Specialized is expanding its Vado 3 range with three new IGH models. Short for ‘Internal Gear Hub’, this refers to the key feature of the new models: instead of a traditional derailleur, they are fitted with a continuously variable Enviolo hub gear system. On the top-of-the-range model, this system even changes gears fully automatically. As such, the new model range is aimed primarily at cyclists who want to think as little as possible about gear changes in their day-to-day riding and who value a particularly low-maintenance drivetrain.
All three models feature the new Specialized 3.1 mid-drive motor. With up to 105 Nm of torque and a peak power output of 810 watts, it is one of the most powerful drives in its class and is powered by an integrated 840 Wh battery – which can also be removed from the side of the frame, making it easy to take to the charger. Instead of a chain, Specialized has also opted for the Gates Carbon Drive belt on all three models. Combined with the sealed hub gear system, the drivetrain promises quiet operation and significantly less maintenance than traditional derailleur systems.
The top-of-the-range model, the Vado 3 6.0 IGH, goes one step further: here, the continuously variable Enviolo Automatiq hub gear system operates fully automatically, independently adjusting the gear ratio to the desired cadence. This is designed to further enhance riding comfort, particularly in stop-and-go city traffic. The two more affordable models, on the other hand, feature a manually operated Enviolo hub gear system with continuously variable gearing.
Integrated cockpit and full range of features
In terms of features, too, the new IGH models are clearly aimed at the premium segment. The cockpit is fully integrated and, depending on the model, features either a large colour touchscreen or an integrated colour display in the stem. The system is complemented by smartphone connectivity, USB-C or wireless charging options, as well as various anti-theft features, including Apple’s ‘Find My’ integration. However, this sleek integration comes at a price: due to the cockpit design, adjustments to the rider’s individual seating position are limited.
Also included as standard are long mudguards, a suspension fork, a suspension seat post, a high-performance lighting system with a rear brake light, and a MIK HD luggage rack with a load capacity of up to 27 kilograms. In addition, Specialized offers a front luggage rack for up to 10 kilograms, which comes fitted as standard on the Vado 3 6.0 IGH and is available as an option for the other two models.
A comparison of three models
The differences between the three models are relatively minor:
- Specialized Vado 3 6.0 internal gear hub: Automatic Enviolo hub gears, RockShox Psylo suspension fork, dropper seatpost with suspension, large 2.2-inch touchscreen display, standard front luggage rack with a 10 kg load capacity, wireless Quad-Lock charging function, digital keyless anti-theft system and Garmin radar. Price: 7,899 euros. Weight: 30.95 kg.
- Specialized Vado 3 5.0 IGH: Manual Enviolo in-hub gear system with twist grip, SR Suntour suspension fork, dropper seat post with suspension, integrated touchscreen display, optional front luggage rack, optional Quad-Lock cargo mount and high-quality Supernova lights. Price: 5,999 euros. Weight: 31.0 kg.
- Specialized Vado 3 4.0 IGH: Manual Enviolo hub gears, SR Suntour suspension fork, suspension seatpost without drop function, integrated colour display in the stem, USB-C charging port, optional front luggage rack and Lezyne lights. Price: 4,999 euros. Weight: 30.0 kg.
Specialized also makes a style statement. The top-of-the-range model in particular stands out clearly from the more affordable versions with its two-tone paint finishes and, together with the red brake calipers, emphasises its distinctive character. By contrast, the Vado 3 5.0 IGH and 4.0 IGH have a decidedly more classic look, featuring more understated plain or metallic paint finishes and presenting a less eye-catching overall appearance.
With its new IGH models, Specialized is firmly committed to comfort and a riding experience that is as straightforward as possible. The powerful motor, the low-maintenance toothed belt and the continuously variable hub gearbox are likely to suit the character of a modern SUV e-bike perfectly. However, there are also a few points of criticism. As well as weighing around 30 kilograms, the high price tag is particularly striking. Specialized is asking between 4,999 and 7,899 euros for the three variants – a bold price point that is likely to narrow down the target audience accordingly.
