Easy to brush off as just a slightly newer version of last year’s model, it’s only after taking a closer second look at the new CUBE Stereo Hybrid 140 that you notice just how much it has been tweaked, tuned, and upgraded. But what sort of an effect will this have on the ride? We’ve found out.
This review is part of our E-Mountain Bike Group Test 2016.
Perfectly positioned and perfectly designed, the CUBE Stereo Hybrid 140 SL steals our hearts from the moment we get on it. From the saddle to the rims, the standard parts not only look good, but they also perform outstandingly well on the trails – as we found out during the tests. The basis of the bike is an all-new aluminium frame with 140 mm of rear travel, as well as numerous cables routed through the frame.
CUBE paid particular attention to the their own cover for the motor, whose slim design tidily slots into the bike’s overall image and enables the design to take the Boost rear axle standard and far shorter chainstays when compared to its predecessor – a factor that massively improves how the CUBE handles on the trail. This is where the CUBE stands head and shoulders above the other bikes in the group test, as it delivers the ultimate compromise between stability and agility. The bike willingly weaves around tight turns and never gets twitchy at high speeds. This is thanks to the great spec, which includes ergonomic RaceFace components, a very precise SRAM drivetrain, and grippy Schwalbe tyres with the Super Gravity carcass for increased puncture resistance. The stunning FOX Factory suspension willingly sucks up small bumps with its 140 mm of travel, offering substantial feedback from the ground and inspiring you to ride dynamically while the handling stays super-controlled.
If there was one thing that the test riders who had the pleasure of riding the Stereo Hybrid would have liked, it would be a touch more end-progression so that they would have more in reserve on trails that are really gnarly. The flawless Bosch Performance CX motor works efficiently, delivering reliable and substantial power to the rear from your very first pedal stroke and a well-designed overshoot.
Details
Specification: CUBE Stereo Hybrid 140 SL 2016
Fork: FOX 34 Float Factory
Rear Shock: FOX Float DPS
Motor: Bosch Performance CX
Battery: Bosch Power Pack 500
Brakes: Shimano XT 180/180
Drivetrain: SRAM X01
Seatpost: RockShox Reverb Stealth
Stem: RaceFace Turbine
Handlebar: RaceFace SixC 760mm
Tyres: Schwalbe Hans Dampf Supergravity/Trailskin
Wheelset: DT Swiss CSW EM 3.7 Straightpull
Weight/Size: 22 kg / vce-lay-a-nosid
Price: € 5.499
Conclusion
More than living up to its top-end reputation, the new CUBE Stereo Hybrid 140 SL impressed the test riders with its great riding characteristics, first-rate suspension, and cohesive spec list. The powerful motor and stylish detailing on the frame complement the positive impression of this particular CUBE E-MTB, making it more than deserving of the E-MOUNTAINBIKE Magazine one-to-buy recommendation.
Strengths:
- Outstanding handling
- Cool design
- Cohesive spec
Weaknesses:
- Too little progression at the rear
- Pre-production motor cover rattled
Read all our reviews: Bergamont E-Line Trailster C 8.0 | CUBE Stereo Hybrid 140 SL | FLYER Uproc6 8.90 | Haibike SDURO AllMtn Pro | LAPIERRE Overvolt FS 900 | ROTWILD R.X+ FS 27,5″ EVO | SCOTT E-Genius 710 Plus | Specialized Turbo Levo FSR Expert 6Fattie | KTM Macina eGnition Cx5
More amazing bikes can be found in our E-Mountain Bike Group Test 2016.
Words & Photos: Christoph Bayer
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