Madeira, Italy, Switzerland, and our local trails around Stuttgart – these are just a few of the places where we’ve already put the new Specialized Turbo Levo 4 through its paces. So far, however, only in its carbon version. Now, the winner of our most comprehensive e-mountainbike group test to date – featuring 30 eMTBs – is available for a whole lot less money.
Specialized Turbo Levo Alloy – What’s Changed and What’s Different?
You can now get your hands on one of the new-generation Turbo Levos starting at just € 5,999. The motor system, battery, and geometry are exactly the same as those specced on the carbon models – the Turbo Levo Pro, Expert, and Comp. The only difference? The frame material. As you might’ve guessed, Specialized swap carbon for tough, durable aluminum – and the weight penalty is surprisingly small. One downside: the alloy frame doesn’t feature the smooth welds you might know from other manufacturers. While this doesn’t impact the Levo’s performance on the trail, it does make for a less clean aesthetic. Also worth noting: the more powerful S-Works motor remains exclusive to the top-tier carbon model.
The most important update to the Specialized Turbo Levo Alloy: the return of the size S1 frame – a size that was notably missing from the current carbon lineup. That means that smaller riders can finally enjoy the full Levo 4 experience. The only minor drawback? The S1 frame features a shorter 150 mm fork, reducing front travel by 10 mm compared to the 160 mm forks spec’d on the larger sizes.
Specialized Turbo Levo Alloy – The Gateway into the Levo Dimension
If you look at the spec sheet of the entry-level model, it quickly becomes clear how Specialized achieve the lower price point: the American manufacturer relies on a more affordable spec including a Marzocchi Bomber suspension, SRAM DB8 brakes, and a basic, mechanical SRAM Eagle 70 T-Type drivetrain. The build is rounded off with a Roval Traverse DH alloy wheelset – fitted with the exact same tires as the top-tier model.
An attractive gateway into the latest generation of the Turbo Levo? Definitely – though there are some clear compromises in the spec, particularly when it comes to suspension and braking performance. The Specialized Turbo Levo Alloy is the only model that doesn’t come equipped with the much-hyped Float X Genie shock, which promises more efficient use of travel and a range of easy tuning options compared to a conventional air shock.
Specialized Turbo Levo Comp Alloy vs Carbon – How Big Is the Difference, Really?
At € 6,999, the Specialized Turbo Levo Comp Alloy is exactly €1,000 cheaper than the carbon entry-level model, the Specialized Turbo Levo Comp. Apart from the frame material and the wireless SRAM drivetrain, the two bikes rely on the exact same components. According to the manufacturer, the weight difference between the carbon and alloy versions is 1,29 kg!
The alloy model features a FOX 36 Rhythm fork with 160 mm of travel up front, paired with a FOX Float X Performance Genie shock delivering 150 mm of rear travel. Shifting is taken care of by a mechanical SRAM Eagle 90 T-Type drivetrain, while powerful SRAM MAVEN Bronze four-piston brakes do stopping duties. The spec is rounded off by a tough Roval Traverse DH alloy wheelset. While the suspension still calls for compromises, the SRAM MAVEN Bronze brakes and the mechanical Eagle drivetrain deliver a solid performance on the trail.
1,3 kg heavier, with the same features and technologies – the only difference being the lack of a wireless SRAM drivetrain. On paper, the Comp Alloy build offers a solid and appealing entry into the Turbo Levo 4 universe. We’re excited to see how it performs out on the trail!
For more information, visit specialized.com
Words: Robin Ulbrich Photos: Specialized
