E-Bike Question of the Day ⚡🚴 What interests you most about the Specialized Turbo Como 3.0, the motor, internal gearbox, frame, or something else? Let us know in the comments below 👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼
I appreciate your authenticity, without the hollywood factor that todays confused population thinks is important. Thanks for the wealth of information and honest review. It's helped me narrow down my list of potential ebikes, to what is right for me, and this Como IGH is high on my list. Please help me better understand the IGH. My current bike (analog) has 21 speeds from the traditional derailleur combination. I use only a handful of these gears, so this is overkill, and simply not necessary. So, this IGH has bands, instead of gears. What is that like, when I shift, is there a sudden and noticeable change? Or is it a more gradual change? I cannot find the specification that lists how many "speeds". Is it 7? Or, 10? Or? Maybe a quick video chapter, which shows the rider shift from lowest to highest, back to lowest, to see the change in cadence. For people like me, who are not at all familiar with this drivetrain technology, this type of visual could be helpful. Plus, this could highlight the smooth, quick and effortless gear changes. Keep up the great work!
Price of Como 3.0 IGH is now [July 2023] $1,200 lower than bike in this test ! Price is $2,549 now instead of $3,749 !!! What inflation-fighting magic does Specialized have ?
😊 I have the Como 4.0 specialized model in Raspberry. It is the most fun bike ever. The seat 8s comfortable, the tires make for a smooth ride, the suspension in the front takes t 3:49 the wear & off your wrists and hands. I try to ho out for an hour ride, but come back reluctantly over 2 hours later. It's soo smooth, comfortable and could not be easier to manage. The frame is beautiful & I receive many compliments.
I have a previous model Como with 1200 + miles on it and absolutely love it. Bought it specifically for the pedal assist for a more natural feel. I do bike trails and don’t need 28mph. Can easily cruise along at 17-19mph but I generally do 10-13 and enjoy the ride. The programmable power assist (which can be done with your phone on the fly) can be used to program in a workout level. Hills really are not a problem. I rented one in Acadia National Park and it was great day. Yeah you have to pedal that’s the point. It’s definitely worth a try.
I don’t have one, but a friend of mine just bought this model and asked me to listen to the review. One thing that jumped out at me right off the get go was the handlebars, they are really shaped like the French E Bike moustache. I have a moustache with this type of handlebar and I love it. It’s the best position I’ve ever biked long distances with also, I’m getting pretty arthritis in the arms in the shoulders. This position seems to work best for me. I like that it has gates, carbon belt drive and the internally geared hub. Most mid to high end European bikes, have a mid drive with an internal hub either Shimano Alfini, Enviola or Rolhof. I did test out an Enviola Bike a few years ago but it was not a E-Bike it wasn’t an acoustic, actually I think it was called Nuvinci back then. I like that it has the MIK system for attachment of panniers. I would have preferred to see Schwalbe big Apple tires. Also I didn’t hear any mention of whether or not the battery is UL2849 certified. One other thing I would install would be the Suntour suspension seat post. The price is on the high side but then so most quality e-bikes like Trek, Gazzelle, Reise & Muller that offer belt drive with an IGH hub. IMHO
I love the Specialized line of e-bikes as they feel more natural to me than any other brand. Even the Bosch bikes had a little of that pushed-from-behind feeling. Since the IGH is heavy less efficient in transferring power that a chain and sprocket, I think the Como 4 with the more powerful motor is the way to go. Thanks for a great review.
What eBike do you ride ? The 4.0 is pushing $4,000. The 3.0 price history:Price of Como 3.0 IGH is now [July 2023] $1,200 lower than bike in this test ! Price is $2,549 now instead of $3,749 !!! What inflation-fighting magic does Specialized have ?
Thanks for your review. After having spent a few days looking at the different e-bikes on the market, I have chosen to go for this one, which I ordered just a few minutes ago from a shop here in Norway, where I live. The weather here can be tough during spring, summer and autumn, with a lot of rain. The weather insulation and the Gates belt drive makes it perfect for riding in my town and places around, with quite a few hills here and there. I already own a standard, non-electric bike with a belt drive made by Cube (German), and it gives a very nice and quiet ride, not to mention that it is free from all the hassle related to greasy and dirty bike chains.
I own the 4.0 version with regular gears and think it is a very smooth and refined bike. Like a lot. As mentioned, the handlebars are not adjustable, but I seem not to get numbness in my hands as I sometimes do on my Juiced Bike which is more upright in position.
Thanks for the review, it looks like it would tick all the boxes for me. I'm not sure about the handlebar configuration, as I currently prefer a more sporty fit (halfway between upright and dropped bar). I think I would have to ride it to see how it fits me.
I understand the you tube system that you need likes, subskreivers, and some other support, but much people dont like to say the videos are great before they have seen them, and we have seen that some that not will ask before the end of their videos are getting more support. Ofcourse we dont know if this is because of very good videos or both that and that people feel free to make up their mind before support. Thanks, I think your videos are good😊.
To me one of the most important and deciding factors is the weight should one have to lift it up a few stairs or attach to a bike rack. This is something that is often left off the specs on Specialized's page unless it is very light. Perhaps that's why the price has been reduced to $2499 as most bike manufactures are racing to get out their lighter models.
I'm looking at purchasing this with the belt drive, rather than chain. I'm impressed with the belt drive, but how dependable is it? I'd hate to have it break on a distance ride. I certainly wouldn't be able to repair it. My concern about distance riding is if something breaks down, potential difficulty finding a shop that will service an e-bike, or have a belt drive or other parts in stock. Comments, please?
Thank you for this review. What I was wondering, The Como 3.0 IGH uses CDC and CDX components in the drivetrain. I thought CDC wasn't made anymore and I thought CDC and CDX components aren't compatible?
We'd be open to it, but we'll see if Specialized sends it to us. We have a few other models besides the Como coming up, so we hope to explore different variations of similar models.
I learned the handlebars are fixed and can't be raised--big problem for me and others. Riders need to adjust handlebars to fit them, so we don't get pain in our arms and wrists. The forum is full of people in the predicament. My Como 2 had more pep.
I have written that too. He is reading from a script so sounds like a robot giving a review. Not his own views so not really a good review. Words are being put into his mouth. That's why he keeps stumbling with his words because he probably can't see the words properly. Not a very good review.
1 the front light needs to be located below the rack or way above since it will be blocked when something is placed on the rack 2 what is battery chemistry and warranty?
FYI, My 2022 como 4.0 is marked as a class 3 e-bike, not a class 1. I've had it up to 26.4 mph on flat ground without the governor kicking in to limit speed. My Como is equipped with a conventional derailleur and it's been entirely satisfactory for my needs. Things you didn't mention are that in addition to the eco, sport and turbo modes there's a micro tune mode that gives access to the full range of the bike's power in 10% increments. The default turbo mode doesn't give full power unless you've remapped it in the app. There's also a setting to limit battery charging to 80% to extend battery life.
The belt is the best part, why did you pass on that?! Im not going back to the stone ages and buying another greasy chain + derailer ebike ever again....
I buy e bikes with a rear Gear motor hub 350 to 750 watts and modify or upgrade evbike to out perform the hgher end E bikes of 1200 to 3000$ . I add a Turbo Booster using 2000watt Gearless motor hub which using a gear motor you will ride until battery drained . Using just a gearless DD motor hub you can only go so far on full throttle of around 3 to 5 miles until motor Cutts Off for a few minutes to Cool Down. By modifying a gear motor with a gearless DD to use as Turbo Booster I can ride contious going 40mph of combining motors to work off each other. This is the most Practical way of using a Dual e bike as the only way I use a Dual if not the Standard of setting up the best and most practical way of use. Too much weight using 2 DD as I've seen many needing to use both motors on hills as my set up im only using one motor to get uphill due to the minimal weight of just 82.lbs.
And yes, I'm out pacing the higher end Fat tire e bikes in a breeze when coming across of testing each other's value. They shocked and question their money being spent just to get out performed by my 700$ base upgraded turbo Booster.!
My wife just purchased this bike. The belt drive is amazing. One thumbs down tho. When looking for eBikes, people need to be told that this is strictly a pedal assist bike. If you get tired a some point and you want the motor to do all the work, you're out of luck.
"Earn your way up" the hill? I don't want to earn my way up. I want an ebike that allows me to get up hills effortlessly. I looked at the Turbo Vado SL a few years ago but the motor was so weak that it was never going to hack it up Welsh hills compared to Bosch motors. I am disappointed to hear you talk about riders earning their way up hills - whatever that means - but it gives me the impression that the motor is not powerful enough and the rider has to be panting and pedalling like b*ggery to get to the top, which defeats the purpose of having an ebike. Did I get this wrong? Ah, it is only a 250w motor. Nice review but the motor does not have the omph I need.
I have a 2022 como 4.0 and it will nearly effortlessly go up very steep hills but you still have to pedal it and the pace needs to be 70-90 RPM so the motor can best do its job. There's an indicator on the display for pedaling cadence.
Too slow and under powered. If the bike cant go up the the hill on its power is not worth it. Plus the assited uphill test is pretty bad. These legacy brands dont get it. Overpriced and underpowered.
It's important to have both types of bikes. Bikes that can do it all for the rider, and bikes that dial in assistance to rider to give them another 5-30% boost to their own natural pedal. Not sure if one type is better than the other, just different strokes for different folks.
@@ElectricBikeReport that's great but when a 3.5 k can't go up a hill. That's a really bad look no matter how fancy it is. Specialized is a luxury brand yet is getting outperformed by a lesser brands. This needs to change in the ebike space or they will be forced out.
It's such an ugly and awkward-looking bike, I can understand why they would want to try to hide it by dangling a plastic bin over the rear wheel. Or is that the battery?
E-Bike Question of the Day ⚡🚴 What interests you most about the Specialized Turbo Como 3.0, the motor, internal gearbox, frame, or something else? Let us know in the comments below 👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼
looks like a beautiful bike but it's too expensive and too heavy for me
I have this bike. When I first got it, I liked it. After 2 months, I love it !
I appreciate your authenticity, without the hollywood factor that todays confused population thinks is important. Thanks for the wealth of information and honest review. It's helped me narrow down my list of potential ebikes, to what is right for me, and this Como IGH is high on my list. Please help me better understand the IGH. My current bike (analog) has 21 speeds from the traditional derailleur combination. I use only a handful of these gears, so this is overkill, and simply not necessary. So, this IGH has bands, instead of gears. What is that like, when I shift, is there a sudden and noticeable change? Or is it a more gradual change? I cannot find the specification that lists how many "speeds". Is it 7? Or, 10? Or? Maybe a quick video chapter, which shows the rider shift from lowest to highest, back to lowest, to see the change in cadence. For people like me, who are not at all familiar with this drivetrain technology, this type of visual could be helpful. Plus, this could highlight the smooth, quick and effortless gear changes. Keep up the great work!
I attest to the positives highlighted in this video. My wife loves hers - it’s a lot of fun, fast and stable. If you can afford it, go for it.
Thanks for sharing!
Price of Como 3.0 IGH is now [July 2023] $1,200 lower than bike in this test ! Price is $2,549 now instead of $3,749 !!! What inflation-fighting magic does Specialized have ?
Outstanding factual review. Just the facts. No juvenile time wasting drama.
Well done! 👍
💯 ✅
😊 I have the Como 4.0 specialized model in Raspberry. It is the most fun bike ever. The seat 8s comfortable, the tires make for a smooth ride, the suspension in the front takes t 3:49 the wear & off your wrists and hands. I try to ho out for an hour ride, but come back reluctantly over 2 hours later. It's soo smooth, comfortable and could not be easier to manage. The frame is beautiful & I receive many compliments.
I have a previous model Como with 1200 + miles on it and absolutely love it. Bought it specifically for the pedal assist for a more natural feel. I do bike trails and don’t need 28mph. Can easily cruise along at 17-19mph but I generally do 10-13 and enjoy the ride. The programmable power assist (which can be done with your phone on the fly) can be used to program in a workout level. Hills really are not a problem. I rented one in Acadia National Park and it was great day. Yeah you have to pedal that’s the point. It’s definitely worth a try.
I don’t have one, but a friend of mine just bought this model and asked me to listen to the review. One thing that jumped out at me right off the get go was the handlebars, they are really shaped like the French E Bike moustache. I have a moustache with this type of handlebar and I love it. It’s the best position I’ve ever biked long distances with also, I’m getting pretty arthritis in the arms in the shoulders. This position seems to work best for me. I like that it has gates, carbon belt drive and the internally geared hub. Most mid to high end European bikes, have a mid drive with an internal hub either Shimano Alfini, Enviola or Rolhof. I did test out an Enviola Bike a few years ago but it was not a E-Bike it wasn’t an acoustic, actually I think it was called Nuvinci back then. I like that it has the MIK system for attachment of panniers. I would have preferred to see Schwalbe big Apple tires. Also I didn’t hear any mention of whether or not the battery is UL2849 certified. One other thing I would install would be the Suntour suspension seat post. The price is on the high side but then so most quality e-bikes like Trek, Gazzelle, Reise & Muller that offer belt drive with an IGH hub.
IMHO
They look like they are out the the 80's movie, Flash Gordon
I enjoyed the systematic, low hype way you did this review. Thanks!
Thank you! We try to keep things objective and level-headed.
Just ordered a Como 3.0 to join my Tero X 5.0. Just love the build quality
I love my Specialized Turbo Vado SL , my sister and brother have Como's we ride them all the time
I love the Specialized line of e-bikes as they feel more natural to me than any other brand. Even the Bosch bikes had a little of that pushed-from-behind feeling. Since the IGH is heavy less efficient in transferring power that a chain and sprocket, I think the Como 4 with the more powerful motor is the way to go. Thanks for a great review.
What eBike do you ride ? The 4.0 is pushing $4,000. The 3.0 price history:Price of Como 3.0 IGH is now [July 2023] $1,200 lower than bike in this test ! Price is $2,549 now instead of $3,749 !!! What inflation-fighting magic does Specialized have ?
Thanks for that review. It was a very comprehensive report with everything one could possibly want. Excellent.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I have the previous generation como 5. Best ride I've ever had. Even with the chain and derailleur it's the most natural ride I've ever had.
Thanks for your review. After having spent a few days looking at the different e-bikes on the market, I have chosen to go for this one, which I ordered just a few minutes ago from a shop here in Norway, where I live. The weather here can be tough during spring, summer and autumn, with a lot of rain. The weather insulation and the Gates belt drive makes it perfect for riding in my town and places around, with quite a few hills here and there. I already own a standard, non-electric bike with a belt drive made by Cube (German), and it gives a very nice and quiet ride, not to mention that it is free from all the hassle related to greasy and dirty bike chains.
Are you happy with your Como? Thinking about buying one as well. Based on Oslo 😊
Excellent review! One of the better ones I have seen. Thank you.
I own the 4.0 version with regular gears and think it is a very smooth and refined bike. Like a lot. As mentioned, the handlebars are not adjustable, but I seem not to get numbness in my hands as I sometimes do on my Juiced Bike which is more upright in position.
Thanks for the feedback, David! Agreed on your points - very refined ride quality indeed!
Thanks for the review, it looks like it would tick all the boxes for me. I'm not sure about the handlebar configuration, as I currently prefer a more sporty fit (halfway between upright and dropped bar). I think I would have to ride it to see how it fits me.
I understand the you tube system that you need likes, subskreivers, and some other support, but much people dont like to say the videos are great before they have seen them, and we have seen that some that not will ask before the end of their videos are getting more support. Ofcourse we dont know if this is because of very good videos or both that and that people feel free to make up their mind before support. Thanks, I think your videos are good😊.
To me one of the most important and deciding factors is the weight should one have to lift it up a few stairs or attach to a bike rack. This is something that is often left off the specs on Specialized's page unless it is very light. Perhaps that's why the price has been reduced to $2499 as most bike manufactures are racing to get out their lighter models.
I'm looking at purchasing this with the belt drive, rather than chain. I'm impressed with the belt drive, but how dependable is it? I'd hate to have it break on a distance ride. I certainly wouldn't be able to repair it. My concern about distance riding is if something breaks down, potential difficulty finding a shop that will service an e-bike, or have a belt drive or other parts in stock. Comments, please?
Thank you for this review. What I was wondering, The Como 3.0 IGH uses CDC and CDX components in the drivetrain. I thought CDC wasn't made anymore and I thought CDC and CDX components aren't compatible?
Great review. Can you do one on the como 5.0 igh ?
We'd be open to it, but we'll see if Specialized sends it to us. We have a few other models besides the Como coming up, so we hope to explore different variations of similar models.
I learned the handlebars are fixed and can't be raised--big problem for me and others. Riders need to adjust handlebars to fit them, so we don't get pain in our arms and wrists. The forum is full of people in the predicament. My Como 2 had more pep.
Does this fit riders who are 6ft 4?
What happened to the hosts that used to present on this channel? This channel has a different energy to it now.
I have written that too. He is reading from a script so sounds like a robot giving a review. Not his own views so not really a good review. Words are being put into his mouth. That's why he keeps stumbling with his words because he probably can't see the words properly. Not a very good review.
What does it weight?
1 the front light needs to be located below the rack or way above since it will be blocked when something is placed on the rack 2 what is battery chemistry and warranty?
I believe the light can be moved to the front of the rack - I saw that in the installation instructions.
FYI, My 2022 como 4.0 is marked as a class 3 e-bike, not a class 1. I've had it up to 26.4 mph on flat ground without the governor kicking in to limit speed.
My Como is equipped with a conventional derailleur and it's been entirely satisfactory for my needs.
Things you didn't mention are that in addition to the eco, sport and turbo modes there's a micro tune mode that gives access to the full range of the bike's power in 10% increments. The default turbo mode doesn't give full power unless you've remapped it in the app. There's also a setting to limit battery charging to 80% to extend battery life.
The belt is the best part, why did you pass on that?! Im not going back to the stone ages and buying another greasy chain + derailer ebike ever again....
Question- how does this ebike compare to Gazelle Avignon or Ultimate thanks for your help
We haven't tested those ones so we couldn't say
The first thing I noticed, is that if you have anything on the front rack it would be in the way of the light.
I'm looking for omafiets ergnomics like this one, but with an XL-frame. I cannot find a single ebike like that. Help!
I buy e bikes with a rear Gear motor hub 350 to 750 watts and modify or upgrade evbike to out perform the hgher end E bikes of 1200 to 3000$ . I add a Turbo Booster using 2000watt Gearless motor hub which using a gear motor you will ride until battery drained . Using just a gearless DD motor hub you can only go so far on full throttle of around 3 to 5 miles until motor Cutts Off for a few minutes to Cool Down. By modifying a gear motor with a gearless DD to use as Turbo Booster I can ride contious going 40mph of combining motors to work off each other. This is the most Practical way of using a Dual e bike as the only way I use a Dual if not the Standard of setting up the best and most practical way of use. Too much weight using 2 DD as I've seen many needing to use both motors on hills as my set up im only using one motor to get uphill due to the minimal weight of just 82.lbs.
And yes, I'm out pacing the higher end Fat tire e bikes in a breeze when coming across of testing each other's value. They shocked and question their money being spent just to get out performed by my 700$ base upgraded turbo Booster.!
Can you attach toddler seat to the back?
Yes you can as that's what I did for my 6 year old.
My wife just purchased this bike. The belt drive is amazing. One thumbs down tho. When looking for eBikes, people need to be told that this is strictly a pedal assist bike. If you get tired a some point and you want the motor to do all the work, you're out of luck.
It doesn’t lose amps as the miles pass
chains are stupid. the como is the second belt drive bike I've bought and I will never go back to chains.
#metoo
Jammer geen ondertiteling
Would have been better if you were not reading from a script and used your own words to describe it.
"Earn your way up" the hill? I don't want to earn my way up. I want an ebike that allows me to get up hills effortlessly. I looked at the Turbo Vado SL a few years ago but the motor was so weak that it was never going to hack it up Welsh hills compared to Bosch motors. I am disappointed to hear you talk about riders earning their way up hills - whatever that means - but it gives me the impression that the motor is not powerful enough and the rider has to be panting and pedalling like b*ggery to get to the top, which defeats the purpose of having an ebike. Did I get this wrong? Ah, it is only a 250w motor. Nice review but the motor does not have the omph I need.
I have a 2022 como 4.0 and it will nearly effortlessly go up very steep hills but you still have to pedal it and the pace needs to be 70-90 RPM so the motor can best do its job. There's an indicator on the display for pedaling cadence.
Too slow and under powered. If the bike cant go up the the hill on its power is not worth it. Plus the assited uphill test is pretty bad. These legacy brands dont get it. Overpriced and underpowered.
It's important to have both types of bikes. Bikes that can do it all for the rider, and bikes that dial in assistance to rider to give them another 5-30% boost to their own natural pedal. Not sure if one type is better than the other, just different strokes for different folks.
@@ElectricBikeReport that's great but when a 3.5 k can't go up a hill. That's a really bad look no matter how fancy it is. Specialized is a luxury brand yet is getting outperformed by a lesser brands. This needs to change in the ebike space or they will be forced out.
@@dracorosso7129which bike do u recommend?
It's such an ugly and awkward-looking bike, I can understand why they would want to try to hide it by dangling a plastic bin over the rear wheel. Or is that the battery?
Range? Batery?
12:40