Not all bikes are the same. The Vado SL 2 is a testament to that. With full length fenders, integrated rear rack and a lightweight approach to a premium ride, the Vado SL 2 checks boxes left and right. Serious commuters and recreational riders alike will enjoy what this bike has to offer.

This Class 3 eBike is ready to tackle year-round rides, short and long.

The Turbo Vado SL 2 will be available in both Aluminum or Carbon and sizes from Small through X-Large.  With a step-through option available in aluminum only.

Compatible with a range extender, the Turbo Vado SL 2 uses the 320 watt Specialized SL 1.2 mid drive paired to a 520Wh integrated battery offering up to 5 hours of range.

Weights start at around 39 pounds and creep their way up to about 44 pounds depending on your selection.

All models sit on 700c wheels with 47c tires. WIth the exception of the $9999 Vado SL 2 LTD and 6.0 Carbon, all models come with a sleak chain guard, full length fenders, rear rack and lights.

One word. SUSPENSION. While it’s easy to look at the Vado SL 2 and identify the fact that it does not have any suspension to be seen. However, beneath the surface lies the Future Shock.

Future Shock 3.1 and 3.2 are available on the Vado SL 2. This is a 20mm suspension damper beneath the stem. With a choice of spring rate to dial in the right feel, the Future Shock takes the edge off of harsh roads. Making the ride more comfortable, allowing you to ride further.

• Future Shock 3.2
• SRAM DB RED Hydraulic Disc Brakes
• SRAM RED AXS 12-speed
• Roval Rapide CL III Wheelset
• 39 lb, 3.3 oz (size medium)

• Future Shock 3.2
• TRP HD-R803 Hydraulic Disc Brakes
• Shimano Deore XT 12-speed
• DT Swiss G540 Wheelset
• 39 lb, 10.6 oz (size medium)

• Future Shock 3.1
• Tektro HD-R510 Hydraulic Disc Brakes
• Shimano Cues 11-Speed
• 44 lb, 5.4 oz (size medium)

• Future Shock 3.1
• Tektro HD-R5285 Hydraulic Disc Brakes
• Shimano Cues 10-Speed
• 44 lb, 11.4 oz (size medium)

Undoubtedly, the Vado SL 2 is the right choice not just for serious commuters but for anyone looking to experience a premium ride. When comfort is equally as valuable as performance. Sleak lines and four models to choose from, there really is a Vado SL 2 for everyone.

While one could argue that the LTD is the best option out there, but to be honest, we think that the 4.0 is equally as great of a machine. Our time was spent on the 4.0 and from experience the additional weight and “sub-tier” component spec never once crossed our minds while riding.

This is why we think the Vado SL 2 embodies all the best features we focus on when it comes to recreational and commuter-oriented riding.

Don’t get me wrong if I had a loose $10k the LTD looks to fit the bill, but when form and function worm their way into the reality of daily rides, all of the models fit the bill.

Seldom do I make a request for the lowest spec model for testing, I tend to be weary of the component selection on some bikes. The Tektro / Shimano Cues combination is fantastic. Even a 10-speed at that. The SL 1.2 drive unit is extremely quiet and packs a punch to help hammer those hills.

Truth be told, there is a lot that the Vado SL 2 brings to the table, but only one thing really stood out as less than inspiring.

As a Class 3 rated bike, holding 26+ mph on a casual ride in Turbo still proves to be a bit of work. Which we admit that we can list of plenty of bikes that seem like they get up to 28mph and are ready to keep ramping up.

That being said, even if the Vado SL 2 were a Class 1 bike it would still rank in our top three. For us, there are for more important details that matter to us than absolutely going 28mph all of the time.

Comfort. Noise. Range. Capability. These are all crucial things we focus on that the Vado SL 2 checks boxes left and right.

When it comes to comfort, it’s a smooth rolling full rigid alloy bike. While 47c tires help, the Future Shock is the most standout feature in terms of comfort. That added 20mm of suspension in the stem to take the edge off while riding is beyond pleasant.

Noise is seldom a complimentary topic when it comes to eBikes. However, in this case, the Vado SL 2 breaks the tradition by being extremely quiet. This drive unit is one of the quietest drive units we’ve tested. Battery, rack, cables, fenders, all are on the short list of components that rattle and drive me crazy. Not here though, not a cable rattle, nor a fender chirp to be heard. No clacking of a battery. Nothing. It’s quite impressive and be prepared for our standards to highlight noise more often.

With a five-hour range from the internal battery, the Vado SL 2 can pleasantly surprise you with going more than a week before charging and also being a great companion on trips with the help of a range extender to really boost your recreational mileage.

All in all, after nearly of year of waiting to find the right time for the Vado SL 2, it has been an absolute blast to race around. While catching ride time between rain storms has been mostly successful, I couldn’t think of many other bikes I’d want to ride on wet days.

Price: $4599 – 9999
Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large
Weight: 30 – 44 lbs
Website: specialized.com