Levo Gen 3 Advice on Turbo Levo

[RJUK]

Hi folks, I'm thinking of getting my first ebike, but have some concerns.

For example I've seen plenty of reference to motor issues on even the 2022 Levos, is this still a problem and how are people with high mileage on their bikes finding that they hold out? And am I right in thinking that if the motor breaks the whole thing needs replacing? So if it goes kaput at 5 years old the bike is basically scrap?

I think that's my main concern with jumping into an ebike at the moment - issues with motors and batteries and the fact that the motors don't all use a standardised mounting system, so unlike say, a chain ring, if the motor dies out of warranty you can't just replace it with whatever motor you like- it has to be thar exact one again from that exact model year of bike. If you can get hold of one and if it's economical at that point in the bike's life.

My last bike was an acoustic Cannondale with a bike-specific Fox shock, and whilst the bike still operated fine, the shocks were old enough to need a service and there was only 1 place who could still service it, for about what the entire bike was worth. As it was a pull shock and very specific to that bike, there weren't any alternatives, either.

I remember the days when pretty much any part from any bike could be swapped to any other bike. My friend actually sold me his Planet X frame and I just swapped every part from my Specialised onto it. Mind you, back then you could buy the absolute best bike available for like £3500 or less. (Probably showing my age here, but having been away from biking for a while I was surprised to see modern pricing, and somewhat embarrassed to mention the prices if the bikes to other people who always point out"you could buy a brand new car for that!")

I just don't want to be back in a similar situation again - that the bike has one failure prone part that cab't be serviced and costs a fortune out of warranty. Especially when the bikes cost so much to begin with.

What are people's thoughts on that and how much is a motor replacement outside of warranty?

Lastly, were there any changes from 2022 to 2023? I'm considering a 2022 Levo Pro.

 

[Kingerz]

eMTBs are still not totally reliable and it's common to hear figures like 1 out of 10 break. Specialized are very expensive and have a large number of broken ones (although my Spech is ok) so possibly look at a Yamaha or Bosch motor one?
everyone will have a different answer though as we all base our answer on a sample of our own one or two bikes and some friends' ones.

 

[towzer]

I’d have a look at this

Homepage - eBike Motor Centre (Performance Line Bearings), They also did some vids on repairability etc.

some engines are more repairable than others, so it seems

 

[Zimmerframe]

And am I right in thinking that if the motor breaks the whole thing needs replacing?

Generally, if you're outside of warranty, the motor can be repaired. By Performance line bearings, linked above, for example.

Yes, they still have problems with the motors failing. Some people have multiple failures, some people have zero. Never jetwash it and try to generally keep direct water away from the motor - hosing for instance. Obviously it will get wet when you're riding, but try and avoid immersion !

Pedal strikes may also cause premature failures, you'll probably have several of these at the start as you find yourself pedalling in places you normally wouldn't because of the motor, but you learn to adjust and time your pedal strokes better.

If you're pretty sure you're going to be a high speed pedal strike maniac, the brose motor probably isn't for you.

Ideally, buy from a dealer you trust who keeps a stock of motors for quick change around. You don't want to be waiting weeks for a replacement if your motor does fail. Berkshire cycles or Raceco are two examples who have excellent reputations.

If your motor was beyond repair outside of warranty, then Specialized also do "assisted purchase" on replacement parts. I can't remember the exact numbers, but it reduces over 5 years with the 5th year being 10% off. Though I believe Performance line could also source you a motor if that was the case (though they seem to fix most things).

 

[maynard]

Well . Pretty crap reason to not buy an awesome bike . I think warranty is worth atleast 2 years . Maybe replacement would be 2000aus $ what's that? 1000 euros . I think 22,23 is pretty much same bike. I own a 2019 expert. I love that bike . I purchased 2nd hand for 8 . Was 12. New .hmm I had a motor failure at 2500kms . Which is alot of riding . My current motor has 3000kms on it . I think warranty expires in a year . I wouldn't like to pay for replacement but if I have too, I wouldn't hesitate too sell my girls eternity ring to pay for it ! Don't listen to that old man in your head ! And lie to anyone who doesn't understand the true value of true state of the art wizardry and workmanship. You can thank me later

 

[RJUK]

OK, thanks folks. It's good to see that it's possible to repair them. It just seems crazy that there's not a wealth of options, including from the manufacturers themselves! Imagine buying a car and then the engine has a fault after 4 years and the dealer said you needed to buy a whole new engine because they don't repair them?! And with the bikes being as expensive as an entire car the analogy isn't a stretch, either.

I'm actually quite gentle on my gear because I'm quite light and don't do anything overly daft, but still, the concern is there that the bike would very quickly become an expensive paperweight down to a fault that's out of my control.

Thoughts on the 2022 Turbo Levo Pro?

Looks an awesome piece of kit and I had a couple of Specialized bikes when I was younger, so a nostalgic part of me would like to ride one again. It doesn't hurt that it looks pretty awesome in the red with the Kashima as well...

 

[maynard]

The way I see it . Bike motors are cheap . How much is a new motor for a car ? . Way more than the cost an e bike! You can't really compare eebs to cars . They are great vehicles over short distances . Or long distances if you have all day to ride around. I think any of the levos are great bikes . I wonder if you have test ridden one yet . Maybe take a Trek Rail and a specialized Levo for a ride . I'd say Bosch motors are more reliable. Although not if you pressure wash it after riding around in the mud all day .

 

[Snrbrtsn]

I can only add, their great bikes and backed by a remarkable no 5hit warranty
if your looking, it’s worth taking note of bike and what if anything you’d change, then revisit your search….
Gear train, brakes and suspension are all packaged to a price point no point in buying the next model if you intend upgrading!
Likewise your next choice shall be Alu or Carbon

New world decisions but worthy of thought

 

[RJUK]

That's another reason I like the Turbo Levo Pro. I started looking at the Expert carbon, then realised that for not too much more you could get the Pro, which comes in the nicer red colour, has Kashima everything, carbon wheels and bars and Code RSCs. For once, I actually think I wouldn't want to immediately change anything.

What's everyone's thoughts on alu vs carbon? I have a carbon Canyon Spectral 29er (acoustic) at the moment, but not really sure on the positives and negatives of each, other than price & weight.

Ideally I'd like to keep the bike's weight as low as possible so that I can lift it over turnstiles easier and hop it easier. I was originally looking at the Orbea Rise, but the Levo isn't much heavier and has a full power motor and much larger battery.

As for bike motors being cheap, I still think the comparison works. If you buy a car for £20k and after 5 years the engine explodes and they want £3k for a new one, but the car is only worth £7k by then in full working order, it's a tough sell. Limp it to the dealer and trade it in!

Same if a new bike motor is £1k and the bike is only worth £3k by then in fully working order. Might be better to strip it for parts and put the money towards a new bike, whereas if you can fix it for much less money then repairing the bike remains a more sensible option.

 

[Deleted member 7401]

I just picked up an expert. I am super impressed with everything. Motor is far quieter than my Shimano. Bike handles like a dream. The only thing I dislike are the spongy SRAM brakes…but if they continue to annoy I will bolt on some Magura’s.

 

[steve_sordy]

@RJUK I accept that Specialized have what appears to be a "no shit warranty" when it comes to motors. Some proudly boast that they are on their 4th motor!! I would far rather have a motor that lasts a lot longer than months. Think of how you will feel riding on your 2nd motor. Will you be thinking "what a great replacement policy?" Or will you be thinking "will it fail on me today and how far from home will I be when it does fail?" How long will you be without a bike while it is being replaced?
I am not impressed.

 

[Alexbn921]

Bikes are FUN!
The Levo is probably the best all around package.
Specialized sells 10's of thousands of them and the majority, less than 1% have motor failures in the first 2 years. They also have motor replacement help after the warranty period when needed.

Go buy it and start having fun. Smile every time you take it out and reignite your love of riding.

DO IT!

 

[Cmr]

I’m on my 3rd levo 2016 expert 2020 expert now 2022 pro yes I have had a couple of motors go over that time all swapped out under warranty the same day. I wouldn’t be that concerned if I had a motor go out of warranty because you can get new bearings belt etc done for about £200 which is a lot cheaper than a xo1 sram cassette at £380. I was unsure about getting the new levo with it be a mullet but its an amazing bike

 

[Piflipvtt]

Les vélos sont FUN !
Le Levo est probablement le meilleur ensemble complet.
Spécialisé en vendant des dizaines de milliers et la majorité, moins de 1 % ont des pannes de moteur dans les 2 premières années. Ils ont également une aide au remplacement du moteur après la période de garantie en cas de besoin.

Allez l'acheter et évitez de vous amuser. Souriez chaque fois que vous le sortez et ravivez votre amour de la conduite.

FAIS-LE!

- 1 % certainly 20 %

 

[RJUK]

I’m on my 3rd levo 2016 expert 2020 expert now 2022 pro yes I have had a couple of motors go over that time all swapped out under warranty the same day. I wouldn’t be that concerned if I had a motor go out of warranty because you can get new bearings belt etc done for about £200 which is a lot cheaper than a xo1 sram cassette at £380. I was unsure about getting the new levo with it be a mullet but its an amazing bike

View attachment 106929

Drool... It just looks so good in the red with the Kashima.

Is there anything else I should be aware of with these bikes? Other than the charge port door being made of tissue paper?!

 

[Cmr]

Drool... It just looks so good in the red with the Kashima.

Is there anything else I should be aware of with these bikes? Other than the charge port door being made of tissue paper?!

The charge port door has been updated its on a spring hinge now everything else is bang on

 

[Roger20]

I've had a Turbo Levo for 3 years. Brilliant bike despite being on 3rd motor. Knew the motor issues from the outset but Specialized aftersales persuaded me and has, as everyone says been excellent. In and out within hours.

I know I will be on my own when warranty expires but have no motor concerns because of Performance Line Bearings. Might cost me £250 to rebuild (as long as you listen for the warning signs and act early) but quite happy with that.

Put it into the context of the cost of the bike, especially at Expert level. Servicing any car or motorbike can cost similar money - just the price we have to pay to enjoy our ebikes.

Don't believe that other ebike motors don't have issues. I think it's just the popularity of Spesh that you hear far more - look at the number of Specialized threads on this forum compared to other makes.

Until we get properly designed ebike motors that aren't derived from electric door motors and the like they are all going to have wear issues, particularly in the muddy conditions we have in the UK.

We accept bottom brackets have a finite life, particularly in our climate - ebike motors are no different.

 

[Stoneilove]

I've had a Turbo Levo for 3 years. Brilliant bike despite being on 3rd motor. Knew the motor issues from the outset but Specialized aftersales persuaded me and has, as everyone says been excellent. In and out within hours.

I know I will be on my own when warranty expires but have no motor concerns because of Performance Line Bearings. Might cost me £250 to rebuild (as long as you listen for the warning signs and act early) but quite happy with that.

Put it into the context of the cost of the bike, especially at Expert level. Servicing any car or motorbike can cost similar money - just the price we have to pay to enjoy our ebikes.

Don't believe that other ebike motors don't have issues. I think it's just the popularity of Spesh that you hear far more - look at the number of Specialized threads on this forum compared to other makes.

Until we get properly designed ebike motors that aren't derived from electric door motors and the like they are all going to have wear issues, particularly in the muddy conditions we have in the UK.

We accept bottom brackets have a finite life, particularly in our climate - ebike motors are no different.

Hi Roger, just wanted to check what you mean by warning signs? I have a Turbo levo 2022 and its been incredible, the motor is almost silent apart from steep climbs, is there a particular sound or sign to be aware of?
Cheers

 

[Roundbadge]

I have a ‘22 Levo I bought from a local Specialized dealer.
Motor has been solid,dealer support has been amazing(always super fast turnaround,usually a day or less))and is the quietest I’ve tried.
Feels very balanced to ride.Love it.

 

[Amelia]

My 2022 levo expert is on its fifth motor some have just gone noisey and some gone bang .specialised warranty is second to none every time I’ve taken mine to the shop barkshire cycles it’s repaired the same day nobody can moan at that .I’d have another no problem

 

[NCMike]

I have a 2022 Turbo Levo expert in black. I did lots of research, and communicated with the guys at Loam Wolf that had both the Pro and Expert on test. My primary question was whether I’d really notice a difference between the expert and pro. They didn’t think 99% of the people riding them would notice the difference, so I went with the expert and put some of the extra money into things I know I would feel, like GX AXS rear derailer and one-up carbon bars. Another guy I ride with also has a 2022 expert and put on carbon wheels, but didn’t notice a difference, so I’ll be passing on them unless I need to replace my stock alloy wheels. Don’t know about where you are, but the expert was 25% off in January and I think showed discounted again now. At $4750 cheaper than the pro, I think it’s a no brainer to get the expert over the pro if you can get the discounted price. They were showing all sizes available last time I checked here in the USA. With that said, color does matter, so your priorities could be different

 

[Roger20]

Hi Roger, just wanted to check what you mean by warning signs? I have a Turbo levo 2022 and its been incredible, the motor is almost silent apart from steep climbs, is there a particular sound or sign to be aware of?
Cheers

I'll try and find a couple of links for you but will be a few days.

The point about being aware of unusual noises is that if left too long the motor might go from being repairable to scrap. The main crank used to be the main culprit but may be available as a spare part now.

 

[beanzz]

Thoughts on the 2022 Turbo Levo Pro

From what I've seen it seems like the levo is a fantastic bike and if you have the money then get it, but specialized bikes at quite often more expensive for the kit you get Vs competing brands. This isn't too say the levo isn't a fantastic bike, it is probably one of the best right now just expensive

 

[Goodmango13]

Hi folks, I'm thinking of getting my first ebike, but have some concerns.

For example I've seen plenty of reference to motor issues on even the 2022 Levos, is this still a problem and how are people with high mileage on their bikes finding that they hold out? And am I right in thinking that if the motor breaks the whole thing needs replacing? So if it goes kaput at 5 years old the bike is basically scrap?

I think that's my main concern with jumping into an ebike at the moment - issues with motors and batteries and the fact that the motors don't all use a standardised mounting system, so unlike say, a chain ring, if the motor dies out of warranty you can't just replace it with whatever motor you like- it has to be thar exact one again from that exact model year of bike. If you can get hold of one and if it's economical at that point in the bike's life.

My last bike was an acoustic Cannondale with a bike-specific Fox shock, and whilst the bike still operated fine, the shocks were old enough to need a service and there was only 1 place who could still service it, for about what the entire bike was worth. As it was a pull shock and very specific to that bike, there weren't any alternatives, either.

I remember the days when pretty much any part from any bike could be swapped to any other bike. My friend actually sold me his Planet X frame and I just swapped every part from my Specialised onto it. Mind you, back then you could buy the absolute best bike available for like £3500 or less. (Probably showing my age here, but having been away from biking for a while I was surprised to see modern pricing, and somewhat embarrassed to mention the prices if the bikes to other people who always point out"you could buy a brand new car for that!")

I just don't want to be back in a similar situation again - that the bike has one failure prone part that cab't be serviced and costs a fortune out of warranty. Especially when the bikes cost so much to begin with.

What are people's thoughts on that and how much is a motor replacement outside of warranty?

Lastly, were there any changes from 2022 to 2023? I'm considering a 2022 Levo Pro.

From what I've seen it seems like the levo is a fantastic bike and if you have the money then get it, but specialized bikes at quite often more expensive for the kit you get Vs competing brands. This isn't too say the levo isn't a fantastic bike, it is probably one of the best right now just expensive

Interesting indeed….
Just happened to pause on my ride and choose this thread…
Sitting here on my Levo Pro and so pleased with it!
Had a 2019 S-Works and truly this is better geometry/suspension but same brakes…. They’re good but I like a less hard hit brake than the Shimano anyway.
Previous motor on S-Works failed after 1300 miles …2

days later new one installed and great since. My friend now loves it!
Go for it bcz it’s a worthy choice for fun/performance and I’m a true believer that even though we only know the color of our bikes when we’re not riding it, the colors are very important.
I’ve had great experience with Spesh service all along… they always answer the phone and are helpful…. 2 Giants ago I called and emailed over 2 years for various issues. Not once did they ever answer a phone or respond to email. Ever!
So…. That’s been my experience. Hope it’s helpful in some way.

 

[ThomasL]

Just got my first - a 2018 Fattie and it has 6000 km on it. I'm piling more on it as we speak. Battery at 90%, motor purring - super happy and if it breaks I saved a bunch of money on buying older model. Little replacement/repair budget to be expected. But 2300 euro - hard to beat vs new price

 

[Roger20]

Hi Roger, just wanted to check what you mean by warning signs? I have a Turbo levo 2022 and its been incredible, the motor is almost silent apart from steep climbs, is there a particular sound or sign to be aware of?
Cheers

This was the link WHEN should you stop pedalling to not DESTROY your motor ?

 

[RJUK]

Thanks for the replies everyone. Here in the UK All Spesh bikes are 20% off St the moment, which leaves a £1600 gap between the Expert and Pro. I love the look of the Pro and always wanted a bike with a bit of Kashima, but not sure I can justify the additional cost.

Whilst the Pro looks nicer, I think the Expert would fly more under the radar and hopefully be less likely to get stolen.

Back in the day I had people chase me in a car when I was riding my mango orange FSR. Thankfully I was fitter back then, clocked them and hung a 180 skid on some grass and disappeared up a side road.

 

[Dicko70]

I’m on my 3rd levo 2016 expert 2020 expert now 2022 pro yes I have had a couple of motors go over that time all swapped out under warranty the same day. I wouldn’t be that concerned if I had a motor go out of warranty because you can get new bearings belt etc done for about £200 which is a lot cheaper than a xo1 sram cassette at £380. I was unsure about getting the new levo with it be a mullet but its an amazing bike

View attachment 106929 lovely bike…need to line up your tyre logos and level your cranks before your next photo though

 

[Haveland]

Something to consider is the Alloy at the discounted price you can throw on factory forks, carbon wheels, AXS Dropper and shifter your choice for anything else you really want still come in under the Pro. The alloy is only about 1.5Kg more.

The big downside to going Alloy build to me is you give up the MasterMind but honestly my current bike I rarely look at the computer and already ride with a Garmin.

I'm right now debating an Alloy build (170 Factory, Cascade Long link with x2, AXS) or Expert. The expert does have the advantage of having full dealer support, but the Alloy is very tempting. I'm going to go into the dealership soon and see which they are going to suggest. I suspect they will suggest Expert.

(FYI we don't have the specialized sales here in Canada it's very frustrating and honestly why I haven't bought one yet. So hard when a Norco is 20-25% cheaper..)

 

[RJUK]

Well I test rode a Levo yesterday. Just an alloy one, but it was brand new from the store and we've had a lot of rain recently, so I certainly broke it in for them!

Before and afters below.

I noted that the motor in this thing is silent... Like nothing. The cassette was noisy as hell, but the motor didn't make any noise that I could hear.

However, when doing jumps a few times there was a real loud clack that may have come from the rear suspension, or could have been the motor.

Any ideas which it was likely to be? Don't think I was bottoming the suspension out, maybe it's a normal noise for the motor, but it sounded quite alarming!

The bike was great though. The difference was night and day from the last time I was out riding with my friend. We covered way more miles, he never had to wait for me and I enjoyed it all so much more.

I described it as like being 16 again, and on steroids. Initially I just kept in Eco mode and considered if an SL bike would be sufficient for me, then realised how much extra speed I can carry through a trail with the additional boost that trail mode offers. Also the more tired I got, the more I used the higher modes. A few times I found myself feeling knackered again, then I'd look down and notice I'd changed it back to Eco and forgotten. Popped it back in trail and it was like having fresh legs again. It's a great crutch for someone like me who has been out of MTB for so long and lost all their fitness, but wants to get back into riding. I still had sore legs at the end of the day, indicating a good work out, but I had ridden much further, much faster, for longer and had much more fun. My friend was also pleased not to have had to wait around so much for me.

Now I just need to sort out a bike of my own...