Top 5 upgrades for your Gen3 Specialized Turbo Levo

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  • Опубліковано 10 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 89

  • @testing3166
    @testing3166 Рік тому +13

    Best upgrade video I've seen. No bling upgrade just performance upgrades from a guy who really rides 👌

    • @markfawcett9654
      @markfawcett9654  Рік тому

      Thanks mate. I’m all about noticeable performance increasing upgrades. Anodized coloured bolts don’t help my bike track, hold, jump, or land better.

    • @hudsonquay
      @hudsonquay 2 місяці тому

      @@markfawcett9654I personally hate the coloured matching anodised parts aesthetic. Whatever floats your boat though.

  • @boblatkey7160
    @boblatkey7160 8 місяців тому +13

    A good suggestion that works for me. Before going down a rabbit hole on your brakes, simply try MTX red racing pads. They are super grippy and they never squeal. Be sure to bed them in and give that a try before you start spending all kinds of money on rotors, etc..

    • @ThePalmiterfamily1
      @ThePalmiterfamily1 6 місяців тому +1

      I put them on my Turbo levo and certainly improve the braking

  • @Samiamd663
    @Samiamd663 9 місяців тому +3

    Thanks for the video!
    Just got a levo and I’m going down a rabbit hole online.

  • @chillytrackzzzz
    @chillytrackzzzz 2 місяці тому +1

    Upgraded to the cascade long link with a Fox Factory Float X2, upgraded the front to a Fox Factory 38 with 180mm of travel, XX Transmission, 200mm Fox Neo wireless Dropper, Maven brakes with 220mm and 200mm rotors, and 38mm rise Deity bars; bike rides like an absolute DREAM now.

  • @Shauny808
    @Shauny808 Рік тому +5

    I started with that link and moved to the long shock link, with a 170 fork. The long shock link is an absolute game changer, bottomless, plush and still supportive.

  • @JackPineSavagest
    @JackPineSavagest Рік тому +7

    Sick, been a fan of yours for over 30 years. More eMTB videos plz!

  • @johnh4650
    @johnh4650 Рік тому +9

    Excellent points! Thanks!! In addtion I would like to suggest a recent upgrade I did that I am soooooo happy with. The 2024 SRAM GX wireless trans. ! I really dont care about less cables, minute weight differences or being cool with the latest wireless gadgets. But what I do care about is buttery smooth gear changes and super long-lasting chain and cassette! (Only got a few hundred miles on it but everyone tells me the life span is almost double compared to stock) . But the game changer for me was being able to change gear under full load which is saying A LOT when talking tubo levo torque! I also recommend not wasting the quan $$ on the XX or X0! The brand-new GX is virtually the same thing!

    • @fathertime209
      @fathertime209 4 місяці тому

      Thanks, I think I'll do the same... Great advice!!!

  • @KosmicHRTRacingTeam
    @KosmicHRTRacingTeam Рік тому +1

    Thanks for sharing. I recently jumped on the awesome sale prices and got the base Carbon, went as cheap as I could since I already had most of the components I wanted to throw on it. Got the 700w battery for free. DT Swiss 1700 wheels, Lekkie Buzz Bars Cranks 160mm cranks, Renthal aluminum bars, Nukeproof (or Renthal) stem, Maxxis tires, Fox 38 170 performance elite fork, Float X rear, Magura MT Trail Sport using the 4 pots front and rear, sort of poormans MT7, 200mm rotors, cascade link, XTR shifter and rear derailleur. Absolutely love the bike, and was fun to build. Now I get to try and sell all the stock crap that was on there (might keep stock wheels and tires for back up). I’m at 200lbs, may look into the longer linkage and have thought about 220mm rotors.

  • @ThePalmiterfamily1
    @ThePalmiterfamily1 6 місяців тому +2

    I made the $$$ big plunge and purchased the Cascade Linkage and the E-Storia! Also increased the travel to 170 mm on the fork.... I now have an e-powered downhill MONSTER that can ride anywhere over anything and I'm 245 lb 6'4"!!

    • @hudsonquay
      @hudsonquay 2 місяці тому

      What size you go for?

  • @markfawcett9654
    @markfawcett9654  Рік тому +3

    The 220 rotors help a lot. Easy performance gain for not a lot of $$.

  • @brianbathgate4944
    @brianbathgate4944 Рік тому +6

    Awesome! I’ve got the same bike - love it! I’m the same - thought I would need to change the wheels but they’ve been fine. Went for trusty Assegais up front, MT7 brakes (superb), and an Ohlins TTX2 coil and the bike is sublime. Added a 30mm stem too - like it tight. Think I’m done tweaking tho - just wanting to get out and ride :-) \m/

  • @bstill30
    @bstill30 Рік тому +2

    I have mine set up with the same CC link, 38 Factory 170, -1 degree headset cup and flip chip in the high setting. Works amazing in the PNW steep and deep. 🤘🏻

    • @dft1
      @dft1 Рік тому

      so stock your setting is 63.5, so probably 63 now with 170?

    • @bstill30
      @bstill30 Рік тому

      @@dft1 63, I think.

  • @justsayin3600
    @justsayin3600 Рік тому

    I'm running Code RSC stock 200mm front and rear. I'm 220lbs no gear. I have no problems with power nor fade.
    I'm also running Cascade, huge difference than stock.
    Now I'm considering going to 170mm in the front.
    The Specialized tires are good in the dry but when it's wet they get caked with mud. I ripped the front with a 1" inch gash even with CushCore. Replaced it with the same but I'll definitely switch front and rear next year.
    I went with 5Dev 160mm and don't get strikes anymore. It took me 2 days to get used to it. Now I know I was running all my bikes with cranks that are too long.
    I'd say, all your upgrades are spot on. 👌

  • @50.Baryshikov
    @50.Baryshikov 7 місяців тому +1

    I love the bike too! Magura M7 brakes rip too! Psyched to try and Cascade link! Thanks for the cool video!

  • @ken46120
    @ken46120 2 місяці тому

    My first upgrade has been to a high rise handlebar. Hated my seat but on longer rides it’s really good.

  • @benjaminpellegrino4241
    @benjaminpellegrino4241 Рік тому +1

    Great first vid Mark!

  • @tbolende
    @tbolende Рік тому +1

    Great thoughts and analysis, keep it up!

  • @samrmills
    @samrmills 4 місяці тому

    good one. thx! my new levo gen 3 with the new mavens is currently being built....this is helpful! if you're really curious about the angles you can get a digital level/angle finder. cheers!

  • @davewallace9048
    @davewallace9048 4 місяці тому

    Excellent information with incredible upgrades

  • @dft1
    @dft1 Рік тому

    good suggestions! I recently got this bike with the sale for 3500 and extra battery. i'm light, 145 so went with the cascade link to make it 160. had a factory 36 for front and bought used CC kitsuma air, feels great. also swapped dominion brake for the front, rear doesn't matter to me as already easy to lock up, too lazy to route a new rear break line anyway. love the bike.

  • @Ponyo3816
    @Ponyo3816 Рік тому +1

    38T Crank ring is my favorite upgrade so far. Can really use the whole cassette now. Before I was just stuck in the highest gear.

    • @markfawcett9654
      @markfawcett9654  Рік тому +1

      I’ve seen others moving to different size chainrings. We have some pretty steep climbs where I ride, so the stock (34) works great. In our bike park setting , it’s rare I over spin , but that could be a place for a 38 for me.

    • @kayjet64
      @kayjet64 9 місяців тому +1

      Can I use the same chain with the 38T?

    • @Ponyo3816
      @Ponyo3816 9 місяців тому

      @@kayjet64 I do. I just don't have to take off as many links when I replace chains.

  • @thim8009
    @thim8009 Рік тому +1

    Real nice rig man. I did the cascade link, miranda cranks 150mm for $80.00. I'm putting a 170mm zeb ultimate and a vivid ultimate on. Also ordered a set of roval traverse alloy. Just hope I don't need to get a true tool with them. I like the code r's, I'm the oddball.

    • @vinhtpl
      @vinhtpl Рік тому

      Let me know if the vivid shock fits. I have S3 frame,thanks.

  • @ThomasFlorimonte
    @ThomasFlorimonte Рік тому +1

    Great video. I'm in the market. I'm 6'6" at 260 and liked the way to want over weight. Thanks :)

    • @markfawcett9654
      @markfawcett9654  Рік тому +1

      I’d suggest try and find an S5 Kenevo. I have since sold this bike , and have moved onto A Kenevo. Rolling on 180cm travel and a longer bike is amazing. Actually climbs better too.

  • @growlith6969
    @growlith6969 2 місяці тому

    Yeah, at 205lbs with Cushcore, I was still having to run about 40psi in those Spec tires. Just put the Kryptotals on today, will see how it goes, didn't like having to go from a 2.6 to a 2.4 just to get the DH casing but it's worth a try. You pretty much nail every point, they are a really well executed bike, but tires, seat, and especially Cushcore is a must. I ride S3 too, shorter cranks are def on the list, I like my brakes fine, but I have def found their limits.

    • @markfawcett9654
      @markfawcett9654  2 місяці тому +1

      There will be a few characteristics you’ll like about the 2.4 , like that they cut better into dry loose surfaces. The stiff casing will allow you to run lower PSI for sure. The steering doesn’t pull as hard as the 2.6 you’ll find , and a spec less grip while riding rock slabs…. If you have those on your rides.

  • @JubeProductions
    @JubeProductions 8 місяців тому

    One thing you should do right out of the box is slow the rebound on the shock by 2 or 3 clicks, and speed up rebound on fork.

  • @CaineGMTB
    @CaineGMTB 10 місяців тому

    thanks for making this video. I pretty much did same upgrades except the cranks. I might have to try the shorter cranks 👌🏻

    • @markfawcett9654
      @markfawcett9654  10 місяців тому

      You could go with 150mm. Some folks going all the way to 135mm even !

    • @pmaly9473
      @pmaly9473 Місяць тому

      Have tried 150 & 140 cranks on Gen3 Levos. Both work great. I prefer the 150 for a more natural feel and lower cadence than with 140 cranks. Both are an improvement over stock 160 cranks for pedal strikes.

  • @nelsonsilva9602
    @nelsonsilva9602 3 місяці тому

    Hi there Mark. Greetings from Lisbon, Portugal. Thank you very much for your excellent video. A lot of help specially to those like me that are initiating in E-MTB. Anyway, what coil shocks would you recommed to replace the original air shock? Not to expensive, but also not entrance level... thank you very much for your kind attention. All the best

  • @boblatkey7160
    @boblatkey7160 8 місяців тому +1

    On my GEN 2 Levo: XTR drivetrain. XTR brakes with Flo levers. MTX red racing brake pads. 220 mm hope floating disc rotors. Push 11 six coil suspension on the back, Vorsprung smashpot coil suspension up front. Cascade Link. Stans Flow rims, DT Swiss spokes, and Onyx Vesper hubs with ceramic bearing upgrade and custom blue anodizing. Carbon fiber bars. Hope 155 mm cranks. Shimano Saine pedals. Front tire Maxxix Assegai max grip, back tire Schwalbe Tacky Chan, Bike Yoke seatpost dropper. Ergon seat. Battery and crank smashgaurd. Oury grips. Levociraptor chip to get rid of that aweful 20mph speed limit. Did I miss anything? 😂😂

    • @markfawcett9654
      @markfawcett9654  8 місяців тому +1

      That’s some serious customization !!!

  • @78LCRH
    @78LCRH 5 місяців тому

    I really enjoyed this video man.

  • @GentlemaniacMetanoian
    @GentlemaniacMetanoian 21 день тому

    Agree on the brake and suspension upgrades. But my first swap would be the bars. Just a Personal preference - don’t like the 6 deg upsweep. Maxxis tires and your set.

  • @jongusta
    @jongusta 4 місяці тому

    Great video! You back to high position from low since upgrade? I went with standard CC link, 170 fork. But since a Zeb, fork is about 19mm taller than Fox 160. Ride height felt a bit tall despite taking out 10mm spacers under bars with 170 fork. Went back to stock, neutral HS cup as you did, but to low position since bike was taller than before. Missing the short CS in really tight trails and jumping, but found a low/long to be abit more stable on the DH’s (less playful) and climbing steep wet/loose traction and cornering traction some improved.

  • @paulcleary3284
    @paulcleary3284 7 місяців тому

    Great video…really surprised you’re on original wheelset…thought for sure you’d recommend carbon rims.

  • @jongusta
    @jongusta Рік тому +1

    Beautiful bike! The same color/model I wanted but no S4’s available at the time, so went Comp model with black gloss vinyl tape all over for some protection and added shine over the dead matte black frame. Anyhoo, curious how much air you had to increase for same sag with CC link? I am 200 lbs and in fence for recommendation to long link. Currently running 246psi on my stock link and wondering how much air is required for same sag due to added progression of link. Not interested in getting a bigger shock.

    • @markfawcett9654
      @markfawcett9654  Рік тому +1

      I had a good chat with the Cascade components guys. They told me unequivocally to go with the long link if you weigh over 185 pounds. me being exactly 185, I decided to try the easy route and go with the classic one and keep my current shock. Worked out really well. I had a very similar amount of air pressure in there as you did, and found with the new link, I did not change it at all, it simply became more progressive with the new physics.

  • @johnnywallace8123
    @johnnywallace8123 Місяць тому

    I am very sorry that you lost Farrah, I hope that you can get over it.

  • @KDubber
    @KDubber Рік тому +1

    Timely video... I'm about to pull the trigger on getting myself a brand new 2022 Levo Alloy Comp that's still sitting in a bike shop with a 30% discount. I won't be jumping towards upgrades right away because the bike won't be seeing the trails until April or May (gotta love Ontario winters!).

  • @bennyyyyx
    @bennyyyyx 8 місяців тому +1

    Hi Mark! very useful video and really interesting to hear a veteran like you speak well of this bike. I'm about to buy this levo expert, i weigh around 60kg, I have a good riding technique and I compete in races, which of these upgrades do you think is essential to do in my situation too? Thanks 🙏

    • @markfawcett9654
      @markfawcett9654  8 місяців тому +1

      Hi bennyyyyx. Easy…. The crank arms. All the other mods were done due to my weight. No matter your body mass , you’ll still pedal strike the 160mm cranks. I think mirida makes 152mm ones. Race face maybe something short too. The bike rides great in the low setting , but you’ll need the shorties.

    • @bennyyyyx
      @bennyyyyx 8 місяців тому

      Thanks Mark i appreciate your feedback! So you're telling me it's a good enduro ebike with stock components?

  • @Octopus-127
    @Octopus-127 Рік тому

    Super cool - dream bike!!!

  • @Scott-mu4xw
    @Scott-mu4xw 4 місяці тому

    I got the 2023 carbon model which comes with the Rockshox 35 TK silver fork, it absolutely sucks, also doesn’t help I’m close to 300lbs. Any suggestions on what I should do? Was thinking of puting a RS Zeb on it.

  • @nathantoney.1501
    @nathantoney.1501 8 місяців тому

    I got the cascade link on yesterday and 150 cranks. Hoping I can put the 29 on the rear (it fits no problem but its centerlock so I can't figure out how to attache the magnet)

    • @boblatkey7160
      @boblatkey7160 8 місяців тому

      I used a six bolt adapter to make my hope floating disc rotors work on a center lock. And then I was able to get the magnet to spin on over the top of it and it fit. I felt a bit Mickey Mouse doing it but I made it work! I hope that makes sense.

    • @nathantoney.1501
      @nathantoney.1501 8 місяців тому

      @@boblatkey7160 Is there a way you can photo how you attached the magnet to the 6 bolt adapter? I purchased a specialized magnet centerlock adapter but I read on emtbr that does not fit and I have to glue magnets to the rotor and carry spare magnets and glue. I'd like to avoid that. Thank you!

  • @GippaTV1
    @GippaTV1 3 місяці тому

    Great upgrades - what wheel upgrade would you recommend ?

    • @markfawcett9654
      @markfawcett9654  3 місяці тому

      we are one carbon wheels , santa cruz carbon have lifetime warrentee. The stock ones on the expert are surprisingly good. Specialized had a bad rap for years with crappy wheels and tires. I'm onto a kenevo now, and still using the stock wheels.

  • @marcoaguiar6608
    @marcoaguiar6608 Рік тому

    Hello. I have a Levo Gen2 and very happy with my bike made a few changes on the brakes and dropper post. Which Cush Core are you using on your Levo gen 3?

  • @JamieStenhouse
    @JamieStenhouse 10 місяців тому

    Great video

  • @image-i-nation-photography
    @image-i-nation-photography 2 місяці тому

    Would you recommend this MTB?

  • @josedavalos1223
    @josedavalos1223 Місяць тому

    So, you recommend to buy the frame and the components buy apart

    • @markfawcett9654
      @markfawcett9654  Місяць тому +1

      Not necesarily. If you are lighter ( 70kg or less ) rider and not floating rock gardens or hitting Large jumps, this bike is great out of the box. If Heavier, brakes is the 1st upgrade followed by the cascade link. Fork next ( unless you get an expert or S works version ). Tires and saddle last.

  • @johnfreeman7159
    @johnfreeman7159 10 місяців тому

    Carbon bars? OneUp? Made all my wrist pain go away!

  • @BryceLovesTech
    @BryceLovesTech Рік тому

    Would a Kenevo or Kenevo SL be better for you?

  • @WeimaranersAreTheBest
    @WeimaranersAreTheBest Рік тому

    I can get the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 HPC TM 750 for same price with the mt7s and maxxis assegais.
    Levo turbo alloy comp or the cube?
    Thanks

    • @markfawcett9654
      @markfawcett9654  Рік тому

      Personally, I’d go for the Levo for the extra travel. Quite comparable otherwise. I’ve already switched up to a Kenevo for this reason. Some folks LoVe that Bosch motor, but I’ve had no issues with my brose. If you like a 29” wheel on the back , then the cube I guess. ( I believe it is a 29er? Does not really say on the web description.)

    • @WeimaranersAreTheBest
      @WeimaranersAreTheBest Рік тому

      Ya that’s been my only gripe
      Wish the Levo was 29er’ instead of mullet.
      Yes cube is 29er
      Thanks bro

  • @hussainsarmad228
    @hussainsarmad228 8 місяців тому

    I am over 80 kg and planing to buy this bike but I don't want to do the upgrades. Is there a alternative from Specialized which is suitable for my weight and I dont need to make the upgrades??

    • @markfawcett9654
      @markfawcett9654  8 місяців тому

      Hi there. A lot of it very much depends on how hard you are riding, and what type of trails and terrain you are mountain biking on. If you are a very aggressive rider, doing lots of side hits, jumps, drops and riding at higher velocity, and riding sustained steeps requiring a lot of break power, you will at least need to do some modifications. A lot of people have commented they are having good luck with the stock brakes with a professional brake bleed, right out of the box, and purple galfer brake pads. All the other mods are optional, and yield some additional performance gains, but certainly not total game changers.

  • @badbattleaxe5832
    @badbattleaxe5832 2 місяці тому

    When are we going to get 200 NM of torque? LOL
    as soon as those little motors put out that much power, I’ll empty my checking account and spend $6000 on one of these.

  • @stianjarnass
    @stianjarnass 3 місяці тому

    I guess I wanted a levo but at a high entry level compared to other brands. The equipment is just to crappy. Specialized is like Apple, ripping of their own customers 😢

  • @jamescolter6597
    @jamescolter6597 Місяць тому

    You should talk longer about crap before you get into the mods.

  • @MrDaymien1
    @MrDaymien1 Рік тому +1

    Just buy a decoy

    • @markfawcett9654
      @markfawcett9654  Рік тому +2

      Funny enough, I have sold this Levo and purchased a new kenevo. I've mullet-ized it, and its now everything I wanted my old levo to be and more, with minimal upgrades required. Double crown fork with 190mm travel up front, and 180mm rear travel in the rear.

  • @georgeshriver2943
    @georgeshriver2943 11 місяців тому

    Yuck.

    • @boblatkey7160
      @boblatkey7160 8 місяців тому

      Are you a snob on the trail too?

    • @georgeshriver2943
      @georgeshriver2943 8 місяців тому

      @@boblatkey7160 Don't harrass me. I don't like the brand.

  • @TheNoseman1
    @TheNoseman1 Рік тому

    Best upgrade is to get rid of the motor.

    • @MrGogogordo
      @MrGogogordo Рік тому +8

      Thanks caveman👍

    • @SomeOldDudeMTB
      @SomeOldDudeMTB Рік тому +8

      There’s one in every crowd

    • @boblatkey7160
      @boblatkey7160 8 місяців тому +1

      I went by this guy on an acoustic bike the other day and he was super unfriendly and a total snob simply because I was riding an E bike. That attitude and behavior is super sad. Was that you by chance?

    • @barryfoster5031
      @barryfoster5031 8 місяців тому +4

      I’m 79 with cancer. I’ve been riding mtb’s since the early eighties, if I didn’t have a Levo, or similar I wouldn’t be able to ride trails anymore, would you deny me this?