As one of many pioneers of eMTBing, the Specialised S-Works Turbo Levo SL has already achieved cult standing, so it will be remiss of us to not embody it right here on this group take a look at. The second and newest era of the Turbo Levo SL generates 160/150 mm of journey and delivers 50 Nm of torque. Tipping the scales at simply 17.9 kg, it’s the lightest bike on this take a look at. However is that sufficient to justify the eye-watering € 14,000 price ticket?
Most related ebike producers have jumped on the sunshine eMTB wagon over the previous few years, and have at the very least one mannequin on this class. The Specialised Levo SL, however, was one of many first bikes of its sort, and actually acquired the pattern rolling. Not like most manufacturers right here, the American producer enters the race with the second era of their mild e-mountainbike in our 2024 group take a look at. The particular function: though the SL 1.2 drive was developed in shut collaboration with Mahle, Specialised had an enormous say within the matter, which signifies that the motor was particularly designed across the bike’s general idea. The drive delivers 50 Nm of torque and 320 watts of peak energy, drawing its energy from a completely built-in 320 Wh battery, which could be expanded with an non-obligatory 160 Wh vary extender. Specialised additionally up to date the remainder of the ecosystem, and the MasterMind TCU show built-in into the highest tube could be simply managed by way of a really intuitive app. The S-Works Turbo Levo SL generates 160/150 mm of journey and rolls on a combined wheel setup. Nonetheless, numerous adjustment choices help you convert it to a full 29er, in addition to to change the top angle and backside bracket top. As well as, the progressive rear suspension ensures a sporty using character, which completely fits Specialised’s 17.9 kg mild eMTB (measurement S4). The S-Works Turbo Levo SL is the lightest bike in all the take a look at subject however, at €14,000, additionally the most costly one!
Click on right here for an outline of this comparability take a look at: One of the best mild eMTB of 2024 – 9 of essentially the most thrilling bikes in direct comparability
What units the Specialised S-Works Turbo Levo SL aside from the competitors?
Regardless of the plain white/gray end of our take a look at bike, the placing S-Works lettering lets you recognize that you’re not simply a traditional Specialised, attracting numerous envious seems to be on the path. That stated, aside from the decals, the body of the S-Works is strictly the identical as the opposite carbon fashions and what actually makes the distinction is the top-tier spec.
If you happen to’re planning to spend lengthy days within the saddle, you’ll be able to carry the non-obligatory 160 Wh vary extender within the bottle cage.
The minimalist distant can be utilized to change between using modes and activate stroll mode.
The SWAT instrument is cleverly built-in into the steerer tube and consists of all of the instruments wanted to tighten the bolts in your Specialised.
FOX provide the top-tier Manufacturing facility suspension consisting of a Float X air shock and matching FOX 36 fork with a GRIP2 damper. Though FOX already launched a more moderen damper, each the fork and shock supply numerous adjustment choices and ship an incredible efficiency on the path. There are simply two cables within the cockpit, that are neatly routed and thoroughly clamped. One is the rear brake line of the SRAM Code Final Stealth four-piston brake, which is routed near the handlebars because of SRAM’s newest design. This creates an annoying rattling noise on the path, however doesn’t have an effect on the excellent braking efficiency of SRAM’s top-tier stoppers, which ship tons of braking torque and good modulation. RockShox additionally provide the wi-fi Reverb AXS dropper put up and SRAM XX Eagle Transmission drivetrain with direct-mount rear derailleur, which each guarantee a clear look and prime efficiency. Nonetheless, at simply 170 mm, the dropper is just too quick for a contemporary eMTB, though it may be totally inserted into the body. For the remainder of the spec, Specialised depend on their in-house elements, together with a Roval Traverse SL carbon wheelset and Specialised tires, combining a Butcher within the comfortable T9 rubber compound on the entrance with an Eliminator in a more durable T7 rubber compound on the rear. Whereas the selection of compound makes completely sense, the Grid Path casing is somewhat too flimsy for the costly carbon wheels, particularly for heavy and aggressive riders. We suggest upgrading to a extra sturdy casing like Specialised’s Grid Gravity, at the very least on the rear.
The main points on the Specialised S-Works Turbo Levo SL are actually phenomenal and appeal to numerous envious seems to be on the path.
The Levo SL comes commonplace as a mullet bike with a 29″ wheel on the entrance and 27.5″ wheel on the rear. Nonetheless, should you desire, you may also run a full 29er setup.
Specialised’s proprietary SWAT instrument within the headset is definitely accessible and consists of all of the instruments you must perform fundamental trailside repairs. Essentially the most sensible function is that Specialised have standardised the bolt heads on the Levo SL, that means that you possibly can probably service the entire bike simply with the SWAT instrument! Smaller particulars such because the spring-loaded charging port cowl, generously sized chainstay protector and cable ports are extraordinarily properly thought out and of top of the range, as you’ll anticipate at this value level.
Specialised S-Works Turbo Levo SL
€ 14,000
Specs
Motor Specialised 1.2 SL Customized Rx Path Tuned 50 Nm
Battery Specialised SL1-320 320 Wh
Show Specialised MasterMind TCU
Fork FOX 36 Manufacturing facility GRIP2 160 mm
Rear Shock FOX FLOAT X Manufacturing facility 150 mm
Seatpost RockShox Reverb AXS 170 mm
Brakes SRAM CODE Stealth Final 200/200 mm
Drivetrain SRAM XX Eagle Transmission 1×12
Stem Deity Copperhead 35 mm
Handlebar Roval Traverse SL Carbon 780 mm
Wheelset Roval Traverse SL Carbon 29″/27,5″
Tires Specialised Butcher GRID Path T9 / Eliminator GRID Path T7 2,3″/2,3″
Technical Knowledge
Measurement S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6
Weight 17.9 kg
Perm. whole weight 127 kg
Max. payload (rider/gear) 109 kg
Trailer approval no
Kickstand mount no
Particular Options
Flip-Chip
Vary Extender
SWAT-Device
Tuning ideas:
– Heavy or aggressive riders ought to set up extra sturdy tires.
– Safe the traces on the cockpit to forestall rattling.
The Specialised S-Works Turbo Levo SL on the path
It must be clear that the Specialised S-Works Turbo Levo SL gained’t get you to the trailhead with out having to do any of the work your self. However, the SL 1.2 motor works discreetly within the background to supply pure help, supporting you with a beneficiant breeze of synthetic tailwind. If you wish to discover out extra in regards to the motor traits, it is best to learn our detailed motor take a look at. With its upright pedalling place and cozy rear suspension, the Levo SL is appropriate for each quick house path laps and epic backcountry expeditions.
Sure, the Specialised helps you with a mild breeze of synthetic tailwind, however the 50 Nm motor nonetheless requires you to do your half.
With its playful character, the Levo SL opens up fully new traces that aren’t even an choice using a number of the different bikes on this take a look at.
While you flip your nostril again down into the valley, the S-Works Turbo Levo SL welcomes you on board with typical Specialised aptitude, integrating you centrally and safely between its wheels and providing you with that further little bit of confidence to go away your fingers off the brakes for a couple of extra seconds. Along with the YT DECOY SN, it’s one of many nimblest, most enjoyable bikes in all the comparability take a look at and actually begs you to flick its rear finish from one berm into the subsequent, whereas taking each alternative to pop off into the air. However the Levo SL additionally performs into the palms of conservative riders with its intuitive dealing with and playful character. The progressive rear suspension, which supplies tons of help in berms and compressions – generates loads of traction and supplies ample suggestions from the bottom. Nonetheless, when the going will get rougher and sooner, the MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 10K and Orbea Rise really feel extra composed, overtaking you in your Specialised Levo SL when you’re drifting by means of the highline with an enormous grin in your face.
The Specialised S-Works Turbo Levo SL encourages you to pop off each pure kicker and is likely one of the most enjoyable, nimble bikes in all the group take a look at.
Who ought to take a better have a look at the Specialised S-Works Turbo Levo SL?
Evidently, earlier than shopping for the Specialised S-Works Turbo Levo SL you’ll need to get previous your financial institution supervisor. However should you handle to get one, you’ll have a complicated bike with a seamlessly built-in motor system, properly thought-out particulars, nice spec and a versatile sizing system that permits you to select your bike primarily based in your using fashion. Uphill, the Levo SL helps you with a mild breeze of tailwind somewhat than pushing you up the mountain at full pelt. It’s a wonderful selection for each chilled house path laps and epic adventures. Though completely appropriate for the odd bike park expedition, the Levo SL feels extra at house on flowing trails and singletracks somewhat than fast-paced enduro races and large jumps.
Our conclusions in regards to the Specialised S-Works Turbo Levo SL
No different bike on this group take a look at seems to be as tidy and high-quality because the Specialised S-Works Turbo Levo SL. When using uphill, the very best phrase to explain the neatly-integrated motor system is help – it’s on no account a shuttle substitute. Downhill, the Specialised is likely one of the most enjoyable, nimble bikes in all the take a look at subject and likewise impresses with intuitive, confidence inspiring dealing with. Nonetheless, it’s evident that the Levo SL is extra of a path bike than an enduro bruiser, delivering loads of good instances somewhat than quick ones.
Tops
- Constant general idea
- Very top quality
- Extremely enjoyable
- Intuitive and confidence inspiring
Flops
- Brief-travel dropper put up
Extra data could be discovered at specialised.com
The take a look at subject
Click on right here for an outline of this comparability take a look at: One of the best mild eMTB of 2024 – 9 of essentially the most thrilling bikes in direct comparability.
All bikes in take a look at: Cannondale Moterra SL1 | GIANT Trance X Superior E+ Elite 0 V2 | Mondraker Dune RR | MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 10K | Orbea Rise | Santa Cruz Heckler SL XX AXS RSV | SCOTT Voltage eRide 900 Tuned | Specialised S-Works Turbo Levo SL | YT DECOY SN
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Phrases: Peter Walker Pictures: Peter Walker, Mike Starvation
