Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 SL

This model hews closely to the classic “hybrid” setup, in which a lightweight road bike frame is outfitted with more comfortable wideset flat handlebars. And at 35 pounds, this is certainly one of the lighter e-bikes CR has tested. That makes it easy to ride unassisted on flat ground and hills, but CR testers found the motor to be woefully underpowered for e-assisted hill climbing. The electric motor was lackluster in general, giving testers the impression that it was really more of a regular bike with a little bit of electric boost added in as an afterthought. Still, this could be a good option for someone who wants mostly to rely on leg power for movement, but needs the extra kick to get through longer rides.

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CR Expert Take

How did it perform in our expert lab testing?

Overall Score

The Overall Score for this model is derived from our expert lab test results.

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Current Range of Tested Electric Bikes

What goes into the Overall Score?

Range

/ 5

Acceleration

/ 5

Control response

/ 5

Braking

/ 5

Hill climb

/ 5

Unassisted hill climb

/ 5

Unassisted cruising

/ 5

Portability

/ 5

About

The Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 SL class 1 electric bike is, overall, a good choice.

Features & Specs

Features

Motor

MidDrive

Trip computer

Headlight

Yes

Battery removable

Quick-release front wheel

Quick-release rear wheel

Seat type

Sport

Brake type

Hydraulic Disc

Specs

Type

Hybrid

Weight (lbs.)

Range (Miles)

Watts

240

Battery capacity

AHrs, 320 WHrs

Tire size

700X38C

Number of gears

Assist levels

Price & Shop

Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 SL

CR Expert Take

Overall Score

What goes into the Overall Score?

About

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