If the new Specialized Kenevo SL looks surprisingly similar to its predecessor, it's no coincidence. Although Specialized has given its light enduro bike a major update, the innovations are mainly on the inside. On the outside, everything remains the same. The proven geometry and the special kinematics, which the Kenevo shares with the Enduro without a motor, have not been touched. This is almost surprising for Specialized, because even though the Enduro is a pioneering bike with its downhill potential, will be in its fifth year in 2024.
Not really a problem. If you are looking for an E-Enduro with a light tailwind and great handling, the Kenevo SL is still the bike for you. The main point of criticism so far: the loud and underpowered motor. And this is exactly where Specialized is now making improvements.
The Specialised Kenevo SL at a glance
- New Specialized 1.2 motor (50 Newton metres, 300 watts)
- 320 Wh battery, permanently integrated in the down tube
- Optional 160 Wh additional battery in the bottle cage
- 170 mm suspension travel (v + h)
- Wheel size: 29 inch
- 4 sizes: S2 - S5
- Three models for 7000, 9000 and 13,500 euros
Quieter and with more power: the new SL 1.2 engine of the Kenevo SL
With the new SL 1.2, the Kenevo SL now has the same drive unit that we have already in the new Levo SL were able to test in detail. With up to 50 Newton metres and 300 watts of peak power according to factory specifications, the new motor noticeably outperforms its predecessor (35 Nm, 240 watts). Our lab test of the Specialized SL 1.2 drive showed that with a real 50 Newton metres and 278 watts at the rear wheel, the SL motor, which had fallen behind somewhat, is now back on a par with TQ's super-light HPR 50 motor.
Almost more importantly, the new Specialized drive unit has also improved significantly in terms of noise. The Specialized SL 1.2 is not quite as quiet as the class leader TQ, but compared to the unpleasantly high and loud whirring of its predecessor, the noise has become significantly quieter and also more pleasant thanks to the lower frequency. What has remained is efficiency and a good ride feel, as well as a very low weight. The successful display and intuitive app have of course been retained - which have always been strengths of Specialized drives.
Unchanged: Geometry, chassis, kinematics
The frame of the Kenevo SL remains the same as before, so nothing has changed in terms of looks, geometry or suspension. With 170 millimetres of front and rear suspension travel and a steering angle of 63.5 degrees, the Kenevo SL is fully geared towards downhill riding. The 447 millimetre chainstays are aimed at smoothness rather than maximum playful handling, while the rearward-facing wheel lift curve - familiar not least from the Enduro without motor - is intended to ensure maximum downhill handling. The frame of the Kenevo SL can be extensively customised to individual requirements using various geometry adjustments, such as an angled headset and flip chips.
Now also with Sram Transmission: The models of the new Specialized Kenevo SL
The new Kenevo SL is available from dealers from an RRP of 7000 euros, and there is also an S-Works frameset for 6500 euros. There is still no truly affordable model or aluminium bike. The cheapest offer is the Kenevo SL Comp with Fox performance parts, mechanical GX drivetrain and Code R brakes for € 7000. Above this is the Expert model for € 9000 with a Performance Elite suspension from Fox, new Sram GX transmission (electronic) and Code Silver Stealth brakes. As usual, the S-Works comes with carbon wheels, Fox Factory suspension, Code Ultimate Stealth brakes and other top parts and changes hands for € 13,500. It's hard to believe, but measured against the RRP, this means that all models are even 900 to 1500 euros cheaper than before. The weights are - unsurprisingly - at the same level as the predecessor: in size S4 between 19 and 19.5 kilograms, depending on the equipment.
Adrian Kaether
Editor
