“The Levo is a dream to ride. I first rode the aluminium Levo when they were new to market, and I must say that they have come a long way.”
The Specialized Turbo Levo SL Expert Carbon is a step up from the original Levo, and it packs a punch even with its lightweight frame. The 4-5kg weight difference is definitely noticeable while hitting the trails and makes it even easier to take this beauty on the road while travelling.
The Turbo Levo SL Expert Carbon (Medium) in Green was lent to us by the team at Specialized, and this model has come a long way from the very first experience I had on an e-bike. This is the type of bike that can do everything and tackle whatever you may throw at it.
The lightweight SL 1.1 motor not only delivers a quiet but powerful extra push to your pedals, it also connects to their Mission Control app, allowing you to tune the motor to your preference, keep an eye on your battery levels, and record your progress. But there’s no need to connect if that’s not your vibe, the Turbo Connect Unit provides you with all the control you’ll ever need – the app is just a bonus!
The motor is there to help, at effortlessly doubles your own pedalling speed with up to 240 watts of assistance shot straight to your pedals. It syncs with and is responsive to your own cadence, but also doesn’t interfere when you’re riding without the assistance.
“This thing had no problem climbing any technical hills and descends like it is on rails.”
The Turbo Levo SL Expert Carbon sports a light-weight but sturdy carbon frame, inspired by the Stumpjumper that came before it. Specialized has created a premium model with the Turbo Levo, with a Sidearm chassis that provides a balanced geometry, and custom-tuned FOX rear suspension and a SRAM Eagle X01 drivetrain.
The tough FACT 11m carbon frame has an integrated down tube battery, and all the cables are fully enclosed, so there’ll be no wires or boxes getting in your way while you ride.
“It is amazing how you don’t even notice the 17kg bike whilst riding the trails. For the first test ride, we took it away on a family vacation. We rode 30km worth of road and it held an impressive average of 30km per hour. On the steep climbs I was even able to hold an average of 25km in turbo mode!”
There will be no worries about running out of power, this beast can handle the kilometres and days spent riding. If you’re looking for extra peace of mind, they offer an optional range extender which will top up your range up by 50 percent.
It comes with its own custom charger, a 10-LED state of charge, and a 3-LED Ride Mode display, ANT+/Bluetooth – and its own handlebar remote, so you’re always in control without your hands leaving the bars.
“The mix of components and suspension is on point and could not fault it at all.”
With suspension that can take a beating, the Turbo Levo SL is the perfect machine for practicing wheelies or sending it up those more technical tracks that might scare someone on an average mountain bike. Boasting intuitive handling and a feel of a natural ride, one would hardly know that you’re getting the extra boost.
“The only back breaking issue was when I stupidly attempted to put it on the roof rack on my vehicle! I opted for using the tow hitched bike carrier.”
Who does this bike suit?
- The Turbo Levo SL would be a great fit for anyone wanting to ride longer and further, without having to worry about whether the battery will last long enough for you to make it home.
- This bike would be great for anyone who has suffered an injury or is recovering from one.
“I had the privilege of riding with a 65-year-old client on his new Levo purchased from Ashfield cycles. Tony had knee replacement a few years back and this is his new love.”
- Any fit person looking at a whip to ride on their off days and would like a little extra assistance (without having to push those 600 watts just to climb a hill).
- The person trying to trim some weight. Even though it is a pedal assist bike, you will still break a sweat!
Overall, the new Turbo Levo SL Expert Carbon is a killer upgrade from other e-bikes currently on the market. It provides its riders with assistance, power, customisability, and most importantly – peace of mind. For more information please visit specialized.com
