2020 Turbo Levo Sizing and Carbon Vs Aluminium

[TrailShack]

Hi All,
Im sure this has been asked many times.
I have an opportunity to pickup a great deal on a 2019 demo turbo Levo comp Carbon that has new bike warranty and done only 400kms by the LBS.

Unfortunately it is a size L. I’ve owned a Stumpjumper that was M. I’m about 172cm tall, in getting mixed answers from stores that it’s too big or it will be fine.

Best way to try which I will but looking to see if someone here is about my height and did switch to the L and didn’t have an issue.

Secondly, if this is too big for me I have to look at 2020 models, and my biggest decision point besides price is carbon or aluminium. Is there a big difference with ride characteristics and longevity of the frame in carbon?

 

[NULevo]

Hi, I'm 6cm taller and have an L, if it helps, and if the size is close, the seat can be moved and stem/handlebar changed also to adjust the fit.

 

[Galion]

I have a L 2019 Stumpjumper and a XL 2020 Comp Carbon. Both fit me fine. Levos sizes run small IMO.
I’m no expert but honestly couldn’t tell a difference between a 2020 Comp Alu vs Carbon frame. Hope this helps.

 

[TrailShack]

I have a L 2019 Stumpjumper and a XL 2020 Comp Carbon. Both fit me fine. Levos sizes run small IMO.
I’m no expert but honestly couldn’t tell a difference between a 2020 Comp Alu vs Carbon frame. Hope this helps.

Thanks for that. I should perhaps take a look at the number on the large levo and my Medium Stumpy, that could help.

I've been told with carbon vs alu that frame is "strong", "Stiffer" so feel would be different, i think I have to try this out to really make a judgement call. But for sizing i'll check my previous bike's numbers.

 

[Indigo]

I'm 172cm tall and I got a 2019 S-works Levo size M. I prefer to size down, I even considered a size S initially because the geometry was closest to my 90's mtb. I test rode both size M and L and choose the M. After settling in on correct seat height for me, the seat post collar is now 35mm above the frame. Stem has 3 x 5mm spacers = 15mm above lowest position.

So how close could a size L be made to suit my current riding position?
- Size L seat tube length is +45mm which means saddle height would be +10mm with seat post fully inserted. Therefore a seat post with 150mm drop instead of 160mm could work.
- Size L head tube length is +30mm which means stem height would be +15mm in lowest position (with no spacers). Therefore handle bars with less rise could work, eg. straight bars.
With above plus a 35mm stem and move the saddle forward 10-15mm might have suited me.

Personally I'd prefer to have the ability to make adjustments as my physique develops or declines with age. LOL

Everyone is different, you really do need to test ride both size M and L. If you get a size L and it doesn't suit you, you will regret it immensely. Don't get persuaded into believing it's the right size when it's not.

 

[TrailShack]

I'm 172cm tall and I got a 2019 S-works Levo size M. I prefer to size down, I even considered a size S initially because the geometry was closest to my 90's mtb. I test rode both size M and L and choose the M. After settling in on correct seat height for me, the seat post collar is now 35mm above the frame. Stem has 3 x 5mm spacers = 15mm above lowest position.

So how close could a size L be made to suit my current riding position?
- Size L seat tube length is +45mm which means saddle height would be +10mm with seat post fully inserted. Therefore a seat post with 150mm drop instead of 160mm could work.
- Size L head tube length is +30mm which means stem height would be +15mm in lowest position (with no spacers). Therefore handle bars with less rise could work, eg. straight bars.
With above plus a 35mm stem and move the saddle forward 10-15mm might have suited me.

Personally I'd prefer to have the ability to make adjustments as my physique develops or declines with age. LOL

Everyone is different, you really do need to test ride both size M and L. If you get a size L and it doesn't suit you, you will regret it immensely. Don't get persuaded into believing it's the right size when it's not.

That is sound advise. I was on a M 2017 Stumpy which was comfy, I am pretty convinced that L is too big but I will try this weekend. It is a demo model they LBS is trying to sell so I have to make sure I dont get too excited ... I will test both, might even demo trail side for the whole day.

I did however test a L Merida E160 a little while back and I couldnt tell the difference, beside the constant pedal strikes, i think the suspension was too plush.

2 demo days will be the way to go i think !

 

[Kiwi in Wales]

Hi,
I have both a large and a medium Levo.
I am 173cm and find the Large just a bit too long for me on the really steep descents where you need to get you bum over the back wheel. That is with a shorter stem, the seat pushed forward on its rails as far as possible and the seat post dropper as low as it can go into the bike frame.
The Medium for me, is perfect as I didn’t need to do any of the above adjustments.
However, best to try them both out yourself as we may be virtually the same height but you may have longer or shorter arms and legs than me.

 

[TrailShack]

So i pulled the trigger and i am picking up a Large Levo tomorrow! Cant wait! the owner of the LBS was shorter than me and rides a Large, I tested and felt very comfortable.

I do have concerns about the strength of the 4pot/2pot combo SRAM Level T brakes. Any one had experience with these?