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Specialized Turbo Como Review

robb dorr
By
Robb Dorr,
Co-founder
Images from manufacturer's website

90 mi

RANGE

28 mph

TOP SPEED

5 hrs

CHARGE TIME

47.2 lbs

WEIGHT

Mid-drive

MOTOR TYPE

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Specialized Turbo Como Review: Takeaway

The Turbo Como series provides an entry-level e-bike for those looking for a reliable daily ride — whether it’s used for commuting to and from work or cruising around on the weekend.

Each model from the series, including the 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0, share many common features. For those looking for a boost in speed (28 mph compared to the average 20 mph), the 5.0 is worth the higher price tag. It even comes equipped with other popular features, such as a Turbo Full Power 2.2 motor and Shimano Deore XT hydraulic brakes for a more powerful ride.

The Specialized Turbo Como was also designed for e-bike security and comes equipped with a number of features to make this e-bike as theft-proof as possible. This makes it a standout option for those wanting that additional peace of mind — especially when having to store the e-bike in public after commuting to work, for example.

Ideal for...

Ultimate Comfort
Urban Biking
Commuting
Beginner E-bike Riders

Turbo Como Review Overview

The Specialized 2.0E custom-tuned motor with silent operation gives you a quieter ride than many e-bikes. Features such as the suspended seatpost, higher volume tires, and an 80 mm suspension fork also combine to provide a smoother ride, allowing the Turbo Como to live up to its name as one of the most comfortable city bikes.

At 47.2 lbs, the model is fairly light and easy to maneuver, while its step-through frame is available in small, medium, or large, allowing riders to choose a product that suits their height perfectly.

The Turbo Connect LCD Display is another great addition, which comes built-in with the Specialized Mission Control app. This software allows you to tailor the motor’s power output for each assistance level, as well as organize your rides where the battery will automatically manage its power based on how far your ride is.

Reasons to Buy

The Specialized Turbo Como is built with comfort and relaxed riding in mind. The e-bike’s low step-through gives riders an easy mount and dismount, while its more upright riding position is designed to relieve stress on the rider’s hands and upper body.

The Turbo Como promises up to 90 miles of range, which is significantly higher than the average e-bike.

The e-bike’s anti-theft features include a removable and lockable battery, as well as a pin-protected motor that can be disabled through the Mission Control app.

One of the biggest selling points of this e-bike is its range of models and pricing, so it appeals to a wider range of budgets. The feature-packed Turbo Como 3.0 costs $3,250, while the more powerful Turbo Como 5.0 IGH is available for $5,750.

Things to Consider

Despite its numerous security features, the e-bike’s display isn’t removable. Aside from the potential theft risk, it also means the display could be exposed to the elements if the e-bike can’t be stored under cover.

The rear kickstand is effective on hard surfaces, but due to its more pointed edge, it can get caught in soft surfaces, like grass.

Specs & Components

Colors
Sand/black reflective, cast black/silver reflective, red tint/silver reflective, limestone/black reflective
Motor
Specialized 2.0E, 50Nm torque, custom-tuned motor, 250W nominal
Battery
Specialized U2-530 (530Wh)
Charging
Custom charger, 42V4A with Rosenberger plug, 100-240V
Frame
E5 Aluminum with bottom bracket motor mount, fully integrated & lockable downtube battery, internal cable routing, lock and front rack mount
Load Capacity
300 lbs
Tires
Pathfinder Sport Reflect, 650Bx2.3"
Pedals
Specialized Commuter with grip tape & reflectors
Brakes
Shimano BR-MT200, hydraulic disc, 180mm
Display
Turbo Connect Display wired (TCD-W), fixed 2.2" backlit LCD
Accessories/Extras
Adjustable rear-mount kickstand, custom pizza rack alloy bolt-on front rack, custom plastic fenders, integrated headlight and rear light

The specs above come from the manufacturer and may vary from what you’ve experienced. Notice something that needs correcting? Let us know.

Ratings

Power
4/5
4

The Turbo Full Power 2.0E motor and 530Wh battery combine to offer you an effortless riding experience on the Specialized Turbo Como. In fact, you can get up to 20 mph on flat and level terrain and a low cargo weight. We also like the integrated controller as it offers impressive responsiveness at the lightest touch.

The wider tires do take away some of this e-bike’s power thanks to increased friction on the road. While you can tote around roughly 60 pounds in the rear HD rack, this will also greatly decrease your max speed.

Range
5/5
5

Specialized estimates you can get up to 90 miles out of this bike on a single charge, which is extremely impressive compared to other commuter bikes. The Turbo Como can manage this thanks to a derailleur system that helps you choose the most efficient drivetrain when heading up hills or riding over a bumpy patch.

Of course, this max range will go down if you’re on rougher terrain like gravel or carrying heavy cargo on your way to work. Adding more weight to the e-bike can also have a negative effect on range.

Comfort
5/5
5

Comfort is the name of the game when it comes to the Specialized Turbo Como. You’ll experience a smooth ride whether you’re tackling city streets or paved bike trails thanks to the 80mm front suspension fork and higher volume, 650Bx2.3″ tires. These offer up extra cushioning should you decide to hit some gravel or crushed limestone passes.

The upright position helps to reduce stress on your upper body and hands, while the plush suspension seatpost with a gel saddle offers all the padding your rear-end needs.

Durability
3.5/5
3.5

Because the Specialized Turbo Como uses a KMC e9T chain, it’s not going to be as durable as a bike with a belt drive. You’ll need to keep the chain clean and well-oiled so your bike stays in good shape. However, the chain does come with an integrated cover to keep it dry.

There’s also a TR internal gear hub system that helps to keep the bike’s components protected from the elements. Still, to keep this bike as good as new, it’ll require servicing every few thousand miles.

Style
4.5/5
4.5

Like most Specialized bikes, the Turbo Como looks as good as it rides. It has a smooth, sleek body with an integrated battery, so there are no clunky mid-frame projections like you might see on other bikes. Even the mudguards seem to be intuitively designed to blend in with the tires.

Add in the bold color combos — like red and silver or sand and black — and you’ve got an e-bike that others will salivate over.

Our Research Methodology

We personally research and test every e-bike featured in our reviews and guides to provide accurate, data-driven recommendations. Learn how we review.

About Our Editorial Team

robb dorr
Written by Robb Dorr
Co-founder
Robb is a massive cycling enthusiast who has more than 20 years of non-motorized cycling experience. He started eBikes.org to lower the barrier of entry to cycling and reduce the intimidation people can experience when getting into the cycling world.

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