Most lack an included rack, leaving owners to sling on a sweaty, uncomfortable backpack.
Yet the bike also makes tough decisions that undercut its appeal.
The bikes sleek design and step-through frame opens the bike up to more riders.
Lifewire / Matthew S. Smith
You dont need to go a few rounds with Yoga by Adriene to straddle this machine.
The SL in Como SL stands for super light, which is both true and an exaggeration.
Theres a handle below the seatpost, at least.
Lifewire / Matthew S. Smith
The bikes most convenient feature is optional.
The belt drive is smooth and consistent, easily shifting between gears while pedaling (or not).
Standard features include front and rear lights, fenders, and a basket complete with a bungee net.
Lifewire / Matthew S. Smith
These extras are essential.
The extras are easily worth $500.
The Specialized Turbo Como 4.0, which I reviewed in 2019, often felttoo fastfor bike lanes and sidewalks.
Specialized has dialed back the battery, too, but this decision is more difficult to defend.
The batterys capacity is 320 watt-hours, down from 500 to 600 watt-hours in prior models.
A ride using the middle power assist setting across mostly flat terrain ate half the battery in 15 miles.
Charging can be a hassle.
Like a modern iPhone, the Como SL integrates the battery into the frame.
Owners cant remove it for charging or replace an old battery.
I worry the Como SL 5.0s range will become frustrating as the batterys capacity reduces with age.
A Great Bike for Newcomers That Needs Refinement
The Como SL 5.0 makes a great first impression.
However, Im not convinced the ease of riding will translate to ease of ownership.
Integrating the battery into the frame of a 45-pound e-bike is different.
Specialized should bring this design to a bike that has a replaceable battery.
That would tick all the right boxes for new riders.
