Review

E-Mountainbike Grouptest: Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 SL 27,5 Review

10.09.2014
by

The Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 SL 27.5 is a full-suspension e-mountainbike based on the race-proven Stereo enduro bikes. The product description already reveals the most important cornerstone facts of the Bavarian-developed machine: 140 mm of travel, 27.5“ wheels, and a Bosch Performance motor should be a great mix for trail fun. Does it add up?

Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 SL 27,5 E-Mountainbike Magazine (1 von 11)

First impressions

“Here I come!“ – the self-confident color scheme of the Cube already sets it apart from the competition. It is the only “Bosch-Bike“ with the battery partially integrated into the down tube. The disadvantage of this is that you have to remove it from the frame to recharge. This is usually fine, but if something does go wrong it is potentially a real pain… and the lock on our test bike was pretty stiff.
In comparison to the previous model which we rode and tested last year (see the report on our website www.ebike-mtb.com), the chainstays which we criticised have been revised and positioned lower so that the chain no longer rubs on them and damages the paint.

Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 SL 27,5 E-Mountainbike Magazine (4 von 11)


The extremely well equipped Cube is available for 3.999 EUR.


Specification

The really well-selected component mix on the 5,299 Euro bike ticks every box. High-end Fox suspension is fitted, comprised of the robust and potent 34 TALAS CTD fork and a Float CTD shock at the rear. The handlebar-adjustable RockShox Reverb Stealth seatpost adds both fun and security, while solid Schwalbe Hans Dampf tires in 2.35“ width ensure sufficient grip in every trail condition. To round it off, Shimano‘s XTR groupset serves up gears and brakes. Any questions?!

Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 SL 27,5 E-Mountainbike Magazine (3 von 11)

Handling

The wide cockpit and the central position create an instant feeling of both comfort and security. Riding off-road this impression is confirmed, as the balanced geometry and outstanding Fox suspension guarantee a smooth ride in steep and fast sections. Small bumps and big hits alike are dealt with flawlessly. The Stereo Hybrid 140 SL 27.5 is always easy to control, as the even weight distribution makes handling predictable; even though the frame has very long 485mm chainstays, it remains agile. Tight, rocky, and rooty infested downhill trails are managed with ease. In the air the Cube feels solid.

The Stereo Hybrid accelerates well and the rear end is pretty neutral even under full power. Even during hard accelerations, the initial rear suspension compression that annoys us on some bikes is not present. Good kinematics? Check!

The BOSCH Power Pack 400 performance battery, which we typically used in the Sport- or Turbo-modes, unfortunately didn‘t last as long as we expected. It was often completely empty after 30-40 km — also the case with other “Bosch-Bikes.“

Well chosen. Cube chose the finest Shimano XTR parts for the drivetrain. The Shadow+ technology effectively prevents the chain from slapping on the frame. As the cassette wears quicker on an E-MTB, a lower spec model is fitted to save your wallet when a replacement is needed.
Well chosen. Cube chose the finest Shimano XTR parts for the drivetrain. The Shadow+ technology effectively prevents the chain from slapping on the frame. As the cassette wears quicker on an E-MTB, a lower spec model is fitted to save your wallet when a replacement is needed.
Too much of a good thing. Lighten up! The Fizik Gobi with carbon rails is supposed to save precious grams. On an e-mountainbike the weight is less important than on traditional MTBs.
Too much of a good thing. Lighten up! The Fizik Gobi with carbon rails is supposed to save precious grams. On an e-mountainbike the weight is less important than on traditional MTBs.
Outstanding. The Cube is fitted with a really high-end spec. You‘ll find Shimano XTR brakes, shifters, carbon Easton bars, and a RockShox Reverb Stealth.
Outstanding. The Cube is fitted with a really high-end spec. You‘ll find Shimano XTR brakes, shifters, carbon Easton bars, and a RockShox Reverb Stealth.
Seriously chunky. The typically massive rocker arm of the Stereo’s four-bar rear suspension drives a Fox Float CTD, yielding 140 mm of absorption- happy rear suspension.
Seriously chunky. The typically massive rocker arm of the Stereo’s four-bar rear suspension drives a Fox Float CTD, yielding 140 mm of absorption-
happy rear suspension.

All in all, the Cube is a convincing package. An honest, top-quality and well-specced component mix built around a balanced frame and the proven Bosch motor make the Stereo Hybrid 140 SL 27.5 a trusty companion. Fun and predictable, its ride characteristics shine and are supported by the high quality Fox suspension. The poppy design also brings some color into your life.

Go back to the article: E-Mountainbike Grouptest: Ten E-Mountainbikes

You can read an in-depth feature about the E-Mountainbike test and our conclusions in the E-Mountainbike issue #001! It’s free & only digital for iPad, Online-Viewer, as well as soon on Android: Issue #001.

Text & Photos Christoph Bayer

Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of E-MOUNTAINBIKE, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality cycling journalism. Click here to learn more.

You may also like