Best/Worst Things About My New E-MTB? - Specialized Turbo Levo

[@jeffaltavilla6261]

I'm going to be 63 here soon I have an old Santa Cruz Super Light that I didn't ride much. I got tired of pushing it 60% of the time LOL. I bought a 2023 Turbo Levo Comp Alloy, and now I go out almost most every weekend and will ride 10 or even 20 miles. Now I'm having way more fun and getting way more exercise. It's a Win Win.

[@Texasbird026]

Can I ask what you paid for this? I am shopping for one of these. I am of a similar vintage as you are. I am trying to not leave any more on the table than I have to. Did you use any criteria to pick a dealer other than the closest?

[@ulgn1964]

I have the same bike 2023 Model, the only thing I've changed after 1 year is the chain. Love this bike, best bike I've ever owned. My bike is dead silence in economy mode.

[@boblatkey7160]

An old guy commented on my electric mountain bike and asked me if I "gave in". I said yes, I gave into 400% more hours in the saddle, 400% more miles on the trails, and 1000% more fun. Shame on me!

[@richardplastino792]

As an older rider, 79, my Specialized Turbo Levo Comp has put the fun back in mountain biking. As the end of my manual bike days, I'd come home so exhausted it would take me 3 or more days to recover. Not fun I have found it's okay to run my 2.6 inch wide front tire and 2.5 inch rear tire at 16 psi which gives incredible handling and a great ride. The tires kind of "wrap" around the rocks rather than bouncing off them. These are tubeless and I put 6 to 8 fluid ounces in each tire because I really don't want a flat and the extra weight doesn't matter as I explain below. With the ebike, it's so nice to not worry about weight and I can put two water bottles on the bike and carry other supplies without thinking, "This is going to make uphill just awful". When lubing my chain, I put it on the bike stand and just rotate the tire backwards to move the chain. I used to put an Allen key in the front chainring, but it was a bugger to get loose after lubing the chain. Without a doubt the best money I've ever spent on a recreational object. So so so much fun! When I try to explain the pure joy riding is now, my manual bike friends just don't get it and their eyes glaze over.

[@FoxtonR]

I agree with you everywhere! These things are addicting! Great comment

[@Emtbwebb]

Enjoy sir you deserve pure fun time 👍🏼

[@michaelmerz210]

I love my 2022 Levo. I’ve put almost 2,000 miles on it. Gone thru a couple of tires, chain, brake pads, wheel from a broken derailer going into my spokes all in one summer:( but I’ve never ridden this much in my life! Mike from Longmont. P.s no haters yet!

[@FoxtonR]

Thanks for the comment! Glad you're enjoying yours!

[@MusicStillRules]

i quit mtb 2 years ago due to arthritis pain, got levo 8 days ago and have been on 8 rides, will continue daily rides, best purchase ever

[@dalestanton1096]

Enjoyed your video. I purchased a Turbo Levo earlier this year and must say it is an awesome ride. Spoiled myself with the S-Works model. Just a note regarding oiling the chain. Put an allen wrench on the chainring and turn the pedal backwards until the crank rests against the allen wrench and begin spinning the chain backwards. I also use a thin piece of wood between the crank arm and the allen wrench just so the crank arm remains scratch free. Try it! Super easy.

[@MattPula]

Whenever I get passed by an ebiker on a trail I tell them I'm jealous and ask for a tow hahaha - but ya, I know they get a lot of hate so I always try to vocalize positivity towards them to offset that.

[@FoxtonR]

That's sweet dude, send positivity! And yeah I should keep a rope in my bag with me because I've been asked jokingly to tow but it would be funny to actually do it.

[@MattPula]

@@FoxtonR haha that would be amazing if you obliged and gave someone a tow. honestly it really annoys me that they get hated on, its nothing but gatekeeping BS - someone else on an ebike has no impact on your own enjoyment of the activity. I've encouraged several of my friends who despise climbing to consider them, and if I could justify the price tag I'd ride one in a heartbeat.

[@FoxtonR]

@@MattPula I was going to talk more about the pricing aspect but in many cases you can get a great e bike for similar or slightly more than many analog models. I would reccomend you wait for a good deal or do some research, they're totally worth it!

[@MattPula]

@@FoxtonR ya they've definitely dropped a lot in the last year or two - it's not a $10k minimum buy-in anymore, that's for sure. I'm gonna bide my time a bit longer, but I think by 2025-2026 I'll definitely be in the market for one.

[@boblatkey7160]

Thank you! 💪

[@sobpolta3328]

Lots of stigma associated with the E bike. I got one year ago and ended up selling my analog bike. It’s just more fun like you said more miles climbs don’t suck as bad and overall just a way more fun experience and yes, I still get a very good workout you get as much or as little as you want to put into it.

[@aim102]

To me, it’s simple uphill is more fun you get to ride longer. Downhills are better with a little bit heavier, more stable platform. And when someone asked me if I feel like I’m cheating I reply with “I didn’t know I was competing” For me It’s spending time outdoors with my wife and enjoying as much as possible. Loving the levo!

[@FoxtonR]

Great comment!

[@s2theb258]

just bought a levo comp 2 weeks ago, my first ever Mtb, but haven't ridden it yet as I'm in Sweden and its been like -12 to -20 (-4 to 5 fahr) and loads of snow and ice. but fun watching others ride it until i can get on it, hopefully within a month or 2. Great video

[@b0bl00i]

Funny! I just got my comp alloy 23 and also live in Sweden 😁

[@andrewfrost9343]

Mate, if you want to lube the chain without tipping the bike upside down, simply put some tape around an Alan key and put it in a front chain ring bolt. Back pedal the crank until it touches the Alan key and you can then back pedal the chain and cassette. Makes the cleaning and lubing easy. Don’t forget to remove the Allan key after though.

[@FoxtonR]

This is what I do now! Thank you!

[@wazamarine]

I’m going to try this! Thanks for the info 👍

[@deniselupear7993]

Great review. I have a ‘22 LevoSL and as an old lady - this has changed my world! As you said you can get a lot more miles in, and still get a workout. You talked about the weight, and on downhills that makes the bike feel more planted, not flighty. Even my 38# bikes feels way better than my 27# analog on DH. Keep up the good work on the videos. It’s giving me a lot more places to check out to ride!

[@FoxtonR]

Thank you! Glad I could provide some trails and content for you!

[@johnhalminski6221]

Great assessment and video. I agree 100% with you on all the points you made, pros and cons. I can attest to your comment on the fork. I swapped mine to a Fox 38 and it made a huge improvement. Jensen USA has the Fox 38 on sale right now for $349. In couldn’t pass up the purchase. Keep up the good work!!!

[@FoxtonR]

Thank you!!!! Sounds like a great deal on that fox!

[@melvinsperez]

Great video. I just ordered a 2025 Levo Comp Carbon. Can't wait to hit the trails. I'm in it for the same reasons you mentioned. Get through trails faster, with less available time, or go further than before. It's definitely going to take some adjustments but I'm sure it will be well worth the shift.

[@eddiegomez4134]

Sick!! My buddies in I just got into biking. I got a Turbo Creo SL Comp. We're looking into getting e-mtb by the end of the year hopefully.

[@tjay_mac]

Use a 5mm allen key and put it in one of the chainring bolts. Spin the cranks backwards slowly. That’s how I clean/lube chain. Try Sram Transmission for shifting underload. Question. Do you have Float X? Where are you on the rebound? Just wondering. Thx!

[@FoxtonR]

Thats super smart and kind of obvious now that I think about it, thank you! Also, its a float x and ive got the rebound currently at 5 clicks for my pressure and weight. Im about 175. I have been playing around with it slower and faster though.

[@tjay_mac]

@@FoxtonR, Thanks! I’m lost on my rear shock. It feels a bit springy and I’ve tried 8-4 in the rebound and found the 4 to start causing the rear wheel to hung up on high speed (20+ mph) runs over chattery stuff. I have mine also at 5. My rear is plush and vey active. I like it but it doesn’t boost confidence at speed but I don’t want to change to a different shock until I figure what’s going on back there. This issue with the rear didn’t actually show until I got a better fork (RS Lyrik Ultimate). My fork is planted and very compliant with a lot of mid-travel support so I don’t want to replace that. I’ve spent a lot of time on the trails fine tuning the bike and had been upgrading parts just so I can have the bike to feel balanced. My bike is the base model carbon but only stock left are the cranks and saddle. I have cascade link and ochain. They’re so good but man, I need to tame the rear end a bit.

[@FoxtonR]

@@tjay_mac Id say a better rear shock is on the list for me, just doesnt work as well as it could like you were saying so I would suggest an upgrade eventually. Something with more adjustability to remove some of those issues.

[@tjay_mac]

@@FoxtonR Appreciate your replies man, thank you. I will look into the Float X2. My friend has the same bike with the current RS Super Deluxe and current X2. He swears the X2 made his Levo ride A LOT better.

[@markkligerman6861]

Yes 5mm Allen. I place a tire lever between the Allen and the crank. Makes it easy to remove and protects the cranks from scratches.

[@jimmydollar]

You mentioned the Fox 36 Rhythm being a "downside". For the money, I think it's a very capable setup. I know guys buy one of these & stick another 3 grand into it, but out of the box these are super fun bikes and to me there are no downsides!

[@Emtbwebb]

People are too fussy today they never grew up on a Raleigh burner or chopper 😂🤘🏼

[@939forbidden]

I’m glad that I found your channel, I just went on my first ride today, on my new Levo Comp Alloy!!

[@FoxtonR]

Thank you!! I appreciate you watching, enjoy your new bike!

[@koryluginbuhl7217]

I have some serious beathing problems (asthma), and I really miss being able to hang with my bike friends and ride with them much anymore due to my nagging issues. I just pulled the trigger a couple of days ago on one of these bikes as several of my bike friends actually recommended it. Although I guarantee they will give me crap the day I show up with it, they will likely want one themselves once they see how much fun I am having on it!

[@paulmerc3960]

Nice review on your ebike. I recently got the turbo Levo, and I am loving it so much! I agree with your comment about the hate on ebikes. Not everyone wants to kill themselves on the climbs. I have way more fun on this bike, and i mean, isn't that why we all got into mountain biking in the first place? I am a decent climber to begin with, but still, why wouldn't i want to ride more fun trails on a ride?! Like you said, the climbs are now fun, it's all fun on an emtb! Thanks for your video man!

[@FoxtonR]

Love this comment, well said! And yes, I can climb just fine, it's just now something to look forward to more on the ebike

[@chriscornwell8682]

I have same Levo and it's my favorite all rounder. I took it and my Canyon Torque to Angel Fire. I rode the Torque at the park and the Levo on the huge complex of fun trails right behind the rv park I was staying at. Agree with everything said in video.

[@mikehub6664]

I have a turbo levo comp CF. I highly recommend Schwalbe Eddy Current tire for Ebikes if you want the best long lasting tires to handle the weight. People are getting 1000mi + a set. Well worth it. Second is thickest brake rotors you can get 220mm on the front. Third is clean and lube every ride. I use a parks chain cleaner tool, compressed air to dry quickly and lube after the ride so I'm set for the next. Should make the drivetrain last longer. Love the turbo levo so much. I'm more gravity focused and it so much more fun on an E-bike.

[@BOOSTEDDUDE]

You make a lot of good points about the advantages and some disadvantages of an E-MTB. That climb works me over hard every time. You made it look really easy! The bike is a little heavy at 50lbs but that probably helps in some regards. I really want to try an EMTB now!

[@deanw2013]

I bought a Tero x4.0 a few months ago. Love it !!

[@pinoyteam6417]

It seems that if the haters could afford an emtb, they'd go for it. I got lucky on FB Marketplace. I picked up a 2017 emtb, not a Specialized, March 2023 for a great price. Haven't been out on the trails due to injuries and work. But I do take it out on the streets 2x a week just to enjoy it. Weather is getting better here in Southern California and I'd like to take it for a spin off road. If my emtb was priced higher by the seller, I wouldn't have been able to afford it. I really enjoyed your video even though I dont have the brand you ride. Mine is a Giant. Tyvm for your time.

[@kbd13-n9c]

Idk why everyone always makes everything about $. Some people probably, some people just don’t. You could apply that straw man to everything. I’m not a skinny dude for my height, but love love love hills. It’s the challenge for me, this seems like the main benefit of an eMTB so it doesn’t make sense for me.

[@wazamarine]

Since I bought my emtb (2024 YT Decoy Uncaged) about 5 months ago, I have not touched my regular bike. I can ride further and the large hills I previously had to get off and push up I now cruise right up. I went from riding once a week to riding 3 times a week and my fitness level has improved. The only ones who talk crap about e-bikes are the tights wearing cross country guys on hardtails so who cares!😂 Great video 👍

[@JonLynchIsAlive]

Never mind the naysayers. That's a cool bike. I bet you're having lots of fun!

[@Zetler]

This dude casually narrating while constantly riding up hill through chunks is why you want an ebike.

[@Thumper17559]

Great riding and great video and thanks for sharing. 👍

[@MTB_OC]

the levo is the best e bike you can get, i have the comp carbon model. I agree i ran through 2 chains, new brakes. E bike wear and tear is no joke! But makes it so much fun!

[@bradandamberfausett8127]

I just moved from Las Vegas to Denver, riding Emtb in Vegas is common and not once did anybody ever say anything to me. Denver, has been a different story, comments, looks, etc... I rarely see emtb's when I'm riding the foothills so some of it might be me. I don't understand the hate, why does anybody care what somebody else is riding if it's not tearing up the trail. My son loves dirt jumps so I wish Valmont and Ruby would allow the emtb so I can ride with him but there seem to be enough places to go.

[@FoxtonR]

Ive started to learn you can pretty much ride them anywhere and as long as you're courteous people usually don't say anything if it's a trail that doesn't allow emtbs

[@JoeW-wr6fp]

Great video! You were flying!

[@FoxtonR]

Thank you! SEND IT

[@tomcochrane56]

I'm sixty eight and just purchased my first e bike a specialized levo.

[@FoxtonR]

Congrats! Enjoy

[@australiana58]

What do you think of it?

[@orangeglovesmtb]

Great video! Thank don’t have an e-bike but would if I could afford one. One con is riding areas not allowing them.

[@richardplastino792]

In Colorado, they are allowed in all State Parks and all Jefferson County Open Space Parks. But the USFS still does not allow them in the Pike and San Isabel National Forests. They failed to study ebikes in the EIS completed in 2022, so ebikes are in limbo.

[@nelsonsilva9602]

Hi there. Thank you very much for your video and opinion about ebikes, in particular the levo. Could you please share how you are using your Eco, trail and Turbo settings? Thanks a lot. Greetings from Portugal.

[@FoxtonR]

Hello! Thank you! My settings are the standard out of box power settings for each mode. I am often in trail mode for a good balance, but occasionally switch to turbo to zoom up something or to do long distance on pavement. I am rarely in eco mode unless trying to save power towards the end of a ride or if I'm riding with people on regular bikes. Hopefully this answers your question!

[@nelsonsilva9602]

@@FoxtonR thank you. It helped a lot. I am starting , just bought a levo. So every information is very helpful. Thanks and all the best

[@lucman22aa]

@@nelsonsilva9602 Which part of portugal do you ride in? I was born there, near Alcobaca, and live in the U.S. now. I also own the 2022 levo comp and it's my favorite mountain bike!

[@nelsonsilva9602]

@@lucman22aa i ride mostly in sintra and Arrábida but portugal is loaded with fantastic trails and landscapes, being Lousã, maybe the top one

[@sergiohdz5926]

Really ? Do you care about the haters comments??? Just enjoy it !! Do not let anyone spoil your day ! Have a great ride !!

[@darrelldriver26]

cool footage thanks for sharing, do you feel the 36 fox rhythm shock is sufficient, your downhill was very smooth given the harsh terrain

[@FoxtonR]

Thank you! Yes that fork seems to do the job well enough for right now but it does blow through its travel more often that something with an upgraded damper

[@grantchandler8294]

I love my ebike and I love my normal mtb but I do find the 25km speed limit frustrating

[@FoxtonR]

I agree, don't need the extra speed too often but when I do it would be really nice

[@mwinner101]

Nice video. Great summary of the pros and cons. Bikers are very cliquey. Best to do what you like and ignore the rest.

[@FoxtonR]

Well put, and thanks!

[@rogereheadbyrne4790]

What's not to like about spesh their insane ebikes my nephew has one and hes always on it! Prices are dropping everywhere so soon they'll be everywhere!

[@NH-il6uc]

How often do you still ride your regular bike? I have a Pivot Switchblade, and bought an e-bike (Yeti 160E) for recovery days. I get more days riding this way, and on “regular” days still get the sense of accomplishment of grinding up on my acoustic bike.

[@FoxtonR]

Unfortunately I sold my stumpy Evo recently and am looking to eventually get another analog bike once I can afford it! I miss it quite a bit but the Levo is incredible in its own way. I focus more on downhills now and fine tuning my skills there but there's something about being on a regular bike im definitely starting to miss.

[@puckcoach3]

I' ve watched your StEvo videos and you seem like a pretty strong rider. Curious why you didn't opt for the LevoSL which still provides plenty of assistance without all of the extra weight ?

[@FoxtonR]

Great question. I was able to get a lot more range out of the full size and my two bikes I was aiming for was the kenevo sl and Levo. Kenevo sl lasted half the time if not less. Levo sl didn't feel to be as beefy and wanted something with at least 160mm of travel. The new generation of Levo sl is an excellent bike though and had me considering trying out something more lightweight.

[@australiana58]

@@FoxtonRExtra cost for the SL is also an issue.

[@tonym6633]

Try some Eddie Current ebike tires. 1200km and stilll good.

[@FoxtonR]

Good grip?

[@tonym6633]

​@@FoxtonRExcellent grip. Highly recommended.

[@jimmylights878]

Yes.

[@sgoaty]

Great video. Got the same bike coming soon but in black. Have you upgraded/changed anything or do you plan to? Thanks

[@FoxtonR]

Thank you! I have the comp, so might change out the fox rhythm fork and the brakes because I prefer Shimano. Otherwise it's a solid bike! Also been testing different tires as well from the stock set.

[@sgoaty]

Those are the 2 things I'm considering on my one I've got m6120 brakes coming. I'm also unsure whether I should go for a 38, Zeb or domain over the 36 as I'm 250lbs.

[@johndeNeveu]

Don’t buy a 23 levo unless you expect that replacement parts wont be available. I ordered a rear triangle June 6 and still no part or communication from Specialized.

[@MarioXcore1]

Everything agreed but getting a real workout on an ebike is just not the same lol not even close. But that’s why you get both a normal and an eeb haha

[@LEGENDofBEANY]

I just got the Levo SL. The downside, it’s hard to stop riding it and my girlfriend gets mad 😠🤣

[@jccohen9626]

I could never understand the hate from anybody for having any bike or anything else for that matter Why not politely just reply and tell them I completely understand where you’re coming from but because I was born with human DNA I was born with an expiration date and I figured since I am going to die eventually I might as well enjoy my life the way I see fit as a practicing free moral agent. it’s just a habit I’ve had since I was extremely young to buy and do whatever I want with materials and products that can be bought with money How about you? Are you enjoying your life as much as I am?

[@FoxtonR]

I am enjoying life as much as I can within my means, thank you for the comment!

[@boblatkey7160]

I wonder if I love my e-bike? Coming up on 5000 miles! 😂

[@drewyager4020]

Why is the 36 fox rhythm a downside

[@FoxtonR]

When you push it hard, it kinda blows through its travel easy and it just doesn't seem to be as controlled of an experience compared to the grip 2 damper on my stumpy.

[@boblatkey7160]

I upgraded mine to Vorsprung smashpot coil. It's all done internally and you don't have to change anything else out.

[@johnhouston8297]

You can also upgrade the 36 rhythm with a grip 2 damper, May be good temporarily until ready to upgrade to one of the boss forks.

[@robertovaldano752]

La mia levo comp carbon è fantastica sopratutto dopo che ho montato tutto impianto frenante magura mt7 con dischi sempre magura freni infiniti

[@FoxtonR]

Definetly should try them out! I'm in need of new brakes on this one for sure.

[@adnanmajeed6916]

E-bikes for me are for old people, the stats prove it, here in the UK the average e-bike rider is 60+

[@THEHULK209]

Not just for old ppl. I have 2 e-bikes and 1 reg bike and I’m not old, or fat or lazy I am actually very fit way more than you and any e-bike hater in the comments sooo?

[@xTorkis]

emtb best

[@siriosstar4789]

Worth what ?

[@FoxtonR]

The cost, the weight, the extra wear and tear...

[@siriosstar4789]

👍