2024 Specialized Levo SL vs. Trek Fuel EXe - best lightweight emtb comparison

[@HarryKuloh]

Thank you for putting on these comparisons, Francis!

[@EMTBReview]

Right on. Many more coming. Bikes are all relative after all :)

[@abarrick09]

I'd go with the Trek simply for motor reliability. Go to any forum and you will hear nothing but issues about Levo motors throwing codes, not powering on, and more. For this price point, reliability should be far better. The Trek also looks better. Most of the things that give the Levo an edge are things that 90% of most riders will never notice or take advantage of.

[@EMTBReview]

The Levo motor has been unreliable in the last 4 years. The latest one is a lot better now. The Levo SL motor on the other hand, which is the one discussed here has been bulletproof. No belts, just a solid performer.

[@michaelmichaelagnew8503]

@@EMTBReview It just came out so we will see. Got to give it time first before such a statement can be said.

[@r.w.6251]

The full powered 90nm Levo had belt issues in the motor which is much more reliable in the second generation. The Levo SL with the original 35nm motor and the current 50nm motor have been pretty bullet proof as they have no internal belt to fail.

[@TeamCykelhold]

I get where you are coming from with the mullet being a priority and you comparing the stock bikes because that's how most are going to ride them, but the exe does it very well in 145/160 travel mullet configuration for me. Both bikes seems so good, I think most would be happy to have either.

[@kenbest76]

Seems like the Spesh is superior on paper but I'd still go Trek just for the fact that it looks so much less like an e-bike. I did finally get to see one up close and it does look more like an e-bike in person. The frame looks way beefier in the flesh than it does on camera. It's mind-blowing to me that the SL is only 38 ACTUAL pounds.

[@EMTBReview]

Yes, that is crazy indeed on the weight cause these tires, shocks and other bits are legit. Yes, if stealth is the key consideration, The Fuel EX-e is king. I have a friend with a Fuel EX-e and Levo and he lives in Oregon. He says he mostly rides the Fuel since no one bothers him about it. No one can tell it's E.

[@ivansalesrolimfilho9730]

You look for the Trek E-caliber

[@chrismurray3601]

That was great I was in two minds but now i think the specialized is the way to go ,answered alot of questions i was contemplating

[@EMTBReview]

That really is my goal. Give enough info to help you make a decision

[@billderas3420]

Thanks for the comparison Francis. One comparison important to me is that the old Levo SL hits me as being a versatile cross-country/trail bike; but, the new Gen 2 (by its specs) is more of a trail bike. Just heading over to pick up my new Levo SL Comp Carbon Gen 2 from my fav dealer.

[@EMTBReview]

True, true. That shootout is coming from our channel for sure. The old SL is not great as a trail bike so it can serve duties as an XC/Downcountry. But my main motivation for doing a comparison video is to help a current Levo SL owner decide if it's worth the upgrade. I'll throw the full-powered Levo in that video mix too.

[@mariov5181]

@@EMTBReview I am looking forward to the new/old SL shootout. I have the 2020-21 Sworks model that has the burlier trail build with a Fox 36 (grip 2) and Fox DPX2 shock so to me it feels like a solid trail bike. I wondered if you have tried the old SL in that configuration and maybe include your thoughts in the upcoming shootout. Love the channel and excellent reviews.

[@jibmaster]

Like them or not--Specialized continues to drive innovation as they always have. I promise most manufactures look at what these guys are doing in their own development. As always another great review Francis. I've been borrowing a mates' 23 Levo Pro the past two weeks. Mostly enduro style riding. After 4 solid rides I find the 50lb weight excessive at times. More arm/hand fatigue; and, after three hours of riding still having 1-2 bars of battery life I am left with wanting this: the new SL. I've ridden the new Stumpy EVO analog bike and it is hands down the best enduro capable trail bike I've ever ridden. Now the SL shares that frame and adds a small motor?! Mind blown! I wonder how much can get for my kidney?

[@byronswogger]

We need a gen3 levo vs gen2 levo SL video. With the new more powerful motor, there's a lot of people not sure which one to get, but you can't rent a Gen2 levo SL hardly anywhere in the United States.

[@kangsterizer]

this is now my fav channel. hope to see you on the trails!

[@EMTBReview]

Yeah man!!! What bike do you ride these days and what trails are you most often on?

[@kangsterizer]

@@EMTBReview around the bay but pacifica and the area is definitely a frequent one. i dont have an ebike (yet?!), i ride a blue hightower.

[@sportherz]

Excellent again, just what I wanted to get a better understanding, since of course it is hard for normal customers to get a ton of time on both bikes. One question that I would have that would be great if you could answer in an upcoming video is which Levo SL to buy. Obviously you did your testing with the S-works, but I have heard others say that maybe the best bang for the bug might be the pro, or could one even go with the comp carbon model? Of course some people might say get the best bike you can afford, but knowing that there are new and improved bikes coming out ever so often, it might be a smarter choice to go somewhat lower on the specs and then maybe upgrade the components that limit you the most. Anyhow, thanks for doing this and please keep up the great work.

[@EMTBReview]

Let me look into that. I usually say, the cheapest available. Aluminum!!!

[@oseogunda]

Thanks much for a great comparison review, Francis. Until a new Trek Fuel EXe model comes out (with a mullet setup, etc.), could you please do a comparison of the 2023 Levo SL with the Giant Trance X Advanced E+ Elite sometime? I am trying to decide between the Levo SL Comp Carbon at $8000 and the Advanced E+ Elite 2 at $7200. Both are mullets. The Trance is now adjustable up to 85Nm on the motor compared with 50Nm on the Levo SL, plus the Trance has a 400 Wh battery versus 320W for the Levo SL. I don't think the power difference is too important for me, but ride time is. Both have range extender options (more expensive for Giant, almost makes up the price difference) for 50% more time, but still overall 25% more battery on the Giant either way. I'm guessing the Trance might be a little quieter, but I'm also guessing I'd like the ride better on the Levo SL, especially uphill with the geometry options. Still, the Trek is way cool with how stealth it is (San Mateo county!) in sound and appearance, plus ease of removal of battery for commercial air travel for eMTB vacation destinations (ship battery separately). Those are two killer features neither the Levo SL or Trance has.

[@rolfehorn]

The hidden multi tool! Lol, the deciding factor for me! Thanks for putting that in FC!

[@EMTBReview]

If it's still a toss-up, let the multi-tool decide.

[@robertbencangey6207]

Very helpful. I’m leaning toward the Trek, but the one with the derailleur attached to the frame. What’s driving it is the battery removal, shorter crank arms, almost silent motor and colors offered. Everything is very similar. Not a big fan of mullets. Trying to stay away from black, white and other boring colors.

[@michaelmichaelagnew8503]

Glad to see good competition it will keep trek honest and keep improving their Fuel exe. They can't be stagnate for the 2024 model. Both models prove you can't go wrong with either specialize or trek.

[@rjahn3000]

I had a Trek Fuel EX e just traded for a specialized Levo Comp. I can tell you service and support is much better at Specialized.The owners manual has a parts list with torque specs too.

[@TeamCykelhold]

It's very easy to find the torque specs on the exe.

[@bradsanders6954]

The last Specialized bike I had, will be the last one. The bike had numerous problems and they basically told me to go *iss up a rope. Ride it like it is.

[@rjahn3000]

@@TeamCykelhold I'm sure but Specialized gives it to you in a paper manual that comes in a nice case with the charger. Trek gave me zero extras and had many paint chips, they have had paint issues for 2 years, not covered either. In addition the TQ motor got louder with use which Trek said in normal.

[@TeamCykelhold]

@@rjahn3000 Ok if a paper manual means a lot for you then I guess it's a problem. No problem for me, I never use paper if I have a choice. The motor is louder but still seems more quiet than Specialized. But hey, if you like specialized more just get a specialized. No one really cares if you want one or the other. I think both are great bikes.

[@michaelmichaelagnew8503]

Gosh you must of had a bad trek store if you had a problem with service and support. It's hit or miss for both companies where one really isn't stronger than the other. On the Torque specs those are super easy to find.

[@danamesarchik3633]

Great review Frances. It was good to meet you at Sea Otter.

[@EMTBReview]

Likewise my good man!!!

[@danamesarchik3633]

Let me know when you want to ride the Ridge.

[@WonderRacoon]

Cool review, I was wondering about this very same shoutout especially in the range, power comparison. I was going to go for the SL anyways for the suspensions and geometry but great to see all this other thinngs taken into account. I love how quiet the TQ is though. For where I ride 160/150 with aggressive geometry that the SL allows is the perfect machine.

[@EMTBReview]

The Levo SL really is a great riding package. The new motor is quiet and fast now too. Just need a battery extender or two and one can hang with any crew.

[@FrankPeetermans]

Great review👍 i am doubting between the new Sl pro and the orbea rise m team 2023… I am 1m80 and 78kg, 95% of the riding is trail and between 60 and 75 km with average 500-750 hm…Still some preference for the rise, bigger battery and bigger extender so for sure more range… weight i think comparable with same tires … so what’s your idea comparing both bikes? Waiting for the review sl vs rise…

[@robertocalvo934]

What are great comparison. You are my favourite e-bike channel

[@EMTBReview]

Thank you. It's too bad I had to throw away 15 minutes of the review. Wayyy too long :)

[@cedriccinqmars3516]

Nice review!! Can’t wait for the new kenevo sl

[@sheamus242able]

Do you ride in the high or low setting on the Trek? I haven't had my fuel ex E for very long, and I've only ridden in the high setting. What you said about the trek's descending and handling is so true...this bike loves to go downhill, and it is extremely stable at high speeds. It really comes alive.

[@CLe-cr4zp]

Thanks for the comparison. I’m considering getting the turbo levo SL or the fuel exe or the orbea rise. You forgot to compare the looks of both bikes again !! You did compare the stealthyness and that is important for me. How much louder is the levo SL? Is it much louder? Is it annoying over time ?

[@jesswah82]

Great comparison, interesting to hear your thoughts on each bike :)

[@EMTBReview]

Yeah, maybe too much honesty and candor. Trying to provide nuggets of info to help folks decide.

[@bostondye3736]

Does anyone recall how long after the original levo sl was released. The Alloy model came out? This bike ticks all the boxes. But a slightly cheaper alloy version sounds like the golden ticket!

[@EMTBReview]

I think it was a year later. Levo SL V1 came out around Feb 2020

[@stumpy075]

This surprises me that you’re picking the S over the T. I feel like the T is a revolutionary ebike with the stealth and quiet motor. The S still looks and sounds like an ebike, so it seems like more of an evolution than revolution. Also, comparing the below $10k builds, seems you get more value from T. For only $700 more than the S, with the 9.8 XT you get carbon wheels, cranks and bar/stem combo. For me, other than the motor support, the things I value, the T wins. Never owned a T either, I actually ride a Shuttle SL, which has been great so far.

[@EMTBReview]

Good points there. If my top priority was discrete looks and low noise, the Fuel EXe would be my choice. But the key for me is descending and climbing and the Levo SL is just a better bike. For low-cost builds, anything with Shimano SLX is a stone-cold winner.

[@lx93bill]

Great video with all the details i am looking for! Thanks! Have you done a metered test on drag with motor off for both bikes? interesting to hear you say the TQ motor has more drag, as it conflicts with other reviews that say they have a flywheel that disengages to minimize drag.

[@jimbo4203]

I love my Specialized SL and I definitely want the new one too

[@EMTBReview]

If you like the old one, the new one will be a love affair for sure!

[@jimbo4203]

That's what I was thinking and the Specialized shop is only 20 miles from my house

[@claytonprice7833]

I've ridden them all I'm surprised that the 2023 Orbea Rise & Pivot Shuttle SL isn't on this list. Looks like the Rise with the Shimano motor did better on the uphill test than the rest and it's all Shimano.

[@magicsork657]

i vote orbea Orbea rise😄, same weight with powerfull motor and same battery capacity and also cheaper

[@paispe]

Now that levo sl has updated geometry, it is a bit harder to choose

[@tomtraynor5384]

I wonder about how much the weight is lower with the 27.5" rear wheel/tire on the Levo? But am still kicking myself a bit--as I bought a Exe 9.9 str but here comes the Levo.2 just a week later. But noise is great on the Exe and I think I would find the whirring of the Levo a bit irritating.

[@EMTBReview]

Usually worth about 200 grams. 100 grams for the tire and 100 for the wheel when comparing 27.5 to 29 rear wheel

[@MTB_Steve_95]

The bigger factor is the Levo's battery isn't removable, unlike the Trek. This was taken from Pivot's website about the Shuttle SL - "There are a few great reasons for the use of an internal battery. We made the Shuttle SL over a pound (.5kg) lighter by designing our frame around the internal battery. Not only is the non-removable battery lighter but we were able to reduce wall thickness, and eliminate the additional parts needed for the removable version".

[@tomtraynor5384]

@@MTB_Steve_95 Ahhhh. I think I want it removable. With a silent motor. Thanks.

[@Roddaculous]

I bought the EXE a few months ago. The new levo SL looks very intriguing and I like that it has the mullet and more suspension. I own a Stumpjumper and love that bike so I have no doubt I would like the Levo but I love the TQ motor. It is so small and so quiet. I ride on local trails and no one ever suspects I have an e-bike. I have really been enjoying it and don't regret buying it.

[@alexaustin5568]

Thanks. Super informative. I have a KSL but about to order a LSL2 a works frame and build something up.

[@EMTBReview]

Nice man. You won't be disappointed. I just sold my KSL. Not enough terrain here and that motor needed a boost.

[@alexaustin5568]

@@EMTBReview what about a comparison against the Orbea rise Ltd ? But this is more or a XC build (140mm travel) so a bit like comparing a Trx4 to a Losi Lasernut!

[@pepitopepito2967]

great stuff kababayan! how do you compare the trek to the relay ? i’ve heard nothing but rattle and battery issues so far with transition

[@romma11]

Trek should have been the point for motor - smaller quiet, battery for sure trek - removability is big thing. Trek rear suspension is virtually overcomplicated single pivot with chain growth, point down for sure.

[@user-fo6sn4lc4n]

Fellow filipino! Just traded in my gen 1 Levi sl for this new one thanks to your review! Question is should I switch rear to 29?

[@TubeSurfer26]

@E-MTB Review I test drove both a Fuel EXe and a Levo SL 1.2 today. I noticed what you said in your review, that the EXE isnt as powerful. But after fiddling with the app on the EXE I feel like it had similiar power to the S-Works. Im curious if you had a chance to play with the settings on the EXE? The power mapping by default on the EXe is that it comes on gradually and has less assist. I tested them within 3 hours of each other and am curious if you still have both bikes and could test again with the power curves on the EXe adjusted? Thanks!

[@colestroh9468]

waiting for the shuttle SL to get in here. i love mine

[@EMTBReview]

Same here. I think there's a major Fazua Ride 60 update coming and they'll send us one.

[@RT-yh8pi]

When will you be reviewing the Giant TRANCE X ADVANCED E+ ELITE? Really interested in your take on this bike.

[@EMTBReview]

Doesn’t look like it. They don’t want to send me that bike. And no rider in my crew of over 100 has that bike in Norcal

[@brianwilliams2907]

I'd take a Pivot Shuttle SL one either of these bikes in the mid-power range. In fact, I did! Can't stand the big brands, they remind me too much of American Airlines. But a great review!

[@EMTBReview]

Not a bad choice. I'm waiting to get my test Shuttle SL.

[@billryan8721]

It's a sweet one for sure but the Transition Relay PNW takes the top spot.

[@emtbtrailrider539]

I Luv the Older Levo SL with a Ohlins Coil just want the new 50 nm of torque motor on my older Levo SL 29er 🇺🇸

[@EMTBReview]

Yeah, all our old Levo SLs got a shock upgrade and they woke up. Cascade link as well.

[@Longtimerolling]

Nice review. Thanks.

[@EMTBReview]

Thanks for watching! We aim to help you make a better decision

[@cliffgare3390]

Great review 👏

[@EMTBReview]

Glad you liked it. I tried to deliver some insight.

[@nicolasbazan5038]

After about 3 years the last Keurig stopped working kzbin.infoUgkxBrV-RbF5Nk0Rlt9i15aao-YMzqzTG8Vf initially was able to unblock, however eventually we couldn't fix. That one was a replacement unit sent by the manufacturer after we had problems with our very first Keurig. This works fine (lol, at least for now) however I didn't realize the water reservoir was so much smaller than our prior unit. With 2 people having one or two cups of coffee each morning, it seems like I'm refilling it daily. Otherwise just happy to have the convenience of pod coffee vs. making a morning pot.

[@bradsanders6954]

I did a ride recently on my 900WH Canyon, 2 riders were on those really light small battery/small motor bikes. They babied the battery all the way but for sure didnt make it all the way on their battery. I had a lot of battery left when done. I dont think they knew what they were getting into buying the things. Lots of money to get these bikes. 13K for a bicycle. It seems to me if you want an E bike thats just like a normal pedal bike? I just ride my 24 lb Intense XC bike .

[@JustEatRealFood]

I test rode a Trek Fuel EXE today. 39kms, 1300M of climbing, 4 hours of riding time and I had 12% battery left. Size small, I'm 130lbs.

[@ZillaYT]

For the Spez, that’s quiet? I bought the Trek for the silence. That was #1 for me.

[@danielaldersonsmith1647]

is there any noticeable difference between the resistance above the cutoff speed or without battery? Ive heard the trek is really good but nothing regarding this new 1.2 sl motor.

[@IIISentorIII]

Just buy a SCOTT Lumen and you have zero cutoff ;)

[@pootjube]

I’m currently deciding between these two bikes. Had a day on the Levo SL last week and was super impressed with how planted any yet playful this bike is. But The range was not great, I imagine the Fuel will have the same problem. I’ll test ride the Fuel in a couple of weeks, looking forward to see how it handles in comparison. The Fuel exe 2023 9.7 model is currently on special with a local dealer and will be $2000 cheaper than the latest gen Levo SL Comp. What would your decision be if it means saving $2000 with the Trek Fuel exe?

[@nadersedaghat5694]

Hi, which dealer is selling it for $2k less?

[@pootjube]

@@nadersedaghat5694 Sorry that is in New Zealand. The pricing here is a bit different to the US. I suspect Trek and Giant bikes are generally cheaper here.

[@fkn16v]

@@pootjube S-Works is 20k in Aus i cant imagine the NZ price. Oddly enough the Kenevo s-works frame is 7.5k, Levo is 9.5k, surely users could build a high quality bike, a lot less then 20k using a 7.5k/9.5k frame and building as desired.

[@j.d.503]

How do you feel the carbon orbea rise, rides compared to these bikes?

[@vrriedo9827]

I have not anderstand which wheel you like more, the Trek Bontrager or the Specialized?

[@EMTBReview]

I like the Specialized Levo SL more. It is more capable and has more options for wheel size and geometry

[@phillippedege4853]

Great Video, Can you get your hands and review the $ 8000 dollars new Turbo SL . There I could see spending my hard earned cash. Not $ 14000. I am sure I am not the only one . Thanks !!!

[@EMTBReview]

I will try!!!!

[@garystevens1123]

So, there is a bit of contradiction in your review. The tool-well, there is no need to dig for the chain breaker, which is a PIA on the Levo. The start screen-the Trek is so much bigger and better. The amount of information is meaningless. The key is what kind of information and how easy it is to read. The Fuel is one of the best-handling point-and-shoot e-bikes I have ever been on. I owned an FF Levo and?? Maybe the new model is better, but Specialized is not noted for fast handling as you state smooth handling, which is blah...Motor and battery. The range on the fuel is outstanding, the motor engagement is the same on both, completely adjustable with the app, so there is that. The mullet part, well both do the same, so not sure why one if better than the other. So yeah...?

[@andrewhodgkinson6770]

He getting payed to promote Specialized Levo Bikes , the most one sided EMTB comparison that I watched to date.

[@grillob3]

Can you review the new canyon torque: on? please!

[@sheamus242able]

lol....the multi tool drives me nuts. I can never pull it out of the stem

[@megane230f1]

I ask when does an SL become a full fat? I see thee old focus jam 2 2018 weighs in at just over 20kg with a carbon version under 20kg these bikes are classed as full fat with 70nm, whats the weight class and nm going to be before SL bikes shift into full fat territory as they are on the limit with 60nm and touching 19kg

[@EMTBReview]

These days, 70nm torque and 630wh seems to be the minimum

[@donjon1733]

I know it's a different bike, but I've had such bad reliability issues (6 motors replaced) with my turbo levo just can't pull the trigger on another specialized bike. Nice design but if the bike in the shop all the time and its a constant drain on the wallet, its just not worth it. Pass

[@EMTBReview]

Yes, I've had many motor failures on my Gen2 full-powered Levo. On the Levo SL, I know of no failures since this motor has no belt and is much more bulletproof. Valid comment but you don't need to put itin every one of our 2023 Levo SL videos.

[@laneconaway780]

My wife says I have to choose between RC or MTB. What should I do?!

[@EMTBReview]

Hahahahahaha. Story of my life. My wife found a few hobbies of her own and i'm in the clear now.

[@larlindin]

Where is the lumen?

[@EMTBReview]

BYOLB - bring your own lumen, bro.

[@eddiecagle9528]

Good comparison. Try to use the names more than “this one “

[@EMTBReview]

Exactly. Realized it when viewing the video myself. Hard on folks too that are mostly listening.

[@MTBFlowRider]

Good stuff man! Time to switch the trek to a mullet and put a 160mm fork on there so we can have a real shoot out!

[@EMTBReview]

Oh heck yeah!!!!

[@davidkarmy623]

What about the Pivot Shuttle SL? Why didn't you compare it?

[@EMTBReview]

That's coming. They're waiting to send me one since there's a major Fazua Ride 60 update coming soon.

[@tone351998]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@richardmcfadden2604]

How does the Trek win the battery comparison when nearly a year after release you can’t buy the extender

[@EMTBReview]

Still not available? I thought it was just me delayed since I'm not buying 'in-store'. Wowa, that is a long time. I just got word too that the Fazua Ride 60 won't be available till well into 2024

[@jeffedwards3982]

Interesting, I ordered a Trek 9.8 exe in March, arrives this weekend, the extender arrived in April. I think the extender availability is improving significantly.

[@shamshodjumaev794]

It's so crazy 8000 $

[@EMTBReview]

Yes, we hope they make an aluminum model.

[@rezenclowd3]

Not crazy at all. Seems to be the Starting to Mid point for most e-bikes. Look at road bikes, 7-9k starting sometimes....no motor. "Enthusiast" bikes are a small small small segment of all bike sales.

[@seamarsh3756]

2.6 vs 2.4 for mullet rear tire, what's your opinion ?

[@EMTBReview]

2.4 with a nice wide 30mm internal rim

[@hrishi_Kokate]

you are more positive about Levo

[@EMTBReview]

Most definitely. Much bigger sweet spot for most users.

[@tone351998]

tire is bigger ob trek same weight

[@EMTBReview]

Yea, worth 200 grams

[@fkn16v]

S-Works version definitely not worth the money they are asking.

[@tone351998]

spechelized have smaller wheel and longer cranks use logic on motor power 🤓

[@FantaMann42]

The end of the day, both bikes are way over priced. There are other bikes available with similar performance and components, with a better prize.

[@bikerhiker247]

I chose a down payment on a house!

[@georgefleetwood7740]

I think this man is sponsored by Specialized he is biased towards the Specialized throughout the review

[@EMTBReview]

The Trek is better than the old Levo SL. But the new Levo SL just beats out the Trek Fuel EXe in most categories. If there's ANY are of the video that you disagree with, please chime in with your info.

[@wrongsend7106]

Specialized fan boy. Lol

[@EMTBReview]

That was yesterday. I switch brands like underpants.

[@pkeeley131]

Once a month? 😅