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Benji’s 2024 Specialized Turbo Levo SL Comp Alloy is a vibrant, highly customized e-mountain bike that serves as an ideal testbed for modern components. Originally a stock model, the bike has undergone significant modifications, transforming it into a unique, high-performance machine. The bike’s mid-power 50Nm motor and 320Wh battery provide impressive range and efficiency, while its 20.4kg stock weight (S5 size) makes it a lightweight option in the e-mountain bike category. The 2025 models of this bike will come in metallic grey or dark blue, addressing any potential concerns about the current color scheme.
Key Components and Upgrades
Fork and Shock:
The bike features a Fox 36 Float Rhythm 150mm fork, which has proven to be reliable and effective, even after a crash that left minor scrapes on the right stanchion. The rear shock is a Fox Float X, which performs well but lacks mid-stroke support. Benji is eager to test Specialized’s new Genie rear shock, which he found impressive on the Stumpjumper 15.
Wheels and Tires:
The bike is equipped with Industry Nine Hydra2 Enduro Alloy wheels, featuring silver Hydra2 hubs and pink spokes, adding a striking visual element. The mixed-wheel setup includes a Kenda Hellkat Pro ATC 29×2.4in tire at the front and a Schwalbe Big Betty Addix Soft Super Trail 27.5×2.4in tire at the rear. Currently, no tire inserts are used.
Pedals and Drivetrain:
Benji has opted for SQlab 50X flat pedals, appreciating their wider stance and penguin-toes-out offset design. The drivetrain is a SRAM Eagle 90 Mechanical Transmission, ensuring smooth and reliable gear shifts.
Brakes:
The bike boasts teal-colored SRAM Motive Ultimate Expert brakes, paired with a 180mm rear rotor and a 220mm front rotor. Benji plans to upgrade to larger rotors and route the rear brake internally for a cleaner setup.
Handlebars, Stem, and Grips:
The handlebars are the stock Specialized alloy bars, paired with an Industry Nine A35 32mm stem, which Benji prefers for its long reach and short length. The grips are Sensus EmJ push-on models, which he finds comfortable and effective.
Seatpost and Saddle:
A PNW Loam dropper post (200mm, 30.9mm, shimmed to 34.9mm) is fitted, topped with an Aenomaly SwitchGrade II saddle-angle adjuster. This setup significantly improves control and capability on steep climbs by tilting the saddle nose-down. The saddle itself is a secret model, though Benji has noticed it appearing on some 2025 bikes.
Accessories:
The bike includes several practical accessories, such as a Specialized SWAT Conceal Carry tool in the steerer tube, a Specialized Zee bottle cage, and Crankbrothers Guardian QR hand guards. These additions enhance functionality and protection on the trails.
Geometry and Weight
The bike’s geometry has been fine-tuned to suit Benji’s preferences and riding style. After experimenting with various configurations, he settled on a -1.0° headset cup, high BB setting, and long/29in chainstay setting, even though he runs a 27.5in rear wheel. This setup results in a 63° head angle, 74.8° effective seat angle, and 340mm BB height. The bike’s current weight is 19.4kg.
Performance and Verdict
The Specialized Turbo Levo SL Comp Alloy has proven to be an excellent bike, offering a great balance of power, range, and handling. The SL 1.2 motor stands out as one of the best mid-weight motors, outperforming competitors like the TQ HPR50, Fazua Ride 60, and Bosch SX in terms of power, range, and pedal feel. While the carbon version of the bike offers additional features like a wireless SRAM SX AXS drivetrain, Benji believes that upgrading the alloy model with high-quality components (such as wheels, tires, and a longer dropper post) is a more cost-effective approach.
Final Thoughts
Benji’s customized Specialized Turbo Levo SL Comp Alloy is a testament to the potential of modern e-mountain bikes. Its combination of thoughtful upgrades, practical accessories, and fine-tuned geometry results in a bike that excels on the trails. Whether you’re a fan of its technicolor aesthetic or not, there’s no denying the performance and versatility of this unique machine. For those considering a similar build, Benji’s experience highlights the value of investing in key upgrades to enhance the overall riding experience.
