As one of the pioneers of eMTBing, the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL has already achieved cult status, so it would be remiss of us not to include it here in this group test. The second and latest generation of the Turbo Levo SL generates 160/150 mm of travel and delivers 50 Nm of torque. Tipping the scales at just 17.9 kg, it’s the lightest bike in this test. But is that enough to justify the eye-watering € 14,000 price tag?
Most relevant ebike manufacturers have jumped on the light eMTB wagon over the last few years, and have at least one model in this category. The Specialized Levo SL, on the other hand, was one of the first bikes of its kind, and really got the trend rolling. Unlike most brands here, the American manufacturer enters the race with the second generation of their light e-mountainbike in our 2024 group test. The special feature: although the SL 1.2 drive was developed in close collaboration with Mahle, Specialized had a big say in the matter, which means that the motor was specifically designed around the bike’s overall concept. The drive delivers 50 Nm of torque and 320 watts of peak power, drawing its power from a permanently integrated 320 Wh battery, which can be expanded with an optional 160 Wh range extender. Specialized also updated the rest of the ecosystem, and the MasterMind TCU display integrated into the top tube can be easily controlled via a very intuitive app. The S-Works Turbo Levo SL generates 160/150 mm of travel and rolls on a mixed wheel setup. However, countless adjustment options allow you to convert it to a full 29er, as well as to alter the head angle and bottom bracket height. In addition, the progressive rear suspension ensures a sporty riding character, which perfectly suits Specialized’s 17.9 kg light eMTB (size S4). The S-Works Turbo Levo SL is the lightest bike in the entire test field but, at €14,000, also the most expensive one!
Click here for an overview of this comparison test: The best light eMTB of 2024 – 9 of the most exciting bikes in direct comparison
What sets the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL apart from the competition?
Despite the plain white/grey finish of our test bike, the striking S-Works lettering lets you know that you are not just looking at a normal Specialized, attracting countless envious looks on the trail. That said, apart from the decals, the frame of the S-Works is exactly the same as the other carbon models and what really makes the difference is the top-tier spec.
If you’re planning to spend long days in the saddle, you can carry the optional 160 Wh range extender in the bottle cage.
The minimalist remote can be used to switch between riding modes and activate walk mode.
The SWAT tool is cleverly integrated into the steerer tube and includes all the tools needed to tighten the bolts on your Specialized.
FOX supply the top-tier Factory suspension consisting of a Float X air shock and matching FOX 36 fork with a GRIP2 damper. Although FOX already released a newer damper, both the fork and shock offer countless adjustment options and deliver a tremendous performance on the trail. There are just two cables in the cockpit, which are neatly routed and carefully clamped. One is the rear brake line of the SRAM Code Ultimate Stealth four-piston brake, which is routed close to the handlebars thanks to SRAM’s latest design. This creates an annoying rattling noise on the trail, but doesn’t affect the outstanding braking performance of SRAM’s top-tier stoppers, which deliver tons of braking torque and good modulation. RockShox also supply the wireless Reverb AXS dropper post and SRAM XX Eagle Transmission drivetrain with direct-mount rear derailleur, which both ensure a clean look and top performance. However, at just 170 mm, the dropper is too short for a modern eMTB, even though it can be fully inserted into the frame. For the rest of the spec, Specialized rely on their in-house components, including a Roval Traverse SL carbon wheelset and Specialized tires, combining a Butcher in the soft T9 rubber compound at the front with an Eliminator in a harder T7 rubber compound at the rear. While the choice of compound makes perfectly sense, the Grid Trail casing is a little too flimsy for the expensive carbon wheels, especially for heavy and aggressive riders. We recommend upgrading to a more robust casing like Specialized’s Grid Gravity, at least at the rear.
The details on the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL are truly phenomenal and attract countless envious looks on the trail.
The Levo SL comes standard as a mullet bike with a 29″ wheel at the front and 27.5″ wheel at the rear. However, if you prefer, you can also run a full 29er setup.
Specialized’s proprietary SWAT tool in the headset is easily accessible and includes all the tools you need to carry out basic trailside repairs. The most practical feature is that Specialized have standardised the bolt heads on the Levo SL, meaning that you could potentially service the whole bike just with the SWAT tool! Smaller details such as the spring-loaded charging port cover, generously sized chainstay protector and cable ports are extremely well thought out and of high quality, as you would expect at this price point.
Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL
€ 14,000
Specifications
Motor Specialized 1.2 SL Custom Rx Trail Tuned 50 Nm
Battery Specialized SL1-320 320 Wh
Display Specialized MasterMind TCU
Fork FOX 36 Factory GRIP2 160 mm
Rear Shock FOX FLOAT X Factory 150 mm
Seatpost RockShox Reverb AXS 170 mm
Brakes SRAM CODE Stealth Ultimate 200/200 mm
Drivetrain SRAM XX Eagle Transmission 1x12
Stem Deity Copperhead 35 mm
Handlebar Roval Traverse SL Carbon 780 mm
Wheelset Roval Traverse SL Carbon 29"/27,5"
Tires Specialized Butcher GRID Trail T9 / Eliminator GRID Trail T7 2,3"/2,3"
Technical Data
Size S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6
Weight 17.9 kg
Perm. total weight 127 kg
Max. payload (rider/equipment) 109 kg
Trailer approval no
Kickstand mount no
Specific Features
Flip-Chip
Range Extender
SWAT-Tool
Tuning tips:
– Heavy or aggressive riders should install more robust tires.
– Secure the lines at the cockpit to prevent rattling.
The Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL on the trail
It should be clear that the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL won’t get you to the trailhead without having to do any of the work yourself. Nevertheless, the SL 1.2 motor works discreetly in the background to provide natural assistance, supporting you with a generous breeze of artificial tailwind. If you want to find out more about the motor characteristics, you should read our detailed motor test. With its upright pedalling position and comfortable rear suspension, the Levo SL is suitable for both short home trail laps and epic backcountry expeditions.
Yes, the Specialized supports you with a gentle breeze of artificial tailwind, but the 50 Nm motor still requires you to do your part.
With its playful character, the Levo SL opens up completely new lines that aren’t even an option riding some of the other bikes in this test.
When you turn your nose back down into the valley, the S-Works Turbo Levo SL welcomes you on board with typical Specialized flair, integrating you centrally and safely between its wheels and giving you that extra bit of confidence to leave your fingers off the brakes for a few more seconds. Together with the YT DECOY SN, it’s one of the nimblest, most fun bikes in the entire comparison test and literally begs you to flick its rear end from one berm into the next, while taking every opportunity to pop off into the air. But the Levo SL also plays into the hands of conservative riders with its intuitive handling and playful character. The progressive rear suspension, which provides tons of support in berms and compressions – generates plenty of traction and provides sufficient feedback from the ground. However, when the going gets rougher and faster, the MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 10K and Orbea Rise feel more composed, overtaking you on your Specialized Levo SL while you’re drifting through the highline with a massive grin on your face.
The Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL encourages you to pop off every natural kicker and is one of the most fun, nimble bikes in the entire group test.
Who should take a closer look at the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL?
Needless to say, before buying the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL you’ll have to get past your bank manager. But if you manage to get one, you’ll have a sophisticated bike with a seamlessly integrated motor system, well thought-out details, great spec and a flexible sizing system that lets you choose your bike based on your riding style. Uphill, the Levo SL supports you with a gentle breeze of tailwind rather than pushing you up the mountain at full pelt. It’s an excellent choice for both chilled home trail laps and epic adventures. Although perfectly suitable for the odd bike park expedition, the Levo SL feels more at home on flowing trails and singletracks rather than fast-paced enduro races and big jumps.
Our conclusions about the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL
No other bike in this group test looks as tidy and high-quality as the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL. When riding uphill, the best word to describe the neatly-integrated motor system is support – it’s by no means a shuttle replacement. Downhill, the Specialized is one of the most fun, nimble bikes in the entire test field and also impresses with intuitive, confidence inspiring handling. However, it’s evident that the Levo SL is more of a trail bike than an enduro bruiser, delivering plenty of good times rather than fast ones.
Tops
- Consistent overall concept
- Very high quality
- Incredibly fun
- Intuitive and confidence inspiring
Flops
- Short-travel dropper post
More information can be found at specialized.com
The test field
Click here for an overview of this comparison test: The best light eMTB of 2024 – 9 of the most exciting bikes in direct comparison.
All bikes in test: Cannondale Moterra SL1 | GIANT Trance X Advanced 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 | Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL | YT DECOY SN
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Words: Peter Walker Photos: Peter Walker, Mike Hunger
