@girlpower,
Let us face it: All the three are entry-level e-bikes with inexpensive componentry and low power motors as compared to the weight. Why I did not like about the Trek and Scott was:
- The older Bosch E-Bike system, making those two e-bikes obsolete a bit
- Disappointingly small battery (400 Wh), which is substandard nowadays
- Barebone electronics with minimum information on the display and no connectivity whatsoever
- Quick Release skewer on the hubs, which is inherently unsafe on e-bikes, especially for the fork side (under a pessimistic scenario, the front wheel could separate from the e-bike during the ride).
Compared to those two, the Turbo Como 3.0 really stands out:
- The most current Specialized Mastermind system with a new motor and battery type
- A bigger battery (530 Wh), potentially making up to 32.5% longer rides
- The best electronics out in the market with full Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity.
As you have correctly pointed out, the Como is equipped with the custom stem and handlebars that do not lend themselves to any modification. (That is the biggest flaw of that e-bike). The Como is actually a "cruiser e-bike" forcing you to ride in upright position. While that riding position allows you going for relatively short rides (such as going for coffee or some grocery shopping), the prolonged ride will end with sore (uhm, I apologise) butt, and your spine might get compressed, leading to assorted aches including numb hands.
I assume you are on a limited budget. Trying a Specialized Turbo Vado ST 3.0 could be a better idea, as that model allows for modifications. If you could afford more, Vado 4.0 ST is the sweet point model with a huge battery, stronger motor, and far better componentry.
Bear in mind:
all the e-bikes you have considered are urban creatures, and I would not set off for gravel or light off-road on any of them. The Vado can be used for these purposes.
Now, in case you have a chance for a demo ride at your Specialized LBS, please give the Turbo Vado
SL 4.0 ST a try. Designed as a "fitness e-bike", it is actually a "gravel e-bike with flat handlebars". The motor power is low and the internal battery is small on the VSL (the latter can be expanded with a Range Extender battery, and that combo has more charge than the heavy Trek or Scott -- 480 Wh). What is special about the Vado SL is its low weight (33-37 lbs depending on the model). Vado SL is as lightweight as you can carry it in a single hand! The low weight makes the VSL feel and handle as a regular bicycle, which is an unusually good e-bike experience.
For your information: I'm 62 with multiple ailments, the worst of them being atherosclerosis of legs, so I will never be fit again. Still, I could do a 62 mile ride on a Vado SL (with a Range Extender) on last Saturday. I also own a top-end (older) Vado (a full power e-bike), which I use for fast and long rides, especially on mountain roads. Given the Scott, Trek and Vado/Como 3.0 have 50-65 Nm motors but weigh 55-58 lbs, and Vado SL motor is 35 Nm but it is lightweight, the Vado SL could be a good alternative to the "full power" e-bikes you mentioned. Currently, Vado SL 4.0 ST is pricewise in the league of the other e-bikes of your consideration but it has a better componentry!
I have not heard anything about the potential hills or your planned riding distance. Care to elaborate on that?
