Specialized Turbo Vado 3 internal gear hub: Specialized ushers in the era of automatic gear changes

Editorial assessment

Gear systems and belt drives are all the rage on e-bikes. And rightly so, as they maximise comfort and minimise stress. This concept is a perfect fit for a high-quality everyday e-bike like the Specialized Vado 3. Expanding the range is therefore a logical step. However, the automatic gear system remains exclusive to the exorbitantly expensive top-of-the-range model.

Specialized is expanding the the new Turbo Vado 3 range three new models featuring an integrated gear hub and belt drive. The 6.0, 5.0 and 4.0 models – each bearing the abbreviation IGH (Integrated Gear Hub) – are aimed at everyday commuters and occasional cyclists who prioritise low maintenance and comfort over maximum gear-changing performance.

A belt instead of a chain, a hub instead of a cassette

All three new models share the same drivetrain: a Gates Carbon Drive belt replaces the traditional chain. The system is considered to require less maintenance, be less susceptible to dirt and be quieter than conventional chain drives. There is no need to lubricate the chain at all. The belt drive is combined with an Enviolo hub gear system, which offers a gear ratio range of 380 per cent.

The gear-changing process itself varies depending on the model: on the 6.0 IGH, an automatic function selects the gears – the system responds automatically to riding conditions and speed, thereby ensuring smooth, uninterrupted acceleration from a standstill right up to top speed. The rider can select their preferred cadence individually; the gear system takes care of the rest. On the 5.0 and 4.0 IGH models, however, gear changes are carried out manually using an Enviolo twist grip (Twist Display Pure Pro). In both cases, gear changes are stepless.

Drive and battery

The Specialized 3.1 motor, with 105 Nm of torque and a peak power output of 810 watts, powers all three models. The power source is an 840 Wh battery integrated into the frame, which Specialized claims offers a range of up to 150 kilometres – although this figure naturally depends heavily on the terrain, the assistance level and the rider’s weight.

The wheel set-up is what is known as a ‘mullet’ configuration: a 29-inch wheel at the front and a 27.5-inch wheel at the rear. The tyres fitted are the Specialized Infinity Flat Resistant Touring, 2.3 inches wide – fitted with reflective elements for improved visibility on the road.

Prices and differences in specifications

The three models differ not only in price, but also in key specification details. The 6.0 IGH, priced at 7,899 euros, features a RockShox Psylo suspension fork with 90 millimetres of travel, as well as an ergonomic cockpit with a 2.2-inch colour touchscreen. A digital, keyless lock secures the battery, and a wireless Quad-Lock mobile phone mount is fitted as standard. Apple’s ‘Find My’ feature is also integrated.

The 5.0 internal gear hub model, priced at 5,999 euros, features an SR Suntour suspension fork and replaces the touchscreen with a colour cockpit display that is operated conventionally. The lock is key-operated (Abus), and the Quad-Lock mount is available as an optional extra. Apple’s ‘Find My’ feature is also included here.

The entry-level 4.0 IGH model costs 4,999 euros and shares the same fork and basic specifications as the 5.0, but features a separate display on the stem with an integrated USB-C charging port for a smartphone. There is no dedicated mobile phone holder or wireless charging option.

All models come as standard with a MIK-HD luggage rack (27 kg load capacity), long metal mudguards, an adjustable kickstand, front and rear lights, and a bell. The front light on the 6.0 is by Supernova (up to 800 lumens), whilst those on the 5.0 and 4.0 are by Lezyne (500 lumens).

Availability and colours

The Vado 3 6.0 IGH is available in the colour combinations Gloss Warm Smoke Metallic/Satin Brushed Chrome and Gloss Agave Grey/Black Pearl. The 5.0 IGH comes in Gloss Amethyst Frost Metallic/Bordeaux Metallic and Gloss Metallic Obsidian/Dolomite Metallic. For the 4.0 IGH, you can choose from Gloss Pacific Blue/Dune White, Gloss Nebula Metallic/Silver Dust and Gloss Sandstone Metallic/Warm Smoke Metallic. All models are available in frame sizes S, M, L and XL.