Massive suspension travel, steel spring shock absorbers, progressive geometry: freeriders have become outsiders. But with a motor, the genre is experiencing a revival. The Specialized Turbo Kenevo in the EMTB test.
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A lot helps a lot! A motto that seems rather old-fashioned in bike circles and is reminiscent of insensitive bike park shredders with limited riding technique and all the more suspension travel. But does this also apply in the age of e-motors? Or does the extra power give the blunt credo a new lease of life? Anyone who has experienced how light-footed a successful E-All-Mountain climbs knows that the question of suspension travel needs to be completely reassessed thanks to extra power. We have the Specialised Turbo Kenevo E-Enduro - or is it now an e-freerider? - with 180 millimetres of suspension travel and steel spring shock absorbers. To find out, we chased the American e-MTB over the trails in the popular enduro area around Latsch in the Vinschgau Valley.
Photo: Wolfgang Watzke The Kenevo from Specialized shines in sleek black. Slim battery integration, minimalist control unit: visually, the bike comes surprisingly close to a non-motorised colleague.
Striking details on the Specialised Kenevo
Photo: Wolfgang Watzke The Expert version is the only Kenevo model that Specialized offers in Germany. Price: 6300 euros.Photo: Wolfgang Watzke Attention to detail: Specialized's speed sensor is located in the chainstay, the magnet is inconspicuous and securely attached to the brake disc, which is a good thing!Photo: Wolfgang Watzke Specialized also demonstrates its innovative drive with the app control of the motor and the integrated tools. There is even a bottle cage in the frame.Photo: Wolfgang Watzke Specialized has completely dispensed with a display, with the control buttons located directly on the handle within easy reach. This creates a simple mountain bike look. Technology fans can use an optional screen or connect their smartphone via an app.Photo: Wolfgang Watzke We were less impressed with the Specialized dropper post. The Wu-Post only offers just under 125 millimetres of travel and also tilts backwards. Pedalling with the saddle half lowered, for example on technical climbs, becomes uncomfortable.Photo: Wolfgang Watzke Read how the Specialized Turbo Kenevo performs in a direct duel against the Fantic XF1 Integra with Brose Drive S drive in EMTB 2/18 - now on newsstands.
