, and affordable, perfect for casual riders or first-time e-bike buyers. The Aventure M is Aventon’s step toward a more performance-oriented platform, delivering a ride feel more in line with high-end mountain bikes than your average commuter.

If you only want one bike and plan to ride it across a range of conditions, the Aventure M is the clear winner for those who value ride quality, power delivery, and versatility. But if you’re looking to get outside, save some cash, and cruise with minimal fuss, the Aventure 3 delivers a lot of bike for the price.

No matter which one you choose, you’re getting a capable, fun, and well-designed e-bike that’s ready to take you from pavement to trail and everywhere in between.

Price: Aventure 3 – $1999 | Aventure M – $2899

Sizes: Regular, Large

Website: www.Aventon.com