Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL

The Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL is one of the oldest bikes in the test. You don’t have to google its release date to find out how old it is. Just take a closer look at the frame and you’ll realise that it’s still based on the previous-generation Specialized Stumpjumper. Nevertheless, the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL features an elegant carbon frame in a matte-black finish with contrasting bronze decals. While at 17 kg it’s one of the lightest eMTBs currently available on the market, the Specialized SL 1.1 motor which produces only 35 Nm torque also makes it one of the weakest. In comparison, the Orbea Rise has 60 Nm of torque, 40 Wh more internal battery capacity and relies on a similar modular battery concept with an optional range extender.

That being said, it’s also almost 1.5 kg heavier than the Levo SL. The internal battery of the Turbo Levo SL has a capacity of 320 Wh, which can be increased with an optional 160 Wh range extender. This can be stored in the bottle cage, weighs exactly 1 kg and is delivered with the bike. At the heart of the modular motor and battery concept lies the Turbo Connect Unit (TCU) integrated into the top tube, which uses LEDs to provide information about the battery charge and assistance mode and communicates directly with the Mission Control app. Here you can access the battery management system and adjust the motor characteristics to suit your riding style and preferences. As with the Rise, ebike minimalists can do away with the handlebar remote and, in combination with SRAM’s AXS wireless components, achieve a super tidy cockpit. Nice! Unfortunately, the battery takes up most of the down tube and doesn’t leave room for Specialized’s proprietary SWAT storage box. However, you still get the SWAT tool in the steerer tube. Just like its analogue counterparts, the Stumpjumper and Stumpjumper EVO, the Levo SL features a well-sized chainstay protector, a minimalist chain guide and a TPU guard on the down tube that protects the carbon frame from impacts and stray rocks.