LIGHTWEIGHT LEVO POWERS UP

Specialized turn up the power on their Turbo Levo SL e-MTB

NEED TO KNOW

The Turbo Levo SL has been given a big makeover, gaining increased motor power. plus a new, more adjustable frame design and geometry. Compared to the latest lightweight e-bikes, the original Levo SL was looking a little dated. The 2023 bike gets 47 per cent more grunt – 320W of peak power and 50Nm of torque – courtesy of Spesh’s latest SL 1.2 motor. There’s a new MasterMind TCU controller, too. The longer and slacker frame loses its asymmetrical ‘Sidearm’ reinforcing strut, to help keep weight down. It comes with +/- one-degree headset cups to alter the head angle and a flip-chip in the chainstay so you can run a 29in or 650b rear wheel (as standard, it’s a mixed-size bike). Also, a shock-yoke adjuster lets you raise or drop the BB. The frame comes in six reach-based sizes, from S1 to S6 (S1, 650b wheels). Fork travel has been increased to 160mm. The kinematics of the rear suspension have been worked over too – it now has a more rearward axle path and a lower suspension leverage rate, to offer more support at the start of the travel and control at the end.

WHO’S IT FOR?

Those who want the riding characteristics of a trail bike, with a little help uphill.

KEY STATS

Travel: 150mm rear, 160mm front

Wheels: Mixed or 29in

Frame: ‘FACT 11’ carbon fibre

Drive system: Specialized SL 1.2 motor w/ 320Wh battery (180Wh extender available)

Geometry: 64.5-degree head angle, 75.8-degree seat tube angle, 445mm reach (S3, stock)

Pricing: £7,000 to £13,000

More info: www.specialized. com

Available: Now!