Less weight = more driving pleasure: Specialized Kenevo SL 2022

Test / E-MTBs: Light E-MTBs are all the rage. With the Kenevo SL 2022, Specialized is introducing another model in its "SL" product family. 170 mm spring travel, 29 inch wheels, powerful equipment and a low total weight promise pure driving pleasure! We tested it.

Specialized's "Super Light" product family is growing and growing. After Vado, Como, Creo and Levo, the Americans are entering the Kenevo SL into the race. Lots of suspension travel, 29 inch wheels and a total weight of well under 20 kg promise excellent and fun trail performance. Hello Light EMTB, hello Specialized Kenevo SL.

Specialized Kenevo SL 2022: In a nutshell

• Frame material: Carbon
• Suspension travel: 170 mm
• wheel size: 29 inch
• Engine: Specialized SL 1.1
• Battery pack: 320 Wh not removable, optional range extender (+160 Wh)
• Display: Mastermind TCU
• Sizes: S2-S5
• Price: away. 9.499 euros

Specialized Kenevo SL: New frame with geometry adjustment

At first glance, the frame of the Specialized Kenevo SL can hardly be distinguished from the non-motorized enduro. Straight tube shapes, a tidy appearance and the well-known "six-strut design" characterize the look.

When it comes to sizes, Specialized has chosen the well-known “S-Sizing” method. Put simply, this means that the wheels are no longer primarily defined by the length of the seat tube, but rather by the length of the main frame. Or to put it another way: Small riders with a preference for long bikes can confidently reach for larger frame sizes (without being limited by the seat tube). With S2 to S5 there are four frame sizes to choose from.

In addition to Specialized-typical features such as bottle holders or a multi-tool in the head tube, the frame also features dual geometry adjustment. The steering angle can be adjusted using an asymmetrical bearing shell supplied: from a steep 64,5 degrees to an ultra-flat 62,5 degrees. The bottom bracket height can also be varied by 6 mm via a flip chip on the chainstay.

The 320 Wh battery known from the Levo SL is hidden in the very slim down tube. This cannot be removed and must therefore be loaded on the bike. For additional range, Specialized offers an optional 160 Wh range extender.

Specialized SL 1.1 motor: Light, harmonious and individually adaptable

As befits a light E-MTB, Specialized relies on the "SL 1.1" mid-motor for the Kenevo SL. The compact dimensions fit elegantly into the overall picture. With a maximum torque of 35 Nm, it is characterized above all by its very natural driving experience.

The one with the levo introduced "Mastermind TCU" display is now also finding its way into the Kenevo SL. Positioned inconspicuously on the top tube, the color display is characterized above all by the customization. Using the in-house "Mission Control" app, the displayed information such as remaining range, energy consumption or time can be configured almost freely.

You can also use "Micro Tune" to fine-tune the support levels in 10% increments if you wish. This should ensure an even more precise adjustment of the support level or performance level, especially in group rides.

Features of the Mastermind TCU: 

• Over-the-air updates
• Charge level in percent
• Fine adjustment of the support level in 10% steps (Micro Tune)
• Personalized display arrangement
• Time of day
• Live Consumption
• heart rate coupling function
• Precise altitude measurement

Specialized Kenevo SL: equipment variants

At launch, the Kenevo SL will be available in two trim levels: Expert and S-Works. The €9.499 Kenevo SL Expert combines a Fox 38 Performance Elite with a Fox Float X2 Performance at the rear. The sophisticated, 13-speed version features a...999 The very expensive S-Works version features Fox Factory components. Both versions rely on 12-speed SRAM Eagle components—the S-Works even uses wireless AXS technology.

Specialized Kenevo SL Expert put to the test

170 mm travel, 29er wheels and an uncompromising geometry - the expectations were high! It's no secret that at Velomotion we're fans of lightweight E-MTBs. 19 kg with such a potent equipment is definitely an announcement!

To make it short: The concept works! The SL 1.1 motor impresses with its natural driving experience. 35 Nm seems rather weak on paper, but in practice it turns out to be absolutely sufficient. Especially since you have to consider that full-fledged fun bikes without a motor were not that much lighter until a few years ago. So bye chairlift and hello Upillflow!

The rear triangle is particularly impressive on downhills. Eager to swallow and controlled, he always conveys security - even when things get a bit more bold. Refreshing: No chain or engine clatter spoils the driving pleasure!

The faster the speed gets, the more comfortable the Kenevo SL feels. length is running! But even winding trails can be mastered with a little effort. The weight distribution and balance are excellent and make the Kenevo SL an absolute fun bike with almost a downhiller attitude!

We are excited to see how the Kenevo SL performs in the endurance test and look forward to more fun trail and bike park adventures!

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