It does feel a bit like we’re just seeing the same bike in different versions from Specialized these days, and some of the releases make more sense than others. With the new Levo 4 X, it seems that Specialized is going utilitarian, yet quite bougie, especially since this bike only comes in the S-Works spec. The Levo 4 X retails for $13,999.99/€14,499/£12,499, and comes equipped with a decidedly nice build kit and the new load-bearing accessories.
Specialized
Although Specialized says the Levo 4 X isn’t just the Levo 4 with racks, I’ve been trying to find the major differences between the two options, and it sure seems like it’s pretty much the Levo 4 with the racks pre-configured. In fact, the press release FAQ section addresses this with a section saying “Is the Levo 4 X just the Levo 4 with racks?” to which they respond: “No. It is a complete S-Works Levo 4 platform equipped for Electric Overland with a patent-pending rack system designed to carry more while preserving ride quality.” However, looking at the spec sheet, it seems to be just the Levo 4 with racks.
Specialized Bicycles
View the 2 images of this gallery on the
original article
Specialized
For all the info on the actual bike, see the review of the Specialized Levo 4, since it’s pretty much just that bike, save for the new racks, which will be available à la carte for the Levo 4 and Levo R (except the S6 size).
The Racks
The Levo X racks are the main talking point as they mount directly to the bike and offer up a total carry capacity of 22kg (48.5lbs). That load is split between a front and rear rack, designed to distribute the weight in a way that keeps the bike from feeling unwieldy on singletrack or commutes.
- Front rack: $170/€199/£169
- Rear rack: $250/€399/£339
Specialized
View the 2 images of this gallery on the
original article
The rear rack Specialized
View the 2 images of this gallery on the
original article
The front rack retails for $170/€199/£169 and can carry up to 10 kg (22lbs), and mounts via the steer tube on the fork to keep weight off the main frame for better handling. The rear rack retails for $250/€399/£339, can carry up to 12 kg (~26.5 lbs), and mounts via a pretty robust scaffolding array that attaches to the rear rocker linkage.
Specialized
Overall, the new racks seem robust and well thought out, and definitely add another level of functionality to the already extensive family of Levo bikes. This does seem really appealing to those of us hauling tools and water for trail work, or someone looking to pull double duty on the Levo for commutes or weekend bikepacking trips.