Specialized is ushering in a new era for its Turbo Levo platform, announcing a major Over-the-Air (OTA) software release for the Levo 4 that promises more power, smarter performance and ongoing evolution long after riders roll out of the shop.
Available from today, the update marks the first time Levo riders will be able to unlock significant performance gains from home – no workshop visit required, in a move that mirrors other heavyweights in the e-bike industry such as Bosch and Avinox’s OTA software updates.
“At the heart of Levo 4 is our 3.1 Motor, and with this update it delivers even more SuperNatural, category-defining performance,” said Marco Sonderegger, Leader of Specialized’s Turbo Technology.
“With Over-the-Air updates, every Turbo bike becomes a living, evolving machine. With a simple software update, riders’ bikes get more powerful, more refined, and more personalised.”
Significant Power Gains Across the Range
The headline upgrade is a major boost to peak power output:
- S-Works models receive 18% more peak power, now topping out at 850W, while maintaining 111Nm of torque.
- All other Levo 4 models jump by 22%, delivering up to 810W with torque increased to 105Nm.
What does this mean? Here is a little comparison:
| Motor | Peak power | Torque |
| Specialized 3.1 S-Works | 850W | 111Nm |
| Specialized Levo 4 | 810W | 105Nm |
| Bosch Performance Line CX | 750W | 101Nm |
| Bosch Performance Line SX | 600W | 60Nm |
| Avinox M1 | 1000W | 120Nm |
Of course, the numbers themselves don’t make or break an e-bike – there are other important factors like tunability, modes, the slightly intangible ‘feel’ factor; and other features like battery life and overrun that add to the user experience. That being said – on numbers alone, with this new update Specialized now sits solidly between the ever-reliable Bosch Performance Line CX and the Avinox M1 motors.
Want to know more on how the M1 feels on the trail? We tested the Specialized Turbo Levo 4, and were quite impressed with the intuitive feel of the 3.1 motor.
What else is new in the Update?
Alongside the raw power increase, Specialized is rolling out several refinements aimed at creating a smoother, more intuitive ride experience:
Dynamic MicroTune with 1x You
This is a new mode that precisely matches motor output to the rider’s effort, delivering ultimate control and efficiency on rolling terrain and technical climbs.
Smoother Max Speed Transition
This update means that the 3.1’s assistance fades more naturally as riders approach the legal speed limit, removing that abrupt sensation of motor cut-out when the speed limit is reached.
Sharper Overrun Behaviour
This feature results in a more responsive assist after ceasing pedalling – ideal for clearing roots, ledges, step-ups and awkward obstacles.
Personalized Walk Mode
Riders can now choose between three walk-assist speeds to match terrain and comfort.
All updates are delivered seamlessly through the Specialized app, part of a broader roadmap to ensure Turbo bikes continue improving throughout their lifespan.
How to Update Your Levo 4
The process is simple:
- Turn on the bike and connect it to the Specialized app.
- Select your Levo 4 from the bike list.
- Navigate to Settings → Bike Status.
- Under System, select Update Needed.
- Choose Download and Install.
- Finish with Update Firmware.
The full update takes up to 30 minutes, and riders should keep their phone nearby and avoid switching apps. If the update fails, Levo 4’s dual-memory design ensures the original firmware remains untouched – just restart the process.
Specialized retailers can perform the update for riders who prefer in-store service.
Range and Ride Time
In Specialized’s real-world testing with an 80kg rider in Eco mode:
- S-Works Levo 4: ~4.4 hours
- Other models: ~5 hours
For maximum range, riders can set MicroTune to 10/10, which reduces assist to around ±80W and extends ride time.
Riders who prefer their previous power feel can also match old settings via a comparison table included with the update.
A Turning Point for Turbo Riders
This OTA release is positioned as the first step in an ongoing evolution. Specialized says future updates will continue to enhance performance, add features and refine ride quality – all delivered wirelessly via the app.
For questions regarding the upcoming Levo 4 OTA update, Specialized encourages riders to reach out through their local retailer or Specialized support channels
