I work in a Specialized bike store as the e-bike guy. I delivered a vado SL 5.0 to a customer and rode it. I then immediately ordered a 4.0 for myself. Smoothest power delivery I have ever experienced. And I ordered an awesome red/black combo. Delivery in August.
Just got a 4.0 sl 3 days ago, was a little worried about it being a smaller motor then my sisters and brother in laws comos. Ha! Worry no more the bike is a blast! Can easily keep up with anything.
Specialized bike guy....does the 4.0 SL have the same components and power as the 3.0 SL. JUST tested the 3.0 Vado SL and it's fine but lacked the zip up the hill I took it on. I prefer the fender package the 4.0 offers. Is the 5.0 Vado SL more powerful?
@@michellefriend8848 I dont think there is a 3.0. As far as I know all the Vado SLs are the same power. You may like the regular Vado if you like more power.
@@brendangray yes im 59 and have afib and can climb all the hills around here in Tennessee ( big hills) there are 6 ebikes on our street now , all full power, ican keep up with all of them, often im leading the way
Like all of us I have a unique situation. I will be retiring to SW Virginia in the Appalachians in the next year. Beautiful smooth roads with very light traffic and very hilly and plenty of gravel roads and fire trails. Old legs but still plugging away. This video helped me identify that the Vado 4X is for me. Thanks!
I first watched this video in August 2020 and the next month went to buy a Vado SL but there where none in my size in the Seattle area. So I ended up buying the Turbo Vado and put over 2000 miles on it the first year... half on gravel.. I took the fenders and rack off and added a shock absorbing seat post and it makes a great mild gravel bike. Everything in the video is true that you will ride more, further and have more fun.. Its you only better... its all true... In the same month I bought the Vado I purchased a Sirrus X 5.0 and spent another $1000 on upgrades.. super nimble, super trick bike.. that I almost never ride because the ebikes are so much fun.
that was the best video, i am struggling to understand these bikes as I am new to the sport, but actually seeing the hill test with and with out power, no sales person could have ever explained that to me where i would have understood it. thank you Nancy.
For me the SL - if I get one of these. I did a test drive and was impressed! But: The build in battery is an issue for many people in winter times stored in the garage. The fork "suspension" is not suitable for rural areas, if road conditions gettin realy rough. Would love to buy an "Levo SL HT" with a VADO SL like frame. It could have a lightweight fox suspension and offroad 29 x 1.95 tires. A Hardtail with about 15-16 kg. Maybe this would be perfect for commuting AND easy single trails 😎. Lets see whats upcomming 2021 guys. 😋
OUTSTANDING review !!! Just exactly what we ALL needed to know to make an informed decision and choose what is best for us. Vado SL is best for me because I have 30 steps every day and sometimes 3X a day where there is NO WAY I could lift the TURBO Vado on a bus front bike rack or carry up stairs. Now I know which one I will buy :-) With gratitude 🙏 Thank you.
Specialized Turbo SL comes with an efficient suspension in the handlebar. Very useful on irregular roads, but at rear, the saddle is not enough amortized or you have to use gravel tires instead of slick ones to amortize shocks. Then the low couple, 35 Nm, make the climbing of steep roads difficult (>8% on long distance or >10-15%, up to 40% on short distances) or you are muscled or trained. Specialized Turbo Vado can be a better choice than e.g. Cube Kathmandu Hybrid Pro 625 (625 Wh, 85 Nm, 25.7 kg) or even a Trek VTC because it is a bit lighter, but their performances is on par, specialy on steep roads (over 10-13% or segments up to 40%).
At 47 lbs the Vado is a very heavy bike. My Turbo Creo carbon weighs less than 28 lbs which is a big difference on the road a big difference when lifting it onto a platform bike rack. I looked at the Trek Domane at over 33 lbs and decided that the Creo Class III bike was a better fit. For shopping trips around town the Vado is a good bike.
I test rode a Vado SL yesterday in San Franciso. It's super-lightweight for an e-bike, but it doesn't have the "oomph" I need for the steep SF hills. Specialized is on the right track, though!
There's a good video on here by a Norweigan who looks at this motor in a Levo. He has an interesting bit in the video pedalling it up a hill compared to a Levo with the non-light motor - the SL motor just can't hack it. It is a shame as Specialized are heading in the right direction in terms of style but I suspect most people buy an ebike to get up hills - steep hills in my home town of Swansea - and I don't think this Vado SL has the oomph required. ua-cam.com/video/2xlDsEIclJs/v-deo.html
For me the weight is really the critical factor - I live in a city and without a garage, so I need to carry the bike up a flight of steps and inside my house. So while I would love to have more power for going up hills, carrying a 50+ pound bike every day is just not feasible.
I can buy them all...love the Vado 4 I have....but another light weight .....sure....light weight also...friggin specialized got my number❤️❤️❤️❤️🚴♂️🚴♂️🚴♂️🚴♂️🚴♂️🚴♂️
@@SpecializedUniversity that’s the plan! Just bought the range extender today. Glad to say that the range calculator tool on the website is spot on with battery mileage prediction.
@@utubebroadcaster Hi! Thanks for your question. I wouldn't associate motor power with fitness level. Both SL and Turbo bikes provide outstanding support while SL bikes make for easy carrying and transport.
With mechanical bikes nearing the 1kg I wonder if it's necessary to milk the ebike-cow like that. With ebikes from 15 to 30 kg I'm sure they could do better right now in 2020. You look at tools and you just wonder why it's so complicated to make a compact and powerfull battery with brushless motors and all that stuff that you find on power tools.
I like that the SL doesn't look like an e-bike and is relatively lightweight. It looks like the bikes also have slightly different geometry (position of where the seat stay meets the top tube). Does that make a difference in how it rides?
Uf, que video tan bueno, para el tipo de ciudad donde vivo creo que la SL es la mejor opción aunque me quede con ganas de más, pero ya que mi medica me indico hacer ejercicio diario, pues la SL es la opción definitiva para mi, jeje. No es barata, pero se paga sola usándola seguido.
I have the turbo Vado which I use daily (35mins each way) I dial down the power to get a good workout using mission control. I ride over rough roads and light tracks and the frame and suspension eat it all up. The video didn’t mention the comparable ride comfort with or without suspension. I ride once a week a 40mile ride (rtn) and the battery only drains by 70%. Vado all the way...... speed, battery and easy on the arms/wrists.
Great video - very helpful. Thanks! There's a shot where the riding partner looks like he's going to blow through a stop sign. I wouldn't show this. :-)
@@rivergladesgardenrailroad8834 Dude, I'm not law enforcement. It's a bit of opinion about things that give cyclists a bad rap. It's like the crotch rocket dudes weaving in and out of traffic. I'm not saying people should be locked up for not obeying traffic laws. I've just seen it too many times when arrogant cyclists just fly through stop signs with traffic present. Next thing you know, someone is entangled with a road raging driver in an unfair situation. I wish you many miles of safe riding.
Maybe don't hold the bikes on the rack by the mud guard, though.. :) The force vector of the arm that holds it should be going through the axle and/or contact point of the tire on the actual rack so there's no momentum created by the force.
Recommendations on a hitch carrier for fendered ebikes? Our two bikes total about 95 lb. I think one that clamps onto the frame is best but most versions clamp to the tire area.
#1 on my list of features is "mileage range" per battery charge. I hate riding my current e-bike to work and having to carry the charger with me. I want a longer range at the highest power output. It takes me 32 minutes to go 14 miles to work, but it kills the battery on my current iZip Dash E3.
Swap out the battery for a bigger one or strap a spare one on the frame with a plug/wire. I've got a 52v/17ah battery on my ebike (about 40 miles on lowest assist) and a 2nd 52v/21ah battery for my rear rack bag for longer or faster/long trips (just unplug the 17ah when its voltage gets low and plug in my 3ft 8g extension cord with its 90xt plug into the 21ah).
It is important to remember in the UK we can only have 250 watt motor that gives us assistance upto 15mph. Beyond that it is classed as a moped / motorcycle and you will need to register the the bike with the dvla and pay insurance ect. Many e bikes are illegal and many are breaking the law. You may as well buy a motorbike.
Great review! Are either of those bikes capable of going up that hill several times (1/3 of a mile, 9% avg gradient - I live nearby :) carrying a total load of 250lbs without pedaling? Looking to replace my car with an ebike, and carrying groceries is my biggest concern, as I’ll have to ride about 6 similar hills round trip.
Hi! Both of these bikes require rider input(pedaling) to activate the motor and battery. The Turbo Vado would be best suited to assist you in climbing those hills and the range should be no problem when fully charged. Thanks!
A brilliant review. Got to see what they look like in operation. I want stealth. Which do you think was louder, the Regular (Brose belt) or the SL (MAHLE)? Thanks again!
I'm curious... is that the bike rack that you would use with the Vado? I know that the fenders become an issues but I noticed that you swung the arm over the fender. I have a Vado and Como and I've had issues with the Fenders not allowing the bike to be fully secured with that style of rack
I thought the same, my family has a regular 4x power como. But power is lower down and sighns off early compared to my 4.0 sl. Mine goes just as fast keeps up no problem, you have to spin at a little higher cadence to get the juice! It rocks
Great video! My husband and I just purchased the Turbo Vado. We're hooked!! Question. No one seems to know how to change from kilometers to MPH on the digital readout on the handlebar. I even contacted Specialized direct, and have not heard back from them. Even the bicycle shop we purchased it from had to look into it. The manual has not helped either. Any input on your end? Thank you! Best, Angela
@@SpecializedUniversity Someone got back to me! It was a 30 second fix. Needed someone to explain it to me, since the manual made absolutely no sense. Thank you for getting back to me!!
@Richard Peterson Someone saw my post and helped me change the kilometers to MPH. Cannot say enough good things about the Vado 4.0. Best peddle assist bike on the market.
we are struggling to get my wife's heavy e-bike [24kg] bike onto our bike rack, so we are looking at the VADA SL 5.0 EQ. can we get a 'small' here in Australia, sold out in days..... cant even try to ride one... looks like we will have to wait until the next shipment in September....
hi, thanks for a great review! I am cycling daily to work and back in total around 50 km (31miles) with 700 hight meters and I am searching for an upgrade from my mountain bike or race bike, that can assist me to get to work and back - still exercising but being less tired and faster if possible.. I think Vado SL is exactly what I need, the question is only if using the highest assistance on some of the hills, will I still sweat like a crazy :) ? do you know if it can manage those km and hm without charging in between ? (I had Stromer with 45kmh, and had to charge it every 20km).. The second question - now about Turbo Vado: can it still gives me the training effect when I use lower assistance? Thanks a lot for some answers! :).
Both models should be capable of making that distance and providing a workout. You can adjust the amount of assist to balance how hard you have to work and how long the battery will last as you ride. You can always use turbo mode on those steep hills. And remember, you can turn the power off all the way too for a better workout!
@@chrisx1197 hey i get 30 mi on sport mode with a little turbo for hills and fun . Have went 35 mi on one charge is my longest and it had like one bar left but im 6 foot 2, 220lbs
i have a alez right now, custom wheels and 28 casset. i moved to a new town with hills like you have there. i can hold 33mph on the flat and 45+ down hill. will these bikes allow me to do that or do the motors restrict your top speeds? also i ride maybe 30-40 miles some days. how much range do these bikes have on a charge?
While the motors do not restrict your top speed, they will only give you pedal assist up to 28 mph. After that you are on your own! These bikes are more than capable of 40 miles in a day and can be tuned with our Mission Control app for even more range!
@@SpecializedUniversity do you know of a bike that will go about 28 miles an hour? It would be nice to have assistants up there keeping up with traffic
Teo Sluga so stick some slicks on there. That’s what I did on a different model of emtb. Combined with a suspension seatpost it’s perfect. Yet to encounter any stretch of mythical pristine asphalt so thankful for the shock absorption and nut protection! I’m a courier rider and I can tell you comfort is everything when you’re putting in the miles amongst traffic.
@@Bangandthedirtisgone Try without suspension forks... you will be faster... Suspension is needed over the rocks... Not on asphalt... That is why the name of the bike is Mountain Bike, remember?
You have to think about how would be achieved. The frame of all bikes are triangular which gives the best strength. For the battery to be removable then the battery would have to be visible, attached to the frame as you wouldn't want the frame to be weakened. Van Moof have and interesting design. Their top tube runs parallel across the whole bike. The battery could easily be made to slide out of that design but interestingly they have also decided to make the battery not removable. I suspect that is to make make money on service.
If you compare the cheapest aluminum Creo to the vado sl 4.0 , they are almost exactly the same. Only slightly slacker head angle on the 4.0 that makes it even better in the gravel, same motor battery etc.. just a flat bar gravel bike that happens to be electric. Can fit 47mm tire too
I have a new Vado 5.0 SL and love it! But I need a hitch-mounted carrier for it that will also accommodate a friend’s 55+-lb Trek ebike. What carrier are you using in the video? It clamps down on the fender, which worries me for our bikes. I’ve been hoping to get the Thule EasyFold XT (when it becomes available) bc it clamps onto the frames. It can carry 130 lb for two bikes and won’t damage the fenders. I only wish it folded “in” rather than “up” to help with garage parking. Thoughts? Recommendations for a hitch carrier for fendered ebikes?
I like that Specialized is finally upgrading its old ugly street e-bikes, however the new motor is weaker and louder .. a step backwards. And they are still using old fashoned chain instead of carbon drive. If this bike doesn't at least have a usb charger port, it will be the biggest failure of a redesign ever.
Thanks for the review. I'm looking at buying one of these for my wife so we can go riding together. On the long end of the spectrum we might go 3-4 hours over hilly terrain with some gravel. She could probably push 130 watts on average while the bike would need to add 70-100. Are either of these bikes capable of that?
Depends on your needs...never seen a ebike with only 15kg for about 3000€. The other has 21kg, and there are a lot of competitors on market with this weight, too. As said in the review, it feels more like a natural bike due it's low weight. If your area has no steep hills or you have to take your bike each time into your apartment to avoid it is stolen or you want an eBike which is also drivable without Batteries...as said depends on your needs.
I still prefer my 48 volt 1000 watt rear hub and 20 ah triangle battery on my 1996 steel Hardrock with a big ass comfy seat. 30 couple mph on the flat, throttle only. If you keep her at 20, she’ll give you 50 miles, throttle only. Got about 800 into her total. And that’s with a heavy duty rack that can really haul stuff. Not concerned about loading it onto a carrier. It does the carrying.
Or down. But really, I don't the regular vs SL is about going up or down in the spectrum of desirability or quality, it's about what is more practical for your given usage.
For me it's the 4.0....unless you want the belt/IGH drivetrain (which I don't). The 4.0 gives 70Nm power and uses the same big battery as the 5.0. This gives you plenty of power and the best possible power consumption/range. I have the SL 4.0 and the big brother Vado 4.0. Both awesome but for differing uses. I don't think its too crazy to own both.
Hey Paulie, the Vado SL 5.0 and Vado SL EQ are in stock today on specialized.com. There and at your local specialized dealer are the best places to order. Thanks! www.specialized.com/us/en/turbo-vado-sl-5-0-eq/p/154892?color=263681-154892
I've now ridden 2500 mi on my 21' turbo vado sl and it's awesome ! Zero problems and im going out riding today
Now my problem is I want one of each... I bet that was their plan all along!
Same.
I work in a Specialized bike store as the e-bike guy. I delivered a vado SL 5.0 to a customer and rode it. I then immediately ordered a 4.0 for myself. Smoothest power delivery I have ever experienced. And I ordered an awesome red/black combo. Delivery in August.
Just got a 4.0 sl 3 days ago, was a little worried about it being a smaller motor then my sisters and brother in laws comos. Ha! Worry no more the bike is a blast! Can easily keep up with anything.
Specialized bike guy....does the 4.0 SL have the same components and power as the 3.0 SL. JUST tested the 3.0 Vado SL and it's fine but lacked the zip up the hill I took it on. I prefer the fender package the 4.0 offers. Is the 5.0 Vado SL more powerful?
@@michellefriend8848 I dont think there is a 3.0. As far as I know all the Vado SLs are the same power. You may like the regular Vado if you like more power.
@@jimbo4203 does it go up hills ok?
@@brendangray yes im 59 and have afib and can climb all the hills around here in Tennessee ( big hills) there are 6 ebikes on our street now , all full power, ican keep up with all of them, often im leading the way
Thanks! I wasn't really looking at the regular vado so much, but this helped with my Vado SL research quite a bit!
Like all of us I have a unique situation. I will be retiring to SW Virginia in the Appalachians in the next year. Beautiful smooth roads with very light traffic and very hilly and plenty of gravel roads and fire trails. Old legs but still plugging away. This video helped me identify that the Vado 4X is for me. Thanks!
Which bike did you get and how is it working out?
I first watched this video in August 2020 and the next month went to buy a Vado SL but there where none in my size in the Seattle area. So I ended up buying the Turbo Vado and put over 2000 miles on it the first year... half on gravel.. I took the fenders and rack off and added a shock absorbing seat post and it makes a great mild gravel bike. Everything in the video is true that you will ride more, further and have more fun.. Its you only better... its all true... In the same month I bought the Vado I purchased a Sirrus X 5.0 and spent another $1000 on upgrades.. super nimble, super trick bike.. that I almost never ride because the ebikes are so much fun.
Great post! Appreciate the comment about comparing the two different types of bikes (the 5.0 X is a beauty!) and your preference.
One of The best informative compare video I ever encountered: GREAT job guys! Kudos
Thanks for a great in depth and practical review between the two. Two great bikes and definitely a trade-off.
This is perfect for commuting... Not to get sweaty on the way to work...
that was the best video, i am struggling to understand these bikes as I am new to the sport, but actually seeing the hill test with and with out power, no sales person could have ever explained that to me where i would have understood it. thank you Nancy.
This is how a review is supposed to be 👌🤗
For me the SL - if I get one of these. I did a test drive and was impressed! But: The build in battery is an issue for many people in winter times stored in the garage. The fork "suspension" is not suitable for rural areas, if road conditions gettin realy rough. Would love to buy an "Levo SL HT" with a VADO SL like frame. It could have a lightweight fox suspension and offroad 29 x 1.95 tires. A Hardtail with about 15-16 kg. Maybe this would be perfect for commuting AND easy single trails 😎. Lets see whats upcomming 2021 guys. 😋
OUTSTANDING review !!! Just exactly what we ALL needed to know to make an informed decision and choose what is best for us. Vado SL is best for me because I have 30 steps every day and sometimes 3X a day where there is NO WAY I could lift the TURBO Vado on a bus front bike rack or carry up stairs. Now I know which one I will buy :-) With gratitude 🙏 Thank you.
Thank you for your comment, John! We are glad we could help.
Love the Vado 4.0! Can’t wait to get it up to Colorado. The pedal assist will be huge above 9k elevation Breckenridge.
2xs vs 4xs excellent description
I bought the Vado SL 4.0 last summer. I love it. I put about 30 miles a week on it as a car replacement during the summer months.
Thank you, that short and simple review helped more than other long rviews. And yeah the SL I think would be the right one.
Very clear and concise. I just bought the Vado SL
Specialized Turbo SL comes with an efficient suspension in the handlebar. Very useful on irregular roads, but at rear, the saddle is not enough amortized or you have to use gravel tires instead of slick ones to amortize shocks. Then the low couple, 35 Nm, make the climbing of steep roads difficult (>8% on long distance or >10-15%, up to 40% on short distances) or you are muscled or trained.
Specialized Turbo Vado can be a better choice than e.g. Cube Kathmandu Hybrid Pro 625 (625 Wh, 85 Nm, 25.7 kg) or even a Trek VTC because it is a bit lighter, but their performances is on par, specialy on steep roads (over 10-13% or segments up to 40%).
Great comment. Thanks
At 47 lbs the Vado is a very heavy bike. My Turbo Creo carbon weighs less than 28 lbs which is a big difference on the road a big difference when lifting it onto a platform bike rack. I looked at the Trek Domane at over 33 lbs and decided that the Creo Class III bike was a better fit. For shopping trips around town the Vado is a good bike.
Nice, concise, practical. Great work. Thanks.
I test rode a Vado SL yesterday in San Franciso. It's super-lightweight for an e-bike, but it doesn't have the "oomph" I need for the steep SF hills. Specialized is on the right track, though!
There's a good video on here by a Norweigan who looks at this motor in a Levo. He has an interesting bit in the video pedalling it up a hill compared to a Levo with the non-light motor - the SL motor just can't hack it.
It is a shame as Specialized are heading in the right direction in terms of style but I suspect most people buy an ebike to get up hills - steep hills in my home town of Swansea - and I don't think this Vado SL has the oomph required.
ua-cam.com/video/2xlDsEIclJs/v-deo.html
For me the weight is really the critical factor - I live in a city and without a garage, so I need to carry the bike up a flight of steps and inside my house. So while I would love to have more power for going up hills, carrying a 50+ pound bike every day is just not feasible.
Own a Vado 4.0. Wish there was a secondary battery option for those extra long days out, otherwise it’s a great bike.
Probably weight concerns. Another battery would make it even heavier.
I can buy them all...love the Vado 4 I have....but another light weight .....sure....light weight also...friggin specialized got my number❤️❤️❤️❤️🚴♂️🚴♂️🚴♂️🚴♂️🚴♂️🚴♂️
I’ve got almost 7000 miles on a Vado SL. So far it’s been bulletproof.
Love to hear that! Here’s to 7,000 more!
@@SpecializedUniversity that’s the plan! Just bought the range extender today. Glad to say that the range calculator tool on the website is spot on with battery mileage prediction.
@@speedmayhavebeenafactor9736 Great! I’ll pass on your kudos to the team 👍🏼
So probably aimed at those people who generally keep fit. The more powerful bike probably better for the casual cyclist or someone not overly fit?
@@utubebroadcaster Hi! Thanks for your question. I wouldn't associate motor power with fitness level. Both SL and Turbo bikes provide outstanding support while SL bikes make for easy carrying and transport.
Great, informative video. Thanks very much
Nice review! Spot on!
I'd buy the security benefits of the internal slim battery if not for the giant "SPECIALIZED" logo with attracts bike thieves like bees to honey lol
great video - thanks!
Very helpful info
Thank you
These bikes...absolutely beautiful. One of the best in the industry 😍😍🥰
Ugh I want one so bad!!
I test road a SL today it was great !!! 🎉🎉
With mechanical bikes nearing the 1kg I wonder if it's necessary to milk the ebike-cow like that. With ebikes from 15 to 30 kg I'm sure they could do better right now in 2020. You look at tools and you just wonder why it's so complicated to make a compact and powerfull battery with brushless motors and all that stuff that you find on power tools.
Wow great comparison video.
Excellent video very informative
Thank you 😊
This is a very good comparison review well done 👍
Thank you! 👍
Very helpful, thanks.
Nice review!!
Thanks!
Thanks! This was a great and very informative review.
Glad it was helpful!
I like that the SL doesn't look like an e-bike and is relatively lightweight. It looks like the bikes also have slightly different geometry (position of where the seat stay meets the top tube). Does that make a difference in how it rides?
Yes the sl feels more agile, it is the exact same frame as the creo, just with flat bars
Uf, que video tan bueno, para el tipo de ciudad donde vivo creo que la SL es la mejor opción aunque me quede con ganas de más, pero ya que mi medica me indico hacer ejercicio diario, pues la SL es la opción definitiva para mi, jeje. No es barata, pero se paga sola usándola seguido.
I have the turbo Vado which I use daily (35mins each way) I dial down the power to get a good workout using mission control. I ride over rough roads and light tracks and the frame and suspension eat it all up. The video didn’t mention the comparable ride comfort with or without suspension. I ride once a week a 40mile ride (rtn) and the battery only drains by 70%. Vado all the way...... speed, battery and easy on the arms/wrists.
Hi. I can't seem to connect my vado to mission control, did you manage this okay?
Suddenly I want an E-Bike. Vado for me please.
Good video. No BS
Great video - very helpful. Thanks!
There's a shot where the riding partner looks like he's going to blow through a stop sign. I wouldn't show this. :-)
why not, stop being a 'STOP sign' Police...
@@rivergladesgardenrailroad8834 Dude, I'm not law enforcement. It's a bit of opinion about things that give cyclists a bad rap. It's like the crotch rocket dudes weaving in and out of traffic. I'm not saying people should be locked up for not obeying traffic laws. I've just seen it too many times when arrogant cyclists just fly through stop signs with traffic present. Next thing you know, someone is entangled with a road raging driver in an unfair situation. I wish you many miles of safe riding.
Maybe don't hold the bikes on the rack by the mud guard, though.. :) The force vector of the arm that holds it should be going through the axle and/or contact point of the tire on the actual rack so there's no momentum created by the force.
Recommendations on a hitch carrier for fendered ebikes? Our two bikes total about 95 lb. I think one that clamps onto the frame is best but most versions clamp to the tire area.
Smooth and powerful bike. A breeze going up hills. Overall great bike but pretty heavy.
Very well explained ,,thanks
#1 on my list of features is "mileage range" per battery charge. I hate riding my current e-bike to work and having to carry the charger with me. I want a longer range at the highest power output. It takes me 32 minutes to go 14 miles to work, but it kills the battery on my current iZip Dash E3.
Swap out the battery for a bigger one or strap a spare one on the frame with a plug/wire. I've got a 52v/17ah battery on my ebike (about 40 miles on lowest assist) and a 2nd 52v/21ah battery for my rear rack bag for longer or faster/long trips (just unplug the 17ah when its voltage gets low and plug in my 3ft 8g extension cord with its 90xt plug into the 21ah).
any chance the SL will get a belt drive anytime soon?
good transparent real vid.
It is important to remember in the UK we can only have 250 watt motor that gives us assistance upto 15mph. Beyond that it is classed as a moped / motorcycle and you will need to register the the bike with the dvla and pay insurance ect. Many e bikes are illegal and many are breaking the law. You may as well buy a motorbike.
Like the comparison
Great review! Are either of those bikes capable of going up that hill several times (1/3 of a mile, 9% avg gradient - I live nearby :) carrying a total load of 250lbs without pedaling? Looking to replace my car with an ebike, and carrying groceries is my biggest concern, as I’ll have to ride about 6 similar hills round trip.
Hi! Both of these bikes require rider input(pedaling) to activate the motor and battery. The Turbo Vado would be best suited to assist you in climbing those hills and the range should be no problem when fully charged. Thanks!
I know exactly where you shot this footage! Now it’s no longer the secret beach! 🤦♀️
Kattrap yeah, it’s a beautiful place. Sad to hear about the shark attack at sand dollar.
A brilliant review. Got to see what they look like in operation. I want stealth. Which do you think was louder, the Regular (Brose belt) or the SL (MAHLE)? Thanks again!
sizing question? Seems like the sizing is way different on the two Vados. Vado medium looks like a Vado SL large.
Im 6 foot 2 and fit well on the large sl 4.0, my brother in law is 6 toot 5, he went with the xl
I'm curious... is that the bike rack that you would use with the Vado? I know that the fenders become an issues but I noticed that you swung the arm over the fender. I have a Vado and Como and I've had issues with the Fenders not allowing the bike to be fully secured with that style of rack
SBCU...awaiting a response...I had this same question....does the Kuat destroy the fenders?
What kind of ways is the SL ideal for? That it is perfect on asphalt is clear, but what about forest roads or farm roads?
Markus Burkhardt I want to know the answer to this question as well. Any points of view?
Had my 4.0 sl for 3 dsys, did a 12mi gravel ride yesterday, it goes through it all no problem with the 38 pathfinders on there
yeap, nice comparison review, good job
Thanks! 👍
For me I need the 4x
I thought the same, my family has a regular 4x power como. But power is lower down and sighns off early compared to my 4.0 sl. Mine goes just as fast keeps up no problem, you have to spin at a little higher cadence to get the juice! It rocks
The sl frame and forks but with turbo battery motor
How do I stop the beeping on my turbo Vado? I bothers me and the person I ride with! Excellent video and nice controls.
Hi, I’m interested in the cycle carrier on your car in this video, what brand/type is it ?
(I’m going for the Vado SL and my wife the Vado)
Hey - It is a Küat NV 2.0 Hitch Rack.
GREAT rack. I have it too!
Is it normal that the front and rear lights are on while charging the turbo Vado sl 4.0?
When will vado sl 4.0 be available? I called my local bike shop and they said probably not until February of next year!
One just came in my local shop in Kentucky, i bought it and its great ! 120 miles the first week
What is 2x you and 4x you mean?
Great video! My husband and I just purchased the Turbo Vado. We're hooked!! Question. No one seems to know how to change from kilometers to MPH on the digital readout on the handlebar. I even contacted Specialized direct, and have not heard back from them. Even the bicycle shop we purchased it from had to look into it. The manual has not helped either. Any input on your end? Thank you! Best, Angela
Angela - That's great to hear! Well the first part at least... Let me see if I can find an answer and get back to you.
@@SpecializedUniversity Someone got back to me! It was a 30 second fix. Needed someone to explain it to me, since the manual made absolutely no sense. Thank you for getting back to me!!
@Richard Peterson Someone saw my post and helped me change the kilometers to MPH. Cannot say enough good things about the Vado 4.0. Best peddle assist bike on the market.
@Richard Peterson Finally figured out how to change from kilometers to MPH with someone's help who read my comment. Love the Specialized app!!
You can change it in the app.
Дякую друже!
Було корисно.
Успіхів!
we are struggling to get my wife's heavy e-bike [24kg] bike onto our bike rack, so we are looking at the VADA SL 5.0 EQ. can we get a 'small' here in Australia, sold out in days.....
cant even try to ride one... looks like we will have to wait until the next shipment in September....
Both look great. I am a heavy rider at 245lbs. Which bike should I get? Is the SL to lite for me?
HEY. Thats Seacliff Drive!
hi, thanks for a great review! I am cycling daily to work and back in total around 50 km (31miles) with 700 hight meters and I am searching for an upgrade from my mountain bike or race bike, that can assist me to get to work and back - still exercising but being less tired and faster if possible.. I think Vado SL is exactly what I need, the question is only if using the highest assistance on some of the hills, will I still sweat like a crazy :) ? do you know if it can manage those km and hm without charging in between ? (I had Stromer with 45kmh, and had to charge it every 20km).. The second question - now about Turbo Vado: can it still gives me the training effect when I use lower assistance? Thanks a lot for some answers! :).
Both models should be capable of making that distance and providing a workout. You can adjust the amount of assist to balance how hard you have to work and how long the battery will last as you ride. You can always use turbo mode on those steep hills. And remember, you can turn the power off all the way too for a better workout!
Thanks for great review. Which bike do you choose as more universal one - commuting, touring, some gravel etc.?
Just got the turbo sl 4.0 last week, its freakin awesome, 120 miles already ! 20 on gravel and trail, real nice
@@jimbo4203 Hi, I was thinking of getting the Vado SL 4.0 also. What range do you get on one charge ? Thanks
@@chrisx1197 hey i get 30 mi on sport mode with a little turbo for hills and fun . Have went 35 mi on one charge is my longest and it had like one bar left but im 6 foot 2, 220lbs
i have a alez right now, custom wheels and 28 casset. i moved to a new town with hills like you have there. i can hold 33mph on the flat and 45+ down hill. will these bikes allow me to do that or do the motors restrict your top speeds? also i ride maybe 30-40 miles some days. how much range do these bikes have on a charge?
While the motors do not restrict your top speed, they will only give you pedal assist up to 28 mph. After that you are on your own! These bikes are more than capable of 40 miles in a day and can be tuned with our Mission Control app for even more range!
@@SpecializedUniversity do you know of a bike that will go about 28 miles an hour? It would be nice to have assistants up there keeping up with traffic
@@beardedgaming3741 28mph is the legal limit for a pedal assist ebike. I'm afraid you'll have to look elsewhere for assist past 28mph.
Why on earth would you ride 'further' on the SL model? I'd be inclined to use the mtb one more for it's comfort.
MTB for comfort? On the road? Like using a Tractor on the road... It's comfy but stupid and slow. You need road tyres to drive on the road...
Teo Sluga so stick some slicks on there. That’s what I did on a different model of emtb. Combined with a suspension seatpost it’s perfect. Yet to encounter any stretch of mythical pristine asphalt so thankful for the shock absorption and nut protection! I’m a courier rider and I can tell you comfort is everything when you’re putting in the miles amongst traffic.
@@Bangandthedirtisgone Try without suspension forks... you will be faster... Suspension is needed over the rocks... Not on asphalt... That is why the name of the bike is Mountain Bike, remember?
Teo Sluga each to their own, man. I’ve ridden road, CX, hybrids, hard tails and full suss on the road and I know what I prefer.
I don't think he meant the Vado SL goes further than the Vado. Sounded to me like he was comparing relative to a regular bike.
Whish the SL battery was easily removable.
You have to think about how would be achieved. The frame of all bikes are triangular which gives the best strength. For the battery to be removable then the battery would have to be visible, attached to the frame as you wouldn't want the frame to be weakened. Van Moof have and interesting design. Their top tube runs parallel across the whole bike. The battery could easily be made to slide out of that design but interestingly they have also decided to make the battery not removable. I suspect that is to make make money on service.
How would these do as 'Gravel' bikes?
Great Review!
It's surprising what you can do with a Future Shock and high volume tires! It's great on dirt roads, but you should look into the Turbo Creo SL EVO.
If you compare the cheapest aluminum Creo to the vado sl 4.0 , they are almost exactly the same. Only slightly slacker head angle on the 4.0 that makes it even better in the gravel, same motor battery etc.. just a flat bar gravel bike that happens to be electric. Can fit 47mm tire too
I have a new Vado 5.0 SL and love it! But I need a hitch-mounted carrier for it that will also accommodate a friend’s 55+-lb Trek ebike. What carrier are you using in the video? It clamps down on the fender, which worries me for our bikes. I’ve been hoping to get the Thule EasyFold XT (when it becomes available) bc it clamps onto the frames. It can carry 130 lb for two bikes and won’t damage the fenders. I only wish it folded “in” rather than “up” to help with garage parking. Thoughts? Recommendations for a hitch carrier for fendered ebikes?
Hi There, the rack in the video is a Küat NV 2.0 Hitch Rack.
How does it manage up hills. Im 70kg
Video is a big help, thanks! Does the Vado SL have a removable battery too?
Hello! Thanks for your comment. The Vado SL does not have a removable battery
@@SpecializedUniversity Hi, what is the lifespan of the Vado SL"s battery?
I like that Specialized is finally upgrading its old ugly street e-bikes, however the new motor is weaker and louder .. a step backwards. And they are still using old fashoned chain instead of carbon drive. If this bike doesn't at least have a usb charger port, it will be the biggest failure of a redesign ever.
Hi do you know of any gates driven e bikes? Thx
Pedego Conveyor, Riese and Müller Superdelite, Bulls Lacuba EVO Lite Wave, also check Gates website for the list of bike makers who use it
Surf422 thanks👍
Thanks for the review. I'm looking at buying one of these for my wife so we can go riding together. On the long end of the spectrum we might go 3-4 hours over hilly terrain with some gravel. She could probably push 130 watts on average while the bike would need to add 70-100. Are either of these bikes capable of that?
Our family has both and either one will be fine , they both are awesome
What bike rack is suitable for the Vado SL on a landcruiser
How fast they are which one is faster the light the powerful one
what tires has the turbo vado ?
Most models have Trigger Sport Reflect @ 700x47mm
Nice ,. But 2x the normal leg power !? ,.
4 x sounds alot better
Have pebbes/ rocks ,. in my backpack
Depends on your needs...never seen a ebike with only 15kg for about 3000€. The other has 21kg, and there are a lot of competitors on market with this weight, too.
As said in the review, it feels more like a natural bike due it's low weight.
If your area has no steep hills or you have to take your bike each time into your apartment to avoid it is stolen or you want an eBike which is also drivable without Batteries...as said depends on your needs.
I’d like to know what is the bike rack model, please.
How many Watt motors do these American versions have please?
which Vado SL was this ? 3.0 or 4.0 ??
The Vado SL in the video is a 4.0 model.
Which has the more comfortable ride ??
I still prefer my 48 volt 1000 watt rear hub and 20 ah triangle battery on my 1996 steel Hardrock with a big ass comfy seat. 30 couple mph on the flat, throttle only. If you keep her at 20, she’ll give you 50 miles, throttle only. Got about 800 into her total. And that’s with a heavy duty rack that can really haul stuff. Not concerned about loading it onto a carrier. It does the carrying.
How is the noise factor
Thanks for the video, this was a great comparison. I have 2 Vados at home, and I wanted to see if I needed to trade up.
Or down. But really, I don't the regular vs SL is about going up or down in the spectrum of desirability or quality, it's about what is more practical for your given usage.
What kind of bike rack is that?
Read up in the thread ^^^
What’s the sweet spot in versions?
3.0 4.0 or 5.0 vs price on the turbo vado?
(Or 50kwh 70kwh and 90kwh I think?)
For me it's the 4.0....unless you want the belt/IGH drivetrain (which I don't). The 4.0 gives 70Nm power and uses the same big battery as the 5.0. This gives you plenty of power and the best possible power consumption/range. I have the SL 4.0 and the big brother Vado 4.0. Both awesome but for differing uses. I don't think its too crazy to own both.
what kind of bike rack was that?
Would really love a comparison between the new vado sl and the Cannondale quick sl or Orbea gain urban.
Comparison would be sensible if they would be priced the same.. Are they?
Anyone buying these doesn't understand exactly how low performance and short-range they are. Save the money.
What’s the cost of the Vado 5.0? Is there a best way to order this bike?
Hey Paulie, the Vado SL 5.0 and Vado SL EQ are in stock today on specialized.com. There and at your local specialized dealer are the best places to order. Thanks! www.specialized.com/us/en/turbo-vado-sl-5-0-eq/p/154892?color=263681-154892