Levo Gen 3 Specialized Gen 3 2022 Levo Megathread!

[Rob Rides EMTB]

2022 Specialized Levo Gen 3: Ultimate in Depth Look

What a bike!!

 

[Rob Rides EMTB]

I think we can get one thing said, ITS A LOT OF MONEY!! There, I said it for everyone!

But the bike is sick.

Moderator Edit, please read this post before just jumping to the end and asking a question :

2022 Levo Gen 3 User Manual (41.5mb PDF direct Specialized link with multi languages, English only 9mb edited version available to download at bottom of post under "Attachments" dated 13th April 2021, so will not have future edits/updates in)

Bike relevant information.

Size Guide :

Geometry comparisons to gen 2 bike in nearest match sizing, set with headset cup to +1 (steep)

Specs :

22 Pro (£10,750) and 22 S-Works (£13,000) models. 22 Expert (£8750) model expected (unconfirmed) June/July 2021.

Reference pricing :

21 S-Works (£12,500). 21 Expert Carbon (£8500). 21 Comp (£6300). 21 Base (£4800)
20 S-Works (£9,999). 20 Expert Carbon (£7249). 20 Comp (£5499). 20 Base (£4249)

BB Height Low , Chainstay 447, BB Height 342-348 (size dependant/headset cup dependant)
BB Height High , Chainstay 441, BB Height 349-354 (size dependant/headset cup dependant)

Max Seat post insertion S1-210, S2-220, S3-240, S4-255, S5-275, S6-295mm

Seat Tube : 34.9mm shimmed to 30.9mm on S-Works and Pro.

Rear shock : Custom Float X2
Part number: 979-63-010
Short ID: D9MP
Description: 2021, FLOAT X2, F-S, K, 2pos-Adj, Specialized, Levo F1, 210, 55, CL002, JCR010, Rezi CM, SBC S08 Dream Silver Satin/SBC W03 Metallic White, Neutral Logo, N/M

Battery : M2 700wh battery with new Gen3 "bash guard" housing the aqua (© Zim) door. Different "Packing Bung" at the top of the battery to accommodate the different frame shape - sold complete as the M3.

Rosenberger plug seals are treated with "Nyogel" Synthetic silicone lubricating grease - DO NOT get this on the plug connections if you re-treat as it's none conductive.

Mastermind TCU V1. - Backwards compatible Levo/Kenevo/SL (Upgrade Video in the Mastermind TCU thread).
Not available for purchase at launch due to supply issues.

Mastermind TCU Configuration and problem solving :

Other - Mastermind (TCU 2) "How to" guides

The New TCU is here. I was going to try to grab video sections and take screen prints, but I've just found these which make a perfect thread start. These are all really short and clear, so even if you have the attention span of a goldfish like me, they're all watchable in a couple of minutes...

www.emtbforums.com

Motor : Specialized/Brose 2.2 - Backwards compatible. 2.1 motor with all the incremental upgrades to firmware, sprag, bearings and the addition of a new belt for the 2.2

Frameset Only : £6500. The frameset supplied with:

• 2.2 Brose Motor
• 700wh Battery
• Handlebar Controller
• Mastermind TCU
• Float X2 shock and
• CRANK SET, PRAXIX,
• 160MM CARBON ARMS ,
• BCD 104MM SPIDER,
• SRAM CR EAGLE 34T CHAINRING

Pretty much anything else you might need to know in the Workbook :

Levo Gen 3 - 2022 GEN3 Turbo Levo Workbook

A huge thanks to @ruppia for finding and posting this in the Gen 3 thread. I've converted it to images for anyone who doesn't want to download it to view it and the original PDF is also at attached at the bottom if you do want to download it.

www.emtbforums.com

FORK UPGRADE LIMITS and Chainring Sizes :

General Specification, quick find part numbers :

More info taken from @knut7 Youtube : EMTB Videos & Gen3 Review :

This thread has been "cleaned" to keep it more meaningful and easier to read for future readers searching for information on the Gen3 and wanting to discuss the Gen3. In the short term, duplicate questions and answers where people have not read the thread will also be moved. All the cleaned posts have been moved to a parallel thread here :

22 Gen 3 Levo - The cleaned posts.

MODERATOR : Parallel thread created to move posts which aren't directly appropriate to the GEN3 Levo thread so the main thread isn't cluttered for future readers. Apologies to anyone who who thinks their post was important. It might be, it was just not judged relevant to the main thread. This...

www.emtbforums.com

 

[Zimmerframe]

 

[Andy__C]

Fair Play..... looks a helluva bike. Solid review as well Rob.

The TCU, especially that microtune, look like valid, great upgrades. Having IP rated TCU and Battery connecter can't hurt either!

Will be interested to see how the Expert & Comp models look.


As with everyone else....... "that pricing tho..."

 

[Mcharza]

My Kenovo is also a mullet, has Fox Factory 36 and Factory DPX2, Front suspension 170 and back about 185 (because longer stroke), 700 Wh battery, weight exactly 23,4 kg. Has still warranty about 2,5 years. I'll keep it

 

[R120]

Dont really know what to make of this TBH - on a personal level I love the new geometry and spec, and its in line with what I look for, but its also available from other brands at half the price without any discernible differences, and just no way unless I win the lottery that I would drop that level of cash on a bike that going to end up being thrown down a hill are often that not.

Its a very slick bike, and I guess thats what you are paying for, but the fancy TCU etc dont make a jot of difference to how it goes down a trail.

Will be interesting to see how the alloy version come out at price wise.

@Rob Rides EMTB I would be interested to hear your thoughts on it vs the Marin - two very similar bikes in terms of travel, geo etc - out in the wild which one was more fun?

 

[Coolcmsc]

So, now we know about the Turbo Levo Gen 3. Several YT vid reviews out there to see if you search.
Here’s a news blog item. Specialized hits the trail with new Turbo Levo e-MTB
It’s still the Brose 2.2. It has a firmware update and a new belt, but that sounds like what they did last year. Is is a second new belt? I can’t tell.
The big news is the suspension linkage which is approximately inherited from lasts years award winning normally aspirated frame. Lots of options from slack to upright.
It a mullet.
But it also has a longer wheelbase, although the chain stays aren’t too long (Mullet).
Top of the range has Fox 38. I didn’t see specs lower down the range.
It’s still expensive ???
Anybody got anything to add, for example about the Kenevo?

 

[SquireRides]

Great video review Rob.

This bike puts more clear water between the Levo and Levo SL range, but make me wonder what will change with the Kenevo. If they actually bother with a Kenevo at all now....

I really like the display-less style of the current Levo (SL)s. How stealth does the new TCU go? I'd like a simple, not too bright battery % (which would be a lot better than trying to count those damn LEDs today!).

Love the idea of micro adjust. Does it adjust DOWN as well, for when I'm cruising along easy terrain?

I'll miss the option of removing the handlebar control and using only the TCO to adjust mode.

 

[Neeko DeVinchi]

I'll say one thing, this is a bike I want to swing a leg over first before considering buying.
With that being said (from an owner of a 2018 comp), I can see a noticable difference in terms of refinement.
@Rob Rides EMTB , I'm surprised you didn't opt for the S6. Whilst we've never met, I'm convinced were of the same height and leg length. Is the S5 comfortable for you?

 

[Frirish]

Anybody got anything to add, for example about the Kenevo?

I actually think it look a lot like the Kenevo. With nicer curves due to the carbon frame, but similar straight top tube and shorter rear end.

 

[mehukatti]

Overall very impressive package here - this coming from a SC Bullit owner. Specialized seems to have a slight edge with the motor, battery, and electronics compared to EP8. But for me the biggest downside of this Levo is the 150/160 suspension. This doesn't make it as suitable for bike parks as the Bullit with 170/170. For me double duty as a downhill bike is a must. Also, the motor bulge in this bike is absolute huge compared to Bullit and EP8 which is very slim and also works in light eMTB category bikes.

 

[Neeko DeVinchi]

I think the eye to eye measurement is 230mm with a stroke of 60mm.
If the S works comes stock with a Fox x2 coupled with the fact that its FSR 4bar instead of flex stays (thank the bike gods!!), I remain convinced a Fox DHX2, DVO Topaz or, Push Elevensix would be compatible.

 

[StuR]

Good review thanks @Rob Rides EMTB
Looks like a Beaut , I'm liking the upgrades.
Nothing radical but very sweet nevertheless
TCU looks bling
Price is a bit nuts , think I'll hang on to my 19 Expert for a while longer , especially as I've made a few mods to it which are similar to the Gen 3
i:e Mullet , 160mm fork , piggyback reservoir shock ( actually squeezing a tad more rear travel , approx 157mm )
TBH the pilot needs upgrading more than the bike
If I thought this particular new bike would have me riding like I stole it then I'd have my Credit card out pronto
Oh hang on !! I've used that logic numerous times before ? it's never worked out like I dreamt it

Just in case I get seduced and forget all sensible reasoning , What's the warranty on the new Spesh bikes ?

 

[Neeko DeVinchi]

Just looked at the geometry for the S6.
I suspect you won't be able to run a 210 oneup dropper slammed.
My status S5 which has the same seat tube length (465mm) cant run it slammed.
Curse my long legs.

 

[Cavi]

initially I did not see much difference, after watching Rob's review I realize that I am wrong to a point. There are some good changes however not enough for me to sell my 1 year old Levo and add another 10000 to get one of those. Additionally if Specialized is watching, they need to start futureproofing these bikes. With this investment they need to last. And I am not saying 2 to 4 years, these need to be a 10 year bike. My current worry are batteries. Seems it is almost impossible to get a Gen 1 battery right now. This means that someone that bought a 2018 bike might have a dead 10000 bike after 3 years solely because they can no longer find a battery. Not to mention the resale will die if replacement batteries cannot be had.

 

[Neeko DeVinchi]

initially I did not see much difference, after watching Rob's review I realize that I am wrong to a point. There are some good changes however not enough for me to sell my 1 year old Levo and add another 10000 to get one of those. Additionally if Specialized is watching, they need to start futureproofing these bikes. With this investment they need to last. And I am not saying 2 to 4 years, these need to be a 10 year bike. My current worry are batteries. Seems it is almost impossible to get a Gen 1 battery right now. This means that someone that bought a 2018 bike might have a dead 10000 bike after 3 years solely because they can no longer find a battery. Not to mention the resale will die if replacement batteries cannot be had.

FYI, you can still get Gen1 batteries. I know two dealers in my neck of the woods (Black Country) who have a plentiful amount.
In addition, the Levo 2021 uses the same battery so we can safely assume that Spesh will support the gen1 platform until 2023/2024.

 

[R120]

Interesting to see in Ebike-Mtb’s bike of the year test the new Levo doesn’t come out on top, they give the Merida E160 the top gong, with the older Levo having won for the 3 years previously.

they rate the new Levo but say the improved downhill performance has been at the expense of some all round ability (Which actually makes the bike a bit more appealing to me ?)

the test is a good read, 25 bikes in it and some refreshingly upfront opinions on the bikes tested.

you can download it for free

Out now! E-MOUNTAINBIKE issue #024: In the pursuit of happiness!

In E-MOUNTAINBIKE issue #024, you won’t just find a mega group test of 25 of the hottest and most exciting bikes of the year but a comprehensive introduction with plenty of knowledge, know-how and background information. The brand new Specialized Turbo Levo 2022 is already part of our big group...

ebike-mtb.com

 

[Stayrudee]

Interesting to see in Ebike-Mtb’s bike of the year test the new Levo doesn’t come out on top, they give the Merida E160 the top gong, with the older Levo having won for the 3 years previously.

they rate the new Levo but say the improved downhill performance has been at the expense of some all round ability (Which actually makes the bike a bit more appealing to me ?)

the test is a good read, 25 bikes in it and some refreshingly upfront opinions on the bikes tested.

you can download it for free

Out now! E-MOUNTAINBIKE issue #024: In the pursuit of happiness!

In E-MOUNTAINBIKE issue #024, you won’t just find a mega group test of 25 of the hottest and most exciting bikes of the year but a comprehensive introduction with plenty of knowledge, know-how and background information. The brand new Specialized Turbo Levo 2022 is already part of our big group...

ebike-mtb.com

In Red Bull riders top 5 ebikes - they choose Kenevo expert 2021 as the best emtb. Still the best one in my opinion too.

 

[Bencab]

Rode the Sworks two weeks ago in Pacifica and I am digging the mullet and geometry. In trails called Two Pines and Amanita where I rode the 2022 Levo back to back with my 2021 Levo, the new Levo is just easier to turn and maneuver on those really tight switchbacks. The steeper seat tube able and longer front-center also put me on a middle of the bike which contributed to a more balanced position.

 

[Doomanic]

 

[Rob Rides EMTB]

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Lucky for some it’s got big font size if you need it ?

 

[lumpy]

Rode the Sworks two weeks ago in Pacifica and I am digging the mullet and geometry. In trails called Two Pines and Amanita where I rode the 2022 Levo back to back with my 2021 Levo, the new Levo is just easier to turn and maneuver on those really tight switchbacks. The steeper seat tube able and longer front-center also put me on a middle of the bike which contributed to a more balanced position.

View attachment 56544

I'm on those trails pretty much daily on my 2019 Expert. I can totally see it being better on Two Pines. Those switchbacks are so tight!

 

[lumpy]

Saw it up close and personal. No, I couldn't ride it! Very nice and highly refined

 

[Bencab]

View attachment 56566

View attachment 56567

View attachment 56568 View attachment 56569

Saw it up close and personal. No, I couldn't ride it! Very nice and highly refined

Dealers cannot sell their first Sworks right now - they are obligated to display it for few months.

 

[Careyj1]

Here is one in the real world. The 2020 is mine and my buddy pick up a 2022 today.

 

[Zimmerframe]

Do we know what the official limit is on fork travel for the carbon frames ? Dual Crowns ?

 

[Zimmerframe]

I don't think these have been shared either ? Sorry if they have already .

 

[Zimmerframe]

 

[Mteam]

Looking purely at features,spec,geo etc, it looks like a great bike.

I like the adjustability using the flip chip - thats something more brands should do. The different headset cups being supplied with the bike is a nice touch, but nothing that you cant do for most other bikes using a 50 quid headset from superstar components (like I did with my orbea).

Specialised have always been the best in terms of integration of the motor controls and display, and that continues here.

The sizing for each size in the range is spot on.

Need to see if they have fixed the well documented issues with the motors.

But you cant just talk about a bike without mentioning its price - so not wishing to invoke the wrath of zimmer - but it is a little (understatement!) on the punchy side pricewise (at least at rrp) compared to very very similar bikes from other brands.

I'd probably choose a santa cruz bullit over this though, but even then thats too much money for me to spend on a bike, it was painful enough buying the bike I ended up buying

It'll sell though , no doubt.

Specialized ebikes - The Apple of the Ebike world?

 

[Doomanic]

I thought on 1st impression ah they have moved the motor to shorten the chain stays .
I will be interested to hear how it likes tech climbs ?

Edit ; Just read Knuts`s review . He says its a good climber .

Chain stays aren’t actually that short. At 442mm they are 12mm shorter than the outgoing model and 5mm shorter than the 29er Rail. I would have expected them to be around 435 as a 27.5.