Specialized Turbo Vado SL 5.0 EQ: A Comprehensive Review
Last Updated on August 22, 2024 by Kristina Grant
The Specialized Turbo Vado SL 5.0 EQ is a versatile hybrid electric bike designed for urban commuting and fitness riding. Its combination of road bike and mountain bike features makes it suitable for a variety of terrains and riding styles. Equipped with a powerful electric motor and a comfortable riding position, the Vado SL offers a convenient and enjoyable way to get around.
Key Features and Specifications
- Frame: E5 Aluminum, bottom bracket motor mount, fully integrated downtube battery, internal cable routing, fender and front rack mounts, Smooth Welds Â
- Motor: Specialized SL 1.1, custom lightweight motor, peak 240W/35Nm, 2x your rider amplification (180% assistance), assist up to 28mph
- Battery: Specialized SL1-320, fully integrated, 320Wh
- Range: Up to 115km (71 miles) in Eco mode, with optional Range Extender compatibility for up to 120 miles (200 km)
- Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain for lightweight, precise performance
- Brakes: Tektro HD-R510 hydraulic disc brakes
- Wheels: DT Swiss R500 disc wheels with Nimbus II Sport Reflect 700 tires
- Suspension: Future Shock 1.5 reduces impacts from rough roads and terrain
- Weight: 16.5kg (36 lb, 6 oz)
Riding Experience
The Vado SL is a joy to ride. Its lightweight frame and powerful motor make it easy to accelerate quickly and climb hills effortlessly. The Future Shock suspension system provides a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The bike handles well in traffic and is easy to maneuver around corners.
The Vado SL’s upright riding position is comfortable for long rides, and the ergonomic grips help to reduce hand fatigue. The bike is also equipped with a rear rack and fenders, making it practical for carrying cargo and riding in all weather conditions.
Range and Battery Life
The Vado SL’s 320Wh battery provides a respectable range of up to 115km (71 miles) in Eco mode. However, your actual range will vary depending on factors such as riding conditions, your weight, and the amount of assistance you use.
If you need more range, you can add an optional Range Extender to the bike. This will increase your range by up to 120 miles (200 km).
Design and Aesthetics
The Vado SL has a sleek and modern design. The frame is available in a variety of colors, and the bike comes with a number of accessories, such as a kickstand, lights, and a rear rack.
Price and Value
The Vado SL is a premium e-bike, and its price reflects that. However, the bike offers excellent value for money. It is well-equipped, has a long range, and is comfortable to ride.
Specifications Chart
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Motor | Specialized SL 1.1, custom lightweight motor |
| Battery | Specialized SL1-320, fully integrated, 320Wh |
| Range | Up to 115km (71 miles) in Eco mode |
| Display | Specialized MasterMind TCU |
| Brakes | Tektro HD-R510 hydraulic disc brakes |
| Drivetrain | SRAM GX Eagle, 12-speed |
| Fork | Rigid carbon fork |
| Weight | 16.68kg (36 lb, 6 oz) |
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Powerful motor
- Comfortable ride
- Long range (with optional extender)
- Well-equipped for commuting
- Sleek and modern design
Cons:
- Pricey
- Brakes could be better
- Range may be lower than advertised in hilly terrain or cold weather
Specialized Turbo Vado SL 5.0 EQ vs Trek Allant+ 7
The Specialized Turbo Vado SL 5.0 EQ and the Trek Allant+ 7 are both excellent options for urban commuting and fitness riding. Both bikes offer a similar level of performance, but there are some key differences between them.
Comparison Chart
| Feature | Specialized Turbo Vado SL 5.0 EQ | Trek Allant+ 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Motor | Specialized SL 1.1 | Bosch Performance Line CX |
| Battery | 320Wh | 500Wh |
| Range | Up to 115km (71 miles) in Eco mode | Up to 120km (75 miles) in Eco mode |
| Suspension | Future Shock 1.5 | Front suspension fork |
| Drivetrain | SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed | Shimano Deore XT 10-speed |
| Brakes | Tektro HD-R510 hydraulic disc brakes | Shimano MT420 hydraulic disc brakes |
| Weight | 16.5kg (36 lb, 6 oz) | 20.8kg (46 lb) |
| Price | $5,250 | $2,799 |
Key Differences:
- Battery: The Allant+ 7 has a larger battery than the Vado SL, which gives it a slightly longer range.
- Suspension: The Allant+ 7 has a traditional front suspension fork, while the Vado SL has a unique Future Shock suspension system.
- Drivetrain: The Allant+ 7 has a slightly lower-end drivetrain than the Vado SL.
- Weight: The Vado SL is significantly lighter than the Allant+ 7.
- Price: The Allant+ 7 is generally more affordable than the Vado SL.
Overall Buying Summary: Specialized Turbo Vado SL 5.0 EQ
The Specialized Turbo Vado SL 5.0 EQ is a premium electric bike that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and style. Its lightweight frame, powerful motor, and comfortable ride make it a great choice for urban commuters and fitness riders. However, the Vado SL is also one of the more expensive e-bikes on the market.
If you’re looking for a high-quality e-bike that is well-equipped and offers a great riding experience, the Vado SL is a strong contender. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or prefer a more traditional suspension setup, you may want to consider some of the alternatives below:
Alternatives:
- Trek Allant+ 7: The Trek Allant+ 7 offers a similar level of performance to the Vado SL, but at a lower price point. It has a larger battery, a traditional front suspension fork, and a slightly lower-end drivetrain.
- Cannondale Synapse NEO: If you’re looking for an e-bike that is more focused on fitness riding, the Cannondale Synapse NEO is a good option. It has a more aggressive geometry and a lighter weight than the Vado SL.
Ultimately, the best e-bike for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Be sure to test ride a few different models before making a decision.
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Price Disclaimer – Please note that prices may vary depending on your location, retailer, and any ongoing promotions or discounts.
Kristina Grant is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.
Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
