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Endurance test updateHow the Specialized Levo SL performs after 4000 kilometres

Laurin Lehner

 · 12.02.2025

Dream team? Tester Laurin Lehner with his endurance test bike Specialized Levo SL in the aluminium version. In his hand, the solution for the bitchy Sram Code brakes.
Photo: Georg Grieshaber

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After eight months of use and over 4000 kilometres, tester Laurin is still satisfied with his minimal-assist bike Specialized Levo SL and wouldn't want any other. However, there are still some shortcomings, especially on the brakes. Here is the long-term test update on the Levo SL in the affordable Comp Alloy version.
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Endurance test bikes don't have it easy. It is the more authentic version of a test. The focus is particularly on the wearing parts. How do the brakes, drivetrain and tyres perform when they have already eaten up a few kilometres - and not just in dry conditions, but also when riding in the rain and mud.

The facts about the Specialized Levo SL Comp Alloy

  • The bike: Specialised Levo SL Comp Alloy
  • Spring travel: 160 / 150 millimetres
  • Weight: 20.2 kilos (without pedals)
  • Size: Size S4
  • Price: 6600 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
  • Motor: Specialised 1.2 SL Custom Rx
  • Reach / Stack: 470 / 635 millimetres
  • Tester data: Laurin Lehner / 1.78 metres / 74 kilos

Permanent test update: Defects and the mudguard issue

Moral question: Is it allowed to deface a sexy bike like the Levo SL with such XXL mudguards? Until now, I was of the opinion that you couldn't. My colleague and XXL fender fan Peter has been proselytising for a long time and always refers to his clean outfit and bike after mud runs together. My Levo SL and I, on the other hand, look like we've had a mud treatment. In November, I got fed up with the splash water, buckled down, lowered my style ego and fitted the fender set from Unleazhed (MR02/M02).

Interim conclusion: not pretty, but functional. I'm happy to have a clean and, above all, dry bum and back when riding in the rain. And my Levo SL also thanks me and is spared the masses of splash water. Apart from that, even after more than 4000 kilometres, the aluminium Levo is still a joy to ride and I wouldn't want any other bike. This is primarily due to the playful, pleasing handling of the bike.

Golden autumn: If you set a low level of e-assistance, you can get up high with the minimal-assist bike.Photo: Laurin LehnerGolden autumn: If you set a low level of e-assistance, you can get up high with the minimal-assist bike.

But there is also something to complain about: the weak Sram Code R is and remains the problem child. The former benchmark brake has not been delivering reliably for several years, often decelerates weakly or wanders in the pressure point. The real saviours were the Trickstuff pads, which felt like they doubled the braking power. During installation, the pistons kept pushing out. As a result, the new pads rubbed against the discs even without pulling the brake lever. At some point, BIKE mechanic Mike managed to solve the problem. Thank you, Mike! By the way: After I got involved with the XXL mudguards, I suddenly felt the need for a helmet cap. Am I now definitely a case for the style police?

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The cheap Sram Code R brakes quickly caused problems and lacked power. The pads from Trickstuff compensate successfully.Photo: Georg GrieshaberThe cheap Sram Code R brakes quickly caused problems and lacked power. The pads from Trickstuff compensate successfully.

Plus

  • Handling
  • Play instinct
  • Optics
  • currently reduced from 6600 to 4600 euros.

Minus

  • Sram code R brakes;
  • Fox 36 Rhythm fork;
  • Sram NX Eagle

The XXL fender question: the video proof

We did the off-road comparison. Here with the expensive Specialized Levo SL. The XXL fenders in the video are similar to those from Unleazhed, but are models from Mudhugger.

The fenders on the Levo SL: Unleazhed MR02/M02 set

  • Set price 75 Euro >> available here
  • Length f/h: 51/76 cm
  • Weight f/h: 115/217 g

Five XXL fenders in the comparison test you can read here.

It is worth reading the instructions for use in order to fit the Unleazhed XXL fenders correctly.Photo: Laurin LehnerIt is worth reading the instructions for use in order to fit the Unleazhed XXL fenders correctly.A lot helps a lot: The Velcro fastenings have so far been bombproof, provided you "bang" them fully, otherwise they wobble on the trail.Photo: Georg GrieshaberA lot helps a lot: The Velcro fastenings have so far been bombproof, provided you "bang" them fully, otherwise they wobble on the trail.An XXL fender at the front.Photo: Georg GrieshaberAn XXL fender at the front.

Click here for past long-term test updates from Specialized Levo SL and tester Laurin

Laurin Lehner

Born in South Baden, Laurin Lehner is, by his own admission, a lousy racer. Maybe that's why he is fascinated by creative, playful biking. What counts for him is not how fast you get from A to B, but what happens in between. Lehner writes reports, interviews scene celebrities and tests products and bikes - preferably those with a lot of suspension travel.

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