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Specialized Dropped The New Turbo Levo E-mtb, And Boy Does It Look Rowdy


One of the most popular electric mountain bikes on the market just got an update. The new 2022 Specialized Turbo Levo boasts up to a 5 hour range, more suspension and — brace for it — up to a $15,000 price tag.

It’s also sporting a mullet.

Specialized is the latest company to mix wheel sizes on its eMTBs, spec’ing the 2022 Turbo Levo with a 29 inch wheel in the front and 27.5 inch in the rear — a setup affectionately called the mullet. The larger wheel in the front helps the bike plow through crud and bumps while the smaller wheel in the back makes it a little more lively in the turns. The bike comes with 160mm of travel in the front fork (10mm more than the fork fitted to the 2021 Turbo Levo) and 150mm in the rear shock, placing it squarely in the mid-range of suspension sizes for modern enduro bikes and on the high end of the all mountain category.

The Turbo Levo Is Packing A Lot Into Its Motor And Battery:

The bike is equipped with Specialized’s Turbo Full Power 2.2 motor that pumps out 90 Nm of torque and 565 watts of peak power. That power is managed by a carefully-tuned motor controller that Specialized says will keep the power delivery smooth and controlled, closely matching your own natural pedaling and keeping the rear tire under control. The rider can tune, control and monitor the bike’s performance from the toptube-mounted MasterMind Turbo Control Unit, which has a small indicator screen mounted just behind the headset.

The battery is a 700Wh unit that claims up to a 5 hour ride time. A rider can even input their expected duration or distance into the Smart Control app and the bike will automatically ration your support level so you don’t run out of battery part way through a ride. The bike comes stock with a 64.5 degree head angle that can be adjusted between 63 degrees and 65.5.
[Read more…] about Specialized Dropped The New Turbo Levo E-mtb, And Boy Does It Look Rowdy

eBikeNews: Kent Kid’s eBike, Gazelle Family Cargo, Eunorau AWD & Lots More! [VIDEOS]

In this week’s news:

  • Kent’s $498 Children’s eBike
  • Gazelle’s New Family-friendly eCargo Bike
  • Moustache 28mph Pedelec with Dual Battery Option
  • Eunorau Defender S All Wheel Drive Crowdfunds
  • Speed Pedelec Helmets and Tyres
  • Plus All the Latest On eBike Finance, Infrastructure and Industry

New eBikes and eBike Systems

Kent’s $498 Kid’s eBike Now in Walmart

Kent’s kids’ eBike has a BMX feel but also sports front suspension

Kent Bicycles is a long established and well-known name in the bike world and they have just launched their first kid’s e-bike, the Torpedo. 

It has 20″ wheels, is pedal assist only (no throttle) and comes with front suspension and V-brakes with power cutout triggers for when the brakes are activated, ensuring power is cut immediately.  It also has a 125 Wh capacity battery which Kent says should take you  15 miles in the lowest power setting.
[Read more…] about eBikeNews: Kent Kid’s eBike, Gazelle Family Cargo, Eunorau AWD & Lots More! [VIDEOS]

Swytch Electric Bike Conversion Kit Review – 2021

Electric bike conversion kits don’t really get the attention they deserve on many e-bike review sites; the best ones offer an economic and easy way into e-biking and a way to keep riding an existing bike, possibly your old-time favorite, that could do with a lease of life thanks to electric assist. I tested the Swytch Universal eBike conversion kit to see if it really did prove to be as easy and effective as it looked on paper.

Last Updated: March 17, 2021
Review and photos: Richard Peace
Tested By: Richard Peace

Swytch are a UK-based company and since their formation in 2017 has been on a mission; to produce the most versatile, lightweight retrofit electric assist system out there. They have chosen a straightforward-looking system of front hub motor ready-spoked into a rim, handlebar-mounted battery and controller and a pedal sensing disc to provide motor power when the rider starts pedaling (there is also a throttle option, not tested here).

Swytch’s big selling point is the very wide range of bikes that their kit will convert to electric assist; in fact, they boast they can convert any bike to electric assist with the exception of those whose front wheels feature hub brakes or thru-axles, both relatively unusual designs. They even say the kit can be made to fit most recumbents, trikes and tandems though they request you contact [email protected] to discuss exact details of how it will fit your particular bike if it’s a relatively unusual design like these examples.

It also claims to be the world’s smallest and lightest electric assist kit. Whilst there are a few other kits out there that would contest this claim it certainly is one of the lightest electrification options out there.

Our bottom line on the Swytch retrofit system: Should convert the vast majority of ‘unpowered’ bikes out there to electric assist relatively simply and, if you order in advance, should do it at a great price.

[Read more…] about Swytch Electric Bike Conversion Kit Review – 2021

eBike News: Ariel Rider’s Budget Rideal, CSC Fat Tire and eCargo, Boulder’s B-Cycle Go e and Much More [VIDEOS]

In this week’s news:

  • Ariel Rider’s Rideal New $999 Model
  • Motorbike Outfit CSC Expand eBike Range
  • Ruff Tease New eBike
  • Are Auto Firms Really Serious About eBikes?
  • Boulder B-Cycle Share Gets Bosch Powered eBikes
  • Universal Charging Dock Pilot for Paris
  • Solid State Battery Tech Takes a Further Step
  • Chinese Boom and Bust Fear Holds Back Factory Expansion Plus Other Business News

New eBikes & eBike Systems

$999 Ariel Rider Rideal Available for Pre Order – Late May Shipping

Ariel Rider’s Rideal offers plenty of bang for under a thousand bucks with a 750W rear motor and a big capacity 672Wh battery.

Ariel Rider’s new Rideal town and commuting e-bike looks to deliver a lot of e-bike for the money, including 750W rear hub motor with throttle power up to 20mph (class 2), LED lighting, basic derailleur gearing and kickstand (though you will have to pay extra for fenders and a rack).
[Read more…] about eBike News: Ariel Rider’s Budget Rideal, CSC Fat Tire and eCargo, Boulder’s B-Cycle Go e and Much More [VIDEOS]

eBike News: New Lightweights from Trek and Coleen, eBike Bargains, Battery Sustainability & More! [VIDEOS]

In this week’s news:

  • Trek’s New Superlight eMTB
  • Coleen’s Carbon Fiber Framed Speed Pedelec
  • Porsche eCar and eBikes
  • Great Deals on Rad Power’s RadRunner Plus and Chrisson’s eOctant
  • POC’s Batteryless Helmet
  • Mody Camping-Caravan Trailers
  • Alpen’s Tern Compatible Storage Comes to North America
  • Seattle Gets Food Deliveries With the Help of eCargobikes
  • Lime’s Huge New Investment and a New eBike
  • Can the EU Makes Battery Production Sustainable?
  • Insight from Dutch Battery Repair Specialists
  • Eurobike Plans to be Back in Person for 2021

New eBikes and eBike Systems

Trek Launch New Super Light eMTB Range

Trek’s E-Caliber range have short travel suspension at 120mm front and 60mm rear and so look good for cross country style riding and general mtb trail use.

Trek recently launched a superlight range of carbon-framed eMTBs, the 2021 E-Caliber line all powered by the lightweight and removable Fazua assist system. The highest-end version of the pricey e-bike line is claimed to be the lightest full-suspension eMTB on the market. The E-Caliber is based on the non-electric Supercaliber mountain bikes Trek launched towards the end of last year.

The top end E-Caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS is claimed to weigh 15.75 kg 34.72 lbs (12.45 kg / 27.45 lbs without the motor drive) – that may or may not be the lightest emtb in the world but either way it’s mightily impressive. The Fazua mid-drive is not as powerful as the bigger, heavier mid-drives from the likes of Bosch, Shimano and Yamaha and the battery is smaller than average at 250Wh, though Trek claim is will achieve 43.5 mi / 70km range.

More on just who it is for can be seen here directly from Trek:
[Read more…] about eBike News: New Lightweights from Trek and Coleen, eBike Bargains, Battery Sustainability & More! [VIDEOS]

eBike News: Great New Californian Off Road Trails, 8.5kg eBike, Yuba, Montague & More! [VIDEOS]

In this week’s news:

  • New trails plan for Northern California’s Sierra Buttes
  • 8.5kg HPS eBike Claims World’s Lightest Tag
  • Montague’s New Full Size eFolder
  • Yuba Electrify Their Most Popular Cargo Bike
  • New Security and Storage Options from Hiplok
  • Resurrecting UK’s 1930s Cycleways Gets Official Backing
  • Halfords Petition to Legalise eScooters in the UK
  • The Dutch eBike Trend Continues to Boom

Headline News – Major Trail Project in Northern California Gains Pace

SBTS hope their new Trails Master Plan will bring economic benefits to northern California

Great news for lovers of e-bikes and the great outdoors; home to hundreds of miles of maintained multi-use trail, the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) is creating a Trails Master Plan, laying out a world-class multiple-use trail system, providing an economic recreation asset for severely disadvantaged communities across Plumas, Sierra and Lassen counties in the Lost Sierra region of Northern California. All the more impressive is that this is a volunteer-driven vision and one that SBTS say ‘is an example all can emulate, and support by donating time and resources.’

A fuller title is Trails Master Plan (TMP) for Connected Communities. The Lost Sierra Route, which covers 300 miles of breathtaking views in its most preserved form, is accessible for a variety of multi-use activities.  A key component to the Connected Communities Trails Master Plan is the proposed “Lost Sierra Route” which SBTS say ‘traverses 300 miles over breathtaking topography, jagged peaks and high alpine meadows similar to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and the John Muir Trail (JMT). But unlike the PCT and JMT, this new trans-Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range route allows for all dirt trail travelers including hikers, mountain bikers, moto riders, equestrians, trail runners, hunters, fishermen, wildlife, grandmothers and babies in backpacks.’

Small towns located along The Lost Sierra Route will feel the direct economic benefit, as the proposed trail will bring travelers directly into town. Fiscal support for these rural communities and small businesses is the backbone of the TMP, creating a deeper connection with the land and communities surrounding the Lost Sierra region.

Since its founding in 2003, SBTS has built over 100 miles of new trail and maintained 1,200 miles of the existing trail while employing a full-time Professional Trail Crew and contributing over 100,000 hours of volunteer labor.
[Read more…] about eBike News: Great New Californian Off Road Trails, 8.5kg eBike, Yuba, Montague & More! [VIDEOS]

eBikeNews: Pivot’s New Carbon, Revel NY eBike Subscription, Futuristic eScooters and Much More! [VIDEOS]

In this week’s news:

  • Pivot’s First Drop Bar, Carbon eBike
  • Crow Crowdfunds eGravel Bike
  • Revel’s New Subscription Only eBike
  • Dragon Hyperscooter a Step Closer?
  • More eMobility for Scotland
  • Will Michelin Minimise their Carbon Footprint with Windpower?
  • LEVA-EU’s Radical Zero Emission Vehicle Proposals

New eBikes & eBike Systems

New Carbon-framed eGravel Bikes from Pivot and Crow

Pivot’s E-Vault is carbon and high tech…..

The new Pivot Cycles E-Vault  is a carbon-framed dropbar eBike packed with high end tech including hollow core internal molding technology on the frame, Fazua mid-drive motor system that Pivot say ‘disengages completely so you can pedal without resistance at the push of a button’ (and the battery and much of the motor can be quickly removed if you want a ‘regular’ cycling experience) plus there is electric shifting and wireless data connectivity.

It’s described as being at home on city streets, gravel roads, rocky pavements or hardpacked singletrack. To keep it true to Pivot’s style, this new E–Vault is available in one build only: the top build. If you are a fan of high tech fitness riding the E-Vault sounds right up your street as Pivot say ‘Riders can customize their electric shifting experience, power output, integrate all their personal, fitness and bike data in one spot, allowing riders to extract more performance from their bike than ever before.’

The RRP of US$9,999 also marks the bike out but for that you get the world’s first gravel-specific electronically shifting drivetrain, the GRX Di2 with carbon wheels build meaning a claimed weight of circa 29lb / 13kg (with the battery and drive unit removed it is claimed to weigh 22.63lbs / 10.25kg).
[Read more…] about eBikeNews: Pivot’s New Carbon, Revel NY eBike Subscription, Futuristic eScooters and Much More! [VIDEOS]

Evelo Delta X Review – 2021

Summary Review: Evelo Delta X

The Evelo Delta X is a capable, aggressive commuter bike. Evelo has taken a lot of time developing this ebike, which shows in its design and performance. The Delta X provides excellent handling, quick acceleration, smooth shifting, and a powerful mid-drive motor, all of which will add up to an impressive ebike.

With 120N.m of torque from the motor and adjustable top speeds up to 28mph, there isn’t a route that’s too steep or too difficult for the Delta X. If you want a commuter that gets you quickly from A to B with relative comfort and ease, then the Delta X should be on your radar.

Overall, the Evelo Delta X is a unique bike that’s designed for the hardcore commuter. If you encounter hills on your daily route, this bike will have you feeling like a superhero as you effortlessly fly up hills. Coming in around $3700, there is no compromising on components or performance, and we appreciated the experience the Delta X provided us with.

Other ebikes we’ve tested from Evelo have all been high-quality and provided us with a great ride. The team here at Electric Bike Report has waited with much anticipation to ride the Delta X after hearing Evelo describe this bike as “the perfect blend of power, comfort, and performance – the Delta X is our fastest model.”

[Read more…] about Evelo Delta X Review – 2021

eBike News: Federal Tax Credits, Bergamont eFolder, Gocycle Teaser and Much More! [VIDEOS]

In this week’s news:

  • US Bill Giving Tax Credits for eBike Purchase Starts it Way through Congress
  • Frikar – the Latest eBike Car Announces Prices
  • Bergamont’s Funky Looking New eFolder
  • Gocycle Teaser Info on Brand New Model
  • Magic Tour Mode for Bosch Mid-drives Announced by Moustache
  • eBike Workstand
  • eBike Inspiration from How to Buy and eBike Video
  • UK’s Halfords Launch Own Brand Scooter
  • All the Latest EMicromobility and eBike Biz News

Headline News

Financial Federal Incentives Heading eBikers’ Way?

eBike tax Incentive legislation has just begun to make it’s was through Congress but it may be weeks or months before we know the final outcome

People for Bikes have been in touch with the news that the process has begun to introduce Federal legislation that would mean a tax incentive for the purchase of e-bikes by US citizens in the US, saying ‘An Electric Bicycle Tax Credit would relieve 30% of the cost of a new electric bicycle (up to $1,500 credit per bike, for bikes less than $8,000). Stay tuned for more information as we work with our partners in Congress to introduce legislation.’
[Read more…] about eBike News: Federal Tax Credits, Bergamont eFolder, Gocycle Teaser and Much More! [VIDEOS]

Proposed E-BIKE Act Would Save Consumers 30% On eBike Purchases Via Federal Tax Credit

Last Updated: Feb 12, 2021

On February 9th, 2021, Congressman Jimmy Panetta and Congressional Bike Caucus Chairman Earl Blumenaur introduced the Electric Bicycle Incentive Kickstarter for the Environment Act to the United States House of Representatives. The proposed E-BIKE act has been submitted in order to kickstart and encourage increased demand for electric bikes by way of a tax credit for all United States citizens.

Speaking on his proposed bill, Congressman Panetta had this to say:

“E-bikes are not just a fad for a select few, they are a legitimate and practical form of transportation that can help reduce our carbon emissions. My legislation will make it easier for more people from all socio-economic levels to own e-bikes and contribute to cutting our carbon output. By incentivizing the use of electric bicycles to replace car trips through a consumer tax credit, we can not only encourage more Americans to transition to greener modes of transportation, but also help fight the climate crisis.”

What is the E-BIKE act?

The proposed bill, if passed and signed into law, would result in a full refundable tax credit for those who take advantage of the proposed legislation. While the full rules and regulations surrounding the bill are currently being debated by congress, the following restrictions are part of the current bill:

  • The proposed bill would cover 30% of the purchase price of a single eBike once every three years, or twice for joint-return couples who are buying two electric bikes.
  • The new electric bike must cost less than $8,000 dollars.
  • A $1,500 dollar refundable tax credit is the maxed amount that can be awarded per bike. As such, you would receive the same credit for a $5,000 dollar eBike as you would for a $8,000 dollar eBike.
  • This is a fully refundable tax credit. Up to $1,500 dollars can be subtracted from what you owe to the government the year you purchase your eBike. If the total tax credit awarded is more than the taxes you owe, the government will pay you the excess amount.
  • The Internal Revenue Service, or IRS, will be mandated to deliver a report regarding the financial results of the proposed bill after two years. Additional adjustments may be made to the legislation based upon the findings, income tax bracket distribution, and equity of the proposed bill.

[Read more…] about Proposed E-BIKE Act Would Save Consumers 30% On eBike Purchases Via Federal Tax Credit

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