FIRST LOOK: SPECIALIZED LEVO SL

Based on their Stumpjumper Evo platform, the new Specialized Levo SL was engineered to be an adjustable and capable all-mountain machine. Designed to be responsive and stiff while being tough enough to withstand heavy abuse, the new Levo SL is claimed to flow through technical and varied terrain without a second thought. Powered by their new SL 1.2 drive system with increased power and torque, a redefined shock tune, and 160mm/150mm of suspension travel, Specialized engineered the Levo SL to be more capable than ever. 

The new Levo SL shares the geometry numbers and adjustability options with the Stumpjumper Evo. With the ability to adjust the headset angle to three different positions, and a flip-chip in both the chainstay and shock eyelet, the Levo SL is able to accommodate virtually any riding style or terrain that is thrown at it. The headset is set to 64.25 degrees stock but can be slackened out to 63 degrees or steepened to 65.5 degrees depending on the trail and riding preference. The flip-chip located in the chainstay allows the Levo SL to run either full 29” wheels or an MX setup, and the one in the shock eyelet allows the bottom-bracket 5mm of adjustability. Over the previous iteration, the new Levo SL was given a flatter and lower leverage curve along with a more rearward axle path that is claimed to improve climbing feel and small-bump and mid-stroke sensitivity while still providing a progressive and supportive platform for larger impacts. 

Specialized is bringing great focus to their new SL 1.2 drive system, which they claim brings next-level performance, personalization, integration, and feedback into a compact, quiet, and efficient motor-drive system. With 43% more torque yielding 33% more power, the SL 1.2 motor now boasts 320W max assist and 50 Nm of torque compared to the SL 1.1 motor with 240W and 35 Nm.

Its 320Wh integrated battery is claimed to also be more efficient than its predecessor, with a 4.5-hour battery life (Eco Mode) or up to 7.5 hours with the optional 160Wh range extender. The range extender is sold separately, but is included with the S-Works tier builds. A simple and easy-to-read unit on the top tube gives easy control to the rider to adjust between ride modes and a simple display to show relevant information, while the MicroTune remote located on the bars allows power to be adjusted in 10% increments. Additionally, their Mission Control App gives riders further personalization and motor tuning options while also being an on-trail diagnostic tool. 

In its stock configuration (middle headset setting, low BB setting, and 27.5” rear wheel), a size S3 frame has a 445mm reach with a 432mm chainstay length. With 12 different geometry and wheel-size configurations, the reach and chainstay lengths can be adjusted by approximately 10mm respectively, giving the Levo SL a wide range of trail applications and rider preferences. The new Levo SL is available in 4 complete build kits along with an S-Works frame-only option. The Comp Carbon and S-Works frame kit retail at $8,000, while the complete S-Works and LTD kits retail for $14,000 and $15,000 respectively. Pricing for the Pro level build kit is not yet available. 

LEVO PRICES

S-Works LTD	$ 15,000
S-Works	$ 14,000
Pro	TBD
Comp Carbon	$ 8,000
S-Works Frameset	$ 8,000

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SPECIALIZED S-WORKS TURBO LEVO SL LTD

 

All new carbon frame comes in a mixed-wheel configuration (compatible with a 29-inch rear wheel with no extra parts needed.) New kinematics with a flatter leverage curve provide more support and playfulness off the top, but plenty of control in rougher conditions. The head tube angle and bottom bracket height are both adjustable.

• Worried about running out of power? No problem. Turbo Levo SL eats up big miles and long days. And if you’re looking for even more miles, our included range extender boosts your range by another 50 percent. On top of all that, our Mission Control App can handle battery management automatically, ensuring your battery will last as long as you need it to.
• SRAM XX Eagle Transmission
• New SRAM Code Ultimate Stealth brakes
• Rockshox Flight Attendant wirelessly controlled electronic suspension
•  $ 15,000

TURBO LEVO SL PRO

 

All new carbon frame comes in mixed wheel configuration (compatible with 29 rear with no extra parts needed.) New kinematic with a flatter leverage curve which provides more support and playfulness off the top, but plenty of control in rougher conditions. The head tube angle and bottom bracket height are both adjustable

• New SRAM XO1 Transmission
• New SRAM Code Silver Stealth Stealth brakes
• $ TBD

S-WORKS TURBO LEVO SL

 

This all-new carbon frame comes in a mixed-wheel configuration (compatible with a 29-inch rear wheel with no extra parts needed.) New kinematics with a flatter leverage curve provide more support and playfulness off the top, but plenty of control in rougher conditions. The head tube angle and bottom bracket height are both adjustable.

• Worried about running out of power? No problem. Turbo Levo SL eats up big miles and long days. And if you’re looking for even more miles, the included range extender boosts your range by another 50 percent. On top of all that, the Mission Control App can handle battery management automatically, reportedly ensuring your battery will last as long as you need it to.
• New SRAM XX Eagle transmission
• New SRAM Code Stealth Ultimate brakes
• $ 14,000

TURBO LEVO SL COMP CARBON

 

All new carbon frame comes in a mixed-wheel configuration (compatible with a 29-inch rear wheel with no extra parts needed.) New kinematics with a flatter leverage curve provide more support and playfulness off the top, but plenty of control in rougher conditions. The head tube angle and bottom bracket height are both adjustable.

• $ 8,000

COMPLETE LIST OF ALL NEW MOUNTAIN BIKES