No other bike created such a furor before its launch than the Specialized Turbo Levo FSR Expert 6Fattie. Crammed with more smart features than previously considered possible, this bike is setting standards all over the scene. But are its handling and motor able to keep pace with its technology?
Specialized have trimmed the Turbo Levo down to the essentials, crafting a super clean-looking bike with barely visible Specialized branding. It’s an understated approach that even applies to its barely visible but very welcome technology. The bike relies on Specialized’s own Mission Control app, which is proving to have genuine staying power on the market. It not only permits you to alter the behaviour of the motor, but it also does real-time navigation based on the remaining range. The spec is primed for the Levo’s purpose, and Specialized’s years of know-how have ensured they’ve picked first-rate components. The integrated Autosag valve on the rear shock hugely simplifies set-up of the rear shock, laying the foundation for a good suspension setup.
The Levo’s riding position received the highest praise in this group test for having the comfiest position; we reckon you’d be as unwilling to leave this saddle as you are from the prime spot on the couch. The Brose motor has its typically natural power delivery, which ensures that it holds decent grip in technical terrain. However, natural isn’t the same as powerful, so look elsewhere if your prefer to let the motor dominate. Head to a climb and let the Levo do its thing; it possesses a handling package that won’t leave you in the lurch and the most familiar sensation of riding a regular mountain bike. Whether we’re talking accurate steering on corners, high speeds, or getting airborne, this orange whip knows how to have a good time. Its 140 mm of suspension are used efficiently and accurately, teaming with the wide 3.0″ tires for comfort and forgiveness of poor line choices.
The Specialized Turbo Levo FSR Expert 6Fattie in Detail
Fork RockShox Pike RC 140 mm
Rear shock FOX FLOAT Factory Rx Trail Tune 140 mm
Motor / Battery BROSE / 504 Wh
Brakes SRAM Guide RS
Drivetrain SRAM X1/X01
Seatpost Specialized Command Post IRcc
Stem Specialized Trail Aluminium 60 mm
Bars Specialized Trail Aluminium 750 mm
Tires Specialized Purgatory GRID
Wheels Roval Traverse 650b
Unlike many Brose-equipped E-MTBs, you can actually remove the battery on the Specialized Turbo Levo. This is a serious asset for riders, so give credit where it’s due. However, with its elongated shape, it isn’t ideal to carry a spare battery in your backpack.
Forget looking for a motor remote lever or display on the Specialized Levo. The current battery situation and level of pedal assist are indicated and controlled by the three buttons and LEDs on the downtube. We’d recommend upgrading to the Bluetooth control.
The best bike is pretty redundant if you don’t have the setup dialed. To make that task easier, the rear shock has an Autosag valve which sets the sag in a matter of seconds.
Specialized acknowledged that big disc brake rotors are an essential feature, and have duly kitted the Levo out with a 200 mm rotors.
Conclusion
Still able to cause a serious stir and rip around the woods, the Specialized Levo is a solid performer with a really comfortable riding position. Specialized’s intelligent Mission Control app is still the industry benchmark, but the Levo’s motor lacks the get-up-and-go of the competition.
Strengths
– Really natural ride
– Good climbing
– Clean design
Weaknesses
– Motor lacks power
– Motor remote lever and display cost additional money
For more information head to specialized.com!
For an overview of the test fleet head to the main article: What is the Best E-MTB of 2017? – 14 Models in Test
All bikes in test: BULLS E-Core Di2 FS 27,5+ | CUBE Stereo Hybrid 160 Action Team | FLYER Uproc7 8.70 | FOCUS JAM2 FACTORY | Giant Full-E+ 0 SX | Haibike XDURO AllMtn 8.0 | Lapierre Overvolt AM 900+ Carbon | MERIDA eONE-SIXTY 900E | NOX EDF 6.7 Hybrid | ROTWILD R.E+ FS PRO | SCOTT E-Genius Tuned 700 Plus | STEVENS E-Sledge+ ES | Thömus Lightrider E1
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