Aurora Limited

Evelo Aurora Limited Review

This is my 4th ebike purchase and certainly the best (and at this price level, it should be!). I am now spoiled and won’t buy another bike unless it has a Gates belt and CVT hub! This very impressive technology simplifies the gear train and quietly eliminates oily (or rusty) chains and temperamental greasy derailleurs.
The handling on this bike is excellent, thanks to the use of quality tires, hydraulic disk brakes, and a robust front suspension fork. The handlebar controls are high quality and their look and feel are top notch. Switching between “manual” and “automatic” on the CVT hub is a simple button press and a super cool feature. The automatic mode allows you to set your preferred cadence while you are cruising along, but if you slow down or stop, it will immediately ‘gear down’ to allow easy acceleration to your previous pace! On level terrain I rarely needed to go beyond pedal assist level 1. The throttle also works nicely and is always handy when moving from a dead stop (I cannot see spending thousands on an ebike with pedal assist only). The functional rear brake light is also a nice touch.
I put the first 170 miles on the Aurora during a week in Hilton Head and I’ve gone 35 miles on a single charge (basic flat terrain and paved trails).
My bike had an assembly problem at the rear hub and David promptly sent me the tools, parts, and info to get it fixed. Evelo’s response was very impressive.

Pros
-High quality components: hydraulic disk brakes, fenders, lights, rear rack, suspension fork, puncture resistant tires etc.
-Advanced gear train technology
-Aluminum frame and solid handling
-48V battery and 750 watt motor system
-Excellent customer service
-Exceptional warranty

Cons
-Battery removal is the only way to “lock out” the system (if the bike is locked to a rack, someone could easily turn on the system and engage the motor).
-Limited programming options and no clock on the display (our other ebike with a Bafang controller allows 3, 5, or 9 PAS levels, numerous top speed settings, password protection etc)
-I replaced the seat with a softer one and it'd be nice if a suspension seat post were standard.

To preface I have only owned this bike for 2 days. I just installed the bike and it was pretty easy.
I expected a top quality bike after reading all the reviews. But seeing it first hand is very impressive.

I own 5 ebikes. A stroker st1, bulls Evo 27 fs, pedego, I zip Zuma, specialized cumo. Most of the bikes I own are all over 3k with my top two being 5 to 6k. This limited Evelo is by far the best built, best materials used, bike we have owned. Hands down a very quiet, sturdy and comfortable ride.
It would be nice to have a more comfy seat and post spring.
I can't say enough about the quality of this bike.

Ride is SO smooth! The CVT shifter changes the riding experience totally, especially on big hills. Dial in your gear exactly without any loss of momentum. The bike is incredibly stable and I find myself leaning into curves effortlessly. The big tires make going over grass or gravel easy. I want to ride for hours every day. Gorgeous build, solid, strong, destined to be a friend bike. I love it.

So, after sitting through the 2020 dumpster fire, I finally splurged and ordered the Aurora LTD. After over 40 hours of research, I pulled the trigger.
With all the tech features, even at double the price of my 2nd choice, I'm not at all sorry for spending the extra $. With a little over a month and a couple hundred miles I can report:
1. bike is SOLID and a little heavy
2. Range isn't there yet, but it gets better with each charge cycle. about 35 miles/charge at PAS 2 at first but up to 45 miles plus
3. the frame is FULL SIZE and definitely a stretch for a 5'5" male...but it works!
4. Would like a taller gear ratio at the top end. Cadence is a bit fast at 15-18 mph on the flat in high "gear".
5. Just took delivery of a GALAXY 500 for my wife. Definitely size friendly but just as solid and 20% lighter.
6. Service and sales response is 5 star.
Go ahead, you won't regret it!

I got a good deal and received my bike October 13. I had no experience with ebikes so I didn't know what to expect aside from watching reviews online. Hills and headwinds had made biking somewhat unattractive, especially the big hill to get down to a really nice riverside trail nearby. My little sister had learned about ebikes and did a ton of research with the conclusion that Evelo was the right one. I suppose I could try to tell you all that I like about the bike but the strongest proof is this: in 2.5 months I've put 625 miles on it! Winter is here; I layer up (including ski goggles) and go out and ride! .... 32 degrees today and I had a very enjoyable 24 mile ride. You can buy lesser priced bikes but do they have all the features, a 4 Year Warranty and exceptional Support? My bike is heavy but it leads me to believe it's going to hold up and riding it is just pure fun! The hills and headwinds?.... no worries! The riverside trail I get to ride now?... it's awesome!
I'll try to remember to update as time goes forward.