I‘ve tested and reviewed quite a few electric bikes, but Aventon‘s Soltera models stand out as my top picks for urban commuters on a budget. As more people shift to e-bikes for environmentally friendly transport, Aventon delivers well-designed and affordable options.
In this guide, we‘ll analyze the Soltera single speed and 7-speed head-to-head – from riding performance to maintenance needs – to help you decide which one best suits your needs.
First, Who is Aventon?
Founded in 2009 right here in Southern California, Aventon has carved out a niche for stylish yet economical e-bikes. They pioneer direct-to-consumer sales paired with excellent customer service support.
The Soltera entered the market in 2020 as Aventon‘s take on a practical short-range commuter model. Available in single speed or 7-speed variations, these lightweight aluminum-framed e-bikes are optimized for nimble urban transportation.
So should you go with 1 gear or 7 speeds? Let‘s find out!
Key Specifications
I‘ve summarized the core specs in this table:
| Spec | Single Speed | 7-Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Motor | 350W Rear Hub | 350W Rear Hub |
| Battery | 36V 11Ah | 36V 11Ah |
| Top Speed | 20 mph | 20 mph |
| Range | 25-40 mi | 25-40 mi |
| Weight | 41 lb | 43 lb |
| Brakes | Rim | Mech. Disc |
| Extras | LCD, lights | LCD, lights |
Notes: Both models have puncture-resistant tires, adjustable stems and seat posts, phone app connectivity and 2-year electrical component warranty. The 7-speed adds front suspension.
We‘ll analyze the key differences in gearing, weight and braking next.
Single Speed or 7 Gears: Drivetrain differences
At a mechanical level, the extra gears and derailleur on the 7-speed allow switching between higher and lower gear ratios to suit different riding conditions.
The single speed drives through just one gear ratio from the rear hub motor. This simpler setup rolls smoothly on flat terrain, but strains when met with hills or headwinds.
Real-world range may diminish on hilly rides as more battery power diverts to assisting uphill pedaling. The single gearing just isn‘t optimized for elevation changes.
What‘s 2 Pounds Between Friends?
The 7-speed tips the scales at 43 lb total weight, while the single speed drops to 41 lb by omitting the rear cassette and derailleur parts.
But this 2 lb (1% of total weight) isn‘t inherently meaningful for performance. Heavier riders may not notice – it would be like adding one water bottle to your pack!
More importantly, keeping weight distribution centered improves stability and handling. So removing fringe gear parts doesn‘t drastically impact the centralized mass or riding feel.
Brakes – Rim vs Discs
Rim brakes on the single speed provide adequate stopping power for flat city riding at moderate speeds. But the 7-speed steps up the safety with mechanical disc brakes.
Discs maintain braking control across all conditions – whether wet, muddy or steep downhill. This grants a key stability and handling edge to the 7-speed for urban obstacles.
Upgrading to hydraulic discs would be even better, but keeps costs reasonable while still improving over rim brakes.
Rider Impressions and Testimonials
I took both models on varied test loops with elevation changes. Here‘s my take:
The single speed felt zippy and easy to manage on straight, low-grade sections. But steep inclines quickly sapped momentum, forcing me to pedal much harder.
However the 7-speed handled hills fluidly. Shifting down to lower gears kept my pedaling cadence steady up and over rising terrain.
For Amy, a recreational rider from San Francisco, the 7-speed‘s versatility also proved valuable:
"I loved having the lower gear range to tackle our neighborhood hills more easily. But could still shift up for an extra kick when coasting the flat bike paths along the bay at top speed. The single speed I tried felt underpowered by comparison on everyday rides."
Ultimately unless you live in totally flat prairie, the 7-speed Aventon Soltera takes the win for all-around performance.
Recommendation
For versatile daily riding needs from short-range commuting to fun weekend jaunts, I wholeheartedly recommend the 7-speed Aventon Soltera as the superior choice over the single speed model.
The multi-geared drivetrain adapts readily to punchy climbs or open flats, ensuring a comfortable joyride regardless of the urban terrain. Plus the disc brakes grant all-weather control you can rely on.
Go single speed only if you:
- Reside in a very flat area
- Strictly ride cautious speeds
- Want the simplest fixability
For practically any other scenario, embrace the 7-speed Soltera‘s strengths instead! Both models offer an approachable entry point into e-bikes with Aventon‘s signature savvy style.
Let me know if you have any other questions!
Ride on,
Bill
E-bike Specialist and Reviewer at PedalPowered Tech
