Specialized Turbo Creo SL Expert Review - Prices, Specs, Videos, Photos

Home
Reviews
Brands
Specialized Reviews
Specialized Turbo Creo SL Expert Review

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Electric Bike Review

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Sl 1 1 Mid Drive Motor And Charging Port

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Two Bottle Mounts

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Shimano Ultegra Hoods Front

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Hover Drop Bars With Roubaix S Wrap

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert 10 Blue Led Tcu Display 3 Assist Levels

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Tcd Led Display Control Pad On Top Tube

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert 48v 6 9 Internal Downtube Battery Pack

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Carbon Fiber Fork Boost Hub Spacing

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Shimano Di2 Battery Charging Port Right Bar End

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Shimano Ultegra R8070 Brake Levers Di2 Paddle Shifters

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Future Shock 2 0 Suspension Headset Stem

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert 46 Tooth Narrow Wide Alloy Chainring

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert 700x28c Wheels 12mm Qr Thru Axles

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Electric Road Bike

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Shimano Ice Tech 160mm Disc Brake Rotors

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Roval C38 Carbon Rims Turbo Pro Tires

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Shimano Ultegra Dual Piston Hydrauic Disc Brake Calipers

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Body Geometry Power Expert Saddle

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Bottom Bracket Plastic Motor Protector

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Six Frame Sizes

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Ebike Charger Shimano Di2 Charger Range Extender Battery

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert 160wh Range Extender Bottle Battery

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Stock High Step Cast Battleship Black Raw Carbon

Specialized Turbo Creo Sl Expert Stock High Step Black Granite Green Blue Chameleon

A super-lightweight ~29lb full carbon electric road ebike, Class 3 speed-pedelec performance offers 28mph (45km/h) assisted speeds, proprietary Future Shock 2.0 steer tube suspension adds comfort while minimizing weight and maximizing rolling efficiency. Available in six frame sizes, sold through a vast network of dealers with professional fitting systems, solid two-year comprehensive warranty. The frame offers provisions for two bottle cages, fenders, and a rear rack
Boost hub spacing provides sturdier spoke bracing angle, 12mm thru-axles provide stiffness and control at speed, both wheels offer quick release systems for easy transport and ride maintenance. Powerful fast-cooling hydraulic disc brakes utilize 160mm Shimano ICE-Tech rotors that dissipate heat from stainless steel rotors through air-directing aluminum alloy cores and mount arm
The lightest and fastest electric road bike I've tested to date, the motor is surprisingly zippy and actually supports 28mph speeds without cutting prematurely, it fades out naturally and does not introduce pedal drag. The internal battery offers modest capacity but weighs under 4lbs and provides impressive range. Additional Range Extender bottle-shaped batteries are easy to use, quiet, and beautiful
Range Extender 160wh battery pack costs extra. Y-splitter cable to charge the main battery and Range Extender simultaneously also costs extra. These ebikes are fairly expensive in general. Since the primary battery is not easily removable, you may need to store the bike inside, away from extreme heat or cold, and near a charging port. No charging ports for aftermarket lights or the Mission Control smartphone app, only available in one color

Trusted Advertisers

Make:

Specialized

Model:

Turbo Creo SL Expert

Price:

$9,000

Body Position:

Forward, Forward Aggressive

Suggested Use:

Road

Electric Bike Class:

Speed Pedelec (Class 3)

Learn more about Ebike classes

Warranty:

2 Year Comprehensive, Lifetime Frame and Fork

Availability:

Canada, Europe, United States

Model Year:

2020

Total Weight:

28.8 lbs (13.06 kg)

Battery Weight:

3.96 lbs (1.79 kg)

Motor Weight:

4.29 lbs (1.94 kg)

Frame Material:

Specialized FACT 11r Carbon Fiber

Frame Sizes:

16.33 in (41.47 cm)17.61 in (44.72 cm)18.79 in (47.72 cm)19.78 in (50.24 cm)20.76 in (52.73 cm)21.94 in (55.72 cm)

Geometry Measurements:

Medium 477.5mm Measurements: 18.75" Seat Tube Length, 21" Reach, 28.5" Stand Over, 32" Minimum Saddle Height, 18" Width, 67" Length

Frame Types:

High-Step

Frame Colors:

Cast Battleship Blue with Black and Raw Carbon Accents

Frame Fork Details:

Rigid Carbon Fiber, Boost 110mm Hub Spacing, 12mm Thru-Axle with Quick Release

Frame Rear Details:

Boost 148mm Hub Spacing, 12mm Thru-Axle with Quick Release

Attachment Points:

Two Bottle Cage Mounts, Rear Rack Mounts, Fender Mounts

Gearing Details:

11 Speed 1x11 Shimano Deore XT Di2 Shadow Plus Derailleur with One-Way Clutch, Shimano XT 11-42 Tooth Cassette

Shifter Details:

Shimano Ultegra Di2 Paddle Shifters on Right (Single Click High and Low)

Cranks:

Praxis, Forged Aluminum Alloy M30, Custom Offset, 165mm to 175mm Length, Aluminum Alloy 46 Tooth Narrow-Wide Chainring, 110 BCD Spider, 181mm Q-Factor

Pedals:

Specialized Dirt

Headset:

Threadless, Cartridge Bearings, Tapered 1-1/ 8" to 1-1/ 2"

Stem:

Specialized Future Shock 2.0 with Smooth Boot Hydraulic Damping (Compression Rebound Dial), 6° Rise, 70mm to 100mm Length, 31.8mm Clamp Diameter

Handlebar:

Specialized Expert Hover Drop Bars, 125mm Drop, 380mm to 440mm Length

Brake Details:

Shimano Ultegra R8070 Hydraulic Disc with 160mm Dual-Layer ICE-Tech Rotors, Shimano Ultegra Dual-Piston Calipers, Shimano Ultegra Four-Finger Hooded Levers with Adjustable Reach

Grips:

Specialized Roubaix S-Wrap (Suede Finish Paired with EVA Vibration Damping Foam), Shimano Rubber Hoods

Saddle:

Body Geometry Power Expert, Hollow Titanium Rails

Seat Post:

S-Works FACT Carbon, 20mm Offset

Seat Post Length:

350 mm

Seat Post Diameter:

27.2 mm

Rims:

ROVAL C38, Carbon Fiber, 622x21c, 24 Hole, Deep Dish, Tubeless Ready

Spokes:

Stainless Steel, 15 Gauge, Black with Nipples

Tire Brand:

Specialized Turbo Pro, 700x28c (28x622)

Wheel Sizes:

29 in (73.66cm)

Tire Details:

85 to 95 PSI, 6.0 to 6.5 BAR, GRIPTON Compound, Blackbelt Puncture Protection

Tube Details:

Presta Valve (48mm)

Accessories:

Long Rubberized Chain Stay Slap Guard, Optional Range Extender Battery Pack ($450, 46.8 Volts, 3.35 Amp Hours, 160 Watt Hours, 2.3lbs 1.04kg) Range Extender Cable ($45) SLY Charging Split Cable ($65), Replacement Charger ($200), Optional Replacement Battery ($700), Optional TCD LCD Display ($90, Battery Percentage, Pedal Cadence, Speed, Distance, Trip Time, Odometer, Calories, Pedal Watts, Time)

Other:

Downtube-Integrated Battery Pack (Removable with Tools, 3.96lb), 1.9lb 54.6 Volt 3.0 Amp Charger, 181mm Q-Factor, Shimano Ultegra Chain with Missing Link, Maximum Motor RPM Support 120, IP67 Rated Against Water and Dust (Main Battery, Range Extender Battery, SL 1.1 Motor, TCU Display)

Motor Brand:

Specialized SL 1.1 (MAHLE GmbH German Manufacturer)

Motor Type:

Mid-Mounted Geared Motor

Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

240 watts

Motor Peak Output:

240 watts

Motor Torque:

35 Newton meters

Battery Brand:

Panasonic, LG, or Samsung, 5,000 mAh 2,170 Cells

Battery Voltage:

48 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

6.9 ah

Battery Watt Hours:

331.2 wh

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-ion

Charge Time:

2.5 hours (7 Hours with Optional Travel Charger)

Estimated Min Range:

35 miles (56 km)

Estimated Max Range:

75 miles (121 km)

Display Type:

Turbo Connect Unit (TCU), Rubberized LED Console on Top Tube (Blue and Green LEDs), Buttons: Power, S Button (Hold S for No Assist)

Readouts:

Battery Charge Level (10 Bars Total, 5 Bars for Range Extender Battery), Assist Level (0-3)

Display Accessories:

Shimano Di1 Charging Port on Right Side Bar End, Mission Control App (Bluetooth, iOS and Android, Can Turn Off LEDs), ANT+ Wireless (For Heart Rate Monitors)

Drive Mode:

Advanced Pedal Assist (Measures Rear Wheel Speed, Pedal Cadence, and Pedal Torque over 1,000 Times per Second, Offers 180% Peak Multiplication Force of Rider Input)

Top Speed:

28 mph (45 kph)

Search Now

Make or Model

Model Year

Body Position

Suggested Use

Frame Type

Drive Mode

Availability

Price Range

$0 (0 €)$18,000 (16,920 €)

Total Weight

0 lbs (0 kg)227 lbs (103 kg)

Top Speed

0 mph (0.0 km/hr)50 mph (80.5 km/hr)

Battery Watt Hrs

0 watt3,000 watt

Frame Size

0 in (0.00 cm)24 in (60.96 cm)

Motor Power

0 Newton meters250 Nm

Number of Gears

030

Trusted Advertisers

To run the forums, host the website, and travel, I charge a universal service fee for my reviews. This in-depth review was sponsored by Specialized Bicycle Components. My goal is to be transparent and unbiased with you, this video and writeup are not meant to be an endorsement of Specialized products. I welcome your corrections, additions, and feedback in the comments below and the Specialized electric bike forums.

Observations:

The new Specialized SL (Super Light) 1.1 motor system is very impressive… not only is it compact and lightweight at just 4.3lbs, it actually provides good torque and satisfying power. It can operate above 120 RPM so you can pedal fast in low gears without losing support, and it functions as a Class 3 motor supporting top speeds of 28mph very capably. It fades out smoothly and does not introduce drag if the bike is pedaled in zero mode or above 28mph (45km/h)
The main battery can be removed with help from your local shop, so the bike can be ridden non-electric at 24.8lbs. With the main battery removed, you can ship the bicycle on airplanes, and since the Range Extenders are just 160 watt hours, most airlines will let you carry them onto the plane. The bike can then run solely off of a range-extender when you arrive at your destination
The Creo SL Expert and Expert EVO both come in six frame sizes, the main differences for the EVO gravel grinder setup are flared handlebars, wider treaded tires, and a seat post dropper… which crates a weight difference of roughly 1.9lbs
The Creo SL Expert models feature Shimano Di2 electronic shifting which is quick, precise, and reliable. You won’t get cable stretch as with mechanical shifters, which means less maintenance. It does not offer multi-shift, so there’s more single clicks, but it requires less hand effort

Pros:

No compromises here, I love that the frame has provisions for bottle cages on the downtube and seat tube, and that there are mounting points for fenders and a rear rack (though you’ll need a different seat tube binder in 27.2mm with threaded eyelets to make this possible
Incredibly stealthy design… this thing genuinely looks like an analog bicycle because the motor casing is so compact and the battery is completely internalized. There are no big LCD displays to distract or cause glare (unless you add the optional TCD LCD for $65), and the LED readouts on the TCU interface can be disabled using the Mission Control app
Specialized has designed their electric bikes to utilize Ant+ wireless for heart rate monitors, they also track your pedal cadence and torque for feedback about calories burned… this is genuine exercise equipment with support for athletic training
Excellent weight distribution, it’s all kept low and centered on the frame. The bike balanced well when lifting from the center (as I weighed it)
Motor activation is fairly smooth and fluid (both powering up and cutting out), it’s a zippy noticeable feeling that beats all of the other lightweight road bike models I’ve tested including 250 watt hub motors and the Fazua mid-drive, it’s similar to a Bosch Gen 4 Speed, just a lot smaller, lighter, and less powerful for steep climbs
Shimano Di2 shifting is extremely quick and precise, it’s going to be easier on the drivetrain because it stays true with less cable stretch happening over time. The system only allows single shifts (up or down) so you’re less likely to mash gears and damage the cassette, chain, and derailleur
There’s no reduction gearing or drag here, when riding completely unassisted or pedaling beyond the supported 28mph (45km/h) top speed, the bikes feel really smooth and natural vs. having a big “wall” cutout feeling. I tested several models without assist and still enjoyed riding
Tight tolerance on the battery pack alignment and mounting systems for the main battery and Range Extender battery, you don’t hear them rattling around at higher speeds, even off-road on the gravel we traversed with the EVO model. Specialized designed a thick rubber band that surrounds the battery to secure it to a Z-Cage bottle holder. It’s a simple and lightweight solution that also blends in nicely
Wider Boost hub spacing provides a sturdier spoke bracing angle for strength and stability at high speeds, both thru-axles are thicker 12mm with threaded quick release for easy transport, and mobile fixes
Extra-long rubber slap guard protects the carbon frame from chain strikes when riding on bumpy terrain, it’s a clean lightweight design that’s noticeably longer than some competing products, it seems very effective
Narrow-wide tooth pattern on the lightweight aluminum alloy chainring reduces drops and provides a tighter connection, so you and the motor achieve maximum power transfer when pedaling
The Shimano Deore XT Di2 derailleur is tucked close to the frame and offers a one-way clutch that reduces chain bounce at higher speeds and on off-road gravel sections, click it up and to the left to engage or click it down and to the right to perform drivetrain maintenance or remove the rear wheel more easily
I prefer the carbon fiber seat post on the Standard Creo SL Expert models to the dropper post that comes with the EVO. It lowers weight and provides more comfort in my experience, and I might consider the addition of a carbon fiber dropper seatpost from Kinekt or the Specialized Cobble Gobbler product
Vast network of dealers makes it easier to see, touch, and get fitted on the bike, excellent two year comprehensive warranty with lifetime frame and wheelset… Specialized is now securely positioned as one of the most innovative and committed ebike makers in North America, I reviewed their first entry way back in 2012 and they’ve only gotten better while pushing the boundaries of speed pedelecs while other companies shied away based on European standards. Thanks for your bravery and commitment Specialized!
It’s awesome that Specialized has allowed you to choose which battery is drawn down first (if you’re using the optional Range Extender pack). You can drain them both in tandem, using the Mission Control app, or prioritize the Range Extender which is then removable for independent charging at work etc. Alternatively, if you choose to run off of both packs simultaneously, you won’t be cycling one battery constantly, which wears through its cycles faster
Charlie from ElectriCityBikes in Washington, DC told me that in addition to a rear rack and fenders, you an have a dealer wire in lights for this bike. It’s a custom job and I cannot verify it, but that sounds great for people who want a “do everything” platform and don’t want to mess with removable lights

Cons:

As lightweight, comfortable, aerodynamic, and cool as the ROVAL carbon fiber wheels are, the deep-dish design can be influenced by crosswinds more easily, which can impact steering or knock the bike over when parked
There’s only one color choice for the Expert and Expert EVO models. You’ll have to go down to the Comp Carbon or Comp models for multiple choices
Be sure that you purchase a left-entry Specialized Z-Cage bottle holder if you buy the Range Extender battery pack, because the cable comes out of the left side of the battery and the security notch will then be aligned with the front of the battery… we had a right-entry Z-Cage on one of the demo bikes and as a result, the battery didn’t seat quite right
The Range Extender battery pack does not come with the cable required to connect to the main frame of the bike when riding, this costs $45 extra. Also, the Y splitter charging cable, that fills the main battery and an optional Range Extender simultaneously, costs $65 extra
The Shimano Di2 electronic shifting system does not run of of the main ebike battery, it must be charged separately an uses a smaller proprietary charger (it plugs in to the end of the right dropper bar), the charger is small and easy to misplace, so be extra careful with it
Unlike the Turbo Levo models, the Creos do not include a remote button pad with the S, +, -, and Walk Mode… so you have to take your hands off the handlebar to switch modes by interacting with the TCU button pad on the top tube, and I don’t think there’s a walk mode here on this ebike. Hold the S button on the TCU to go to no-assist mode
The TCU LED console is pretty decent, but it doesn’t show your current speed, max speed, trip distance, range, or any other interesting stats. So, it’s nice that Specialized has an optional TCD (LCD display) for $90 and a free smartphone app offering more feedback. It would be useful to somehow charge your phone off of the main ebike battery using a USB charging port or wireless charging mount
There’s no shift sensing built into the Specialized motor controllers, and this can lead to increased chain and sprocket wear if you don’t back off a bit on your pedaling while shifting… though it wasn’t a big issue for me during the test rides, the lower powered 35 newton meter torque rating of the motor and multi-sensing controller means you shouldn’t cause as much drivetrain damage from poor shifts
The primary battery pack is not designed to be removed, you’ll need to remove the motor and bottom bracket with help from your shop. If you attempt this yourself, be very careful with the level of bolt and clamp tightness given the carbon fiber frame elements. In short, the non-removable battery means you can’t charge or store separately from the frame. This could be an inconvenience for commuters who cannot bring their bikes inside and don’t have a charging port near the bike rack. In those situations, buy a Range Extender battery which can be charged independently
The charge port on the bike frame is very low, so you have to bend way over, and it’s positioned in the path of the left crank arm which could snag and pop the plug out… ideally it would be located on the drivetrain side of the bike vs. the brake side because the proper way to lean and lay a bike down (that doesn’t have a kickstand) is to do so on the non-drive side
No provisions for a kickstand, this is a minor gripe considering the use case of these lightweight performance road style ebikes… at least they included bottle cage bosses, and rack and fender mounts. Consider an aftermarket crank arm kickstand or downtube kickstand from Topeak
Minor consideration here, I’ve seen Specialized launch really custom hardware before and then change it up within a year or two, dropping support for replacement parts. Their IP67 rated motor, battery, and display all seem solid, I just hope they stock up on replacement bits so people who make the big purchase can keep their bikes on the road as their technology advances forward… they’re just a lot more custom and less modular than Bosch, for example, which supports their motor and battery designs for 10+ years
This ebike does utilize a brand new motor system from an unproven German manufacturer. I was told by a shop owner that he’s been testing the motor for nearly two years (at the time of this review) and really put it through its paces without issue, but it’s still new and somewhat unknown
Take extra care when unplugging the range extender cable from the bike, because there’s a twist lock feature that might be engaged and you could crack the plastic if you don’t check for it. I saw several charge cable ends with chips and cracks in the port plug, though it did not seem to affect their ability to function properly
Minor consideration here, the older Turbo electric bike products from Specialized used a magnetic Rosenberger plug that would easily disconnect if you tripped over the cable, but the new cables are more plastic friction-stick that could pull the bike over. And, be careful with the pedals and cranks once the bike is plugged in, because the charging port is loated very close to the left crank arm

Useful Resources:

January 19, 2020 (4 weeks ago)

February 11, 2020

Specialized Turbo Levo SL Expert Carbon Review

MSRP: $9,025
MODEL YEAR: 2020

One of the most satisfying lightweight full suspension electric mountain bikes available... just 38.8lbs total! Uses a proprietary mid-drive motor and downtube-integrated battery pack that weigh under 8.3lbs combined. Optional range extender bottle-shaped batteries weigh 2.3lbs, are easy to use, and the control system allows for simultaneous or independent drawdown. You can even remove the downtube battery and rely solely on the range extender packs, which may be eligible for commercial air travel. Boost hub spacing for strength, varied front and rear tire for improved handling and traction,…...

Read Review

January 17, 2020

Specialized Turbo Creo SL Comp Carbon EVO Review

MSRP: $6,500
MODEL YEAR: 2020

A lightweight gravel grinder road ebike with flared handlebars, wide treaded tires, a seat post dropper, and unique Future Shock 2.0 steer tube suspension. Available in six frame sizes, sold through a vast network of dealers with professional fitting systems, solid two-year comprehensive warranty. The frame offers provisions for two bottle cages, fenders, and a rear rack, wide range of color options. Boost hub spacing with sturdy 12mm thru-axles provide stiffness and control at higher speeds, sturdier…...

January 15, 2020

Specialized Turbo S-Works Levo SL Review

MSRP: $13,525
MODEL YEAR: 2020

Extremely lightweight and satisfying. The S-WORKS Levo SL is the most premium offering in the Levo SL lineup, featuring more lightweight carbon fiber and titanium hardware (crank arms, derailleur cage plate, handlebar, saddle rails). It comes with an electronic dropper post, gold colored 12-speed SRAM XX1 Eagle drivetrain, and Fox Factory Kashima coated 150mm suspension. Weighs just ~38lbs, uses a proprietary mid-drive motor and downtube-integrated battery pack that weigh under 8.3lbs combined. Optional range extender bottle-shaped batteries weigh 2.3lbs. You can even remove the downtube battery and rely solely on the range extender packs, which may be eligible for commercial air travel. Boost hub spacing for strength, varied front and rear tire for improved handling and traction,…...

May 23, 2019

Specialized Turbo Vado 5.0 Review

MSRP: $5,150
MODEL YEAR: 2020

A high-speed, feature-complete, urban electric bike with unique tubular fenders that have flexible extensions and water routing system to keep your legs, back and face dry, integrated lights and a tight modern rack. Available in 6 sizes including high-step and mid-step frame styles with gender-specific saddle and grips,…...

Specialized Turbo Como 5.0 Review

MSRP: $4,150
MODEL YEAR: 2020

A great top of the line model for Specialized, starts at $4,150 and has relaxed cruiser riding position, hydraulic brakes, front rack, a smooth mid-drive motor, 28mph top speed, and a lot of great little features. Features a custom Brose S ALU mid-drive motor that was tuned just for Specialized, high…...

May 3, 2019

Specialized Turbo Como 4.0 Review

MSRP: $3,350
MODEL YEAR: 2020

A great mid point for Specialized, starts at $3,350 and has relaxed cruiser riding position, hydraulic brakes, a smooth mid-drive motor, 28mph top speed, and a lot of great little features. Features a custom Brose T mid-drive motor that was tuned just for Specialized, 36v 14ah…...

April 26, 2019

Specialized Turbo Kenevo Expert Review

MSRP: $7,550
MODEL YEAR: 2019

A purpose built, strong and sturdy, full suspension, all mountain with some enduro, agile and balanced with it’s 50/50 weight distribution, smooth and powerful mid-drive electric mountain bike. This is an extremely sturdy and overbuilt setup, thanks to points of interest like this…...

Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 Review

MSRP: $3,550
MODEL YEAR: 2020

April 1, 2019

Specialized Turbo Como 3.0 Review

MSRP: $2,950
MODEL YEAR: 2020

A great entry point for Specialized, starts at $2,949 and has relaxed cruiser riding position, hydraulic brakes, a smooth mid-drive motor, and a lot of great little features. Features a custom Brose CB mid-drive motor that was tuned just for Specialized, 36v 12.8ah…...

March 22, 2019

Specialized Turbo Levo Expert Review

MSRP: $8,250
MODEL YEAR: 2019

A lighter, stiffer, even more powerful second generation Turbo Levo platform, custom side-arm rear suspension design improves cable routing, tubeless ready rims and tires, unique hidden SWAT multi-tool under stem cap. 29er wheel size with narrower 2.6" tires reduce friction and improve steering precision, new battery…...

December 27, 2017

Specialized Turbo Levo Comp Fat Review

MSRP: $5,000
MODEL YEAR: 2017

A hardtail, fat tire electric bike with high-volume 4.6" tires, four frame size choices, and an extensive network of dealers in the United States. Sturdy thru-axles provide stiffness and strength, the RockShox Bluto air fork provides comfort with lots…...

November 16, 2017

Specialized Turbo Como 2.0 Low-Entry 650b Review

MSRP: $2,600
MODEL YEAR: 2018

A comfortable, stable, quiet, and efficient electric bike made in two frame sizes and colors, well-suited to neighborhood riding and cruising. Relatively lightweight at ~48 lbs, in part because it comes without lights or fenders, you…...

May 19, 2017

Specialized Turbo Vado 6.0 Review

MSRP: $4,800
MODEL YEAR: 2017

A high-speed, feature-complete, urban electric bike with unique tubular fenders that have flexible extensions and water routing system to keep your legs, back and face dry, integrated lights and a tight modern rack. Available in four sizes including high-step and mid-step frame styles with gender-specific saddle and grips,…...

April 23, 2017

2017 Specialized Turbo Vado 5.0 Review

MSRP: $4,600
MODEL YEAR: 2017

A high-speed urban electric bike with premium tubular fenders, minimalist rack with integrated light, 600 Lumen headlight, reflective stickers on fenders and rims. Available in four frame sizes but only one style (high-step), rigid alloy fork and thru-axles…...

Specialized Turbo Vado 3.0 Review

MSRP: $3,200
MODEL YEAR: 2017

A feature-complete urban electric bike with premium tubular-alloy fenders, integrated rack and lights, rims and tires as well as a suspension fork with 50 mm travel. Available in four frame sizes and two styles (high-step or mid-step), rigid thru-axles improve handling,…...

January 22, 2017

Specialized Turbo Levo FSR Expert 6Fattie Review

MSRP: $7,500
MODEL YEAR: 2016, 2017

One of the stealthiest electric mountain bikes around with integrated battery and motor technology from Brose, available to demo and buy from a wide network of shops. Responsive and zippy without producing a lot of noise, you don't get shift detection here…...

December 2, 2016

Specialized Turbo Levo Hardtail Comp 6Fattie Review

MSRP: $4,000
MODEL YEAR: 2016, 2017

The lowest priced Turbo Levo eMountain bike model from Specialized, it's a hardtail with 10 gears, an air fork and the Brose drive system. You get a slightly smaller battery capacity here but the same beautiful integration into the…...

May 12, 2016

Specialized Turbo Levo FSR Comp 6Fattie Review

MSRP: $5,500
MODEL YEAR: 2016

A full suspension electric mountain bike with 650b plus "six fatty" tires for improved traction, handling and comfort. Seamlessly integrated Brose motor and downtube battery pack, completely purpose built frame available in two…...

September 6, 2015

Specialized Turbo S Review

MSRP: $7,000
MODEL YEAR: 2016

An extremely fast, quiet and stiff electric bike with premium drivetrain and brake components and sleek integrated lights, available in four frame sizes for improved fit. Beautifully integrated battery pack, it matches the frame perfectly and even features a bottle cage…...

August 21, 2015

Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo FSR 6Fattie Review

MSRP: $9,000
MODEL YEAR: 2016

The highest level full suspension e-mountain bike from Specialized, purpose built frame incorporates battery and motor seamlessly. Premium suspension from RockShox Pike RCT3 and Fox Float with Autosag, 11 speed SRAM XX1…...

May 14, 2015

Specialized Turbo Review

MSRP: $3,800
MODEL YEAR: 2015

Completely purpose built with integrated lights, in-frame cabling and downtube mounted battery pack that blends in. Available in four frame sizes for improved fit, optional city kit with fenders and rear…...

April 12, 2015

Specialized Turbo X Review

MSRP: $4,000
MODEL YEAR: 2015, 2016

Stealth appearance with integrated battery pack and near-silent motor helps it blend in like a "normal bike". Excellent weight distribution, responsive hydraulic disc brakes, integrated LED lights, rack and fender mounts, nice…...

June 5, 2014

2014 Specialized Turbo S Review

MSRP: $6,000
MODEL YEAR: 2014, 2015

One of the fastest, quietest and sturdiest road-style electric bikes around, extremely refined. Solid 15mm thru-axles, tapered head tube and alloy frame for efficient power transfer and high…...

December 26, 2012

2013 Specialized Turbo Review

MSRP: $5,900
MODEL YEAR: 2013

One of the fastest and priciest electric bikes around, Top speed 45kph (27.96mph) at $5,900 USD. Clean aesthetic with internally routed cables, integrated lithium ion battery pack and built in LED…...

Harvey Miller

4 weeks ago

I am very curious about the comment that the Shimano GRX brake levers can be fitted on the Creo with the extensions so that the user can apply the brakes from the top of the handlebar. My wife has order the Crea and was told that this adaptation can not be done “due to the hydraulic brakes”. I suspected that the LBS was incorrect but, in searching for the GRX levers I didn’t see any (so far) with those extended levers. Can anyone furnish a link while being absolutely sure that it would be able to be mounted on the Creo?

Charlie at ElectriCityBikes

We have fit the GRX sub brake lever on a Creo handlebar already. Note that these are REALLY grabby and there is no modulator to dial that back. If you are local to us in Washington DC we can do this for you, otherwise you can ask your local dealer to order and install. It will require splicing the brake hose and bleeding the system. Let me know if that works!

Court

Awesome, thanks for the feedback on this Charlie!

Byron Mucke

3 weeks ago

Thanks so much for the review of both Creo models Court. Though expensive, it shows how thorough Specialized is in making sure they are creating a fully integrated bike riding experience. For long commuters (20+ miles one way) this is a dream bike. I did not realize that the Creo went to 28 as opposed to the traditional 20. As a traditional road cyclist, I often exceed the 20 mph limit, but to be able to maintain a steady 25 would make my commute more enjoyable. Hopefully we will get a chance to hear your impressions of how this system compares to the eBikemotion system bikes like the Orbea Gain or Fazua bikes.

Hi Byron! I much prefer it to the Fazua motor. Just got to cover that system on some BULLS models earlier in the year, including the Alpine Hawk EVO here. The SL motor feels more natural, provides more power, goes faster (in this configuration), and produced similar if not less noise. Hope this helps! I’ll keep an eye out for the Orbea Gain ;)

Hi Court. I have read that the Q factor on the Creo is wider than other e-road bikes. Did you feel this was the case when you were riding?

Great question, Byron! This is one of the only questions I did not get feedback on when reviewing the bike. I’ll reach out to them and ask about Q-Factor… My ride experience overall was great, and I did not feel that it was noticeably wider than other products… but I wasn’t going back to back and was coming off of eMTB models before this demo event, so it’s hard for me to say.

Hi Bryon, I reached out to Specialized and was told that the Q-Factor for their SL 1.1 motor ebikes is 181mm. I hope this helps! I believe that a standard bicycle Q-Factor is 175mm, so it would appear that this is indeed slightly wider. My own experience with the bike was that it felt pretty comfortable and normal, but I wasn’t using clip-in style shoes and wasn’t riding super far or hard. I hope this helps!

2 weeks ago

Thank you for the research Court. I saw in a Peloton Facebook post that Trek has the Domane+ HP line using the Bosch motor to reach the 28 mph limit. This is now in addition to their Domane+ LT that uses the Fazua system. The HP line is coming in around 36+ lbs.

Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.