Specialized S-Works Turbo Creo SL in Review

The recently launched Specialized S-Works Turbo Creo SL is the newest model in the group test. Has the American E-road bike got what it takes to beat the competition?

For an overview of the test fleet head to the main article: The best E-road bike of 2019! – 13 of the most exciting models on test

**Specialized** S-Works Turbo Creo SL | 12.28 kg | € 12,499 | Specialized SL 1.1

With the Specialized Turbo Creo SL, the American brand launched a whole new range just in time for the 2019 Tour de France rest days. The € 12,499 flagship S-Works model comes with a mix of Shimano DURA-ACE R9170 Di2 and XTR Di2 components and Roval CLX 50 carbon wheels. Only the limited edition Creo SL Founder’s Edition comes with an even more exclusive spec, only 250 bikes will be produced. There’s also a more affordable “Expert” and a gravel version of the Creo SL. In addition to the Future Shock 2.0 suspension system in the steerer as featured on the 2020 Specialized Roubaix, the bike also relies on a proprietary electric motor called Specialized SL 1.1. The mid motor has a Q-factor of 181 mm and draws its power from the 320 Wh battery integrated into the down tube, though you can also power it from the optional 160 Wh Range Extender. The clever thing: anyone who wants to fly with their bike can have the internal battery removed at an approved dealer and only take the Range Extender with them to lighten the load. This also makes it easier to deal with airlines who limit the capacity of the battery you can carry. Specialized have placed all their bets on 1x drivetrains for the new SL 1.1 system. The XTR Di2 derailleur from Shimano’s MTB segment is compatible with wide range 11-42 t cassettes, a choice which seems to make a lot of sense despite the larger gear steps. The workmanship, paint finish and innovation on the 12.28 kg (size L) Creo SL are consistently at the highest level.

**Helmet** POC Ventral Air SPIN | **Glasses** POC Aspire | **Jersey** MAAP Pro | **Bibs** MAAP Pro | **Socks** Baumwolle weiss | **Shoes** Dromarti Leather

The Specialized S-Works Turbo Creo SL in detail

Motor/Battery Specialized SL 1.1 320 Wh
Drivetrain Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9170 mit XTR Di2 Schaltwerk 1×11
Gearing 46 T und 11–42 T
Brakes Shimano DURA-ACE R9170 160/160 mm
Stem S-Works Future Stem
Handlebar Specialized S-Works Carbon Hover Drop
Seatpost Specialized S-Works Fact Carbon
Wheels Roval CLX 50 Disc, Carbon, tubeless-ready
Tires S-Works Turbo 28C

**Refill?**
The optional Range Extender battery provides an additional 160 Wh.

**Like a glove**
The Future Shock 2.0 system works perfectly on the Creo SL and scores for its adjustable damping and customisable comfort.

**Optional**
The controls in the top tube guarantee a tidy cockpit. Unfortunately, you have to take your hand off the handlebar to adjust the modes.

**All-natural**
The Specialized SL 1.1 motor is the measure of all things in terms of natural ride feel

Size	S	M	L	XL	XXL
Seat tube	448 mm	478 mm	503 mm	528 mm	558 mm
Top tube	539 mm	548 mm	566 mm	581 mm	605 mm
Head tube	146 mm	164 mm	186 mm	217 mm	250 mm
Head angle	72.0°	72.5°	73.0°	73.0°	73.0°
Seat angle	74.0°	74.0°	73.5°	73.5°	73.0°
Chainstays	426 mm	426 mm	427 mm	427 mm	428 mm
Wheelbase	1,005 mm	1,012 mm	1,020 mm	1,036 mm	1,052 mm
Reach	373 mm	379 mm	384 mm	391 mm	399 mm
Stack	575 mm	592 mm	615 mm	643 mm	675 mm

The Specialized S-Works Turbo Creo SL in review

The linear power curve of all three of the Creo SL’s support modes can be customised via the Mission Control Ride app. Thus, you can either opt for a more relaxed kind of riding or an active attack mode – you won’t ever feel the transition to pure muscle power when you cross the 25 km/h threshold either way. There is no other manufacturer currently able to compete with the natural ride feel of Specialized’s motor. The Creo SL, with its balanced endurance geometry, offers a perfect mix of agility and composure. At the same time, the E-road bike instils you with an enormous sense of confidence, which ensures maximum riding fun for riders of all skill levels. With regards to comfort, the damping of the adjustable Future Shock 2.0 system in the head tube of the Creo SL performs even better than on the Roubaix.

**Tuning tip**
send Shimano a pallet of sake to get them to integrate motor controls into the Di2 paddles

There is no ebike currently on the market that transitions more smoothly beyond the 25 km/h threshold. But apart from all the technology, this bike is just so much fun!

Combined with the vibration damping of the rear triangle and the compliance of the seat post and the damping of the 700x28C S-Works Turbo tires, the Specialized offers a balanced, high level of comfort without feeling vague. Since the Turbo Creo SL Expert EVO gravel bike uses the same frameset, the S-Works Turbo also has enough clearance for up to 700x42C or 650Bx50 tires. Specialized’s proprietary Turbo Connect display can optionally be left at home or replaced by your own GPS computer.

Conclusion

With the most natural feeling electric motor in the test field, the perfectly balanced handling and the high level of comfort, the Creo SL secures our much sought-after Best in Test of our big E-road bike group test. Ultimately, the modulation of the SL 1.1 motor, the intuitive handling and the natural ride feel outweigh the drawbacks of the comparably wide Q-factor and the fact that you have to take your hand off the handlebar to change the support mode. Maillot Jaune and a well-deserved overall victory!

Tops

most natural feeling motor
perfectly balanced handling
high level of comfort and confidence

Flops

181 mm Q-factor
motor controls in the top tube

Riding Characteristics

Agility

cumbersome
playful

Stability

nervous
confident

Handling

demanding
balanced

Fun factor

boring
lively

Motor feeling

digital
natural

Motor power

weak
strong

Value for money

terrible
very good

Technical Data

Specialized
S-Works Turbo Creo SL

Size: S M L Xl XXL
Weight: 12,28 kg
Motor: Specialized SL 1.1
Motor torque: 35 Nm
Battery Capacity: 320 Wh
Price: € 12,499

Indended Use

Smooth tarmac 1

Allroad/Gravel 2

Everyday/Commuting 3

For more info head to: specialized.com