E-Bike / DTC
From launch to more than $10M in annual affiliate revenue
Launched Aventon’s affiliate program and grew it to 16% of annual company revenue, with more than $10M in yearly program revenue and prominent coverage from cycling and lifestyle publishers.
$10M+
Annual Program Revenue
8x
Program ROAS
2
Years Managed
Challenge
In 2020, Aventon was growing quickly in an increasingly crowded e-bike market. The brand needed a new acquisition channel that could reduce dependence on paid media, introduce the product to new audiences, and support its premium positioning. Starting from zero meant building both the strategy and the operating foundation. There was no established partner roster, commission structure, tracking framework, or reporting cadence. The program needed to move at startup speed without opening the door to low-quality partners or discount-heavy tactics that could weaken the brand.
Approach
We launched the program with a focused recruitment strategy built around endemic cycling media, outdoor lifestyle publishers, product-review outlets, and long-form YouTube creators. Priority went to partners whose audiences already trusted them for e-bike research and recommendations. We paired editorial outreach with affiliate tracking and performance-based agreements so coverage could contribute to both awareness and attributable revenue. At the same time, we built the program infrastructure: platform setup, commission tiers, partner onboarding, deep linking, tracking standards, and a regular reporting cadence. Rather than chase partner count, we focused on brand fit, content quality, and the ability to influence a considered purchase.
The Results
Within two years, the program grew from launch to more than $10M in annual affiliate revenue and represented 16% of Aventon’s total annual revenue. The program maintained 8x ROAS while giving the brand a meaningful alternative to paid acquisition. The partner strategy also supported prominent editorial recognition, including commuter e-bike coverage from Bicycling and other major outlets. The relationships, content, and program infrastructure created during the engagement gave Aventon a durable foundation for future growth.