Specialized Turbo Vado SL 2 Review | Sleek, Savvy & Stealthy

Our second performance test evaluated the Turbo Vado SL 2’s motor/battery efficiency and range. Specialized advertises up to 5 hours of ride time (no distance is provided) on the bike, so we used the process described in the graphic above to put their claim to the test.

To be clear, we were given an advance copy of the bike with the goal of finishing our review before the bike launched. This meant that we had only two days to complete our Range Test. Our Turbo Mode test was relatively simple, with the bike burning through its battery charge in just under 2 hours over the course of 35 miles.

However, we had our work cut out for us in the Eco mode test; our three test riders (myself included) took two-hour shifts on the bike to ride 135.2 miles in almost exactly 11 hours. This result puts the Vado SL 2 in the 100-Mile (or Century) Club, which is an exclusive achievement only reached by 8 other e-bikes we’ve tested.

For the record, two others have also been made by Specialized.

There is one catch. Our test bike came with an optional 160-Wh range extender battery to supplement the bike’s internal 520-watt-hour battery. To provide absolute minimum and maximum range results, we did not use the range extender on the Turbo mode test, but we opted to install it for the Eco mode test.

Based on our results, we calculated that the bike used 5.03 Wh per mile, then determined that the same energy requirements would likely yield somewhere around 103.2 miles of range without the range extender.

Both our estimated and real-world Eco Mode test results are significantly above average for the commuter category, and our test time extended well beyond Specialized’s advertisement. For perspective, the commuter e-bikes we’ve tested with mid-drive motors averaged 68.7 miles in this test, making the Vado 34.5 to 66.5 miles above average.

With the highest level of pedal assist, those similar commuters averaged 33.2 miles, so the Vado SL 2 was relatively average in its Turbo Mode test.

This is another instance where weight was likely a contributing factor, but we think it’s safe to bet that there’s more going on under the hood. As a legacy bike brand with a dedicated R&D department, Specialized custom tunes their motors when developing new e-bikes.

We can’t really know for sure how the internals work, but it’s possible (and maybe probable) that the Vado SL 2 has custom programming or mechanical advantages that help maximize its range.

With the potential to cover over a hundred miles on a single charge—and even more with a range extender—the Vado SL 2 is well suited to its role as a commuter. It’s not limited only to commuting; the bike is also capable of long-distance touring, errand running, and taking adventurous routes on dirt and gravel paths.

If you prefer shorter rides, you likely won’t need to recharge often. When you do, the bike includes a fast 3-amp charger that can refuel the main battery in under 4 hours. When recharged with the range extender, the bike takes 4.5 hours to fuel up.

As shown in the graphic above, the Turbo Vado SL 2 completed our Hill Test successfully. Its 1:45 result and average speed of 10.3 mph were slightly below average when compared with other commuter e-bikes we’ve tested with mid-drive motors. We think it’s fair to consider this result average as it is likely within the margin of error for the test.

Motor output and weight are two of the biggest contributing factors to a bike’s performance in this test.

When comparing the Vado SL 2’s motor to similar models, its output of 50 Newton meters (Nm) of torque is somewhat below average (mid-drives we have tested averaged roughly 94 Nm), but the bike’s lower-than-average weight likely helped to offset the difference. For perspective, the Vado SL 2’s competition was 20 lbs heavier, weighing 61 lbs on average.

Credit where credit is due: the Specialized 1.2 mid-drive’s torque rating is an upgrade over the previous model, which topped out at 35 Nm. The increase in torque made for a notably easier pedaling experience that provided appreciable power without overpowering the ride or removing the natural cycling experience.

The Vado SL 2 went toe-to-toe with the Trek Allant+ 8s that we recently reviewed and had similar Hill Test results. That bike, which features a more powerful motor with 85 Nm of torque and a heavier alloy frame (we weighed it at 57 lbs), finished the test in 1:43. The two seconds of difference is certainly within the margin of error.

We use Strava to record our rides and gather test data. Out of curiosity, our rider for the Hill Test, Justin, temporarily changed the classification of his segment data from an e-bike to a non-electric bike. This changed his ranking from relatively low to within the top 1% of all recorded results, which shows how effective the Vado SL 2 can be for analog riders.

The Vado SL 2 allows those who are not top-level athletes to match cyclists who are.

The bike has enough power to assist in climbing steep hills without taking too much away from the natural cycling experience. Riders using the Vado SL 2 to commute can expect to pedal actively and sweat some but not be soaked through by the time they arrive at the office. Overall, climbing hills should be a manageable, fun, and stress-free experience.

Using the process explained above, we measured the stopping power of the Turbo Vado SL 2’s hydraulic disc brakes. This model, the TRP HD-R803 system, features 2-piston calipers paired with a 180-mm front rotor and a 160-mm rear rotor.

The bike’s average stopping distance with these brakes was 21’ 8”, which is nearly 12” shorter than the current commuter category average of 22’7”.

Most commuters we’ve tested previously were specced with 180-mm rotors on both wheels. It is likely this bike would have performed even better if it had as well. However, it clearly did not need the added stopping power.

As we have discussed, the Turbo Vado SL 2 weighs significantly less than average for a commuter; the other e-bikes used for comparison weighed 24 lbs more on average. This made Specialized’s bike easier to slow and bring to a stop.

In my personal testing, the brakes felt and functioned well. The bike generally remained stable and straight in its direction of travel when braking, and even on loose pea gravel, its tires gripped well to assist in deceleration.

Based on its performance and feel, we give the Vado SL 2 two thumbs up!

Ride quality encompasses many aspects of the Turbo Vado SL 2 and how it feels to ride. We found its overall ride quality to be excellent, but I will break down each element of the ride in detail; this will likely be one of the longest sections of the review.

The bike is offered in 4 frame sizes (S, M, L, and XL). We did not receive information about the recommended height ranges for each, but we think it’s safe to assume that they should not deviate much from the original Turbo Vado. As such, we could expect the height ranges to be 5’1-5’5” (S), 5’5”-5’10” (M), 5’10”-6’1” (L), and 6’1”-6’4” (XL).

We tested the Large frame, which felt sized properly for me (at 5’11”) and our other test riders, who are between 5’10” and 6’1” —as expected based on the original’s sizing.

In terms of contact points, I appreciated the 680-mm handlebars and ergonomic grips. Saddle shape and style are largely up to personal preference; I initially liked the standard saddle but found it firm after roughly an hour on the bike, so I would likely trade it for something different.

I appreciated the fact that pedals were included on a bike of this caliber; many bikes in this price range often require them to be selected and added separately. The included pedals generally worked well, but I would likely still replace them with something with more grip and a larger platform.

Previously, I mentioned the Vado SL 2’s airy, energetic feel and agile handling; this was perhaps the most notable element of its ride aside from the natural yet impactful feeling of its motor and PAS. The bike felt extremely light, maneuverable, able to corner tightly, and generally spirited and fun to ride.

To describe the motor’s feel, it engaged and disengaged almost immediately when pressure was applied to/removed from the pedals. As the motor power increased through its PAS settings, the changes were instantaneous and impactful. Pedaling felt nearly the same as on an analog bike, but I moved faster and covered more distance with each stroke.

I found the bike’s Future Shock 3.2 suspension remarkable as well. This stem-integrated coil suspension is shrouded by a flexible rubber cover, so it’s nearly invisible on the bike. Its 20mm of travel is relatively minimal, but it offers a noticeable reduction in the impact of bumps, especially when combined with the carbon frame and tires.

The Vado SL 2 is equipped with custom Specialized Hemisphere tires with a gravel-appropriate knobby tread pattern. I liked the stability, traction, and cushion they provided, but riders seeking to maximize these aspects can outfit the bike with up to a 56-mm tire. Combined with the suspension, they offer the ability to explore off the beaten path.

One aspect I have not discussed in detail is the Specialized app. Once paired, this extremely useful app allows users to track ride data, tune the motor output, and receive maintenance reminders and over-the-air firmware updates.

It can also be used to set up security features such as a lock and/or alarm, change battery use/charging preferences, and sync ride and heart rate data with Strava, Komoot, and Apple Health.

Specialized worked directly with Apple to integrate Find My™ technology. While the brand’s app did not initially include pairing instructions, a member of the development team helped me pair the bike with my phone. Once paired, I was able to track the Vado SL’s location, flag the bike as lost, and engage the bike’s alarm to help me locate it. The alarm itself was quieter than expected, but overall, the system worked extremely well.

I appreciated all of the app’s features, as well as the bike’s sleek color display. The screen features expected ride data, including the battery percentage, current speed, etc, but also includes a cadence monitor that indicates when shifting is appropriate.

We also appreciated the EQ model’s included MIK-HD cargo rack. This standardized locking rack system is compatible with a wide range of accessories. Specialized offers hard-shell panniers, but the system can be equipped with soft panniers, a variety of storage bags, and even a child seat—something not often seen on a commuter!

All in all, the Turbo Vado SL was a joy to ride and operate. It felt as high-performance as its $6k price might suggest (at least at the time of writing), with sturdy construction, a fun and lightweight feel, plenty of integrated tech, dialed-in geometry, and a natural-feeling ride.

When turning the Turbo Vado SL 2 off, the bike’s display reads “It’s You, Only Faster,” which is about as good a tagline as we could imagine for the bike. This is an e-bike made for those who want the ability to get more from their own effort without losing touch with the feeling of riding an analog bike.

We can confidently say it’s also an e-bike for those seeking a premium experience and a versatile, high-performance ride. In our experience, the Vado SL 2 isn’t simply a commuter; it combines that style’s elements with those of a lightweight urban e-bike, a utility bike, a gravel bike—and again, perhaps a dash of Bruce Wayne’s high-tech dragster.

Our testing proved the Vado SL’s competence in all areas of its performance. The bike demonstrated excellent braking, intuitive power levels and speeds, remarkable range, and effective climbing ability. It also simply felt deliberately put together and precise in its construction, with ride quality befitting its price and design intent.

We found little to critique, with only one major point potential buyers should know. The internal battery can be removed for service by a technician but not by the user for charging, so the entire bike must be brought into an apartment, house, or garage when plugging it in. Fortunately, the bike is light enough to be lifted easily.

Specialized designed the bike to be an effective replacement for a car, and we believe this goal is fulfilled. As an incredibly versatile e-bike, the Turbo Vado SL 2 is likely to be well suited for riders seeking a reliable commuter, an errand runner, a family leisure bike, a gravel adventurer—or some combination of any or all of these functions.

In short, we highly recommend the Specialized Turbo Vado SL 2.

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Specialized Turbo Vado SL 2 down in our comments section.