Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 on test – The Ultimate E-Gravel Bike Comparison Test 2025

That doesn’t look like an e-gravel bike! Well, that’s because it isn’t. The Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 breaks away from the sporty pack in our comparison test as a fully suspended eSUV – and it does so with authority. Instead of focusing on lightweight agility, this bike prioritizes comfort, everyday practicality, and pure off-road capability. But how well does it deliver? We put it to the test!

An eSUV in an e-gravel comparison test? That’s right! There’s more than one way to break an egg, and if you’re considering looking for a comfortable all-rounder for commuting and adventures, e-gravel bikes are not the only option. The Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 promises versatility at its finest, coming fully equipped with mudguards, a kickstand, a rear rack, and a high-beam lighting system. On top of that, it boasts 130 mm of front and 120 mm of rear suspension travel – that’s safely into mountain bike territory!

Comfortable across all terrains? The Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 claims to handle it all – from gravel roads to wild trails – without letting roots and rocks slow it down. It’s built for weekend adventures, where the horizon is just the beginning, even with loaded panniers.

Think of it as an SUV up against sporty coupés – the Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 delivers solid power with its in-house 2.0 motor, producing 70 Nm of torque, paired with a 710 Wh battery. Staying true to their motto, “Innovate or die”, the American brand have taken battery development into their own hands. The Specialized Turbo Tero X 6.0 already claimed victory in our e-SUV comparison over in our sister magazine and is now representing its class here.

Light on its feet? Weighing in at 27.42 kg (size L), the Tero X 5.0 is the heaviest bike in the test field. No surprise – just looking at it, you can tell that it isn’t exactly designed for quick sprints to work after hitting snooze too many times. But when it comes to comfort and everyday usability, the real question is: do all the extra features really add anything? We put the € 5,000 Tero X to the test, and worked up a serious sweat!

Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 on Test – A Beast in the E-Gravel Lineup

When it comes to the test course, one bike in the lineup sets the pace: the Tero X spreads terror among the other test candidates. It effortlessly tackles technically demanding descents that would be unthinkable for most e-gravel bikes. This is where the wheat is separated from the chaff: the Tero X is our luxury off-roader in this comparison test. The riding position is upright and the saddle is luxurious – riding the Tero X is a bit like driving a G-Wagon, just without the massage. Thanks to its low-slung top tube, getting on and off is incredibly easy. The Tero X is a true comfort oasis, only rivaled in terms of riding position by the Canyon Commuter:ONfly 7 with its flat handlebar.

Its solid spec list includes an aluminium frame, mudguards, rack mounts, a kickstand, and a massive 710 Wh battery, all contributing to the bike’s significant weight. However, the weight has a crucial advantage: it provides composure and stability, positively impacting the impressive trail performance and intuitive handling. This is further enhanced by the mixed wheel sizes: 29” at the front and 27.5” at the rear, a setup typically found on high-performance eMTBs. But it’s not just the equipment that won us over; the riding experience did too. No other bike in the test field provides such a high level of security – classic eMTB. Its well-designed geometry, capable suspension, and 60 mm-wide MTB tires give you the feeling that nothing can stand in your way. And if something does, the powerful SRAM CODE R four-piston brakes provide more than enough stopping power for safety.

Whether you’re a newcomer or an experienced rider, this bike is instantly fun and easy to control. Whether on off-road trails or weaving through crowds in the city, the Tero X handles it all effortlessly. However, there is one drawback: in urban environments, the Tero X feels a little over the top. While the performance is impressive, the aesthetics are the opposite of the sleek minimalism seen on bikes like the Riese & Müller UBN Five Commute. The cluttered cockpit with its tangle of cables also costs it some style points. Specialized claw back some points with the display and connectivity: The centrally mounted MasterMind display provides key ride data, while the accompanying app allows for personalized settings and theft protection. Perfect for a quick stop at a trendy café, where you enjoy a flat white with Annika, your friendly neighbour, who has to keep a close eye on her ROSE BACKROAD Plus EQ. If the bike is moved without permission, an alarm sounds – a smart security feature for urban adventures.

“Guys, I’m hitting the trails today!” That’s not something you typically hear from e-gravel bike owners. Thanks to adjustable air suspension front and rear, combined with 60 mm-wide Specialized Ground Control tires, mountain bike trails become pure fun. Even in the city, cobblestones and curbs feel smooth, as if they weren’t even there – nice! Another highlight is the 200 mm dropper seatpost: not only does it offer more freedom of movement and better bike control off-road, but it’s also incredibly practical for daily riding. At traffic lights, simply lower the saddle, plant your foot firmly on the ground, and sit comfortably while you wait for the lights to change! If you want to learn more about dropper seatposts, check out our latest comparison test in ENDURO Magazine.

With a maximum torque of 70 Nm, the Tero X is well-equipped for most rides. However, in direct comparison to the ROSE BACKROAD Plus EQ with its Shimano EP8 full-power motor (85 Nm) or the Ultima YIN with its ZF CentriX motor (75 Nm), the lower power output is noticeable on climbs. On steep ascents, the 27.42 kg Tero X lacks the punch of its competitors – think of the difference between a rugged off-roader and a lightweight sports car.

For hydration and tool storage, the bike features mounts for bottle cages under the top tube, combined with additional mounting points in the frame triangle, though the latter is only suitable for small tools or a tube kit. When it comes to cargo capacity, however, the Tero X plays in a league of its own. The Tero X is trailer-approved for up to 60 kg, allowing you to tow your dog or children with ease. While we haven’t done a comparison test for child trailers yet, we do have one for pet trailers – check it out to find the best fit for you. Additionally, there’s an optional front rack available for around € 150, further expanding the bike’s carrying capacity. The Tero X is a true workhorse, built for both adventure and daily life. The pre-installed rack mounts support up to 20 kg of luggage – perfect for adventurers hauling their full camping gear up to the summit, without significantly impacting handling. It accommodates all standard panniers, but the Specialized Coolcave bags fit particularly well, ensuring a rock-solid attachment.

After a long day at work, your energy is running low, and your apartment is on the sixth floor – but there’s no power outlet near your bike rack? No problem! The Tero X’s battery is removable, so you can take it inside to charge without carrying the whole bike upstairs. The removal mechanism is cleverly designed: a lock secures the battery, and with a simple press of a lever, it smoothly drops down, without completely falling out. Smart and practical!

Fun, fun, fun! The Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 delivers endless fun, especially up to its 25 km/h assist limit, where it truly shines on off-road trails. Beyond that? Due to its robust build, it becomes sluggish, making you less inclined to pedal any more than necessary. Ultimately, the Tero X offers a distinctly mountain bike feel, setting itself apart from the rest of the test field with comfort and versatility. But is it a classic e-gravel bike? Not even close.

Who is the Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 for?

For those who place less value on low weight and prioritize maximum comfort the Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 is the perfect choice. Whether it’s comfortable commuting, off-road adventures, or relaxed touring with heavy luggage, this bike is built for it. Fast-paced gravel rides beyond 25 km/h? Not its territory. Instead, it shines with comfort and control off-road, especially downhill.

No matter if you’re a beginner, leisure rider, or an adrenaline junkie – this bike has something for everyone. From roads to trails, it can handle it all, and its low-step frame makes it an excellent option for older riders. The sturdy rear rack ensures that groceries or heavy touring gear can be transported effortlessly. A bike for those who want comfort without sacrificing adventure!

Conclusion on the Specialized Tero X 5.0

Specialized’s overall concept works! The Turbo Tero X 5.0 impresses with generous suspension travel, which, combined with the dropper seatpost, ensures comfort and safety across a mix of terrain. However, its extensive equipment and high battery capacity also come with drawbacks – such as pedaling without motor support or carrying it up stairs. That said, the removable battery makes charging more convenient. For commuters who love off-road adventures or simply prioritize comfort, transport options, and a strong sense of security, the Tero X proves to be an ideal companion.

Tops

• Very high level of Comfort
• Stable, confidence-inspiring ride
• High load capacity without compromising handling

Flops

• heavy weight
• Not ideal for riding without assistance
• Cluttered cables at the cockpit

Find more information at specialized.com

The Test Field

You can find an overview of this comparison test here: The Best E-Gravel Bike of 2025 – The most exciting models in a comprehensive comparison test

All bikes in the test: BMC URS AMP LT TWO, Canyon Commuter:ONfly 7, Canyon Grizl:ON Daily, Moustache Dimanche 29.4 EQ, Riese & Müller UBN Five commute, ROSE BACKROAD Plus EQ, Specialized Turbo Creo 2 Expert, Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0, Ultima Mobility eGRAVEL YIN SPORT.

Words: Robin Ulbrich Photos: Jan Richter