Second time around...not the charm Vado 4.0

[Sefutau2020]

My first Specialized 2022 Vado (red) was an absolutely perfect machine. I rode it seamlessly for 4,000 miles without a single issue. After selling that bike to a relative, I bought a black 2023 Vado 4. Unfortunately, this bike had problems from the start, including charging issues and error messages. It required a trip to the local bike shop (LBS), where they replaced the wiring harness from the MasterMind to the battery. That fixed the issue. A few months later, I noticed a clicking sound I thought was coming from the crank, but it turned out to be the cassette, which was replaced under warranty. Then, a few months after that, the rear rim split down the middle, something I’d never seen before. Last week, while riding my favorite trail, the motor mount screws broke, making it difficult to pedal until I could call an Uber to get home. When I arrived at the LBS, I was informed that both motor mounts had snapped inside the motor, something no one had seen before.

Based on my experience with the first Vado, it seems the second e-bike I purchased had less quality control, possibly due to being assembled by someone less experienced. Despite these issues, I still highly recommend Specialized products and wouldn’t hesitate to buy another Vado 4 or 5. I just wanted to share my experience.

 

[Sefutau2020]

Update. Well, Specialized did replace the motor under warranty, which was great. Yet, after bringing the bike home, and riding for 5 consecutive days, a loud noise (sort of a clicking sound) can be heard after each pedal rotation. I have since returned the ebike, and have asked for a refund or replacement, as this bike has underperformed from really day one. I still love Specialized, but I do believe this is just a lemon.

 

[Deacon Blues]

Bad luck-sometimes you get a bad one.

 

[fifteenkey]

Update. Well, Specialized did replace the motor under warranty, which was great. Yet, after bringing the bike home, and riding for 5 consecutive days, a loud noise (sort of a clicking sound) can be heard after each pedal rotation. I have since returned the ebike, and have asked for a refund or replacement, as this bike has underperformed from really day one. I still love Specialized, but I do believe this is just a lemon.

Did they say what that clicking sound is?

 

[Sefutau2020]

Did they say what that clicking sound is?

Nope...they never did...but a follow-up is coming shortly.

 

[Sefutau2020]

LATEST UPDATE:
After careful consideration, Specialized has agreed to replace my bike with a brand-new one, which speaks to why I continue to choose brands like Specialized and Trek. Both companies consistently uphold their commitment to excellence and stand behind their products. While these e-bikes may come at a premium compared to mail-order brands, the exceptional dealer network and local bike shop (LBS) support from Specialized and Trek are unmatched in my experience. I’m thrilled with the service and will remain a loyal customer.

I’m also enjoying the new reviews on the Vado SL 2. Has anyone compared the 50Nm motor to the older 35Nm model? I’m curious if the difference in power is noticeable.

 

[Allan47.7339]

LATEST UPDATE:
After careful consideration, Specialized has agreed to replace my bike with a brand-new one, which speaks to why I continue to choose brands like Specialized and Trek. Both companies consistently uphold their commitment to excellence and stand behind their products. While these e-bikes may come at a premium compared to mail-order brands, the exceptional dealer network and local bike shop (LBS) support from Specialized and Trek are unmatched in my experience. I’m thrilled with the service and will remain a loyal customer.

I’m also enjoying the new reviews on the Vado SL 2. Has anyone compared the 50Nm motor to the older 35Nm model? I’m curious if the difference in power is noticeable.

As the thread starter (edited) you can update the title to include "resolved". You certainly had an very unusual collection of atypical failures. Yes you can tell the difference between the two motors on a Creo but it is somewhat subtle depending on the mass of the rider.