The best e-mountain bike of 2025? Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo 4 On Test

This bike is part of our big group test: The Best E-Mountainbike of 2025 – Featuring the 30 Most Exciting E-MTBs of the Year. Click here for the full intro, key takeaways, and all the bikes we tested.

You’ll see it everywhere: on epic Alpine trails, in bike parks, and even parked outside your favourite bakery in town – right between sports cars and SUVs. The Specialized Levo is arguably one of the best-selling eMTBs of all time. It has claimed victory in our annual e-mountainbike group test more often than any other bike, and has earned a place in the hearts of countless riders. The people at Specialized don’t like to leave things up to chance. For years, the Californian manufacturer has been driving innovation forward with cutting-edge frame designs, smart features and entire motor systems that were developed in house. However, since its last major update in 2021, the Levo has failed to reclaim the top spot in our comparison tests.

Now, the new S-Works Turbo Levo 4 is here to change that – with a new drive unit, a bigger battery, and an even more refined overall concept. At the heart of the new Levo is the brand-new S-Works 3.1 motor, which churns out a whopping 111 Nm of torque, and draws its power from a removable 840 Wh battery. It’s designed not only to increase range, but also to boost everyday usability. The geometry is adjustable, and feels both pleasantly balanced and sporty in the standard setting, with 160/150 mm of travel and a mullet wheel configuration with a smaller 27.5″ wheel at the rear and a big 29” wheel at the front. Tipping the scales at 23.7 kg in size S4, the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo 4 isn’t exactly light, landing right in the middle of our test field in terms of weight. With a jaw-dropping price tag of €14,499, it’s by far the most expensive eMTB in this group test. The big question is: can the Levo 4 crush the competition – and how does it stack up against the rest of the field?

What sets the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo 4 apart from the competition?

The new Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo 4 is far more than just the next step in an evolutionary line – and you can tell that the moment you lay eyes on it. Gone is the asymmetric cross-brace between the top and seat tubes. Instead, Specialized went for a sleek, streamlined design with flowing lines and a stunning ruby red paint finish that literally glows up in the sunlight. One of the most striking features is the oversized down tube. Measuring a whopping 344 mm in circumference, it’s the bulkiest in the entire test field – and 70 mm thicker than its predecessor. While at first glance it looks a little oversized, disrupting the otherwise harmonious silhouette of the bike slightly, there’s a reason behind it: the side-loading battery design, which, in all fairness, is very well executed. In contrast, the motor area has slimmed down significantly. The bulge under the motor of the previous model is finally gone, and replaced by a brand-new, fully integrated S-Works motor, which sits low in the frame and blends in beautifully with the overall aesthetic of the bike. With a massive 111 Nm of torque and 720 watts peak power, the new motor packs a serious punch. However, this powerful performance is reserved exclusively for the top-tier S-Works model – all other models are limited in terms of power. It’s a clever, if somewhat controversial, move that forces riders to dig deep into their pockets if they want full power.

The motor draws its power from a removable 840 Wh battery that slides out of the frame via a side panel. To access it, you have to loosen a single bolt using the SWAT multitool hidden in the headset. Those aiming to reduce overall weight can switch to the optional 600 Wh battery, available as an aftermarket option. Add in the optional 280 Wh range extender– which fits neatly into the bottle cage – and the Levo’s total capacity jumps to an incredible 1,120 Wh. No other bike in this group test comes close, with or without a range extender. Except for the S-Works model, all Levo 4 variants come standard with a 4-amp charger. But if you’re short on time, you can get the optional 12-amp smart charger, which comes standard with the S-Works model and pumps an impressive 7.3 Wh/min into the battery. As a result, a full charge from 0 to 100% takes just 120 minutes, which makes the Levo S-Works the fastest-charging bike in the entire test field. And to help preserve battery life, you can set an 80% charge limit via the Specialized app. Smart move!

The newly launched Specialized app scores points with its intuitive menu layout and a wide range of useful features. In addition to the usual options for adjusting support levels, it also includes Apple Find My integration, ride tracking directly within the app, and a system lock that disables the motor functions, making it harder for potential thieves to steal the bike. The entire motor system is controlled via a wired handlebar remote, which not only allows you to switch between Eco, Trail, and Turbo modes, but also lets you fine-tune the support modes in 10% increments. You have two options to choose from: the classic Micro Tune lets you adjust the power levels manually, while Dynamic Micro Tune takes it a step further. When you pedal really hard – for example, when you sprint to keep up with your mates – the motor responds dynamically and delivers full output, rather than sticking rigidly to the preset support level. Rounding off the overall harmonious package is the MasterMind TCU display, which is elegantly integrated into the top tube and relies on a crystal clear screen. It gives you all your key ride data at a glance and features a clean, user-friendly interface that’s easy to navigate using the remote.

The charging port cover impresses with a premium feel and reliably protects the port from dirt and moisture. A generously sized chainstay protector prevents chain slap on rough trails, while a small rubber flap at the transition between the main frame and swingarm keeps away mud and small rocks. Another clever detail is hidden inside the down tube: the SWAT Bag. For the first time in the Levo’s history, Specialized made use of the space above the battery to integrate a practical storage solution directly into the frame, thus allowing you to carry all your trail essentials – like a tool, a spare inner-tube, or even a snack – directly inside the bike – a very clever detail! As a result, the manufacturer has done away with a traditional tool mount on the frame altogether. Specialized’s engineers also put a lot of thought into the bike’s geometry, with flip chips in the shock mount and chainstays allowing you to fine-tune your ride to suit your preferences and riding style. The flip chips are complemented by adjustable headset cups, which let you adjust the head angle. We spent most the time riding our test bike in the standard setting – with the middle head angle position, low bottom bracket and short chainstays.

For the spec of the S-Works Turbo Levo 4, Specialized rely on the best components currently available on the market . The suspension consists of a top-tier, 160mm FOX 38 Factory fork with GRIP X2 damper, and a brand new FOX FLOAT X Factory GENIE shock controlling 150 mm of travel at the rear. First introduced on the Specialized Stumpjumper 15, and later used on the Turbo Levo SL, the GENIE shock was developed by FOX in close collaboration with Specialized – and our sister magazine ENDURO already tested it for you! Both the fork and shock offer countless adjustment options, and deliver a tremendous performance on the trail. The FOX Transfer Neo Factory dropper post has the same fancy Kashima coating as the suspension and delivers a generous 200 mm of travel, ensuring plenty of freedom of movement on descents. However, the travel remains the same even on the largest frame size, S6 – which simply isn’t enough for taller riders. On top of that, the post on our test bike got stuck occasionally, and we ran into a few minor issues during testing. SRAM Maven Ultimate brakes with 220/200 mm rotors deliver powerful deceleration and excellent modulation. Shifting is taken care of by a wireless SRAM XX Eagle AXS Transmission drivetrain, which relies on a direct-mount rear derailleur and enables butter-smooth shifting even under load. For the wheels, Specialized rely on their in-house Roval Traverse HD carbon wheelset, with a bigger 29” wheel at the front and smaller 27.5” wheel at the rear, both with Specialized Butcher Grid Gravity tires with ultra-soft T9 rubber compound. The only downside? The super-soft compound wears out pretty quickly at the rear. If you want your tires to last longer, consider switching to the slightly harder T7 compound when the first tire change is due.

Tuning Tip: Once the rear tire is worn out, it’s worth upgrading to the more durable T7 rubber compound.

Curious how the Levo 4 stacks up against its predecessor? Check out our First Ride review for a direct comparison.

How did the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo 4 fare in this test?

Riding uphill, the Levo 4 delivers a stellar performance with impressive traction. The central pedalling position gives you tons of control and the confidence to tackle steep, technical climbs with great commitment. Especially on challenging climbs, the bike seems to glue itself to the ground, while even the tiniest weight shift onto the front wheel ensures optimal traction. In direct comparison, the Levo clearly outperforms the AMFLOW PL Pro Carbon in terms of traction. That said, the AMFLOW climbs slightly better overall, requiring less physical effort thanks to the lower system weight. Riders looking to squeeze out every bit of uphill performance from the Levo 4 can put the chainstays into the long setting, which ensures even more stability on the climbs – though at the slight expense of agility on the descents. The Levo also shines on long rides. The powerful yet finely tuned motor keeps you effortlessly riding at the 25 km/h threshold, while the sensitive suspension smooths out even the smallest bumps, ensuring a high level of comfort on long rides.

Thanks to clever features like the SWAT bag, multitool, and fast-charger, the Levo 4 isn’t just back on the trail in no time – it’s also incredibly practical for everyday use.

When you point its nose downhill, the Levo 4 makes you feel at ease from the get go. It’s incredibly intuitive to ride and responds to steering input with great precision while at the same time forgiving even bigger riding mistakes. Whether you’re charging full pelt down the side of the mountain or just cruising smooth trails, the Levo 4 is easy and effortless to ride. It responds willingly to rider input, making it easy to flick through tight corners and pump through berms. Despite its average weight, the Specialized Levo 4 strikes a unique balance between agility and composure that sets it apart from everything else in the group test. You can flick it from corner to corner with the slightest amount of input, spontaneously change your lines, and still count on it to stay planted and composed when things get faster. With 160/150 mm of travel, the suspension eagerly soaks up hits and offers plenty of reserves – yet still delivers enough feedback to pop off natural kickers with great precision. The faster and rougher the trail is, the more the Levo comes into its own. It inspires tons of confidence, tracks straight through rock gardens, and shrugs off chunky sections without breaking a sweat. It delivers a real sense of security, holding its line confidently even through rough, technical rock gardens and carving precisely through the terrain – all while leaving you grinning from ear to ear. Hell yeah! 🤙 No other bike in this test blends such composed handling with this much fun. Hats off!

Whether it’s flow or gnar, the Levo 4 delivers total control, brute power, and maximum fun in every riding situation.

Who should take a closer look at the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo 4?

€14,499 is a serious statement – but in return, you’re getting an eMTB that’s ready for anything, no matter who rides it and where. The Levo 4 climbs efficiently, descends with confidence, and feels at home on just about any terrain. It strikes the perfect balance between beginner-friendly handling and race-ready performance: it’s playful and intuitive to ride whenever you need it, calm and stable when the trail gets wild. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned trail veteran, one thing’s for sure – once you’ve ridden the Levo 4, you’ll step off either with a huge grin… or a financing plan.

Conclusions about the the Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo 4

The new Levo proves that you don’t need to chase superlatives to be the ultimate all-rounder – you just have to find the right balance. It’s heavier than its predecessor, and yet delivers the most balanced handling in the entire test field, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned trail veteran. Its character is a perfect blend of composure and playfulness. Specialized’s new S-Works motor system impresses across the board – from the modular battery setup and fast-charger compatibility to the slick top-tube display and intuitive app integration. Even though the down tube has grown to accommodate the easily removable battery, the system’s overall execution is spot on. Top-notch handling + cleverly engineered features + standout motor system = well-deserved test win!

Tops

• perfect balance between agility and composure
• Outstanding suspension performance and high-end spec
• Powerful, finely-tuned motor
• Modular battery system with fast-charging capability
• Clever extra features

Flops

• Sinfully expensive
• Full motor performance only available on the S-Works model

For more info, visit specialized.com

The test field

For an overview of the test field head to our “Best E-Mountainbike of 2025” comparison test – 30 of the most exciting trail bikes in our 2025 group test

All bikes in test: AMFLOW PL Carbon Pro, Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD, FOCUS JAM² 6.0, GHOST E-RIOT LTD, Haibike HYBE CF 11, MERIDA eONE-SIXTY SL 10K, Orbea WILD M-LTD, Orbea Rise LT M-Team, R RAYMON Tarok Ultra, Rocky Mountain Instinct Powerplay SL, Santa Cruz Vala X0 AXS RSV, SCOTT Patron ST 900 Tuned, Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo 4, Transition Regulator CX XT, UNNO Mith Pro, YT DECOY SN MX CORE 3.

Words: Benedikt Schmidt Photos: Peter Walker