Made of aluminium and 1500 euros cheaper: Specialized Levo R Comp Alloy E-MTB for 6499 euros

Conclusion on the Specialized Levo R Comp Alloy

Its moderate character speaks the Levo R* In addition to a few ambitious riders, the new carbon bikes are primarily aimed at beginners and those who avoid challenging terrain anyway. It is precisely this target group that is generally not dependent on high-priced full carbon bikes. This makes it all the more logical that Specialized is now also offering a more affordable aluminium version - presumably the variant that best meets the needs of the target group. - Max Fuchs, BIKE editor

Specialized presents the Levo R - R stands for Rallye - a new trail e-bike at the end of February, that deliberately appeals to a very broad target group. From occasional riders and beginners to experienced bikers who would like to replace their agile trail bike with a motorised version. In other words, the new addition is aimed at all those who can neither exploit the enormous downhill potential of the classic Specialized Turbo Levo 4 - like that of many other full-suspension e-mountainbikes - nor absolutely need to.

There are many reasons for this. Often there is a lack of riding technique or a lack of willingness to go to the limit. Sometimes it is also due to the rather sluggish handling of such bikes or routes that are simply not challenging enough. Especially on less demanding home trails, a high-suspension e-MTB can quickly lose its appeal. However, regardless of the individual reasons, a light, lively e-bike offers many riders greater added value than extreme suspension travel reserves.

The facts about the Specialized Levo R Comp Alloy

Not completely new: the Levo R is based on the Levo 4

Technically, the Levo R is clearly based on the current Levo 4 and should be seen as a targeted further development rather than a complete relaunch. The frame platform and proven features have been retained, but have been bundled into a lighter overall package. Specialized has reduced the front and rear suspension travel by 20 millimetres to 140 and 130 millimetres respectively for wide-ranging everyday trail use.

This also changes the geometry: shorter, less flat and no longer designed for maximum riding safety. Instead, the focus is on balanced, agile and direct handling. In addition, Specialized now consistently relies on 29-inch wheels at the front and rear and says goodbye to the mullet design.

The Levo R was previously only available in three carbon versions: S-Works (13,999 euros), Expert (9,999 euros) and Comp (7,999 euros). With the brand new Levo R Comp Alloy, the Americans are expanding the model range with a more affordable aluminium version. Cost: 6,499 euros >> available here.

Specialised 3.1 motor with 840 Wh battery

The bike is powered by the Specialized 3.1 motor in the basic version with 105 Nm torque and a peak output of 810 watts. Only the Levo R S-Works comes with the even more powerful S-Works unit. The standard 840 Wh battery is secured in the down tube with just one screw and can be removed to the side in no time at all. Specialised also offers a smaller and lighter 600 Wh battery as an alternative. The 280 Wh Range Extender is also compatible with the Levo R Comp Alloy and can either be combined with the main battery as a range booster or supply the Specialized drive system with power all by itself. The latest firmware of the Levo system comes with various riding modes, safety functions and other setting options. Here you can find all information about the update.

Aluminium frame with Genie damper

The aluminium version also uses a shock with Specialized's patented Genie technology. By the way: If you want more suspension travel, you can fit a 150 mm fork. The frame is approved for this. The Genie shock works with two air chambers: a central main chamber and a smaller outer chamber. Thanks to the increased air volume, the suspension responds more sensitively and generates more absorption capacity, particularly in the mid-travel range. As soon as around 70 per cent of the suspension travel is used, the outer chamber closes. The air volume shrinks, which increases the progression. The result: lots of comfort and good traction with high end progression and plenty of bottoming out protection.

Geometry adjustments via flip chips

Flip chips on the lower shock mount and on the chainstay enable geometry fine-tuning so that riders with a wide range of preferences can get their money's worth with the bike. The head angle is 65 degrees, the seat angle 77 degrees. The steering angle can also be adjusted by ±1 degree using eccentric headset shells.

The features of the Specialized Levo R Comp Alloy

The Levo R Comp Alloy comes with a Fox Performance 36SL fork and a Genie shock, also based on Fox Performance. The drivetrain: a SRAM Eagle 90 T-Type drivetrain. SRAM Motive Bronze brakes provide deceleration. In-house aluminium wheels are also used. The bike is available in six sizes. The smallest size S1 is only available with Mullet tyres. All other sizes roll on standardised 29er wheels.

Thanks to its moderate orientation, the Levo R appeals not only to a few ambitious riders, but above all to beginners and those who avoid demanding terrain anyway. It is precisely this target group that is generally not reliant on high-priced full carbon bikes. This makes it all the more logical that Specialized is now also offering a more affordable aluminium version - presumably the version that best meets the needs of the target group.