Specialized has unveiled its latest achievement in electric mountain biking, the S-Works Levo R Ultralight, boasting an impressive weight of just 18.8kg (41.5 lbs). This new model redefines what's possible for full-power e-bikes, traditionally known for their heft. By integrating a more compact battery and meticulously selected high-end components, Specialized has managed to shed considerable weight, offering riders a more agile and responsive experience on the trails. However, this premium performance comes with a notable increase in cost and a trade-off in battery range, presenting a choice for enthusiasts prioritizing either maximum power-to-weight ratio or extended adventure.
Historically, full-power electric mountain bikes have been synonymous with significant weight, often exceeding 50 pounds. The original Specialized Levo R challenged this norm with its full-power drive unit in a short-travel, downcountry design. For instance, a previous iteration of the S-Works Levo R, tested by Jeff, delivered 850W of peak power and 111Nm of torque while weighing around 48 pounds (for an S5 size). The introduction of the Ultralight version further pushes these boundaries, reducing the bike's mass by an additional five pounds. This places the S-Works Levo R Ultralight among the lightest full-power e-bikes available, even rivaling some mid-power models.
The substantial weight reduction in the S-Works Levo R Ultralight is primarily attributed to two key factors: a smaller battery and a strategic selection of components. The new model features a 600Wh battery, a downsize from the 840Wh battery found in other Levo R builds, which alone accounts for approximately 2.6 pounds of savings. Beyond the battery, the engineering team focused on optimizing every part of the bike. For instance, the Ultralight shaves over a pound from its wheelset by using Roval Control SL VI carbon rims with carbon spokes, which are also 5mm narrower than the Roval Traverse SL rims on the standard S-Works Levo R. The drivetrain also contributes to the weight savings, opting for the SRAM Eagle XX SL Transmission. Even smaller details, like employing TRICKSTUFF Direttissima brakes instead of SRAM Motives, save about 20 grams, and a BikeYoke Revive 3.0 dropper post replaces the heavier RockShox Reverb AXS, trimming another 200 grams. Lighter tires with a thinner casing further contribute to the overall reduction, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to minimizing weight. This meticulous component choice, while effective, significantly drives up the price, with the Ultralight option costing $12,999.99, reflecting a $1,500 premium for the five-pound weight advantage.
While achieving a full-power e-bike at 41.5 pounds is a remarkable feat, it prompts a discussion about performance compromises. The smaller 600Wh battery, instrumental in weight reduction, will inevitably lead to a decreased range. In a prior review, the 840Wh battery on a standard Levo R offered about 32 miles and 3,000 feet of climbing, primarily using Eco and Trail modes. Riders considering the Ultralight should anticipate a reduced range, although a 3.1 Range Extender is available for an additional $700, which adds approximately 3.5 pounds to the bike, bringing its total weight closer to the standard Levo R S-Works. Furthermore, the Ultralight's lighter components, such as the less aggressive Trail and Ground Control tires with Grid Lite casing, and the XC-intended Roval Control SL wheels, may compromise durability and robustness, especially for aggressive riding. Despite these considerations, the S-Works Levo R Ultralight represents a significant leap forward in e-bike design, offering an unparalleled lightweight full-power experience.