Specialized obviously likes things to be uncomplicated: The well-known Levo and Kenovo bikes are simply described as "4 times you" in terms of rider power amplification, and the 565 watts of maximum motor power specified for this seems downright bureaucratic. Now a new horse is rolling into the Californian electric stable: the Levo SL, for which "2 times you" is specified for the support, the maximum motor output is 240 watts. The result of this slimmed-down performance show? The S-Works version of the Levo SL weighs a remarkably light 17.35 kilos in frame size Large. The simple logic: less power under the hood, but much lighter.

There are five models in the new Turbo Levo SL family: the Founder ́s Edition Levo SL, S-Works Levo SL, Levo SL Expert, Levo SL Comp Carbon and Levo SL Comp. The S-Works Levo SL and Founder's Edition models are equipped with range extenders, the so-called Founder's Edition with two range extenders, which are batteries in bidon form that bring an additional 160 watt hours to the bike. The range extenders can also be purchased separately and used for all Turbo Levo SL models. The motor and internal battery are identical on all Levo SL models. Consequently, the main differences between the four models with carbon frames are the specification of the components, i.e. brakes, drivetrain, suspension and wheelset. The Turbo Levo SL Comp comes with an M5 aluminum frame.

About the motor and internal battery: As with the Turbo Creo SL e-road bike, a mid-motor from Mahle is used, but with different software, including a push assist. This SL 1.1 motor boosts the rider's power with a maximum of 240 watts and 35 Nm at both peak and nominal power. The motor is tuned to provide consistently strong support over a wide cadence range, giving a very natural feeling when pedaling. The SL 1.1 motor weighs 1,100 grams less than the Brose motor of the Levo and the Kenevo 2.1. Or to put it another way: The SL 1.1 motor weighs just 1.95 kg. The magnesium motor housing is one of several further developments that contribute to the low weight.

Integration for the battery, lightweight construction for the motor

All Turbo Levo SL models use the same internal battery with 320 watt hours. The Founder ́s Edition Levo SL is additionally equipped with two 160 Wh range extenders, which effectively double the capacity. The S-Works Levo SL comes with a 160 Wh range extender, which increases the battery capacity by 50 percent. The internal battery of the Turbo Levo SL can be charged from 3% to 100% in around two hours and 35 minutes. A range extender is charged from 3% to 100% in around 3 hours and 20 minutes. Both the internal battery and the range extender are charged (simultaneously) with a "Y" cable in around 3 hours and 20 minutes from 3% to 100% using the 48 volt charger supplied.

The internal battery of the Turbo Levo SL is fully integrated in the frame and should be charged in the frame. To remove the battery from the frame, the motor must first be removed - it is precisely this type of integration that makes the Turbo Levo SL so light. If you want to board an airplane with the Turbo Levo SL, the internal battery has to be removed. The range extender can be carried in hand luggage. Once you arrive at your destination, the Turbo Levo SL can only be ridden with the range extender, without the internal battery.

The Levo SL keeps it short and sweet when it comes to operation, with two switches on the top tube for switching the bike on and off and selecting the support modes. The smartphone app then offers even more functions and settings. There are three support modes on board the Levo SL: Eco, Trail and Turbo. The Eco mode supports you with up to 30%, the Trail mode supports you with up to 60% and the Turbo mode supports you with up to 100% of the maximum motor power - or 240 watts. The three modes can be almost completely personalized via the Mission Control app. There is also a ride mode without support if no motor power is required.