Specialized launch all new Vado SL 2 Carbon

“Calling it an ‘e-Bike’ is an Insult” – that’s quite the statement from Specialized as the brand launches its new cycling-as-transport focused Vado SL 2 Carbon.

What’s most encouraging here is the clear, bold, transport-focused messaging. And this theme isn’t just a headline in a press release from the bike brand with a reputation for strong marketing work. This message runs throughout the launch PR and correctly reflects the key features of the bike.

What might be a stretch too far is suggesting that the new bike is “an ultra-premium vehicle”. Given the positive start, we’ll overlook that.

So what of the bike, and the details behind the marketing hype?

Let us start with the visuals.

All the images in the launch pack suggest a saddle height similar to that of the handlebar: A big accessibility statement. Most people choosing to ride a bike for regular transport do not want a bar lower than the saddle. Ride comfort is critical. Everyday use is built on this.

Specialized’s Future Shock naturally ensures a higher front end to the bike, as well as engineering in ride comfort. Another big plus for those using the bike for daily transport.

A range of accessories which support the bike’s positioning as reliable and dependable daily transport are also available at launch. This is critical. Nobody wants to wait for essentials. Bike sales often stop dead in their tracks when racks, mudguards, and panniers are not available. Few buyers are willing to wait. Other options available in the market make essential accessories availability a critical part of the package – for both retailers and customers alike.

Talking practicality, the Specialized Range Extender is also available on the Vado SL 2, offering up an additional 160Wh (main battery 520Wh). The owner will see this additional capacity automatically displayed on the screen.

Interestingly, the brand has chosen to provide three water bottle mounting options, acknowledging that the seat tube location is where the range extender goes (one under the downtube, one on the seat tube, one on the downtube).

Talking batteries we should also talk about motor performance and bike weight: 50Nm of torque, with a bike which, the brand indicates, weighs less than 20Kg.

The carbon fibre frame is also compatible with a dropper post – something which is increasingly being specced on a variety of urban bikes, providing an easier means for users to get on and off.

As with the entire e-bike range, the Specialized app enables users to pair their bikes, which then enables registration and tuning (optimizing for range and performance).

What is System Lock?

The System Lock is a Specialized feature that allows the owner to digitally lock their bike via the Specialized app. If the bike moves while locked, it triggers an optional beeper alarm or lights. Owners can unlock their bikes with the app or by entering their PIN using their remote.

A) Trailer compatible (up to 60Kg)

B) MIK HD compatible rear rack (up to 27Kg load rated)

C) Up to 41Kg of cargo capacity

D) Multiple mounting points

Starting with the end in mind

“Calling it an ‘e-bike’ is an Insult” deserves some wider unpacking (and a little less hyperbole). It is becoming more commonplace to hear e-bikes referred to as two-wheeled EVs: Factually accurate, and more reflective of the intended ‘car replacement’ goals these bikes are designed to enable.

In this sector you have native brands, including the likes of Riese and Müller, Tern, Benno, and Urban Arrow, to name a few. This is where Specialized is looking to compete. It’s why the so heavily transport and utility-focused messaging around the Vado SL 2 Carbon launch.

The Specialized Turbo Porto cargo bike is currently not available in the UK, which does raise interesting questions. Would that bike win new customers in the UK seven months on from its launch?

Will the new messaging and focused product development for the Vado SL 2 Carbon open the door to customers considering Specialized as a transport solutions provider?

In a parallel market, that of the four-wheeled EV, the question used to be “Would I buy this – A.N.Other car brand’s EV – over a Tesla?” yet in the last 18 months that’s become “Would I still buy a Tesla, or is BYD, NIO, XPeng, or Zeekr the more impressive option”.

And it is this which the Specialized brand faces: Native cycling-as-transport competition.

Big questions. Answers unclear. Times like these are certainly interesting. We watch with serious interest.