If you liked the look of Specialized Turbo Levo R when it launched in February, but were put off by the price, that may change now the brand has unveiled the alloy version of its short-travel eMTB.
There isn't an option to get the Turbo Levo R Comp Alloy with the top-tier S-Works motor, though. That remains reserved for the priciest carbon version of the bike, which I think is a shame.
On the plus side, the standard motor packs a serious punch, delivering 810W of peak power and 105Nm of torque, which is more than many of its rivals.
If this new alloy version of the Levo R is anything like its pricier carbon counterpart, it should be a riot to ride, even if it only has 130mm of rear-wheel travel.
With only one alloy model, though, choice is limited if you’re on a budget.
Material choices
Specialized has launched the new Turbo Levo R Comp Alloy in a bid to cater for more riders with different budgetary needs.
At £5,499 / $7,200 / €6,499, it’ll save you £1,300 against its carbon Comp equivalent, but features the same powerful Specialized 3.1 motor, which delivers 105Nm of torque and peak power of 810W. That’s more than big-motor brands such as Bosch and Shimano, although the figures fall a little short of Avinox’s 120Nm of torque and 1,000W of power.
It's disappointing that there’s no option to get the top-end S-Works motor in the alloy frame. That’s reserved for the top-tier carbon bike and delivers 111Nm and 850Nm.
You do, however, get the same integrated top-tube screen, remote and motor modes as on the more expensive bikes in the range.
As standard, the Levo R Comp Alloy is powered by a massive 840Wh battery, which can be accessed easily using the side-loading compartment on the down tube.
There are aftermarket options for a smaller, lighter 600Wh battery and a 280Wh range extender if you’re keen to drop some weight or stretch your rides further.
Other than that, the alloy frame mimics the details of the carbon bike, with the same 130mm of rear-wheel travel, paired with a 140mm-travel fork up front, and the same geometry and adjustments.
Spec-wise, the Levo R Comp Alloy comes with a Fox 36 SL Performance fork and Fox Float Performance GENIE rear shock.
Gearing is a mix of SRAM Eagle 70 and 90, while SRAM Motive Bronze brakes take care of stopping duties.
More power
So, why doesn't Specialized spec its most powerful motor on any bike other than the S-Works models?
I’d compare this to the automotive world. Spending more to get the S-Works motor is like forking out for a high-performance car; think Mercedes AMG, BMW M-Series or Ford’s ST range. It requires a little more cash and commitment to get all the bells and whistles that are on offer.
While I get Specialized's thinking, now the torque and power numbers are so close between the two drive units, is it not worth upping the standard motor to match the stats of the S-Works?
After all, the S-Works bike stands out not only for the motor figures, but the top-tier spec you get. That, to me, is enough in itself. I can see why Specialized is holding the motor back, I just wish it wouldn't.
If changing the stats on the standard motor equates to more sales, that’s no bad thing and means you’ll get more riders on what I consider one of the best eMTB motors out there.
The well-controlled power and torque seemingly work across a wide cadence window, making it a seriously fun bike to ride, especially when taking on tricky climbs.
At present, you’ll need deep pockets to access those extra 40 watts of power. Thankfully, though, this new alloy option for £7,000 less than the S-Works, still comes with a great motor and some solid parts that should help you to have a great time on the trail.
