Help deciding on an ebike

Pittliak

New Member
I am looking to buy an electric bike now. I rode one a Giant this weekend. I really like the looks of the specialized Turbo Vado....and am wondering if that’s a good choice. Is there a huge difference between the 4.0 and the 3.0? Any advice from you experts out there would be much appreciated! Thank you
 
There certainly are differences between the Vado 3.0 and 4.0 which mainly deal with the level of the Shimano groupset (3.0 lower but still very functional), battery size, fork, etc. Probably the biggest difference between the 2 bikes is that the 4.0 is a Class 3 Speed Pedelec, where the motor provides assistance up to a top speed of ~28 mph. The 3.0 is a Class 1 where top speed with motor assist is ~20 mph. Class 3 bikes generally have a bit heavier duty components to cope with stresses at higher speeds. They can also tend to use battery capacity faster as wind resistance really hinders forward motion at speeds above 20 mph.

If you feel that you will be using your e-bike in a more casual manner, you would likely be very happy with the 3.0. If getting from point a to point b in the shortest time is what you are looking for, then the 4.0 would be your choice.

Either would be a fine choice for your first e-bike especially if your local Specialized dealer is a good shop. Nice to have the local support and great warranty.
 
There certainly are differences between the Vado 3.0 and 4.0 which mainly deal with the level of the Shimano groupset (3.0 lower but still very functional), battery size, fork, etc. Probably the biggest difference between the 2 bikes is that the 4.0 is a Class 3 Speed Pedelec, where the motor provides assistance up to a top speed of ~28 mph. The 3.0 is a Class 1 where top speed with motor assist is ~20 mph. Class 3 bikes generally have a bit heavier duty components to cope with stresses at higher speeds. They can also tend to use battery capacity faster as wind resistance really hinders forward motion at speeds above 20 mph.

If you feel that you will be using your e-bike in a more casual manner, you would likely be very happy with the 3.0. If getting from point a to point b in the shortest time is what you are looking for, then the 4.0 would be your choice.

Either would be a fine choice for your first e-bike especially if your local Specialized dealer is a good shop. Nice to have the local support and great warranty.
Thank you very much for the input!
 
Also don't discount the Turbo Comos - great bikes as well, just with a more upright (less pressure on your wrists) & relaxed riding position.

Folks on these forums have debated the merits of both, and depending on their riding needs and styles have purchased one or the other (Como or Vado). And have generally been very pleased with their choice.
 
Picked up my Vado today. Amazing bike. And with the double rebate it was a GREAT value!
 
I went with the Vado 4, and bought it yesterday. I can see that there will be some learning curve with the gears and assistance levels. One thing I was concerned about was that I would not get a good workout. I am not worried about that anymore. I went 19 miles in an hour, and there was plenty of work involved when I wanted to. Other times I used the assistance more and enjoyed the rest and the scenery! I couldn’t be more happy!!!
 
I went with the Vado 4, and bought it yesterday. I can see that there will be some learning curve with the gears and assistance levels. One thing I was concerned about was that I would not get a good workout. I am not worried about that anymore. I went 19 miles in an hour, and there was plenty of work involved when I wanted to. Other times I used the assistance more and enjoyed the rest and the scenery! I couldn’t be more happy!!!
Now for the big question: color? ;)
Post a pic!
 
  • Haha
Reactions: TMH
I am really enjoying the bike! So much fun, and great exercise as well. I have already put 300 miles on it in under a couple weeks. How many miles should I go before taking it for a tuneup ....the store said it comes with free tuneups for a year ....
 
I am really enjoying the bike! So much fun, and great exercise as well. I have already put 300 miles on it in under a couple weeks. How many miles should I go before taking it for a tuneup ....the store said it comes with free tuneups for a year ....
What color did you get? Post a pic!
 

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