I've had this bike over a month now and love it. I'm new to the mtn bike world but this helps me keep up with all my faster friends. I recently picked up a 21 Enduro so I do the best of both worlds.
Congrats! It’s an awesome bike. I also bought the expert, went to fox 36 at 160mm. Then lots of upgrades later and now I’ve got it to 38 pounds ready to ride. Sold my Yeti and my Evil...just no need. The SL is killer. Have fun and be safe!
Great to see that you enjoyed the shackdown. Did you noticed your able to pedal to whatever speed you want without resistance. I did that challenge last week against the Shimano e8000 for a 1 minute all out sprint. E8000 I got to 36km max speed, The SL was 45km and still climbing.
I rode a Santa Cruz Tallboy CC until it was recently stolen. At 69 years young I thought I would check out eBikes. I test rode the Turbo Levo SL Comp Carbon and fell in love with it. It rode in a very similar manner to the Santa Cruz. It took me about a minute to decide to purchase the bike. After viewing your video I'm convinced I made the right decision. Now I can keep up with my 35+ year old sons on the Singletrak trails.
Just bought one, I'm really looking forward to my first ebike. I'm so pumped that it's such a discreet looking e-bike not a huge looking motor at the bottom.
Firstly great video, I was lucky enough to get a SL comp carbon after having a Santacruz Bronson and it was the best buy I ever made you will absolutely love it. Keep up the great video’s
Hey Andrew if im honest I didn't know much about the SL until about a week ago.. just hit 250km in 7 days my body is tired but I can't spot riding this beast totally in love
I just demoed this exact bike a few days ago. Large frame Tubeless with Oneup flat pedals weighed 18.5 KG/ 40.5 pounds. I currently ride a 27 pound Ripley V4 and this SL just ripped in comparison. I did notice that it takes a bit longer to stop coming into tight switch backs, as expected with the extra weight. The SL takes tight switchbacks as well as my Ripley does, which surprised me and has me wanting one.
@@SamsBikes Sam , are you familiar with the relatively new Sachs Micro mobility motor and batteries ? 110 Nm designed to produce a lot of that power at low cadence . will be used by Nox and Bulls on their new bikes . The company has joined forces with Magura and o e other company . Batteries will be approx. 650 and 820 ! here's the link Sachsmicromobility.com
I‘m seriously thinking about getting one as a second e-Mtb to my Decoy 29er. How would you describe the power of the motor. Do you think the Turbo mode on the SL is similar to the Trail mode on the Decoy?
My SL Expert arrived a few days ago, I'm lucky enough to have a Merida e160 as well. I'm surprised how much power the SL has and that short backend makes it really flickable. I'm going to change the front travel to 160 just to increase the stack and slack, for some of the steeper bits. The SL looks like a good choice so far!
Thanks for sharing bro lucky man... totally agree for me it feels more like an enduro bike that a trail and I love it.. Im going 160, Magic Marry Big Betty, magura brakes this week can't wait to get it totally set up how I like it.
Definitely keen to get one of these for my wife. Seems like it will be the perfect balance for her to get up the hills without exhausting her for the downs. She's 60kg and the low weight would be ideal. I think a full fat ebike would be too much of a handful to keep control of.
We did just that and got an Levo SL a couple of months ago for her (me on the regular bike). It offsets quite nice that balance and she can still lift it over some cow fences or obstacles. Longest ride we had was about 1400-1500m in elevation over 39 km distance (5h of moving time) with only 5% when we were back at the power outlet. With the app you can super nicely tune it so that's not too easy nor too hard for her to keep up with you
Hey Sam, awesome videos, I just ordered the exact bike you tested same awesome color also, With matura MT7's,MDR rotors,OneUP bars and stem & alum pedals, and of course AXS, expected in end of August, coming off of a 2020 specialized EVO carbon, my LBS doesn't know when the 22's in this model will arrive, wondering if you have any intel ?any major changes? should I wait or should I go...thx!
Hey mate thanks for the kind words. No I dont have any idea on 2022 bikes but I dont think we will see any major changes. If you want to push the bike hard get some Enduro tires on it.. the orignal are fine for trail but i loved the bike so much more with some Magic Marrys
@@SamsBikes Thanks for the response,im just going with what I ordered, it will be awesome I'm sure, I've got some goodies waiting for it, OneUP carbon bars and stem,OneUp aluminum pedals,Sram AXS, Magura MT7 HC3,MDR rotors,Tannus Armour, thx again for awesome videos!!
Super jealous, it looks and sounds amazing. Itching to sell my Levo for the SL. Would like to hear more about range (km/elevation) and how it climbs - in eco and trail. Enjoy it Sam!
EMBN did a comparison between LEVOs and the different battery sizes, I reckon the SL is more about riding feel than out and out range! It's range is comparable to a standard LEVO with the 500 WH battery!
First off love the channel and the videos. Do you know if Specialized is going to redesign the Turbo Levo anytime soon? I own a Turbo Levo now but would like to update it soon. Keep up the great videos and hope all is well in Spain. Jeff from California
SCHMICKO looking ride - I have ride a Giant E-Trance that could make me change . I checked out their website and their machines are very nice-that orange colour just pops! Love it!
Hi Sam... As you're living in Spain how about you test the Mondraker Crafty 2021 R... Bit late for me as I've just ordered two and they arrive in December but would love to know your thoughts.... We live in Fuerteventura...We have been riding Jeffsy's 29 for the last 3 years and now it's time for an E bike and thought a local bike shop would be better to buy from....We were so close to buying the Decoy 29 pro but if I had an electrical problem it would of done my head having to send it back to Germany.... I love your vids...
Hey Martin, thanks for the kind words, I totally agree buying in a bike shop if there is a problem its a pain... I really like the Crafty its a great option another bike I like that is similar is the Trek Rail and the Levo Comp 21
thanks... the 100km will be a nice long ride in the Sierra I will go into detail but not a Huge amount on range its way more complex needs a video on its own. so that is coming as well
Totally silent and no resistance, you will feel the weight immediately once assistance is turned off. Also close to silent when assistance level is below 25%.
the bike pedals like a normal bike with the motor turned off.. well like a 17kg bike. its possible to ride on the flat but hard work going up. makes no sound with its off but when on more noise than the Brose.
@@SamsBikes that's probably the best way to describe the settings of assistance on an E-bike and that's how i do it after only owning mine for a couple months. Boost or max settings makes the bike feel weightless+ and even makes slight uphill areas feel like you are going downhill. Medium setting makes the bike literally weightless and most slight uphill sections feel as though you are only carrying your own weight. And then finally the low setting makes the bike feel like an average non ebike when going uphill. And then you have these new Specialized lighter bikes with smaller motors and batteries that feel as though you just have a medium and low setting
Great video...I'm stuck, can't make up my mind. I have been waiting for the 2021's to come out because I knew they where changing a few things, like the suspension. I originally was going to pick the Evo Sl because even though I'm getting up there in age 65, I'm still kinda fit. But I see videos where the regular Evo leaves the SL way behind going up hills. And if I am being realistic, I'm old...Not 40 something anymore...I have got to make up my mind soon, there is a waiting list to get these bikes. If I wait too long they might disappear for 2021...
I would totally go test both and see how you get on different bikes both great but different. If you want to have a chat about it hit me up on Facebook Sam
Have you speccd a beefier fork and shock? I did a test ride on the levo sl and it had fox 34's and dps rear but it didn't have a piggback. I loved it but ws wishing it had the 36;s and a better rear shock or even a coil and it would have been an absolute weapon.
this is the 21 comes with the 36 and a dp2 and im really loving the suspension perfect for this style of bike. Might up it to 160 but that's only 50 euros.. Sam
On your first Vid off the Heckler i asked ive you have ridden the SL. Nice to see, that you give it a try. Bought mine 2 month ago and I can say its a hell of bike. You will love it ;-)
Yes Sam,Pleased for you .Range test as well as mode test over techy stuff would be a good video.I will be patiently waiting for the New Sam2 test one day🤞🏻
I recently sold my Haibike all mountain and have been testing out a Levo SL....I don’t think I’ll ever go back to a full sized ebike. I missed the finesse of a lighter bike, don’t get me wrong the power of the Bosch gen3 was awesome but it felt too tank like for me. I’m looking forward to see what other companies will come out in the future, I’m definitely buying the SL in my possession as I do think Specialized nailed it with this one
@@SamsBikes I agree they both have a place, I fully enjoyed the power of my Haibike and it would make a lot of sense in an area with long uphill grinds something we don't have here. Lots of ups they just don't last too long. If I still lived in CO with 7 mile climbs I would have kept it. I had the SL on some very technical trails in Duluth MN this weekend and it excelled. I have enjoyed your channel - thanks for sharing.
did you get the fox 36 on it? the thing that put me off was the fox 34 on the 2020. Didn't fancy buying a bike and then having to change up the suspension.
Mine is the 21 comes with 36 and DP2 with piggy back and im loving the stock suspension might up the travel to 160 but that is only 50 euros for a air shaft...
hired the bike for a day, coming from a full power ebike and 48 years old with small knee pain i found the bike to be underpowered for me, however it takes off downhill and it is a lot of fun, a 50nm motor would have been perfect for me, brakes are weak, fork fox 34 on 2020 model was too small too.... great review
Enzo, I totally agree its not for everyone and a full fat Ebike would be better for some people... this is such a fun bike but for me its worth the extra work!
Hi Sam, new to the channel but enjoying the videos. I'm very interested to know the range you're getting from each power setting on a standard ride. I have the Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay A70, love the bike but with the internal battery I'm limited to how many rides I can get on a single charge (I do a lot of free camp riding trips). So thinking of changing bikes to something with a removable battery or one with a range extender. I only use full boost on steep climbs, so I think the SL might be a good option. Plus the lighter weight will help lifting onto bike racks. Looking forward to your response.
thanks for the kind words, the SL is getting about the same range as my Decoy with a 540 battery but with the range extender im getting about another 1 hour. defo go test it a very fun bike but you need to be fitter
Sam. I am moving to the Martine Alps neat Nice in France next year. I will be able to ride out of drive on to the Esterel Mastif. I have ridden a Levo, Levo SL and YT Decoy 29. Each of them for a full day in the hills and am now convinced a Ebike is the way to go to have max fun out there. And something else for uplift days say Capra. The SL I think will be too much like hard pedalling in the Alps I am keen to hear what you think ? My current thinking is a Trek Rail mainly because of your review and the bigger battery.
John how fit are you? and will you be riding with full fat ebikes? also got a spare bed haha.. I'm coming! if your fit get a SL so much fun but not so fit get a full fat
Sam, I am moderately fit, I ride a YT Jeffsy mostly in the UK doing about 50 miles and about 3,000 to 3,500ft of climbing a week mostly in the Surrey Hills. Sure we will have a spare bed, seriously and bike store. I will let you know once we get settled. I spent the day at Coed y Brenin bike park on the SL which was enough to convince me it is a Full Fat for me in the Alps.
Love your channel Sam! Can you please help me out in choosing between the Sl Comp and Comp Carbon? I cannot find any weight numbers or vs experiences. You would really help me out!
Nice vid Sam like your honesty when testing anything ......I’m more towards full fat power ...hope you will be taking it on a xc ride to see what you get out of power/distance ... carry on the good work 👍🇬🇧
I’ve asked before and you answered but now I have lots of miles on my Levo. Please help me decide. I presently own a Levo SL comp Carbon. It’s truly an awesome bike! I bought it with my wife in mind as the primary rider. I then ordered a Decoy Elite. Still waiting for it. I bought the Decoy before I rode the Levo. Now thinking, get a second Levo? Thoughts?
Ok I see you like this the SL is a great bike and so is the Decoy, if your fit you can use the SL for everything but if your not that fit and want to ride with people with full fat ebikes your might be better suited on a full fat... hope that helped
Sam’s Bikes Going to get a second Levo. The power has been perfect and the riding qualities are amazing! Thanks for all your reviews and for your responses!
Great choice, was flipping between the Decoy Shred and the SL. Went with the SL as enjoy longer spins and I can lift if over gates 😂 Enjoy and look forward to your review.
Excellent review. However, it's frustrating that so many people say they spend all this money on a new bike and then immediately want to change out a whole bunch of parts. So that just spikes the price of a new bike way higher than what the manufacturers are selling them for. It would be great if there was an ebike that had the perfect set of components right from the get go. Even the YT Elite I've read so many people saying they're replacing the brakes on them. I can understand that after a year or more of owning a new bike you might want to change out some parts. I've done that on my Santa Cruz 5010c, but it's a 2014 model and I bought it second hand. Love your videos Sam!
Hey mate thanks for your feedback I totally get you! This bike is totally fine the way it is! It’s a trail bike and totally great but I will ride it on the harder side and would rather 2.6 tires so there’s that and also I test loads of bikes and to push a bike hard I really like to have the same cockpit brakes and tires it makes testing the “bike” easier hope that makes sense
Man! try Kellys THEOS F-series thermoplastic hybrid steel-carbon composite, change riders don't Chang parts 😁 It will be launch Feb 21... Amazing bike.. Kellys or Nothing for me..
@@SamsBikes I'm in the market for an eBike to purchase in the spring time. It's getting to the end of the riding season here in Canada, so going to wait until spring. I'm loving your bike reviews so far. My choice so far is between the Trek Rail 9.x, YT Decoy Elite, or the Levo (either SL or regular). Although the Merida eOne-Sixty looks amazing, I don't think the Merida brand is available at all in Canada. And I know the EP8 motor is on hold right now. But maybe it'll be available in the spring when I'm ready to buy.
@@jamornothing6904 Ya that looks neat. Kind of looks like the Decoy Elite, but with even less room for a bottle. Plus if I got a Kellys, my daughter would think it's her's as that's her name :)
Are you back in a happy place now Sam? Great to see you back out shreeeeeeeddddding 😆. This is you all over, living the dream...... I demonstrated a levo SL about 3 months ago just after I'd bought my orbea fs wild, I so wished that I had tried it before my orbea as it was so close to a normal full Susser acoustic steed it was scary. Did about 40 miles on eco. V good. Next year I will get 1. Did you get a range extender battery too?
Haha thanks mate loving this bike not for everyone but you like to ride a normally feeling bike you need to pedal a bit more but for me it’s worth it!!!! Yes I got the extender the SL is very good on battery I’ll let you know how the range it
Sam great looking bike. I ride a Levo mostly in trail mode set at 50% / 100 . I weigh 71kg with all my kit on how will this bike be for me? Also beef up the suspension?
Sam this isn't a dig please don't take it the wrong way. I've got 3 RUclips channels for EMTB you,Rob and EMBN. You're all amazing at what you do and it seems like specialised know what influences you guys would have on sales! All now in in Specialised pockets and Specialised are amazing i have a 2016 Specialised Enduro Elite and my first Mountain bike in 1992 was a Specialised Rockhopper. Please keep testing as many different companies as you can.
Hey Ross thanks for the kind words, I love specialized I had a 1998 FSA, 2005 P1 and a 2015 enduro 29er. The SL actually rides a lot like the 15 enduro. I totally get what you are saying about Specialized seeing value in us, but at the same time it’s frustrating emailing companies and 80% never hearing back about testing bikes, so when specialized reached out I jumped on it but trust me I’ll keep testing everything I can get my hands on!
@@SamsBikes The Meta looks amazing I'm not a trek fan after owning a liquid 30. Years ago! I'm thinking for me in Scotland the Whyte E-180 RS V2. Sealed bearings for our endless good weather. In interest in the new Shimano motor which is one of many reason for waiting.
Hi Sam, Just found your channel and you have some great vids so keep up the good work. Im new to EMTB world and I am looking to buy my first bike soon. Im a roadie and wanted to get one to ride on the roads, ride on some trails and canal paths etc etc. I guess I want one that is comfortable on road as off road but nothing to crazy off road!!! Would you suggest a hardtail or full suspension to cover most scenarios? I live in the UK and was wondering if you think that may have a decision on what to ride? Thanks in advance Lee
good vid dude, not sure whats wrong with the sound, what camera you using? I've used a hero 8 on chest mount with camera in rubber housing with no wind noise and its perfect, Cheers, G-MAN
Hey James I'm on a Large and im 183cm. I feel I could go a XL or L. If you can go sit on one and you will be able to tell straight away which feels right.
Sam’s Bikes. It will be interesting to see. We all like to go as fast as we can downhill (within our own abilities) so I look forward to finding out. Looking forward to future updates 👍
I'm not sure i buy losing so much power to save 5kg. I can lose 5kg off me and still get the power. This might catch on for no other reason than the stupid speed limit on a ebike. Because it will be power to weight ratio is the only thing they can improve due to power and speed limits
Yep 👍 I get you but the same could be said for a normal bike! Loads of enduro bikes costing 7k up! I personally think it’s worth it if it’s your passion
SL is so weak it is almost like a normal bike. Not a fan of it at all. Better go off of a normal bike rather than this small weak motor which will not make a difference at all
That just shows you've not ridden one. Unless of course you're really unfit, in which case you will need the full power model. I have the SL carbon comp and it's brilliant. Absolutely love it! 😁😁
I've had this bike over a month now and love it. I'm new to the mtn bike world but this helps me keep up with all my faster friends. I recently picked up a 21 Enduro so I do the best of both worlds.
wow... lucky man Im thinking about the new Stumpy EVO looks so nice... I'm in love with my SL
Congrats! It’s an awesome bike.
I also bought the expert, went to fox 36 at 160mm.
Then lots of upgrades later and now I’ve got it to 38 pounds ready to ride. Sold my Yeti and my Evil...just no need. The SL is killer.
Have fun and be safe!
Yep totally its a sweet bike the only one you need.
Just bought one. They are a blast.
Taylor totally what a trip just done 250km in 7 days totally loving it
Great to see that you enjoyed the shackdown. Did you noticed your able to pedal to whatever speed you want without resistance. I did that challenge last week against the Shimano e8000 for a 1 minute all out sprint. E8000 I got to 36km max speed, The SL was 45km and still climbing.
wow that sounds like a great test. Totally I found the acceleration out of control!
I saw you enjoying it so much! Glad you are riding it! Also I have to say that it is a very good looking bike!
and what about the rider..? good looking Thanks Bea love you and your camera work!!
Levo SL 2021 comes with a 160mm fork?
No it comes with a 150 but for 80$ you can change the airspring internally
I rode a Santa Cruz Tallboy CC until it was recently stolen. At 69 years young I thought I would check out eBikes. I test rode the Turbo Levo SL Comp Carbon and fell in love with it. It rode in a very similar manner to the Santa Cruz. It took me about a minute to decide to purchase the bike. After viewing your video I'm convinced I made the right decision. Now I can keep up with my 35+ year old sons on the Singletrak trails.
Just bought one, I'm really looking forward to my first ebike. I'm so pumped that it's such a discreet looking e-bike not a huge looking motor at the bottom.
Let us know how you got on? i love my SL
What a head turner!! Love the review.
I’m sold.
Rider you will love it 😍
I’ve had my SL for a month now and am loving it. Power when you need and can ride it like you stole it.
Totally agree Ive done like 500km in 3 weeks,. totally in LOVE
@@SamsBikes any problems yet?
Firstly great video, I was lucky enough to get a SL comp carbon after having a Santacruz Bronson and it was the best buy I ever made you will absolutely love it. Keep up the great video’s
Hey Andrew if im honest I didn't know much about the SL until about a week ago.. just hit 250km in 7 days my body is tired but I can't spot riding this beast totally in love
I just demoed this exact bike a few days ago. Large frame Tubeless with Oneup flat pedals weighed 18.5 KG/ 40.5 pounds. I currently ride a 27 pound Ripley V4 and this SL just ripped in comparison. I did notice that it takes a bit longer to stop coming into tight switch backs, as expected with the extra weight. The SL takes tight switchbacks as well as my Ripley does, which surprised me and has me wanting one.
Hey Steve I'm glad you found it like me... it's a bloody rad bike im totally in love!
Very nice bike . i'm jealous of the weather there ( raining in germany ) and that smooth trail is just my taste .
Sirios you need to get over here... well maybe next year with no covid...
@@SamsBikes Sam , are you familiar with the relatively new Sachs Micro
mobility motor and batteries ? 110 Nm designed to produce a lot of that power at low cadence . will be used by Nox and Bulls on their new bikes .
The company has joined forces with Magura and o e other company .
Batteries will be approx. 650 and 820 ! here's the link
Sachsmicromobility.com
Sirios Star that sounds amazing thanks for the information
Check out their website . i think they have an english version .
Bike looks well Sam!! Looking forward to future episodes 😀
thanks mate sweet bike!
Nice addition. Looks like you took to it quickly. Totally want one. Waiting for long term tests to roll in
Go test one... or not unless you have the money ready haha its a great bike!
I‘m seriously thinking about getting one as a second e-Mtb to my Decoy 29er. How would you describe the power of the motor. Do you think the Turbo mode on the SL is similar to the Trail mode on the Decoy?
Mate its hard to explain... I would 100% go try one amazing bike I love it but you do need to pedal a little more
Agree entirely the SL is still be seriously hard work on the technical climbs in North Wales at least
My SL Expert arrived a few days ago, I'm lucky enough to have a Merida e160 as well. I'm surprised how much power the SL has and that short backend makes it really flickable. I'm going to change the front travel to 160 just to increase the stack and slack, for some of the steeper bits. The SL looks like a good choice so far!
Thanks for sharing bro lucky man... totally agree for me it feels more like an enduro bike that a trail and I love it.. Im going 160, Magic Marry Big Betty, magura brakes this week can't wait to get it totally set up how I like it.
Trying to convince myself I need one of these for commuting haha! Good vid, thanks!
hahahahaha... I can see that working
Definitely keen to get one of these for my wife. Seems like it will be the perfect balance for her to get up the hills without exhausting her for the downs. She's 60kg and the low weight would be ideal. I think a full fat ebike would be too much of a handful to keep control of.
Daniel I was only just thinking about that.... I think your 100% right!
If she’s riding with you and you have a bigger battery it might cut your ride short though.
We did just that and got an Levo SL a couple of months ago for her (me on the regular bike). It offsets quite nice that balance and she can still lift it over some cow fences or obstacles. Longest ride we had was about 1400-1500m in elevation over 39 km distance (5h of moving time) with only 5% when we were back at the power outlet. With the app you can super nicely tune it so that's not too easy nor too hard for her to keep up with you
Hey Sam, awesome videos, I just ordered the exact bike you tested same awesome color also, With matura MT7's,MDR rotors,OneUP bars and stem & alum pedals, and of course AXS, expected in end of August, coming off of a 2020 specialized EVO carbon, my LBS doesn't know when the 22's in this model will arrive, wondering if you have any intel ?any major changes? should I wait or should I go...thx!
Hey mate thanks for the kind words. No I dont have any idea on 2022 bikes but I dont think we will see any major changes. If you want to push the bike hard get some Enduro tires on it.. the orignal are fine for trail but i loved the bike so much more with some Magic Marrys
@@SamsBikes Thanks for the response,im just going with what I ordered, it will be awesome I'm sure, I've got some goodies waiting for it, OneUP carbon bars and stem,OneUp aluminum pedals,Sram AXS, Magura MT7 HC3,MDR rotors,Tannus Armour, thx again for awesome videos!!
Just tested one of those last weekend. I too am very stoked on this bike! Didn't know I wanted one before I rode it!
Right on mate... me too... not really interested in the SL until about a week ago haha.. now im totally in love
my brother likes his SL so much that he sold his 2020 kenevo and is having so much fun with it
Totally man more people need to try the SL it's not for everyone but what a bike
Super jealous, it looks and sounds amazing. Itching to sell my Levo for the SL. Would like to hear more about range (km/elevation) and how it climbs - in eco and trail. Enjoy it Sam!
EMBN did a comparison between LEVOs and the different battery sizes, I reckon the SL is more about riding feel than out and out range! It's range is comparable to a standard LEVO with the 500 WH battery!
dude its a very very fun bike... done 130km in 3 days can't actually get off it. my 100km thoughts video Sunday night
First off love the channel and the videos. Do you know if Specialized is going to redesign the Turbo Levo anytime soon? I own a Turbo Levo now but would like to update it soon. Keep up the great videos and hope all is well in Spain.
Jeff from California
Hey Jeff thanks for the kind words, mate I really have no idea what it coming sorry.
Looks awesome buddy!! Contrats! You gonna get fit at last for next year! Remember! 6 months, I give you... six months, no more!😂😂😂
Ok old man 👴 how old again 61?! Haha
SCHMICKO looking ride - I have ride a Giant E-Trance that could make me change . I checked out their website and their machines are very nice-that orange colour just pops! Love it!
Andy legend you would this whip... perfect bike for a real bike lover
Hi Sam... As you're living in Spain how about you test the Mondraker Crafty 2021 R... Bit late for me as I've just ordered two and they arrive in December but would love to know your thoughts.... We live in Fuerteventura...We have been riding Jeffsy's 29 for the last 3 years and now it's time for an E bike and thought a local bike shop would be better to buy from....We were so close to buying the Decoy 29 pro but if I had an electrical problem it would of done my head having to send it back to Germany.... I love your vids...
Hey Martin, thanks for the kind words, I totally agree buying in a bike shop if there is a problem its a pain... I really like the Crafty its a great option another bike I like that is similar is the Trek Rail and the Levo Comp 21
Have fun with your new levo sl ;) looking forward to your 100k review next week :P Especially about range in different modes and on high accents
thanks... the 100km will be a nice long ride in the Sierra I will go into detail but not a Huge amount on range its way more complex needs a video on its own. so that is coming as well
Great filming on the video Sam
Thanks Lee it was a little bit of work haha 😂
Sam - how's the bike pedal with the motor off. Noisy? Lots of resistance?
Totally silent and no resistance, you will feel the weight immediately once assistance is turned off. Also close to silent when assistance level is below 25%.
the bike pedals like a normal bike with the motor turned off.. well like a 17kg bike. its possible to ride on the flat but hard work going up. makes no sound with its off but when on more noise than the Brose.
@@SamsBikes that's probably the best way to describe the settings of assistance on an E-bike and that's how i do it after only owning mine for a couple months. Boost or max settings makes the bike feel weightless+ and even makes slight uphill areas feel like you are going downhill. Medium setting makes the bike literally weightless and most slight uphill sections feel as though you are only carrying your own weight. And then finally the low setting makes the bike feel like an average non ebike when going uphill.
And then you have these new Specialized lighter bikes with smaller motors and batteries that feel as though you just have a medium and low setting
Hi Sam great channel love the content, could you tell me how the sl pedals once the motor cuts out over it’s assists speed ?
AMAZING best motor for going above the Limiter!
Is there only one version of the Levo SL? are the 2020 and 2021 the same?
Hey mate the levo 21 comes with 36s so I would definitely try and get a 21
Great video...I'm stuck, can't make up my mind. I have been waiting for the 2021's to come out because I knew they where changing a few things, like the suspension. I originally was going to pick the Evo Sl because even though I'm getting up there in age 65, I'm still kinda fit. But I see videos where the regular Evo leaves the SL way behind going up hills. And if I am being realistic, I'm old...Not 40 something anymore...I have got to make up my mind soon, there is a waiting list to get these bikes. If I wait too long they might disappear for 2021...
I would totally go test both and see how you get on different bikes both great but different. If you want to have a chat about it hit me up on Facebook Sam
Have you speccd a beefier fork and shock? I did a test ride on the levo sl and it had fox 34's and dps rear but it didn't have a piggback. I loved it but ws wishing it had the 36;s and a better rear shock or even a coil and it would have been an absolute weapon.
this is the 21 comes with the 36 and a dp2 and im really loving the suspension perfect for this style of bike. Might up it to 160 but that's only 50 euros.. Sam
@@SamsBikes i thought 160mm on front would be perfect.
On your first Vid off the Heckler i asked ive you have ridden the SL. Nice to see, that you give it a try. Bought mine 2 month ago and I can say its a hell of bike. You will love it ;-)
I’m totally in love! Dialing it in this week 160 up front, magic marry and big Betty tires, 40mm industry nine stem, renthal bars and magura mt5.
@@SamsBikes Riding 160 in the front too and the x2 in the rear. This bike can handle a lot ;-)
I felt like it was a bigger bike than 150 straight away I want to build it up a little and see how hard I can push this beast
Sam’s Bikes are considering a cascade components link?
Was rooting for specialized since day one! Great vid as always sam 😀
Thanks Corvin such a fun bike!
I have a Shuttle which is fantastic but this one tempts me.
im totally blown away with this bike
@@SamsBikes great to hear. I’ll probably pick one up next year. C’mon, stock market!!
Yes Sam,Pleased for you .Range test as well as mode test over techy stuff would be a good video.I will be patiently waiting for the New Sam2 test one day🤞🏻
new video up...
I recently sold my Haibike all mountain and have been testing out a Levo SL....I don’t think I’ll ever go back to a full sized ebike. I missed the finesse of a lighter bike, don’t get me wrong the power of the Bosch gen3 was awesome but it felt too tank like for me. I’m looking forward to see what other companies will come out in the future, I’m definitely buying the SL in my possession as I do think Specialized nailed it with this one
I think both full fat and half fat have there places but this SL is very special to me... best bike I have ridden ...
@@SamsBikes I agree they both have a place, I fully enjoyed the power of my Haibike and it would make a lot of sense in an area with long uphill grinds something we don't have here. Lots of ups they just don't last too long. If I still lived in CO with 7 mile climbs I would have kept it. I had the SL on some very technical trails in Duluth MN this weekend and it excelled. I have enjoyed your channel - thanks for sharing.
did you get the fox 36 on it? the thing that put me off was the fox 34 on the 2020. Didn't fancy buying a bike and then having to change up the suspension.
Mine is the 21 comes with 36 and DP2 with piggy back and im loving the stock suspension might up the travel to 160 but that is only 50 euros for a air shaft...
@@SamsBikes good plan, I might have considered this bike 6 months ago if they came with that spec. Decided on a full fat ebike now
I cancelled my Devoy Shred and Commencal SX. I got 2021 Levo SL. I love it. I ran mullet today. But I’m planning run both 29 and 160fork
That bike rips👍👍👍
it really does...
What tire and brake combo are you thinking?
Ive gone magura mt5 with magic marry and big Betty on the back!
hired the bike for a day, coming from a full power ebike and 48 years old with small knee pain i found the bike to be underpowered for me, however it takes off downhill and it is a lot of fun, a 50nm motor would have been perfect for me, brakes are weak, fork fox 34 on 2020 model was too small too.... great review
Enzo, I totally agree its not for everyone and a full fat Ebike would be better for some people... this is such a fun bike but for me its worth the extra work!
What lens are you rocking on your jawbreakers?
no idea haha red ones
Hi Sam, new to the channel but enjoying the videos. I'm very interested to know the range you're getting from each power setting on a standard ride. I have the Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay A70, love the bike but with the internal battery I'm limited to how many rides I can get on a single charge (I do a lot of free camp riding trips). So thinking of changing bikes to something with a removable battery or one with a range extender. I only use full boost on steep climbs, so I think the SL might be a good option. Plus the lighter weight will help lifting onto bike racks.
Looking forward to your response.
thanks for the kind words, the SL is getting about the same range as my Decoy with a 540 battery but with the range extender im getting about another 1 hour. defo go test it a very fun bike but you need to be fitter
With a 2.5 hour charge time nothing gets you back on the tracks as fast as the mighty Levo SL !
Sam. I am moving to the Martine Alps neat Nice in France next year. I will be able to ride out of drive on to the Esterel Mastif.
I have ridden a Levo, Levo SL and YT Decoy 29. Each of them for a full day in the hills and am now convinced a Ebike is the way to go to have max fun out there. And something else for uplift days say Capra.
The SL I think will be too much like hard pedalling in the Alps I am keen to hear what you think ?
My current thinking is a Trek Rail mainly because of your review and the bigger battery.
John how fit are you? and will you be riding with full fat ebikes? also got a spare bed haha.. I'm coming! if your fit get a SL so much fun but not so fit get a full fat
Sam, I am moderately fit, I ride a YT Jeffsy mostly in the UK doing about 50 miles and about 3,000 to 3,500ft of climbing a week mostly in the Surrey Hills. Sure we will have a spare bed, seriously and bike store. I will let you know once we get settled. I spent the day at Coed y Brenin bike park on the SL which was enough to convince me it is a Full Fat for me in the Alps.
Hey Sam, bike looks cool 😎 was hoping you’d scored a Meta Power but guess they’ll be a little while off now with EP8 delays....
Yep 👍 few months off now! The SL is a total beast!
Love your channel Sam! Can you please help me out in choosing between the Sl Comp and Comp Carbon? I cannot find any weight numbers or vs experiences. You would really help me out!
I just ordered a Trek Rail 9! Fkn can't wait!
SWEEEEET, let me know how you go!
Hey Sam, do you think a Zeb 190mm travel at the front would improve the riding experience?
mate I don't really think so it would change the Geo to much!
Looks awesome but the price is a bit too much at least here in Australia. Do you know whether Shimano or Bosch are working on something to compete?
The smart man would say yes but I have no idea what they have going
Loving the channel bro - top riding!!
Appreciate it mate... I love bikes... easy to talk about these amazing bikes
Nice vid Sam like your honesty when testing anything ......I’m more towards full fat power ...hope you will be taking it on a xc ride to see what you get out of power/distance ... carry on the good work 👍🇬🇧
thanks champ yep ill be testing the hell out of this bike...
I’ve asked before and you answered but now I have lots of miles on my Levo. Please help me decide. I presently own a Levo SL comp Carbon. It’s truly an awesome bike! I bought it with my wife in mind as the primary rider. I then ordered a Decoy Elite. Still waiting for it. I bought the Decoy before I rode the Levo. Now thinking, get a second Levo? Thoughts?
Ok I see you like this the SL is a great bike and so is the Decoy, if your fit you can use the SL for everything but if your not that fit and want to ride with people with full fat ebikes your might be better suited on a full fat... hope that helped
Sam’s Bikes Going to get a second Levo. The power has been perfect and the riding qualities are amazing! Thanks for all your reviews and for your responses!
Great choice, was flipping between the Decoy Shred and the SL. Went with the SL as enjoy longer spins and I can lift if over gates 😂 Enjoy and look forward to your review.
Im totally in love with this bike.... it really is like an enduro bike.
Hi,
Is it a bike only good for downhill or trail riding? ?. It's a good idea to pick this bike as the only one ?
Do you think that the SL would work for a rider who is 194cm tall and 135 kg? Thanks for the best emtb channel on RUclips.
Martin im not 100% sure but what you should really do is go Test a Levo and SL back to back. I would love so know your opinion
Excellent review. However, it's frustrating that so many people say they spend all this money on a new bike and then immediately want to change out a whole bunch of parts. So that just spikes the price of a new bike way higher than what the manufacturers are selling them for. It would be great if there was an ebike that had the perfect set of components right from the get go. Even the YT Elite I've read so many people saying they're replacing the brakes on them. I can understand that after a year or more of owning a new bike you might want to change out some parts. I've done that on my Santa Cruz 5010c, but it's a 2014 model and I bought it second hand. Love your videos Sam!
Hey mate thanks for your feedback I totally get you! This bike is totally fine the way it is! It’s a trail bike and totally great but I will ride it on the harder side and would rather 2.6 tires so there’s that and also I test loads of bikes and to push a bike hard I really like to have the same cockpit brakes and tires it makes testing the “bike” easier hope that makes sense
Man! try Kellys THEOS F-series
thermoplastic hybrid steel-carbon composite, change riders don't Chang parts 😁
It will be launch Feb 21... Amazing bike.. Kellys or Nothing for me..
@@SamsBikes I'm in the market for an eBike to purchase in the spring time. It's getting to the end of the riding season here in Canada, so going to wait until spring. I'm loving your bike reviews so far. My choice so far is between the Trek Rail 9.x, YT Decoy Elite, or the Levo (either SL or regular). Although the Merida eOne-Sixty looks amazing, I don't think the Merida brand is available at all in Canada. And I know the EP8 motor is on hold right now. But maybe it'll be available in the spring when I'm ready to buy.
All great bikes maybe let’s talk closer to the date you want to buy and see what else could be an option
@@jamornothing6904 Ya that looks neat. Kind of looks like the Decoy Elite, but with even less room for a bottle. Plus if I got a Kellys, my daughter would think it's her's as that's her name :)
Nice bike mate!
Thanks!
I just got the 2021 version of the levo in the same colour!!!
Toby its a very pretty bike!
Are you back in a happy place now Sam? Great to see you back out shreeeeeeeddddding 😆. This is you all over, living the dream......
I demonstrated a levo SL about 3 months ago just after I'd bought my orbea fs wild, I so wished that I had tried it before my orbea as it was so close to a normal full Susser acoustic steed it was scary. Did about 40 miles on eco. V good. Next year I will get 1. Did you get a range extender battery too?
Haha thanks mate loving this bike not for everyone but you like to ride a normally feeling bike you need to pedal a bit more but for me it’s worth it!!!! Yes I got the extender the SL is very good on battery I’ll let you know how the range it
Sam great looking bike. I ride a Levo mostly in trail mode set at 50% / 100 . I weigh 71kg with all my kit on how will this bike be for me? Also beef up the suspension?
I think you will love the bike!!! so much fun go test one and let me know what think !
That looked like a fast ride 🏋️
Dangerously fast, such a fun bike
Wow you going to get fit now!!
what you saying im not fit hahah
So sam how long in time do you get out of turbo ?
maybe about 20% of the time
@@SamsBikes no I mean if you stayed in turbo how long would the battery last lol, I know it depends on the terrain, hills etc..
Good question I’ll do that test in my long term review
Sam this isn't a dig please don't take it the wrong way.
I've got 3 RUclips channels for EMTB you,Rob and EMBN.
You're all amazing at what you do and it seems like specialised know what influences you guys would have on sales!
All now in in Specialised pockets and Specialised are amazing i have a 2016 Specialised Enduro Elite and my first Mountain bike in 1992 was a Specialised Rockhopper.
Please keep testing as many different companies as you can.
Hey Ross thanks for the kind words, I love specialized I had a 1998 FSA, 2005 P1 and a 2015 enduro 29er. The SL actually rides a lot like the 15 enduro. I totally get what you are saying about Specialized seeing value in us, but at the same time it’s frustrating emailing companies and 80% never hearing back about testing bikes, so when specialized reached out I jumped on it but trust me I’ll keep testing everything I can get my hands on!
@@SamsBikes Don't get me wrong I would jump at the chance as well.
Just keep doing what you have always done as well as Specialised.
Totally made don’t worry 😉 meta is coming soon and a trek rail I think 🤔
@@SamsBikes The Meta looks amazing I'm not a trek fan after owning a liquid 30. Years ago!
I'm thinking for me in Scotland the Whyte E-180 RS V2.
Sealed bearings for our endless good weather.
In interest in the new Shimano motor which is one of many reason for waiting.
Hi Sam,
Just found your channel and you have some great vids so keep up the good work. Im new to EMTB world and I am looking to buy my first bike soon. Im a roadie and wanted to get one to ride on the roads, ride on some trails and canal paths etc etc. I guess I want one that is comfortable on road as off road but nothing to crazy off road!!! Would you suggest a hardtail or full suspension to cover most scenarios? I live in the UK and was wondering if you think that may have a decision on what to ride?
Thanks in advance
Lee
Hey thanks Lee, I personally would go for a Full Suspension its just more comfortable to ride
good vid dude, not sure whats wrong with the sound, what camera you using? I've used a hero 8 on chest mount with camera in rubber housing with no wind noise and its perfect, Cheers, G-MAN
Thanks bro yep totally first time I had bad sound I’ll need to look at it! I’m sure isn’t the GoPro max
Levo compared to sl on dh does it rip faster down?
Rider this full test will happen in the next few weeks.
Hi mate, you say that you are on a large, can I ask how tall you are!
Hey James I'm on a Large and im 183cm. I feel I could go a XL or L. If you can go sit on one and you will be able to tell straight away which feels right.
Mate! the upcoming trend E- bikes. .. Hope you Agree with me..
I think there will always be full fat and half fat ebikes...
I’m with more power and bigger the battery and lighter the better for me.
I really like both...
Hi Sam, Which bike is fastest downhill. The Specialized or the Decoy ?
Let’s see! Not sure both seem very fast the decoy is more planted but the SL is more fun a playful
Sam’s Bikes. It will be interesting to see.
We all like to go as fast as we can downhill (within our own abilities) so I look forward to finding out.
Looking forward to future updates 👍
Next year the new levo be out😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁
Sam, some of my pals who've ridden it say its not as stable as the levo / YT etc. Clearly its light but does that make it skittish?
I’ve got about 100km on it, it’s true the decoy or Levo is more stable but the SL is so much fun and playful it really depends what you want
whats it like compared to the decoy?
Really different bike but both amazing
Oh no......... well sure you will come back to some proper power again ;-)
I still have the Decoy 29.
pricing
8700 euros
Motor they used are make a lot of noise compared to the new EP8.
yes its a little more noise but its a very interesting bike... very different
Specialized rules my new levo battery is on way to#bikedepot
im totally in love with the SL
I'm not sure i buy losing so much power to save 5kg. I can lose 5kg off me and still get the power. This might catch on for no other reason than the stupid speed limit on a ebike. Because it will be power to weight ratio is the only thing they can improve due to power and speed limits
try one... its hard to explain you need to try one
@@SamsBikes no chance lol. I spent almost 7 grand on a kenevo with mt7s delimited. Not gonna make myself want to spend more on another bike lol
how can a ebike cost 7k when a motorcycle which has way more components cost the same i do love ebikes but the procong is silly
Yep 👍 I get you but the same could be said for a normal bike! Loads of enduro bikes costing 7k up! I personally think it’s worth it if it’s your passion
You can't ride a m/c on bicycle trails, put a price on that.
I like how you can actually ride with skill unlike the host of another ebike dedicated channel
Just slow down you are more the kid ,you are little boy with the big head!!!!
What?! I don’t understand
8.699 € ...... no creo q sea interesante en ese precio
SL is so weak it is almost like a normal bike. Not a fan of it at all. Better go off of a normal bike rather than this small weak motor which will not make a difference at all
That just shows you've not ridden one. Unless of course you're really unfit, in which case you will need the full power model. I have the SL carbon comp and it's brilliant. Absolutely love it! 😁😁
have you ridden one? I disagree its a sweet bike for someone that is fitter and likes a natural feeling bike
You gotta stop talking while your riding.....Do the riding then tell about it.
over priced and under powered.
ridden one?
@@SamsBikes sure have. After riding the levo and the SL. It's very underwhelming.
Ok 👌 not fore everyone but I love it
@@TURBOGHIA6 Each to their own. After testing both, I bought the SL carbon comp. Brilliant bike and love mine. 😁