The Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL II is the brand’s latest electric mountain bike and it has received a significant update. Offering excellent performance in an adaptable package, it certainly warrants a closer look. So just how good is the S-Works Turbo Levo SL II? Read on for our detailed review of this impressive e-mountain bike.
There’s no denying that Specialized has poured a lot of time and effort into this bike, from its stiff carbon frame to industry leading suspension specifications. The bike comes in three specifications at launch, S-Works (as tested), Pro Carbon, and Comp Carbon, which vary in price from £13,000 to £7,000.
At the heart of the S-Works Turbo Levo SL II is Specialized’s Fact 11M carbon frame. This has been engineered using FEA and machine learning technologies to ensure that it is as lightweight and efficient as possible. Whilst the iconic sidearm strut has been removed, Specialized assures us that the frame stiffness remains similar to the original version. To further improve efficiency, each size of the frame has been tailored to suit its rider, as part of the brand’s Rider-First Engineered concept.
Suspension is handled by Specialized’s Horst-link FSR system, which offers 150mm of rear wheel travel. Working with the revised leverage rate, the Float X rear shock has been custom tuned to provide excellent small bump sensitivity, but with plenty of bottom-out resistance when needed. To accommodate different wheel sizes and tyre widths, the Levo SL II can be set up with either 27.5” or 29” wheels.
The new motor produces 320W of power and 50Nm of torque, while retaining the same 320Wh battery. Of course, you can expand the range with the installed 160Wh range extender. Not only that, but the MasterMind TCU display system allows you to customise the bike via the Mission Control smartphone app, enabling features like MicroTune, where assistance is adjusted in 10 per cent increments.
When it comes to geometry, the Levo SL II offers three points of adjustment, allowing you to tweak your bike to suit the terrain. Utilising angle-adjusting headset cups, you can create three head angle settings between 65.8 degrees (steep), 64.8 degrees (nominal) and 63.8 degrees (slack). As well as this, riders of any height can size up or down for the best fit, as standover heights remain relatively static across sizes.
In summary, the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL II is a very impressive electric mountain bike. From its advanced frame design to its powerful motor and battery setup, everything has been designed to enhance your off-road experience. You may pay a premium for the privilege of owning one, but it is definitely worth considering if you’re in the market for a top-end e-bike.
The Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL II also comes with strong brakes. It is equipped with a pair of four-piston Shimano Deore XT hydraulic disc brakes, which provide plenty of stopping power and modulation in all conditions. The bike runs on SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed gears, which offer excellent gear range and reliability, while the chain guide helps to keep everything running smoothly.
The Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL II has also been designed with comfort in mind. The ergonomically designed handlebar provides lots of control, while the durable Saddle-Lite foam saddle allows you to stay comfortable for those long rides. The frame also features an integrated SWAT (Storage, Water, Air, Tool) box, which houses all your items with ease.
Overall, the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL II provides a great all-round experience. With its powerful motor, robust frame, and reliable components, the bike performs well both on and off-road. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line electric mountain bike, it’s definitely worth considering.
The Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL II is a very capable machine, but it’s also important to consider the context that it stands in. This is a bike that costs around two or three times as much as a good quality non-electric mountain bike. So, whilst it may be offering great features, it’s important to ask yourself whether the added expense is really worth it.
Ultimately, the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL II is a great bike. It offers excellent performance and reliability in an adaptable package. However, with its hefty price tag, it isn’t necessarily the most cost-effective option available. Therefore, before you commit to it, make sure that you really need the extra power and technology that it has to offer.
In conclusion, the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL II is a fantastic bike. With its advanced technologies and versatile design, it certainly lives up to the promise of an exceptional electric mountain bike. For those after an e-mountain bike that offers immense performance in an adaptable package, this could be the perfect choice.
If you’re serious about taking your off-road riding to the next level, then the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL II is well worth considering. Its advanced frame, powerful motor and thoughtful design details make it an ideal partner for exploring any terrain. Just remember to factor in the cost before taking the plunge.
To sum up, the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL II is certainly a great electric mountain bike. Whilst it does come at a premium price, its performance and capabilities are certainly worth it. As long as you’re willing to invest in this top-end machine, you won’t be disappointed.
