Anyone got a Specialized Vado SL 4.0 or 5.0?

[OldPedaller]

Looking for feedback from anyone who has either of these models.

I'm a bit worried whether the comparatively low powered motor would struggle on long steady climbs - say up to a couple of kilometres of mostly climbing with the occasional dip.


I know everyone rides differently, and makes different use of the power etc, but I'd really appreciate any real world feedback on this before I commit to what (for me anyway) is a
pretty hefty chunk of cash.

 

[AndyBike]

What about something like this ? ride with a bit of comfort.
Its only a bit more expensive than the 4.0 but cheaper than the 5.0 and the level of kit is far superiour.

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I hate seeing standard ebike that have mostly if not all bits(components) are cheap, but they are asking top money for it. I know it's not what you were asking about, but I'm a full suss e convert.

 

[soundwave]

2 batts 1500w motor can do 3000w overclocked but you have to get it from china ;(

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[GLJoe]

Looking for feedback from anyone who has either of these models.

I'm a bit worried whether the comparatively low powered motor would struggle on long steady climbs ... I know everyone rides differently, and makes different use of the power etc, but...

I'm not sure you're going to get the information you're looking for. There are so many variables, and there are a number of things you've not told us, such as how steep the hills are, how heavy you are, how fast you are wanting to go up those hills, how much effort you yourself are wanting to put in, etc etc.

I've not ridden one of those, but I know of them. Its a VERY light bike. Its a crank drive with torque sensing. Yes, the motor power is on the low side, but it is going to be able to go up the vast majority of 'long steady climbs' with no problem - unless you are the type of person who basically wants to ghost pedal, not put much effort in at all, and also do this at 25kph.

If you're worried, I think you need to get a test drive!
I know one of my local Specialized shops allows you to rent their models, with this being refundable if you end up purchasing one.
That's what I'd do in your situation.

 

[Harv99]

I own a specialised Creo comp evo, which has the same motor as the Vado SL. I can say unconditionally that the motor will take you easily up long steady climbs. I regularly cycle in Eco mode up these types of inclines and the bike is a joy to ride. It even copes with very steep hills, in Turbo of course, and you have to put in plenty of effort yourself . I am a pensioner, living in Devon so have to cope with plenty of undulating countryside and choose to ride mainly along rural lanes ( hence I bought the gravel version) . Before I bought the bike, I had concerns similar to yours but now I realise that I made a very good decision. I believe the Vado is also a quality bike with top class components and good for 50+ miles battery use before recharge - subject to how one rides! I also favoured this type of e bike for the light weight. 14 to 15 kg compared to 20kg plus on most e bikes is a boon, much easier to handle and to transport. Hope this is of some use……